Sneak Preview: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

When Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows debuted in 1983, it represented a new wave of Hawaii Island resorts that embellished ancient lava flows with sleek hotels and modern fairways, pools and spas. 

Now, Mauna Lani is blazing trails again with a $100 million renovation and rebranding. The Kohala Coast-based hotel is closing Oct. 1 for an extensive transformation; it will reopen in late 2019 as part of Auberge Resorts Collection.

Plans call for a complete rethinking of the guest experience, which will emphasize the destination’s unique culture, nature and activities, according to Chris White, senior director of hotel marketing for Auberge Resorts Collection.

“Travelers of all stripes will feel at home at Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection,” White said. “Mauna Lani will offer everyone, from seasoned globetrotters to adventurous newcomers, experiences that allow them to relax, indulge, explore and immerse themselves in all that Hawaii Island has to offer.” 

The rebranded resort will appeal to multi-generational families, honeymooners and friend groups, among other clients, White says. 

White recommends that travel agents who are seeking a distinctive product to pitch to their Hawaii clients will want to put Mauna Lani on their radar.

“We expect that after the renovation, Mauna Lani will compete with some of the Kohala Coast’s top hotels, including Mauna Kea Beach Hotel,” White said. “We will bring Auberge’s intuitive service and casual, barefoot style of luxury to create an experience that is second to none in the islands.” 

The renovation will reduce the number of accommodations from 342 to 333 and add new signature suites that take advantage of ocean views. Mauna Lani’s freestanding bungalows, notable for their private pools, butlers and resort-within-a-resort setting, will also be enhanced.

Refurbished public areas will include a new infinity-edge adult pool with cabanas and a redesigned family pool. The Auberge Adventures program promises pastimes such as stand-up paddling, outrigger canoeing and evening bonfires.

The resort’s upgraded dining options will spotlight Hawaii Island’s abundance of organic farms. The existing CanoeHouse restaurant will continue to feature what’s fresh and in season. Bay Terrace, currently a breakfast spot, will be reimagined as a three-meal eatery, and a pool bar will provide optimum sunset watching.

For wellness buffs, a 5,000-square-foot fitness facility will tout personal trainers and workout classes. An Auberge Spa will focus on Hawaiian healing techniques.

During the updates, the resort is respecting and maintaining Mauna Lani’s historically significant areas, including the adjacent ponds where ancient islanders once raised fish.

“Mauna Lani has always prioritized a strong, authentic connection to the Hawaiian cultural history of its site,” White said. “The fishponds are the spiritual center of the hotel. These sacred ponds and the history they represent will be preserved in perpetuity.”

Another key holdover is the rich cultural programming developed by Danny Akaka, Mauna Lani’s esteemed Hawaiiana expert. Twilight at Kalahuipuaa — Akaka’s popular outdoor presentation of island music, dance and stories — will run on its regular monthly schedule.

“We’re excited to work with the local community to bring new traditions, experiences and celebrations to delight returning guests and new generations at Mauna Lani,” White said.

The Auberge philosophy will guide all the resort’s changes.

“The location takes center stage, informing everything from guestrooms to food and beverage to experiences,” White said. “No two Auberge resorts are the same. Our repeat visitors will recognize the high-quality, personal-touch service they’ve come to experience over the years while exploring one of the world’s most revered paradises.”  

The Details
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection 
https://aubergeresorts.com/maunalani/