LUXGetaway » Hawaii

Aulani Disney Resort – The Luxury Hawaiian Getaway

Carmen — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:53:40 +0000

Always known for its first-class accommodations and entertainment venues, Disney opened its latest resort hotel on the island of Oahu, Hawaii to much fanfare and customer anticipation. The first guests arrived the last week of August to enjoy a combination of Disney quality and the gorgeous island atmosphere of Hawaii; an atmosphere that provides an unforgettable holiday getaway for people of all ages.

The Aulani Disney Resort sits on 21 gorgeous acres of waterfront space just 30 minutes from Waikiki. Guests can spend their days soaking up the sun, relaxing in a Disney spa, touring the island with official Disney excursions, and having fun in the resort’s swimming pools. Yet the hotel’s most unique feature is its storytelling theme, which plays off the ancient Hawaiian tradition of carrying on indigenous history through storytelling. And as an added bonus, just like Disney has scattered “hidden Mickey’s” all over its resorts in Orlando, they’ve also hidden an unknown number of Menehune statues for guests to try and find.

Accommodations

The resort is still under construction, but will include 359 hotel rooms and more than 475 two-bedroom villas when complete. All the rooms and villas will be built within two resort towers and will offer stunning views of the ocean, the lush greenery, and the glorious Hawaiian mountains. Each of the spacious rooms is exceptionally decorated in Disney’s signature, over-the-top, imaginative style, with special attention being given to highlighting traditional Hawaiian architecture and culture. And with each room guests are treated to the legendary Disney quality and top-notch service.

Amenities

The Aulani is truly a family-friendly paradise with something for both adults and children. The adults will especially enjoy the Laniwai, an 18,000 sq ft spa and fitness centre with 15 treatment rooms. Traditional Hawaiian healing techniques are the centre of the spa, designed to provide the ultimate in relaxation and well-being. For those who love traditional Hawaiian Art, the Aulani features wonderful works throughout including a stunning lobby mural painted by artist Martin Charlot. Your senses will be overwhelmed by the multiple layers, patterns, and scenes that all combine to tell the Hawaiian story.

As usual, Disney has not forgotten the children either. They have access to their own kids club with plenty of age-appropriate activities that are both entertaining and educational. The resort boasts its own water park with pools, fountains, and a handful of water slides that combine for a full day of waterfront. And for the adventurous, Disney offers the Makai Preserve conservation pool where kids can interact with exotic marine wildlife.

Dining

The Aulani offers dining options through two restaurants contained on-site. Both feature an extensive menu utilizing traditional Hawaiian ingredients provided by local fishermen and farmers. For breakfast, the Makahiki features the opportunity to dine with Disney characters. As morning turns into afternoon, and then eventually evening, the Makahiki ambience changes with programmed lighting. And last but not least, three bars treat guest to an extensive list of exotic drinks, as well as individual themes.

The Aulani Disney Resort is not just for kids, adults will enjoy their time as well.

Nightly rates start at just under $400 per night.

Aulani Disney Resort
92-1185 Aliʻinui Drive
Kapolei, HI 96707

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Top Things to Do While on The Big Island of Hawaii

Michael — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:30:45 +0000

While you aren’t lying by the pool and enjoying the resorts and all they have to offer, The Big Island has a lot to keep you occupied. Below are the top things to do while on The Big Island:

Helicopter Tour – Helicopter tours allow for the most spectacular views on the island. This will likely be the most memorable experience for you while in Hawaii.

Hilton Waikoloa Village – This resort is an experience not to be missed. There is something for everybody at The Big Island’s largest hotel.

Kona Brewing Company Tour & Restaurant – Complimentary brewery tours at 10:30 and 3:00pm seven days a week. When finished eat lunch or dinner at the 2,000-square-foot outdoor lanai, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and tiki torches.

Snorkeling – Most luxury hotels offer complimentary snorkeling gear – be sure to take advantage of this.

Sunset Cruise – Sunset cruises can be a great way to experience the coastline, and if you get lucky you can even see dolphins in the ocean.

Kona Joe’s Coffee Tour – Visit Kona’s premium coffeemaker and learn about how the coffee is produced.

