Review: Fairmont Orchid
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The Fairmont Orchid is your Accor choice on Hawaii’s Big Island and one of a limited number of luxury hotels you can choose from on the coastline of this volcanic idyll.

We have compared the Fairmont Orchid to Mauna Lani, the next-door hotel which is just up the coast. Other great hotels in Big Island include Four Seasons Hualalai and Rosewood Kona Village.

Location

The Fairmont Orchid is ideally situated on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, offering guests a stunning oceanfront setting amidst 32 acres of lush tropical gardens. Nestled along a picturesque white sand lagoon, the resort enjoys sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and provides convenient access to pristine beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation. Located approximately 30 minutes north of Kona International Airport, the Fairmont Orchid offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle yet is within easy reach of the island’s attractions and activities.

Style & Character

The Fairmont Orchid exudes a timeless elegance fused with authentic Hawaiian charm, embodying the essence of tropical luxury. Nestled amidst lush gardens and overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean along the Kohala Coast, this resort captures the spirit of aloha with its warm hospitality and tranquil ambiance.

The architecture, inspired by traditional Hawaiian design, harmoniously blends with the natural surroundings, creating a serene retreat for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. From the grand lobby adorned with native artwork to the spacious rooms and suites featuring luxurious amenities and private lanais, every detail reflects the resort’s commitment to providing an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

Whether indulging in world-class dining, unwinding at the spa, or exploring the pristine beaches and cultural treasures nearby, the Fairmont Orchid offers a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of the Hawaiian islands.

Fairmont Orchid Gardens
Fairmont Orchid Gardens
Credit: Fairmont Orchid

Service & Facilities

The pool at Fairmont Orchid is a serene oasis nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, offering a haven of relaxation and leisure for guests. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and vibrant foliage, the pool area provides a picturesque setting with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean beyond.

Guests can bask in the Hawaiian sunshine on comfortable lounge chairs or seek shade under umbrellas while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks from the nearby poolside bar. The expansive freshwater swimming pool features cascading waterfalls, meandering pathways, and secluded alcoves, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate in its tranquil waters.

The beach at Fairmont Orchid is a pristine stretch of golden sand fringed by swaying coconut palms and crystalline waters, offering guests a secluded and picturesque escape along the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled within a protected bay, the beach provides a safe and tranquil environment for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, making it ideal for guests of all ages.

Fairmont Orchid Vs. Fairmont Kea Lani. Which Is Best?
Fairmont Orchid Vs. Fairmont Kea Lani. Which Is Best?

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Which hotel is best, Fairmont Orchid on Big Island Vs. Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui? We think Fairmont Orchid has a more beautiful setting and feels less busy. But if you want a better beach, a selection of pools, including an adults-only pool, and a more upscale feel, Fairmont Kea Lani may be a better choice. We'll go ahead and outline the differences in more detail below. Book your stay at either hotel via our luxury travel concierge for extra benefits and perks at both of these hotels. We should be able to offer you a brilliant deal.

Sunseekers can lounge on comfortable beach chairs under the shade of umbrellas while soaking in the warm Hawaiian sunshine and listening to the gentle lull of the ocean waves.

The Spa Without Walls at Fairmont Orchid offers guests a truly immersive wellness experience amidst the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled within lush tropical gardens and overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this award-winning spa provides a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.

With treatments inspired by traditional Hawaiian healing practices and utilizing local ingredients such as volcanic ash and mineral-rich seaweed, guests can indulge in a range of massages, facials, and body treatments that promote holistic well-being. The spa’s signature feature is its outdoor treatment huts set amidst cascading waterfalls and tranquil ponds, allowing guests to reconnect with nature while receiving therapeutic treatments.

