A Sustainable Oasis
Kona Village is not just a resort; it’s a commitment to sustainability and a profound connection to nature. Originally built in the 1950s, the property suffered significant damage from a tsunami in 2011, leading to an indefinite close. But after an extensive renovation under the auspices of Rosewood Hotels, it reopened its doors in 2023, more magnificent than ever.
The resort’s restoration has been carefully designed to maintain the land’s integrity and honor the original Kona Village. The architecture blends seamlessly with its lush landscape with raised thatched hales and organic-inspired elements. Sustainability is at the forefront, with the resort relying solely on solar power and boasting a zero-waste commitment, paving the way for future Hawaiian resorts. As one of the largest privately owned microgrids in the state, Kona Village sets an example for green hospitality.
Arrival and Transportation
From the moment you step off the plane at Kona Airport, you are warmly greeted with the spirit of aloha. Pro tip: Arrange transportation in advance to ensure a seamless arrival. Our driver was waiting near baggage claim, ready to whisk us away to paradise. The short 15-minute ride to the hotel was not just a transfer but an educational journey through the rich history and landscapes of the area.
Welcome to Paradise
As soon as we arrived at Kona Village, we were enveloped in its warm embrace. Welcomed with signature drinks and traditional leis, the hospitality extended beyond mere service—it was a genuine embrace of the aloha spirit. The check-in process was effortless, set against the backdrop of an open-air lobby with panoramic ocean views. After a relaxed check-in, we were escorted to our Hale via golf cart, where we continued to learn more about the beautiful resort we would be getting to know in the coming days.
Accommodations: Luxury Meets Nature
Only at Kona Village can you book your stay in your own private hale. Their one-story accommodations are nestled in standalone buildings, making them the only hotel on the island to offer this exclusive and iconic experience.
Ocean View Hales
Our Ocean View Hale (Room 125) was more than just a room; it was a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility. Spanning 850 square feet, including indoor and outdoor space, the stand-alone building offered unparalleled privacy. Each accommodation at Kona Village features an outdoor lanai, shower, and tub, inviting guests to reconnect with nature. And with locally made amenities and a welcome gift awaiting us (locally made soled slippers (in our size), every detail was thoughtfully curated to enhance our experience, the same treatment we know all of our clients receive.
Ocean View Hales features a King bed and can sleep up to three guests. Each accommodation comes with at least two complimentary bikes for getting around the expansive property. Outdoor finished space is perfect for drinking your coffee or meditating in the morning while listening to the waves crashing.
For those in need of more space, we had the privileged opportunity to get an inside look at the ‘Ohana Pool Four-Bedroom Kauhale and the Ocean Front Four-Bedroom Maheawalu Kauhale.
‘Ohana Pool Four Bedroom Kauhale
The ‘Ohana Four Bedroom Kauhale at Kona Village is the ultimate retreat for families or groups, offering a blend of luxury and comfort. With its private pool, hot tub, and outdoor fire pit, along with 6,500 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space, guests can relax in seclusion. The stylish design features a large entertaining area with a fully equipped kitchen, bespoke furniture, and luxurious amenities such as outdoor showers and soaking tubs. With chef-curated dinners, butler service, and accommodations for up to 12 guests, including two kings and four queen beds across four full bathrooms and one half-bath, the ‘Ohana Four Bedroom Kauhale ensures a memorable and indulgent stay.
Although the ‘Ohana Pool Four Bedroom Kauhale is not oceanfront, and a bit secluded from the resort’s amenities, it is still a wonderful cost-effective option for larger multi-generational families.
Beachfront Two Bedroom Kauhale
Just steps away from the beach and offering stunning views of Kahuwai Bay, the Beach Front Two Bedroom Kauhale provides a luxurious retreat. This spacious accommodation spans 2,420 square feet, blending heritage and modern luxury seamlessly. Inspired by the island’s architectural traditions, the kauhale boasts bespoke furnishings, a large lanai, two full bathrooms plus one half-bathroom, soaking tubs, an outdoor rain shower, and sleeping arrangements for up to six guests with one king and two queen beds.
Ocean Front Four Bedroom Maheawalu Kauhale
The Ocean Front Four-Bedroom Maheawalu Kauhale at Kona Village offers a luxurious escape with its stunning location on Maheawalu Point, boasting uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean. Spanning 8,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, this presidential-style residence reflects the island’s architectural traditions. Inside, guests will find four king beds, a full chef’s kitchen, and an indoor dining room. The lavish amenities include four full bathrooms, an outdoor bathtub, and a rain shower. With attentive butler service and complimentary round-trip airport transfers, this accommodation caters to the needs of up to eight guests, making it ideal for couples’ retreats or multi-generational family vacations.
The Ocean Front Four Bedroom Maheawalu Kauhale is located on the northern side of the resort, closest to the resort’s amenities – Moana Restaurant, Moana Pool, Asaya Spa, Fitness Center, and Keiki Club.
Kauhale Inclusions:
Butler Service
Beautiful Floral Arrangement
Complimentary Airport Transfer for all suite guests
Choice of Private 1-hour experience for all suite guests with Kilo Kai, Cultural Mea Ho’okipa, or Sustainability team
(2) 1-hour Spa Treatments during the stay
(1) Chef-curated dinner for all suite guests during their stay in the suite or at Moana
In-suite Beverage and Daily Breakfast Delivery Service
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for ultimate tranquility, we highly recommend staying in Ocean View and Ocean Front Hales on the “Black Sand” northern side of the resort.