Eat Pineapple – You will never eat Pineapple better than what’s grown on The Big Island of Hawaii, so eat as much as you can!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Lava Flow – This is on the Hilo side of the Island, so if you are coming from Kona you will want to plan for a few hour drive. Seeing the Lava Flow is suggested to best be viewed at night.

Pololu Lookout Point – A popular lookout point with gorgeous sweeping views of the north coast.

Visit Downtown Kona – There are several great shops, and restaurants, a favorite is Huggo’s.

Golfing – This list wouldn’t be complete without golfing. There are several breathtaking golf courses on The Big Island. Take a look depending on where you are staying for the closest courses.

The Big Island Hawaii: The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows

lea — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:04:13 +0000

Our last hotel spotlight is on The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows. The Mauna Lani is situated on the Kohala Coast on acres of gorgeous Hawaiian land. The hotel can best be described as classic luxury. It has maintained its clean look and feel over time; not over done or understated, The Mani Lani boasts its tropical elegance through its open-air hotel architecture, lush gardens, and sandy beaches on the property’s oceanfront.

The experience at The Mani Lani extends from the cushioned lounge chairs poolside to the turndown service guests receive each night. Every guest room has a lanai, and the hotel is constructed so that each room captures as much ocean view available. The interior of the hotel is highlighted by plants and ponds, which are inhabited by baby sea turtles and fish.

If you’re one that prefers more seclusion from other hotel guests, the bungalows are only a short walk away. Each bungalow has its own private beachfront and driveway access, providing a truly exclusive experience. With 4,000 square feet of living space in each bungalow, more than a few people can stay comfortably in them.

A lot of the activities at The Mauna Lani are free of charge and the kids program focuses on exploration of the natural grounds. With so many sea creatures and ancient petroglyphs close by, the family will never run out of things to see and do. For those that want to relax, there is a spa that features a Vichy shower and natural lava sauna and also a fitness center.

If you’re a golfer, The Mauna Lani is the place for you. There are 2 18-hole golf courses on the property with sweeping views of the ocean’s expanse. They were carved out of lava formations and are rated within the Top 10 Eco-Friendly Courses. Words cannot begin to describe the breathtaking views one gets to experience when playing on a Mauna Lani course.

The Mauna Lani has 3 restaurants to choose from, and dinner at the CanoeHouse is a real treat. Fresh island-sourced ingredients, a chef that combines wonderful flavors, and an expert sommelier make dining at the hotel an experience not to be underestimated. Breakfast at the Bay Terrace is delicious as well, featuring tropical twists on American standards like French toast and waffles.

Complimentary activities, while staying at the Mauna Lani:

Floral Lei & Tropical Fruit Juice upon arrival
Complimentary Internet access
Fitness Club Lap pool
Snorkeling Equipment
Morning Coffee & Tea
In-room Kona Coffee & Tea
Local Newspaper
Hawaiian Entertainment
Valet & Self-Park
Bicycles to explore the resort
Joggers Amenities
Beach Amenities
Guest Laundry Room
Resort Shuttle Service
Fish & Turtle Feeding Tours
Ukulele & Hawaiian Weaving Lessons

Rates at The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel start at over $200.

The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows
www.maunalani.com
68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive
Kohala Coast, Island of Hawaii 96743

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The Big Island Hawaii: Four Seasons Hualalai

Michael — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 07:22:27 +0000

Our next stop on The Big Island is as ‘LUX’ as it can get. The Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu on the North Kona Coast was recently voted the #1 hotel in all of Hawaii by Travel & Leisure Magazine.

The 243-room resort went through a recent renovation and now upholds a standard as one of the nicest hotels in the world. All guest rooms are extremely spacious, with 32 of them bungalows. The Four Seasons Hualalai does not have a central tower so the resort is no higher than 2 stories in height throughout the grounds, allowing the natural elements to be the main feature. As a guest you have the opportunity to enjoy 5 unique pools, plus a snorkeling pond, 4 restaurants, and a spa that’s quality is unmatched on the Island. If you’re looking to golf, the resort features a Jack Nicklaus signature 18-hole, 7,100-yard golf course.