Fairmont Orchid Spa
Fairmont Orchid Spa
Credit: Fairmont Orchid

Fairmont Orchid offers one of the best Fairmont golf resorts in the world. Here guests access to a premier golf experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of Hawaii’s Big Island. Situated adjacent to the resort is the renowned Mauna Lani Golf Club, featuring two championship courses: the North Course and the South Course. Designed by legendary golf architect Homer Flint and boasting panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains, these courses offer an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.

The North Course challenges golfers with its rugged terrain, lava fields, and oceanfront holes, while the South Course features rolling fairways, ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, and scenic coastal vistas. Additionally, the Mauna Lani Golf Club offers comprehensive facilities including a driving range, putting greens, golf shop, and clubhouse with dining options, ensuring that guests can enjoy a complete golfing experience during their stay at Fairmont Orchid.

10 Best Fairmont Golf Resorts
10 Best Fairmont Golf Resorts

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We have already investigated the best Four Seasons golf resorts, and the best Ritz-Carlton golf resorts. Now, we look exclusively at the best Fairmont Hotels and Resorts for golf. Spoiler alert! To get the best deal or discount at a Fairmont or any other luxury hotel, book via our luxury travel concierge. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club is carved out of the slopes of the Coast Mountain range in British Columbia, this magnificent Robert Trent Jones, Jr. masterpiece allows nature to dictate the path without constraints of commercial influence.

Rooms

The rooms at Fairmont Orchid offer a luxurious retreat imbued with authentic Hawaiian charm and modern comforts. Spacious and elegantly appointed, each room features upscale amenities such as plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and private lanais, boasting breathtaking ocean views, gardens, or resort grounds.

Traditional Hawaiian-inspired decor, with rich wood furnishings, earthy tones, and tropical accents, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, inviting guests to relax and unwind in style. Enjoy the cool ocean breeze from the comfort of their lanai or indulge in a restful night’s sleep amidst the soothing ambiance.

If you book a Gold Club room at the Fairmont Orchid, you will be whisked off to a separate check-in area. The Gold Lounge has juice, soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea throughout the day. They also offer wine, champagne, and spirits in the honor system in the evenings. You simply note down what you have drunk, which will be charged to your room accordingly.

Evening appetizers are provided free of charge and usually include good cheeses, sushi rolls, olives, crackers, and fruit. In this lounge, there is one hot appetizer on offer, too. In the morning, there’s a complimentary continental breakfast with pastries, a hot entree, fruit, yogurt, granola, cheese and fruit.

What is really special about this club lounge is that you are not restricted to staying inside. This lounge offers balcony seating out in the sunshine with views over the resort. This is one of the best club lounges in Hawaii.

Best Hotel Executive Club Lounge In Hawaii
Best Hotel Executive Club Lounge In Hawaii

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Which hotels in Hawaii offer the best executive club level lounges? We review lounges across Oahu, including Waikiki, Maui, Kaanapali, Kapalua, Wailea, Kauai, Poipu, and Hanalei, and the Big Island's picturesque Kona-Kohala coast. I have compiled a list below containing the best club lounges available across the best luxury hotels in Hawaii. I list the ones I consider to be the best at the top. I review each of these hotel club lounges in detail so you know what you will get if you book a room with club lounge access.

Food & Drink

Fairmont Orchid boasts an array of exquisite dining options, each offering a unique culinary experience amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Kohala Coast. From the elegant oceanfront setting of Brown’s Beach House, where guests can savor fresh seafood and locally inspired cuisine, to the casual ambiance of Hale Kai Restaurant, serving up delicious breakfast and lunch options overlooking the sparkling pool, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Norio’s Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar offers an interactive dining experience with teppanyaki grills and expertly crafted sushi, while the Orchid Court serves up a delightful breakfast buffet featuring an array of international flavors. With its commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients and delivering exceptional service, Fairmont Orchid’s restaurants provide guests with a culinary journey that celebrates Hawaii’s rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions.

Conclusion

This hotel has a gorgeous tropical freeform pool setting and a great beach. It is a great pick on Big Island.

Image courtesy of Fairmont Orchid.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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