The iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel sits on the Island of Hawaii’s serene Kauna’oa Bay. The luxurious property opened in 1965 as the island’s first resort and was praised as one of the greatest hotels in the world at the time. Known for its championship golf course, tranquil sandy beach, and inspirational design, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel remains one of the best properties on the Island of Hawaii today.
Located on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, the property is a 35-minute drive from the Kona International Airport. Upon arriving at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, the refreshing breeze of the Pacific Ocean greets you as it blows through the open-air structure and the sound of crashing waves fills the background. Here, every room has a balcony and relaxation is guaranteed. From its open design along a pristine beach to its massive rooms, here are a few of my favorite characteristics of the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
Property Overview & Amenities
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s lengthy history and sprawling grounds gives the property a boutique vibe. The sea breeze flows through every corner of the property and the ocean is always within earshot. With just one pool, the property’s focus is appropriately on the pristine beach and its beachfront lawn. The structure’s open-style architecture set the standard as it inspired other Hawaiian resorts and even received honors from the American Institute of Architects in both 1967 and 2007.
Lining the Pacific Ocean with manicured greens, the legendary Mauna Kea Golf Course was the first golf course on the island opening in 1964. The over-the-ocean hole number 3 headlines this magnificent golf course—an unforgettable experience for any avid golfer. If golf isn’t your forte, take a tennis lesson on the Seaside Tennis Club or relax during a beachside yoga session. Afterwards, soothe sore muscles at the Mauna Kea Spa.
Dining options include a variety of fine dining and casual oceanside restaurants. For an upscale dinner and Sunday Brunch, head to the Manta Restaurant. The more casual Copper Bar (a personal favorite) serves handcrafted cocktails and fresh sushi. For a more Hawaiian themed dinner, attend the Clambake on the beach or enjoy the resort’s Mauna Kea Luau, a traditional Hawaiian Luau complete with a fire show and island buffet. And with easy access to the Mauna Kea’s sister hotel, the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, you have a wide selection of dining options without ever having to get in your car.
Beach & Water Activities
While much of Hawaii’s coastline is rocky lava, Kauna’oa Bay is home to a soft sandy beach. The crescent-shaped bay is a haven for water activities. During the winter, impressive waves crash across the bay as winter swells bring in the occasional high surf. In the summer, the bay transforms into a peaceful refuge and calm waters lap the shore.
Start your mornings by strolling the Ala Kahakai Trail, a scenic Hawaiian coastal path that runs through the property. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales during the winter months. The Beach Club offers a number of water sports including kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling. Swim out to the moored platform in the middle of the bay and bask in the sun. One of the coolest activities to do while on the Big Island is night snorkeling with graceful giant manta rays, an activity you can do right at the hotel
Room – Deluxe Golf Vista
We stayed in a Deluxe Golf Vista and loved the palatial rooms and multiple balconies. The entry hall featured two closets, a floor length mirror, and plenty of room to leave all of our luggage, snorkel gear, and shoes. Covered in luxuriously soft linens, the king bed was extremely comfortable. Leading out to the spacious and furnished balcony are floor-to-ceiling sliding glass windows. Natural light filled the entire bedroom. And if one balcony isn’t enough for you, the bathroom has a second smaller (also furnished) balcony. The bathroom is equally roomy with two separate vanities, a giant bathtub and rain shower.
Head to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel website to learn more and book a stay.
