Be Astonished By The Magical Hawaiian Ko Olina Lagoons
When I first heard about the man-made Ko Olina Lagoons, which are surrounded by resorts, I wasn’t inclined to go. I usually prefer the natural beaches, those that are wild and untamed, away from the resorts and other people.
But, my desire was to explore every inch of Oahu, the Hawaiian island, they are located on, so I went.
And, not only was I glad that I went, I was completely astonished.
There are four lagoons which really spotlight the incredible raw beauty of Hawaii.
If you enter Ko Olina lagoons at Lagoon #1, you might become a little turned off. It’s filled with paddle boards, floaties, kids, and kayaks, and isn’t what I would call tranquil. Also, the Disney Aulani Resort is located at the lagoons, so there are a lot of children.
But, walk down to the other lagoons, and you’re likely to find a spot that you can have all to yourself. The blue-green aqua waters beckon you to frolic, snorkel, and easily swim in the protected tranquility of the lagoons.
Walk past the lagoons towards the ocean, and enjoy crashing waves and watch seals and turtles frolicking in the water.
The Ko Olina Lagoons are found on the sunnier, drier part of the island, so if it’s raining in Honolulu, chances are it will still be sunny at the Ko Olina beach.
I talked to many locals in Hawaii, and they all said the same thing. Ko Olina, despite it’s resort surroundings, is a place full of mana, or spiritual energy. Every time I went, I felt bathed in aloha, or love.
Even the ocean seems to be waving at you here.
Sunset is definitely the time to visit, as the sunsets are magical and powerful.
The dark waters seem to envelop the sun, leaving behind a sky that reflects back the memory of the light.
The locals say you’ve never seen a sunset until you see it from here.
There are walking trails which connect the lagoons, paved sidewalks, lush green grass for picnicking, and public restrooms at each lagoon.
The sand is powder soft which is perfect for sunbathing or for making sand castles.
Each lagoon has less than 20 parking spaces, so this keeps the lagoons from feeling too crowded. So, if you want a space, go early, or just before sunset.
Also, it’s a great spot for a photo shoot, as the light seems to be the most perfect light on the island of Oahu.
One thing is for sure, if it’s Paradise, you’re looking for, this is the place to be.
ADDRESS
Ko Olina Resort
92-1480 Aliinui Drive
Ko Olina, HI 96707
I kind of love this. It is totally weird that they’re man-made, but what a great way to maintain the natural element and make the area accessible.
Those sunsets do look truly magical. Thank you for sharing. Another item now on the bucket list.
Wow – these are some seriously stunning photographs. They look like they could be postcards from a tropical paradise. Absolutely gorgeous – makes us want to visit 🙂
Wow, the colors in your pics are amazing! The sky must have been even more amazing in person!
The lagoons are beautiful and definetely worth a visit. I parked up at the furthest one and then went for a walk and saw them all. I agree there was one outside a resort and I was glad that I was sat by the most deserted one. It’s a beautiful area and I loved my day out there.
It strikes me that the colours there are so vibrant! Awesome post!
amazing pictures. You should teach a class cause you have an unbelievable eye! I love Hawaii cause it was so beautiful on many islands!
Wow, this is so amazing. Thanks for sharing the shots. They are really inspiring some wanderlust for Hawaii.
HOLY COW! These stunning photos just made me so happy!
These photos made my day!! THANK YOU!
Surprised how natural they look! And lovely sunset shots.
I’m blown away by this place. The Ko Olina Lagoons seem so magical!