OAHU INCENTIVE TRAVEL GUIDE

A PUBLICATION OF

BRIGHTSPOT

INTRODUCTION HOTELSWaikiki

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach ResortMoana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & SpaThe Modern Honolulu The Royal Hawaiian Waikiki Sheraton Waikiki

Off WaikikiThe Kahala Hotel & Resort Turtle Bay Resort

ACTIVITIES COMMENTARY ISLAND EXPERIENCES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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INTRODUCTIONOAHU IS THE MOST BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION FOR A HAWAIIAN ESCAPE.

Of all the islands, travel to and from Honolulu International Airport

consistently offers the most flights and lowest fares for group

travel. Though there are several high end resorts available, there

are considerably more 4-star options and each have design

elements created to specifically cater to group events. The iconic

Waikiki Beach is dotted with resorts, and shopping, dining, and

nightlife options are plentiful for all tastes and budgets.

History is the undertone for many of Oahu’s attractions including

the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, the USS Missouri

(known as ‘Mighty Mo’), and the Polynesian Cultural Center. Oahu

also has plenty of popular beaches and plenty of ocean-related

activities including excellent conditions to snorkel, surf, swim

with dolphins, and even explore the ocean depths in a refitted

submarine. Your guests can soak up local culture and heritage

and experience firsthand the Spirit of Aloha at one of the

many festivals Oahu is known for.

Your groups will fall in love with Oahu’s festivals, giving

groups many opportunities to bask in the Aloha culture.

Some of the festivals include: The Honolulu Festival

in March, Oahu’s Lei Day Celebration in May, the King

Kamehameha Floral Parade in June, Prince Lot Hula

Festival in July, and the Aloha Festivals in September.

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LANDMARK Waikiki

#1 ACTIVITY Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona

FUN FACT Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, is the only Royal Palace in the USA.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS

Most walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.

THE GATHERING PLACE

In so many ways, Oahu truly has it all – whatever you seek for your team – surf clear

blue waters, discover metropolitan cityscapes, indulge in historic architecture, become

one with nature, or simply unwind on the beach.

WAIKIKI

PEARL HARBOR

HAUULA

KAILUA

HONOLULU

WAIALUA

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HOTELS

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MEETING PLANNER TIPWe hosted a group of 1,200 with plenty of room to spare. Rainbow Tower is nearest the beach, which makes it a bit more expensive, and a good upgrade for top qualifiers. Plan an outdoor event on Friday night, and your group will think you spent $10,000 for the (complimentary) fireworks display.

WAIKIKI

HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE WAIKIKI BEACH RESORTThe Hilton Hawaiian Village has grown to become the largest resort in Hawaii and even

one of the largest hotels in the world – with 3,000 rooms. With five towers, five pools, a

lagoon, 20 restaurants and bars, 90+ shops, and direct beach access, the resort has the

feel of an authentic village.

It’s not even necessary to leave the extensive hotel grounds as there are plenty of activity

and entertainment options. Traditional options, such as kayaking and snorkeling are

available as are more unique offerings like hula lessons. Entertainment options include

live music each evening, Friday night fireworks displays, and their popular Starlight Luau,

plus many more.

If a self-contained resort fits your group’s needs, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a top

choice.

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WAIKIKI

MOANA SURFRIDER, A WESTIN RESORT & SPAThe Westin Moana Surfrider is known as “The First Lady of Waikiki.” That’s because, though

built in 1901, it still remains a popular group destination. In 2014, the hotel underwent a $21

million transformation, renovating all 522 guestrooms and 36 suites. This mega-makeover

included new furniture, carpeting, drapes, bedding and artwork, along with modernized

elevators.

The hotel has done a wonderful job of remaining true to its historic origins while striking

a lovely balance between classic, traditional fittings and contemporary designs. Like

many Westins today, this historic structure is equipped to exceed your modern comfort

expectations.