Complimentary services for guests include scuba lessons, valet parking, and twice-daily maid service. Kids will have just as much fun as adults at the Four Seasons Hualalai; they can enjoy the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, featuring a dedicated kids room with video games, TV, toys, and more. The resort draws celebrities and other well-known guests, so don’t be surprised if you end up bumping shoulders with some of Hollywood’s best.

The resort can best be described as authentic luxury. Paradise does come with a price tag – guest rooms start at $775.

Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu
www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/
72-100 Ka`upulehu Drive
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
808-325-8000

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The Big Island Hawaii: Kona Village Resort

lea — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 07:24:17 +0000

Our next LUX Destination spotlight is Kona Village. Kona Village is located in, well…Kona, on The Big Island. This 82-acre resort encompasses everything the beautiful Kohala Coast has to offer – palm trees swaying, glistening lagoons, piled lava rocks, black sand beaches, and the ocean. Focused on traditional Polynesian culture, the resort is made up of 82 oceanfront hales, or bungalows, that come free of phones, TVs, radios, or internet, forcing the overworked traveler to really relax into the aloha spirit.

Upon arrival at Kona Village, expect to be greeted with a traditional Hawaiian lei of orchid flowers. After check-in, one is swept away by a golf cart to one’s hale. Each hale is cooled by the breeze of the tradewinds blowing through its slatted doors from the sea; only ceiling fans are used for extra circulation, and there’s not even a lock on the door. As unconventional as it may sound, there’s something very quaint in having to write messages to your resort staff on a clipboard outside your door or placing a coconut on your front porch as a sign of do not disturb.

Appropriately named, Kona Village was once a fishing village. To preserve and respect the land that was once frequented by the King and other royalty, the resort is set up to resemble a Polynesian village. The hales are elevated by stilts to protect from high tide and the roofs are thatched; some hales even come with a private hot tub on the deck – not authentic, but a luxurious necessity.

Kona Village is Hawaii’s only ‘inclusive’ resort and offers many resort dining options. Much of the Hawaiian cuisine served is sourced from local farms on the island. You can taste the difference in freshness from the fruit alone – it’s colorful and sweet, as if it were just plucked off the tree. In fact, more than 70% of all the produce consumed at Kona Village is from The Big Island. As authentic as its culinary presentation, Kona Village also puts on an island-renowned luau.

Along with the dining, many water sport activities are included in the daily ‘inclusive’ rate. You can snorkel, canoe, kayak, or use a paddleboard to explore the ocean. Since the property has such an expansive beachfront, there is plenty of space for guests and turtles to bask in the sun. On a stroll along the beach, one is sure to spot a Hawaiian Sea Turtle lounging on the sand or feeding near one of the many natural tide pools.

The most spectacular thing about the resort is really the authentic Hawaiian experience it has maintained for its guests. From the accommodations, to the food, to the entertainment, and the natural setting, there is an ancient story told through the hospitality at Kona Village.

Rates start just under $300.

Kona Village Resort
www.konavillage.com
Kona Village Resort
Kohala Coast
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96745

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The Big Island Hawaii: Hilton Waikoloa Village

Michael — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:51:37 +0000

Hilton Waikoloa Village is the largest hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii with 1,240 guest rooms and suites and a wide array of activities and amenities. The Hilton is located on the Kohala Coast of The Big Island of Hawaii, just 20 minutes north of Kona International Airport.

What makes this hotel more unique than any other on the island are its on-property transportation systems. (Yes, that’s right – there are multiple transportation systems within the property…it’s that big!) Right upon entry into the resort you will find an option for either a sleek air-conditioned tram or a leisurely canal boat ride. Of course you can walk to your room as well, but if you are further away a tram is always fastest.

One attraction that sets this resort apart from others is their Dolphin Quest, an opportunity to swim with dolphins. A marine mammal expert guides the experience with these intelligent creatures, with encounters of 30 minutes to over 5 hours. Packages to swim with dolphins start at just over $200. This can be a memorable adventure, even if you’re not a guest at the resort.

While walking through the hotel it is apparent that the pools are a highlight of the resort. There are pools everywhere; the pools feature waterfalls, waterslides, and flowing rivers. There is also an adult-only pool if you are looking for a more private and relaxed experience.

