Mauna Lani | Kailua Kona

Mauna Lani: A Comprehensive Guide

Location:
Mauna Lani is located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, roughly 25 miles north of Kailua-Kona and 18 miles south of Waimea. It is part of the South Kohala Coast, known for its luxurious resorts, stunning beaches, and rich Hawaiian history. The Mauna Lani area is home to several upscale resorts, a golf course, and notable archaeological sites.

Why Mauna Lani Is Special

Mauna Lani offers a unique blend of luxury resorts, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a top destination for relaxation, adventure, and exploration. The area is known for:

• Beautiful, tranquil beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• World-class resorts and golf courses, offering luxury accommodations and exclusive amenities.
• Historical and cultural significance, with ancient Hawaiian fishponds, petroglyphs, and heiau (temples).
• A quieter, less crowded environment compared to other areas of the Big Island, making it an excellent destination for a peaceful retreat.

Key Features

1. Mauna Lani Beach

• White Sand and Clear Waters:
  • Mauna Lani Beach is a picturesque crescent-shaped beach with soft white sand and calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Great Snorkeling Spot:
  • The area is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The coral reefs near the shoreline are teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays.
  • Fishponds and Coral Gardens: The fishponds near the beach provide a habitat for a variety of fish species, making it a great spot for underwater exploration.

2. Mauna Lani Resort

• World-Class Accommodation:
  • The Mauna Lani Resort is one of Hawaii’s most renowned luxury resorts, offering elegant accommodations, a variety of dining options, and top-notch amenities.
  • Guests can enjoy private villas, oceanfront suites, and spacious rooms with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or the nearby mountains.
• Resort Amenities:
  • The resort includes a spa, golf courses, restaurants, and outdoor activities like whale watching (seasonal), kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • The Mauna Lani Golf Course, featuring two 18-hole championship courses, is considered one of the best golf courses in Hawaii.

3. Cultural and Historical Sites

• Ancient Hawaiian Fishponds:
  • The area is home to ancient Hawaiian fishponds that were used by native Hawaiians to cultivate fish for food. The Mauna Lani Resort has preserved these ponds, allowing visitors to explore and learn about traditional Hawaiian aquaculture.
• Petroglyphs and Heiau:
  • The Mauna Lani Petroglyphs are ancient carvings found on the lava rock near the resort. The carvings depict scenes of daily life and religious rituals from Hawaiian history.
  • Puako Petroglyph Park, located nearby, is a historical site with thousands of petroglyphs dating back to the 14th century.
• Hawaiian Heiau:
  • The resort is located near the remains of an ancient heiau (temple), used for religious ceremonies by early Hawaiians.

4. Mauna Lani Point

• Breathtaking Ocean Views:
  • Mauna Lani Point is a dramatic cliffside area offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Kohala Coast. It is an excellent spot for watching the sunset and spotting marine life, including humpback whales during their migration season.
• Scenic Walking Trails:
  • The area features scenic walking trails that wind along the coastline, providing spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Things to Do

1. Snorkeling and Swimming

• Mauna Lani Beach:
  • As one of the most popular beaches in the area, it offers great snorkeling opportunities. You can expect to see a variety of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
• Other Nearby Beaches:
  • Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area (about a 15-minute drive) is another excellent beach nearby with calm waters and beautiful sand for swimming and snorkeling.

2. Golf

• Mauna Lani Golf Courses:
  • The resort features two championship golf courses: the Mauna Lani North Course and the Mauna Lani South Course. These courses offer a challenging yet scenic experience, with oceanfront holes and views of the island's volcanoes.
  • The Mauna Lani Golf Club is one of Hawaii’s premier golfing destinations.

3. Spa and Wellness

• The Mauna Lani Spa:
  • Guests at the resort can indulge in the luxurious Mauna Lani Spa, which offers traditional Hawaiian healing therapies, massages, facials, and body treatments using locally sourced ingredients.
  • The resort also features fitness facilities and wellness programs, making it a great destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

4. Cultural Experiences

• Hawaiian Cultural Activities:
  • The resort offers a variety of cultural experiences, including hula lessons, lei-making classes, and traditional Hawaiian music performances.
  • Visitors can also take guided tours to learn about the history and culture of the area, including the significance of the ancient fishponds and petroglyphs.

5. Whale Watching (Seasonal)

• Winter Whale Watching:
  • From December to April, you can watch humpback whales migrate through the waters off the Kohala Coast. The Mauna Lani Resort offers whale-watching tours and activities during this time.

Nearby Attractions

1. Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

• Located about 15 minutes north of Mauna Lani, this historical site features one of the largest heiau (temples) in Hawaii. It was built by King Kamehameha I in the late 18th century and is an important cultural site for Hawaiian history.

2. Waikoloa Beach Resort

• About 10-15 minutes south of Mauna Lani, this resort area offers shopping, dining, and additional beach activities. The Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace are great places to shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal.

3. Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

• As mentioned, this beautiful beach is just a short drive from Mauna Lani and is another excellent destination for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the sand.

Tips for Visiting Mauna Lani

Book Early for Popular Activities

• If you plan to visit the Mauna Lani Resort or book a round of golf, spa treatments, or dining reservations, it’s best to book early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

• To protect the fragile marine environment, make sure to use reef-safe sunscreen, particularly when snorkeling or swimming.

Rent a Car

• Renting a car is essential to explore Mauna Lani and its surrounding areas. While the resort offers plenty of activities, having a car allows you to visit nearby attractions, beaches, and towns at your own pace.

Wear Comfortable Shoes for Hiking and Exploring

• If you plan to explore the petroglyphs or hike along the coastline, wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on rocky terrain.

Why Visit Mauna Lani?

Mauna Lani offers the perfect combination of luxury, natural beauty, cultural history, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the tranquility of a secluded beach, explore ancient Hawaiian sites, or indulge in world-class resort amenities, Mauna Lani provides a variety of experiences in an extraordinary setting. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with stunning views and a rich cultural heritage, makes Mauna Lani an ideal destination for a Hawaiian getaway.