SUNSET FROM THE LANAI AT KAMUELA PROVISION CO., HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
MAHALO, KOHALA!
By Susan Belknapp
The idyllic Kohala Coast is home to a succession of top-tier resorts that offer luxe accommodations in breathtaking surroundings. The austere black-rock landscape is wholly unique to the Big Island. Yet when you enter the grounds of any resort, Eden awaits with swaying palms, impeccable landscaping and a stunning azure coastline.
IF YOU GO:
Each resort has its own unique character and offerings for individuals, business travelers, couples and families. Kohalacoastresorts.com will break down each property to help you decide which is the best setting for you to experience your Hawaiian dream.
WHERE TO STAY:
Kona Village Resort: konavilllage.com
For the traditionalist, and those in search of serenity. At this “lost-on-a-desert-island” fantasy destination, the rooms are thatched-roof hales (huts) with no TVs, phones or Internet hook-ups. Snorkel equipment, kayaks and a long list of activities are included.
Four Seasons Hualalai: fourseasons.com/hualalai
Experience opulent luxury with no pretension. The Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, full-service spa, incomparable dining and 6 pools will keep you there. And the friendly, attentive service will make you never want to leave.
Mauna Lani Resort and Bungalows: maunalani.com
Revel in ancient beauty and modern indulgence. Two oceanfront golf courses are carved from lava fields, providing dramatic terrains. Fantastic snorkeling can be found right from the beach. Don’t miss the delectable cuisine of the CanoeHouse restaurant.
The Fairmont Orchid: fairmont.com/orchid
The outdoor spa has waterfall massage huts and oceanfront cabanas so you can experience beachfront bliss. This resort offers unlimited island fun and adventure. Experience an authentic luau and learn the history of the Islands at the “Gathering of the Kings.”
Hilton Waikaloa Village: hiltonwaikoloavillage.com
This water-based Disney World is ideal for families. Mahogany canal boats transport you by waterfalls, waterslides and sparkling pools. The expansive grounds house world-class art treasures, shopping, spa, dining and Dolphin Quest, where you can swim with the dolphins.
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa: Marriott.com
After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, the spacious accommodations and ultra-modern architecture make it ideal for corporate meetings.
Hapuna Prince: princeresortshawaii.com
The white sand beach is often voted one of the best in the U.S. Its off-the-beaten-path seclusion allows you to idle at your own speed.
WHERE TO EAT:
Each resort offers a wealth of dining options, ranging from gourmet Italian Donatoni’s at Hilton Waikoloa Village, to local fare at Tommy Bahama Tropical Café near Mauna Lani. Because of their tremendous popularity, sushi restaurants can be found at most resorts. Chefs go to great lengths to utilize local ingredients whenever possible.
kohalacoastresorts.com
WHAT TO DO:
Take a helicopter tour; an aerial vista is the only way to truly experience the Big Island in all its majesty. Bluehawaiian.com
The Big Island is home to the Ironman Triathlon National Championships every year in nearby Kona. In 2008, it will be the weekend of Oct. 11.
Ironman.com/worldchampionship
Drive to or fly over Kilauea, a volcano that has been in continuous eruption since 1983. As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the U.S. Geological Survey keeps daily lava flow updates and webcams at: volcano.wr.usgs.gov.
Explore ancient history as you tour the petroglyphs, Pacific art treasures and hike lava tubes.
Eleven of the 13 climate zones in the world are found on the Big Island, and whether you choose to experience them while surfing, whale watching, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, or on a sunset sail, hawaiiactivities.com will get you there.
A FRAME FROM “UNDER THE VILLAGE,” A FILM SHOT AT KONA VILLAGE RESORT.
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