The open-air CanoeHouse restaurant is
located by a pond and the ocean
at the Mauna Lani Resort.
I spent three nights at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, where the guestrooms, service and food are beyond excellent. They have a wonderful kids’ program, a cultural center with “sense of place” programs and an impressive spa and fitness facility. This is the property to recommend when clients want the best possible resort experience, and for people who want to completely unwind.
Where else did you stay?
I gave myself two nights at the Fairmont Orchid Hawaii, another terrific resort with a good beach for swimming, great spa and lots of activities. I particularly enjoyed the Gathering of the Kings, the Orchid’s very entertaining evening production that isn’t anything like your typical Hawaiian show. It’s offered twice a week, has Polynesian music and dancing and comes with a delicious dinner.
Did you go on any additional site inspections?
I toured the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, a lovely property. We had dinner at its CanoeHouse restaurant right on the beach, which is famous for fresh fish. The meal and service were outstanding; I would definitely recommend it. The negative side of the Mauna Lani is that the spa is located away from the hotel, so your clients have to take a shuttle to work out or get a massage.
What types of clients are best suited for a Big Island trip?
I recommend the Big Island to people who have been to Hawaii before and who want a relaxing and serene vacation. The only nightlife on the west side is at the hotels or in Kailua-Kona, which is a 30- to 45-minute drive from the hotels along the Kohala Coast.
The island is also a good bet for clients who want to spend some of their vacation snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and visiting an active volcano.
