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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