As a guest on your trip at the Hilton, you’ll never be hungry. There are 9 restaurants available on the property. For a special experience, try the authentic Japanese cuisine at Imari. The restaurant is The Big Island’s only teppanyaki dining. You will be seated around an 8-person table where the chef will make the food you order right in front of your eyes. This provides great entertainment, as the chefs are not only great cooks, but culinary performers as well! Imari’s spectacular food, coupled with the entertaining experience makes it a staple dining treat at the Hilton. We strongly recommend eating at Imari when visiting.

The Hilton Waikoloa Village property is a dream come true for children…It’s the Disneyland of Hawaii; but, it shouldn’t be underestimated for adults. With 62 oceanfront acres there is something to do for everyone. Are you a golf pro or tennis nut? You’ll be happy with their pro-standard facilities for both. With its many activities, attractions, shops, restaurants, and amenities, the resort employs over 1,000 people to keep everything running smoothly.

The Hilton Waikoloa Village is ideal for the family that wants a resort with everything at their fingertips and no reason to leave the property. The resort is also a ‘can’t miss’ for those that are visiting The Big Island or Hawaii.

Prices start just under $200/night.

Hilton Waikoloa Village
www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com
69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa, WI 96738
808—886-1234

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The Big Island Hawaii: The Fairmont Orchid

lea — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:32:19 +0000

First up in our LUX Destination spotlight is The Fairmont Orchid. It is located on the Kohala Coast, north of Kona, in the resort area of Mauna Lani. Sitting on 32 acres of beach and black lava, this Hawaiian hotel is complete with a swimmable lagoon and breath-taking views. The feeling one gets upon arrival at The Fairmont Orchid is one of anticipation, when seeing its grand elegance for the first time. Expect to be escorted from your car with a lei greeting of Kukui Nuts, which symbolize enlightenment, protection, and peace. These 3 values are exemplified through the elevated level of service one receives at The Fairmont Orchid.

The Fairmont Gold Floor is something unique to The Orchid, as only a limited number of Fairmont properties throughout the world offer this level of service. The Gold Floor takes the already exceptional service of The Fairmont to an elevated level. At The Orchid, Gold Floor guests check in at a private reception on the 6th floor where 45 rooms and suites are reserved only for Fairmont Gold guests. Many of the guestrooms have sweeping views of either the ocean or beautiful Fairmont grounds.

The most appealing thing about the Gold Floor at The Orchid is the dedicated Gold Floor staff that can assist you with any need and the complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon happy hour that’s offered daily. Being able to relax in an oversized chair in the Gold Lounge or outside on the private Gold Lounge lanai (patio), while enjoying a cocktail or working on one’s laptop, is a luxury any traveler can enjoy. Fairmont Gold guests also have access to free wi-fi.

The Fairmont Orchid went through a multi-million dollar renovation in 2006 and maintains its timeless Hawaiian luxury when one steps foot in it today. Each of the 540 guestrooms has its own lanai with a view of the ocean, gardens, golf course, or mountains. With 10 tennis courts and many beach activities, there’s something for everyone. Another guarantee is the visit from a native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle or 2 on the shores of The Fairmont’s expansive beachfront.

The Orchid also features 3 restaurants, a deli, and a cocktail lounge. Cuisine ranges from Island-inspired dishes at Brown’s Beach House to sushi at Norio’s. On Saturday nights is “The Gathering of the Kings,” a luau that tells the story of 4 ancient histories from Somoa, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Hawaii. It’s a contemporary production with a plentiful feast to match.

Spa Without Walls is another highlight that’s not to be missed at The Fairmont Orchid. Take advantage of a spa treatment like a lomilomi massage or Kona Coffee exfoliation in 1 of 8 private outdoor waterfall hales (huts) or in 1 of 6 oceanfront cabanas. The breeze of the gentle tradewinds paired with the tranquility of waves crashing or the trickle of a waterfall is an experience only to be had here.

The Fairmont Orchid property is beautiful, delivers tremendous service, has a high standard of quality, and is well priced.

Accommodations start at over $200.