MEETING PLANNER TIPWe’ve operated multiple incentive programs here. The location is fabulous in the heart of Waikiki. Enjoy a lazy afternoon in a rocking chair on the front porch or walk to Royal Hawaiian Center for high-end shopping. The historic details make this lady a real beauty, and a wonderful experience.

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WAIKIKI

THE MODERN HONOLULU The Modern Honolulu (previously The Edition) is an exquisite boutique hotel with so much

to offer. From the crisp and refreshing minimalist design to the Iron Chef-endorsed sushi

restaurant to the trendy nightclub, young and young-at-heart groups are sure to have

an unforgettable adventure. The ambiance created in the hotel is one of a kind. Its public

spaces are predominantly white with exciting art pieces placed strategically throughout.

The major artworks include an installation by Fletch, an Yves Klein design on the bottom of

the Sunset Pool, and hand painted wall coverings throughout. The hotel has 353 rooms and

suites, all with a view of the ocean, city, pool, or yacht harbor. It is a spectacular mix of private

oasis amid a cosmopolitan destination.

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WAIKIKI

THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN WAIKIKI The Royal Hawaiian is known as “The Pink Palace of the Pacific” because of its unique

pink stucco exterior. As a Luxury Collection Resort, this unique exterior makes a grand

and immediate visual impact on guests. The welcoming leis for new guests completes

the arrival experience. The hotel is known for its stunning room designs, extraordinary

service, and beautiful private beach area. As one of three luxury resorts in Waikiki, the

Royal Hawaiian also offers fully equipped meeting and event spaces for any type and size

function.

MEETING PLANNER TIPNo two rooms are identical in the main building. Because of the Pink Palace’s history, the rooms can be a little smaller, but the vibe is that of Hawaiian royalty with authentic touches like carved wooden doors.

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WAIKIKI

SHERATON WAIKIKIThe Sheraton Waikiki has one of the most enviable locations a resort could ever want. It is

within an easy walk to world-class shopping, varied dining venues, and a number of natural

and cultural attractions.

Their Hawaiian Ballroom is the one of the Sheraton chain’s biggest jewels and is the largest

ballroom in Waikiki with over 26,000 square feet. Additionally, the hotel features a beautiful

infinity pool and the Hulumoa Playground, which are great meeting places for groups of all

sizes.

MEETING PLANNER TIPSheraton is often a budget friendly option. RumFire bar is a popular social hot spot.

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OFF WAIKIKI

THE KAHALA HOTEL & RESORTRemoved from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, the Kahala is well known and loved

for the seclusion and privacy it offers guests. Because of this, it regularly attracts high

profile celebrities, heads of State, and pop culture icons. The highlight of the hotel’s

beautiful grounds are the “kissing point,” a secluded lagoon and breathtaking waterfall. In

addition to the hotel’s many amenities, it is also the only sight on the island that provides

swimming with the dolphins.

MEETING PLANNER TIPJust 15 minutes south of Waikiki, but it feels a world away. Kahala is a legendary hideaway for presidents, international royalty, and celebrities – and your group will feel like one of them with The Kahala high-touch service and spacious guest rooms.

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OFF WAIKIKI

TURTLE BAY RESORTLocated at the tip of Oahu’s North Shore, the Turtle Bay Resort is a retreat property that

boasts ocean views from every room plus a tremendous selection of outdoor activities.

Guests are invited to tour the island by helicopter, horseback ride along the beach, or take

surf lessons along the famed North Shore beach.

As a self-contained resort on 800 acres, it offers an unforgettable experience by

showcasing Oahu’s natural beauty. Turtle Bay encourages a healthy and active lifestyle

among its staff and guests and is a true farm-to-table resort featuring locally grown,

organic ingredients in its restaurants.

MEETING PLANNER TIPThe Polynesian Cultural Center is 5 minutes away, which offers groups a blend of history and theme park, much like a Hawaiian version of Disney’s Epcot. Retreat setting is equally good for groups wanting to relax and unwind, or tackle adventurous activities like surfing the North Shore.