If you’re a honeymooner or visiting Kona Village for a romantic getaway, we recommend the Tree Top accommodations. Elevated and perched upon a hillside amongst the palm trees, the Tree Top King Hale offers 850 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor space.
Contact our team to learn more about the best accommodation based on your travel preferences.
Culinary Delights
The resort’s experienced culinary team expertly combines local and regional ingredients, including those grown in the resort’s own garden, Kahiko Mala’ai. Moana, one of four dining experiences to choose from, offers a delightful dining experience with Pacific Rim-to-table cuisine. From indulgent breakfasts to dinners highlighting sustainable land and sea ingredients, Moana pays homage to the area’s historic fishing village. Moana is also where you will eat your complimentary breakfast every morning (exclusive OT perk!). Our favorite dish here was the ahi tuna poke bowl.
Experience breathtaking sunsets and enjoy pre-dinner drinks at Talk Story Bar, a renowned gathering spot situated in the center of Kona Village. Inspired by classic cocktails with their own unique stories, the bar offers a menu of enticing beverages while providing the perfect vantage point for whale watching. Shipwreck Bar, located poolside and creatively crafted from a salvaged sailboat, offers stunning ocean views and a playful cocktail selection.
For a casual and communal atmosphere, visit Kahuwai Cookhouse & Market. With an open kitchen, this vibrant eatery offers a variety of grab-and-go options throughout the day. From light breakfasts to satisfying meals accompanied by Kombucha, craft beer, and wine on tap, every bite at Kuhawai Cookhouse & Market nourishes the soul. Each dining experience at Kona Village is a testament to the resort’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Activities and Excursions
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Kona Village has something for everyone. From hikes in the Cloud Forest (Meg’s favorite) to helicopter rides and whale watching, the possibilities are endless. Families will delight in the Keiki Club, offering activities tailored to children ages 5-12. And with sustainable practices at the forefront, guests can participate in activities that promote environmental stewardship, such as fishing in the lagoons and exploring the on-site farm.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Luau every Wednesday!
Book Your Stay with Ourisman Travel for Complimentary Benefits
By booking your stay at Kona Village through Ourisman Travel, we can offer:
Complimentary one-category upgrade at check-in (STA)
Daily full American breakfast at Moana for two people, per bedroom
150 USD resort credit, per room
Welcome note and amenity
Complimentary early check-in / late check-out (STA)
Please note that booking through Rosewood Elite is better than booking through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts because upgrades are always prioritized through Rosewood’s own proprietary program.
Complimentary Services for All Guests
Every stay at Kona Village includes:
Signature welcome beverage
Welcome amenity
Wi-Fi Internet access throughout the resort
Twice a day housekeeping service
Children’s activities including Rosewood Explorers Keiki Club
Access to Asaya Spa and Fitness Center
Cultural Center and Ancient Petroglyphs
Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, including the use of racquets and balls
Bocce Ball court
Non-motorized water sports equipment
Exclusive Promotion: 4th Night Free! Offer valid now – December 19, 2024. Contact our team for more information. This promotion also applies to the Four Bedroom Kauhales!
Exclusive Promotion: 20% off One or Two Bedroom Kauhale (Suites)! Offer valid now-December 19, 2024. Contact our team for more information.
Why Choose Kona Village?
What sets Kona Village apart is its authentic embrace of Hawaiian culture and commitment to sustainability. Unlike other properties, Kona Village exudes a raw, rugged charm that keeps the essence of Hawaii alive. With its deep respect for nature and the island, Kona Village offers a truly immersive experience that transcends the typical luxury resort.
Kona Village is very close to Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, one of our top-selling hotels in the world, and for good reason. If you’re planning a longer visit to Hawaii, we highly recommend splitting your time between Hualalai and Kona Village. While Four Seasons Hualalai may cater more to a “country club” atmosphere, ideal for families with young children, Kona Village offers a more modern yet rustic feel that appeals to a broader audience. Hualalai is a spacious resort whose guest rooms and suites are arranged in four oceanside crescents and a fifth group of rooms alongside the 18th green of the resort’s golf course… five resorts within the resort. If your vacation time allows for it, we recommend spending 4 nights at Four Seasons Hualalai and 4 nights at Kona Village to experience both properties’ full list of amenities and activities.
For the optimal experience, consider the differences between high and low seasons. High season, spanning from mid-December to March and mid-June through August, offers vibrant energy and ideal weather conditions. Conversely, low season, from April to mid-June and September to mid-December, presents a quieter atmosphere and potentially more affordable rates.
Our stay at Kona Village was nothing short of magical. The property’s integration of exposed lava rock throughout adds to its authenticity and charm, making it a truly exceptional destination for those seeking an organic and iconic Hawaiian experience.
From the moment we arrived until the moment we reluctantly bid farewell, every aspect of our experience was infused with the spirit of aloha. If you’re seeking a getaway that combines luxury, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature, look no further than Kona Village.
Love Rosewood properties? New hotels are opening in Japan, Austria, Amsterdam, and Doha, with even more in the pipeline, so contact us if you want to learn more about any of their scheduled opening dates.
For more information on Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, and how we can elevate your stay, please send us an email at [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form!