The Fairmont Orchid
www.fairmont.com/orchid/
1 North Kaniku Drive
Kohala Coast, Hawaii, Hawaii
96743

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LUX Destination: The Big Island of Hawaii

Michael — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:31:22 +0000

Welcome to The Big Island of Hawaii. The Big Island is the largest island in the Hawaiian chain at 4,038 sq. miles and has the most diversity in not only climate and terrain, but in activities it offers as well.

Over the next several days we will reveal our experiences at the best hotels and resorts on The Big Island of Hawaii, specifically on the Kona side of the island – the “Golden Coast.” We will also share the top activities and adventures you won’t want to miss upon your next visit!

Honolulu’s Modern Waikiki Beach Hotel With a 100-Year History

Carmen — Mon, 31 May 2010 12:00:02 +0000

Halekulani Hotel is a luxurious resort located on the beautiful Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. This 100-year old hotel started as a small residential hotel called Hau Tree that had a simple beachfront home and five small bungalows. It grew gradually and today it stands at one of the most beautiful hotels on the island. It has five buildings ranging from two to 17 stories in height with 453 luxury rooms. Courtyards and gardens surround the modern hotel.

The rooms at the luxury hotel are comfortable and beautifully decorated. Guest rooms’ size ranges from 519 to 720 sq feet with most of them offering ocean views. Rooms are fully air-conditioned with wall to wall carpeting. Option of twin beds or huge king sized beds is available. The suites ranging from 720 to 3,120 square feet are stylishly furnished, all offering mesmerizing views. Room facilities include complimentary chocolates on arrival; daily newspaper, separate sitting area, each room has a personal terrace, in-room safes, high speed internet, flat panel LCD HD-TVs with cable networks and many more.

The professional 800 employees of the Halekulani resort are always available for guest service. Full-service concierge is located in main lobby. Other facilities include same day cleaning and pressing services. There are three award-winning restaurants at Halekulani, a French, an open-air restaurant serving Seafood, and the Oceanside indoor/outdoor restaurant serving buffet breakfast, lunch and light dinner with entertainment. All restaurants offer beautiful romantic oceanfront views.

Other amenities of the luxury resort are Meeting and Banquet facilities, Ballroom, Garden Terrace, Lanai & Courtyard for Cocktail receptions for up to 650 guests, fitness rooms, pools, business center, luxury boutiques and shops, and three cocktail lounges are just to name a few.

Rates start at just over $400 per night.

2199 Kalia Road
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815

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Images Courtesy of the Hotels & Resorts of Halekulani

Pink Palace in Honolulu – The Royal Hawaiian

Carmen — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 05:41:02 +0000

Royal Hawaiian Resort, known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific, was built in 1927. It cost $4 million to build the six-story Honolulu building that had 400 rooms. The Royal Hawaiian Hotel became a favorite of world’s most influential statesmen and early Hollywood Stars. In June 2008 the hotel was closed for a complete renovation and was reopened on January 20, 2009 as a member of the Luxury Collection division of Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Currently the Royal Resort has 529 rooms including 34 suites of which 18 are oceanfront. The Royal Hawaiian is located at the apex of Waikiki’s arc, which is a great opportunity for the beach lover guests. Royal Hawaiian offers parasailing, catamaran cruises, surfing and snorkeling. Beach boys services are also offered at the resort. You’ll find a variety of shopping, restaurants, and cultural events just steps away from the beach.

The romantic Pink Palace of the Pacific is a great place to celebrate weddings. Wedding specialists are available to plan the perfect event. The Regency Ballroom is perfect for 50 to 220 friends and family members. Coconut Grove is a romantic garden perfect for wedding ceremonies. Unique suites are also available for intimate ceremonies.

The Royal Hawaiian takes meetings and events seriously. An indoor 12,000 square feet room is designed for all types of meeting facilities. A 66,000 square feet space is available outdoor for special meetings and events.

Activities offered at the luxury hotel are great fun and an experience to remember a lifetime for children and adults. The activities include hiking, water sports, shows and entertainment, sightseeing, shopping, golf, and dolphin connection.

Rates at Royal Hawaiian Resort start at $250 per night.

2259 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
808-923-7311

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