Review: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
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Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection on Big Island, Hawaii, is plonked on the most beautiful pristine white-sand beach on the sun-kissed Kohala Coast of Hawaii. Remember to book your stay at Mauna Lani with our luxury travel concierge for perks like free breakfasts and room upgrades. We should be able to offer you a brilliant deal.

Location

Mauna Lani Resort is located on the sunny Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, approximately 23 miles (37 kilometers) north of the Kona International Airport (KOA). The drive from the airport to the resort takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

This prime location offers guests access to pristine white-sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Mauna Lani Resort provides a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, while still being conveniently located near various attractions, including championship golf courses, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.

Mauna Lani Sunset
Mauna Lani Sunset
Credit: Mauna Lani

Style & Character

Hidden amidst lush tropical gardens and swaying palm trees, the resort enjoys a serene and secluded ambiance, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. From its oceanfront setting, guests can marvel at breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean and immerse themselves in the island’s rich cultural heritage.

The style of Mauna Lani Resort is a harmonious blend of contemporary luxury and authentic Hawaiian charm, reflecting the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Big Island. The architecture draws inspiration from traditional Hawaiian design elements, featuring low-rise buildings, open-air spaces, and natural materials such as wood and stone.

The interiors are elegantly appointed with modern furnishings and amenities while incorporating local touches such as indigenous artwork and motifs that pay homage to the island’s rich history and culture. Lush tropical landscaping and panoramic ocean views create a sense of tranquility and serenity throughout the resort.

The historic pond set in the grounds of Mauna Lani Resort is a captivating feature that holds cultural and ecological significance. Known as Kalahuipua’a Fishpond, it is one of the largest ancient fishponds in Hawaii and is believed to have been built over 1,000 years ago by native Hawaiians.

The pond spans over 15 acres and is surrounded by lush vegetation, including coconut palms and kiawe trees. Its construction demonstrates the ingenuity of ancient Hawaiian engineering, with lava rock walls forming a barrier to trap fish during high tide, providing a sustainable food source for the local community. Today, the pond serves as a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and cultural activities, offering visitors a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich history and heritage.

Mauna Lani Room
Mauna Lani Room
Credit: Mauna Lani

Service & Facilities

The pool at Mauna Lani Resort is a luxurious oasis nestled amidst the stunning landscape of the Kohala Coast. It features a big rectangular design flanked by wooden decking, offering guests ample space to swim, lounge, and relax. The pool area is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and swaying palm trees, which exudes a tranquil ambiance, steps away from the shoreline.

From the pool, you can walk across the vivid green lawns to the curved beach area dotted with palms. This golden sand beach is a highlight of this resort and is one of the loveliest beaches on Big Island.

Beyond the beach and pool is a spa including two championship 18-hole golf courses, a rejuvenating Hawaiian-inspired spa, two state-of-the-art fitness centers, a tennis club, and a plethora of water and land sports activities. Cultural programs and a children’s program cater to guests of all ages, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable stay.

Mauna Lani Lava Rock Shower
Mauna Lani Lava Rock Shower
Credit: Mauna Lani

Rooms

Over 90 percent of the accommodations boast mesmerizing ocean views, and all guest rooms feature private lanais. Some even have open-air lava rock showers. The decor is modern, although not particularly Hawaiian, with creamy white decor and artwork that reminds you that you’re by the beach.

The resort also offers five exquisite two-bedroom Private Residences, elevating the luxury experience for larger groups to new heights.

Food & Drink

Come together with your loved ones to cherish each other’s company and exchange tales of adventure. Kickstart your mornings with the aroma of freshly brewed Kona coffee paired with hearty stacks of ube pancakes and invigorating tropical fruit juices at HāLani.

In between refreshing ocean dips and leisurely strolls along the Fisherman’s Trail, delight in Hawaiian favorites like revitalizing acai bowls, house-made ceviche, and zesty Lani Tais at the alfresco-style eatery and bar, Hā Bar.

As the day transitions into night, elevate your dining experience at CanoeHouse, the legendary oceanfront restaurant at Mauna Lani. Here, generations of locals have gathered to indulge in exquisite and unforgettable meals against the backdrop of the mesmerizing golden sunset.

Conclusion

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, has a fabulous beach and a unique connection to Hawaiian culture via its fishponds. This is a brilliant resort for enjoying sunsets and beach activities. The pool here is smart and large but lacks the slides and tropical features of some of the other hotels in Hawaii, like Grand Wailea or Wailea Beach Hotel,which probably offer the best hotel pools in Hawaii for families with kids.

We can’t think of a better place to sit out on comfy rattan sofas with a cocktail and gaze across pristine lawns punctuated by palm trees as the sun goes down over the beach beyond.

Image courtesy of Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. 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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