Explore the world and save money in the process. Check out the nine best OCONUS lodges, resorts, and cabins available to services members, their families, and retirees.
Dragon Hill Lodge in Seoul, Korea
With ancient temples, museums, cool bars, and an innovative culinary scene, Seoul is a bustling city that has it all. The Dragon Hill Lodge is located in the heart of downtown and is a 10-minute walk to major subway lines. The facility offers in-house dining, an on-site bakery, concierge services, a pool, hot tub, fitness area, a basketball court, and a 2,000 square foot playground.
Okuma Beach Resort in Okinawa, Japan
These rustic cottages feature a private beach on the calm, turquoise, waters of the East China Sea. The Sunset Cafe, a nine-hole golf resort, and a campground are on-site. Additionally, you will find areas to play tennis, basketball, kayak, snorkel, and golf. From bike riding along the picturesque East China Sea to taking a glass-bottom boat tour and seeing the exotic fish below, Okuma Beach is the perfect getaway.
Tama Hills Recreation Area in Tokyo, Japan
This former WWII ammo depo is tucked within 250 acres of forested terrain just outside of Tokyo. The facility features 11 cozy cabins and camping facilities. The reasonably priced Tama Lodge offers hotel-style suites. Horseback riding, mini-golf, archery, and an onsite golf course provide plenty of entertainment for visitors of all ages. Guests can cook their meals if staying in a cabin or enjoy BBQ to go. The Kiji Restaurant, Hillcrest Lounge, a cozy bar that features a pool and darts, are also available for a night out.
New Sanno Hotel in Tokyo, Japan
Centrally located in Tokyo, the New Sanno is a gem that provides luxurious amenities at an unbeatable price. The facility boasts 149 rooms, a pool, fitness center, a shopette, NEX, and multiple dining options. One of the best things about the New Sanno, and there are many, is its location near Shinjuku station. It’s the perfect oasis to explore all of Tokyo’s charms.
Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Resting at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is a resort destination designed for eligible military personnel and their families. With 258 rooms and suites, vacation cabins, and dog-friendly accommodations, the facility has sweeping mountain views. Nearby sights and adventure include all that the Bavarian Alps have to offer, such as hiking, skiing, the Alpine Coaster, local breweries, and Neuschwanstein Castle, which served as inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
Air Station Borinquen Cottages in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
Located two hours west of the San Juan Airport, USCG Air Station Borinquen offers two, three, and five-bedroom guest houses and individual rooms. Activities include horseback riding on nearby beaches or visiting Camuy Caves, which has the world’s largest underground river system. Visit a local coffee plantation or tour Serralles Castle, the options for adventure and leisure are plentiful.
Seward Resort in Seward, Alaska
Situated between the Kenai Mountains and the waters of Resurrection Bay, Seward is a quaint harbor town in Southcentral Alaska. From towering tidewater glaciers to pods of orcas and breaching humpback whales, nearby Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s top destinations. The Seward Resort offers motel rooms, cabins, tents, and yurts. The facility offers charter fishing tours, stand up paddle boarding, scenic air tours, as well as dog-sled tours.
Hale Koa in Waikiki, Honolulu, on Oahu, Hawaii
The Hale Koa is nothing short of paradise. An oceanfront retreat for military members and their families on the sunny shores of Waikiki Beach, the facility has 72 oceanfront acres of tropical gardens. With two swimming pools, a fitness center, a day spa, and the beach, this is the perfect family vacation spot. The tour desk is happy to book island adventures for you and your family. Just make sure you are back in time for the authentic, family-friendly, Island Luau held in the evening.
Barking Sands in Kauai, Hawaii
Leave the bustle of Oahu behind and hop over to the island of Kauai, Hawaii — dubbed the “Garden Isle” because of its luxurious foliage. Navy Getaways Barking Sands offers beach cottages for a relaxing stay on some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Don’t forget to check in with the travel office for discounted tickets for a variety of island attractions.
For more great travel tips and deal, check out the 2021 Military Families Magazine Military Travel Guide!