ACTIVITIES

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SAILING AND WHALE WATCHINGThe Makani is a 65-foot luxury sailing catamaran built by Gold

Coast Yachts in St. Croix, U. S. Virgin Islands. No expense was

spared in the building of the boat. Because Hawaii is known as

one of the world’s greatest whale watching locations, visitors

flock to islands in winter and spring to catch a glimpse of

majestic humpback whales migrating for the calving season.

ACTIVITIES

PEARL HARBOR The Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri are visual

reminders of both the triumphs and sacrifices of World

War II.

SNORKELING AT HANAUMA BAY Hanauma Bay is one of the only coral reef preserves in the

country. This very special place offers safe and exciting

snorkeling in protected waters.

NORTH SHORE TOUR + SURF TOWN SHOPPING Guides on this tour identify scenic spots along this

coastline tour including the fabled Valley of the Temples,

Kahana Bay, the Kahuku shrimp farms, and the world

famous Sunset Beach, sight of the tremendous breaking

waves.

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ACTIVITIES

HAWAIIAN CULTURAL TOUR Hawaii’s royal history is truly among the most unique of

the 50 states. Once the lifeline of the Hawaiian Islands and

its people, the influence of the Hawaiian monarchy is still

evident in the island culture and traditions.

SUNSET CRUISE ON THE SPIRIT OF ALOHA Setting sail from the Hilton pier, you will cruise long the

wondrous Waikiki coastline as the sun slowly dips beyond

the horizon.

CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR Oahu’s western shore is a lovely, sunny playground dotted

with plush oases of green. One of the most outstanding

spots on this tour is the circular shaped shoreline of

Hanauma. This bay was once an active volcano, but now

is a tranquil marine preserve. A bit further down the coast

is Halona, a naturally formed blowhole due to thousands

of years of volcanic activity. The tour also makes stops

at the beachside town of Waimanalo and makes its final

stop at the Pali Lookout. This sight is particularly significant

to Hawaii history as it is the sight of the Battle of Nuuanu

which claimed the lives of hundreds of men.

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ACTIVITIES

RAINFOREST BIKE AND HIKE This is an easy 5-mile downhill paved path that highlights

the beauty of the scenic city below. Secondary tours also

offer a 2-mile round trip along a nearby jungle stream

which leads to a mountainside pool and private, 200-foot

waterfall.

SUBMARINE EXPLORATION See the underwater sights very few are ever privileged

to see in a specially designed $5 million submarine. The

40-minute trip goes to depths of 100 feet for unforgettable

sights.

DOLPHIN MAGICSearch for spinner dolphins in their natural waters and take

in the majesty and grace of these happy mammals as

they race through the waters and leap into the air.

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ACTIVITIES

TROPICAL NATURE HIKEThis trail is a hidden treasure that was featured in

Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park.” On this trail, visitors will see

native rainforest plants and bird, the valley of the lush

Koolau Mountains, and a secluded waterfall.

DIAMOND HEAD CRATER A guided climb will take you to the 763-foot summit of the

Diamond Head Crater to peer inside this natural wonder.

Along the way, you’ll learn of island geology, history,

archaeology, plants, and animals.

IOLANI PALACE Iolani Palace is the only royal palace that is part of the

United States and is located in the capital district of

downtown Honolulu.

ISLAND TOUR WITH THE POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER This narrated tour makes a circle of Oahu’s highlights and

will give you the rare opportunity to participate in some of

the daily activities of South Pacific cultures. This tour is a great

blend of education, fun, and excitement for all participants.

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BRIGHTSPOT COMMENTARYAsk most people their dream of the ideal vacation and you’ll likely hear mentions of

three must-haves: tropical beaches, one-of-a-kind opportunities for adventure, and

fabulous dining options. Corporate meeting planners and incentive travel attendees

have the same goal.

Few places in the world can not only meet, but so expertly surpass these qualifications

like the Hawaiian Islands. Fewer still are as extremely well-suited for group travel as The

Aloha State. With a vast and unique range of outstanding accommodations, an endless

array of activities, and mile-upon-mile of pristine beaches, an escape to the islands of

Hawaii can offer the thrill of a lifetime to incentive travelers.

