Halekulani Okinawa opened in 2019 on the west coast at Onna and is a member of Leading Hotels of the World. The resort fronts about a mile of coastline and combines a large main building with villas, five pools and a sandy beach, so you can spend several days without leaving the grounds. Standard rooms are generous in size and look out over the sea, suites range up to very large residences, and a handful of villas each have a private heated pool and a hot spring bath beneath a traditional red-tile roof. Several restaurants cover Japanese cuisine, steak and wine, and all-day dining, and a sunset bar looks west over the East China Sea. A full spa and a children's club complete the picture, making it a polished choice for couples, honeymooners and multi-generation family holidays.
Location and getting around
The resort is in Nakama, Onna Village, on the west coast of the main island, roughly an hour and a quarter by road from Naha Airport. Most guests arrive by rental car, airport limousine bus or taxi, and valet parking is available for a nightly fee.
The Churaumi Aquarium and the beaches of the north coast are within a reasonable drive, while the famous Blue Cave snorkeling area is close by. Because the resort is largely self-contained, it works best for a stay of three or more nights, with day trips arranged around it.
Rooms and who it suits
The hotel has 360 rooms in total, and standard rooms start at around fifty square metres with ocean views, which is large by Japanese standards. Suites are far larger, and some have private pools. It suits couples looking for a romantic base, families who want space and children's facilities, and anyone who values quiet, service and sea views.
One child up to twelve can share a bed with an adult, and a children's club and babysitting are available for a surcharge. The resort is not for guests with tattoos who want to use the pool and public facilities, so check the policy if that affects you.
Good to know
Some pool and spa facilities close seasonally or for maintenance, including one pool that closes through the cooler months, so check the hotel website for the dates of your stay. Breakfast is a paid buffet or a Western or Japanese set, dinner at the main restaurants needs reservations at least a day ahead, and spa treatments also need booking. Pets are not allowed except service animals. Expect to pay premium rates in peak holiday weeks.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on a white-sand beach
- ✓Five pools including indoor and children pools
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Four restaurants and a sunset bar
- ✓Villas with private pools
- ✓Children club and babysitting
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Valet parking
Good questions
Where is Halekulani Okinawa?+
It is in Nakama, Onna Village, on the west coast of the main island, roughly an hour and a quarter by road from Naha Airport. Most guests arrive by rental car, taxi or airport bus.
Does it suit families?+
Yes, it has several pools including a children's pool, a children's club and babysitting for a surcharge. One child up to twelve can share a bed with an adult.
Are all the pools open year round?+
Some pool and spa facilities close seasonally or for maintenance, and one pool closes through the cooler months. Check the hotel website for the dates of your stay.