There are many good reasons, that year after year, the readers of Travel + Leisure,

Conde Nast Traveler, and TripAdvisor rank Hawaii as their top choice for vacationing:

that’s because whatever your pleasure (or that of your group), the many and varied

islands of Hawaii can fulfill any agenda, meet any need.

TOP 10 ISLANDS IN THE WORLD TOP ISLANDS IN THE WORLD

Maui #2 Maui #3

Kauai #3 Kauai #4

Big Island #4 Big Island #10

Oahu #6 Oahu #16

TRAVEL + LEISURE CONDE NAST TRAVELER

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Collectively, the islands embody the Aloha spirit - that gracious acceptance and

warm welcome extended to all who visit; individually, each island is known for its own

distinct personality and unique attractions that set it apart. Catering to groups is the

specialty of the world-class resorts that dot the islands. All were originally designed to

accommodate groups and their unique needs.

So, whether your team is seasoned travelers looking for unique, never-been-done-

before experiences or they’re relative newcomers to the rewards of incentive travel,

each and every trip to Hawaii can offer new sights, adventures, and memories for

everyone.

When Hawaii is in the meeting or incentive plans, it’s amazing how work becomes so

much more rewarding.

BRIGHTSPOT RECOMMENDATIONS

Visit a different Hawaiian island every 3 years for

top-ranked islands, luxury hotels,

popular activities, and a varied mix of

world class experiences.

No two visits to Hawaii are ever the same. Each

island graciously promises something different,

something distinct, and something tremendously

popular for your

top-performing employees.

ISLANDEXPERIENCES

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MAUIStart here - take your meeting or incentive trip here first.

LANDMARK Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano crater in the world

#1 ACTIVITY Sunrise at Haleakala and biking down mountain

FUN FACTThe largest Banyan tree in the world is found in Lahaina. Originally planted as an 8 foot tree in 1873, it spread to an entire acre.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS Start here – take your meeting or incentive trip here first.

THE VALLEY ISLE

KAHULUI

HALEAKALA

KAPALUA

KAANAPALI

HANA

MAUI

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OAHUMost walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.

LANDMARK Waikiki

#1 ACTIVITY Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona

FUN FACT Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, is the only Royal Palace in the USA.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS

Most walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.

THE GATHERING PLACE

WAIKIKI

PEARL HARBOR

HAUULA

KAILUA

HONOLULU

WAIALUA

OAHU

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KAUAIBest for adventures.

LANDMARK Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”

#1 ACTIVITY Exploring the Na Pali Coast

FUN FACT More than 60 Hollywood movies have been filmed here, including Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Avatar.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS Best for adventures.

THE GARDEN ISLAND

POIPU

LIHUE

PRINCEVILLE

NA PALI COAST

WAIMEA CANYON KAPAA

KAUAI

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BIG ISLANDMost diverse natural activities – check off your bucket list: “see volcano”.

HAWAII

LANDMARK Kilauea Volcano

#1 ACTIVITY Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

FUN FACT11 of 13 world’s climate zones are here, from tropical rainforest to volcanic desert to polar tundra, due to the shielding elevations of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS

Most diverse natural activities – check off your bucket list: “see volcano”.

THE BIG ISLAND

HAWAII VOLCANOES

KAPAUU

WAIKOLOA

KAILUA KONAHILO

BIG ISLAND

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LANAIIf group is well-traveled, few have visited here, so Lanai offers a new experience.

LANDMARK Luahiwa Petroglyphs

#1 ACTIVITY Munro Trail

FUN FACT The entire island of Lanai was rented out in 1994 by Bill Gates for his wedding.

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS

If group is well-traveled, few have visited here, so Lanai offers a new experience.

SECLUDED ISLAND WAS PINEAPPLE ISLAND

LANAI

LANAI CITY

MANELE BAY

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