At the recently revamped Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, rest, relaxation and rejuvenation await.
King’s Pond pool is a renovation addition at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai.
Through the lava fields, down a magnificent drive, past a manicured Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course is an oasis—a place dedicated to rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. A favorite along this swath of Kona Coast, Four Seasons Resort Hualālai is back and better than ever.
A prime ocean view room with king bed showcases the new interiors from San Francisco-based BAMO.
I’ve arrived for a long weekend getaway from reality—ready to dive headfirst into the blissful days of spa lounging, beach reading and pool hopping that lie ahead. No stranger to the challenges posed over the past year, Four Seasons Resort Hualālai shuttered its posh doors and windows last spring, battled through the pandemic and returned just before the new year with renewed energy—not to mention a $100 million-plus top-to-bottom renovation. The spirit of this classic luxury resort remains, but with a nip and a tuck and all the bells and whistles its jet-set clientele has come to demand. As I’m escorted to my room, I take a deep breath in and let the majesty of this place wash over me. Goodbye to the everyday, and hello to the oceanfront good life.
Settling into my well-appointed room, I ruminate on what I soon determine will be the hardest decision of my stay. Where to begin? From the vantage of my private patio, I survey my options. Directly below is King’s Pond and a newly opened infinity pool perched above. Shall I play marine biologist for the day, feeding the resident eagle ray, learning from the knowledgeable staff and spotting species of tropical fish? Perhaps the adults-only pool (for those 21 and up, it’s the only one on-property with a swim-up bar) or the serenity-first “quiet” pool are more my speed? Or, for those with children in tow, the kid-friendly pool might be more suitable. With plans to visit each during my sojourn, I land on starting with a classic: the deep blue sea.
The Palm Grove pool is exclusively for those 21 and up.
Where volcanic rock, white sand beaches and turquoise waters meet, this slice of Pacific is home to pods of spinner dolphins, honu—sea turtles native to the area, which can sometimes be spotted snoozing on the Four Seasons’ shores—and fish life aplenty. But before I can even rest in my plush lounge chair, an attendant swoops in with beach towels, water and a cocktail menu. Before long, I’m sipping on a refreshing tequila concoction with the surf crashing just beyond. This is heaven on Earth.
The pampering continues at every turn—not least of which is the spa. Discreetly tucked away in a walled garden in the middle of the resort, Hualālai Spa offers hot and cold plunge pools, a reflection river with smooth stones to massage your weary feet, a salon, yoga therapy, bespoke apothecary creations, energy healing and even physical therapy. But I’m here for the main event: a Lomi Lomi massage in a private outdoor pavilion. I drift in and out—not quite asleep, not quite awake—as my thorough masseuse stretches and molds my muscles into the ultimate state of Zen.
A poolside guest room
Hualālai Spa is only the tip of this Four Seasons’ impressive amenities. From shopping (men’s and women’s resortwear, designer clothes and fine jewelry, among others, are all on offer) to dining, this resort is an escape all its own. Mediterranean is the star at Beach Tree Restaurant, where pastas and thoughtful entrees reign, and the Nutella tart is not to be missed. ‘Ulu Ocean Grill is a fusion of fresh seafood and sushi, with such a comprehensive menu it’s hard to choose between the two. And for casual grab-and-go fare, Hualālai Trading Company is a favorite.
Like its menus, each experience is masterfully planned. And the forthcoming villa suites are no different. Debuting this summer, these dwellings will feature two stories with ample space for families or larger groups. For the ultimate in private luxury, chefs are available for curated in-suite dining.
Beach Tree pool has been nicknamed the quiet pool for its serene atmosphere. Keep your decibels to a minimum.
Unsurprisingly this renovated paradise has perfected discreet resort living. There’s no over-the-top glitz. There’s no keeping up with the Joneses. There’s a come-as-you-are mentality—whether that’s dripping in precious jewels or straight from the pool in a cover-up and wide-brim hat. Nothing is too precious here and R&R flourishes. I return to the real world rested, rejuvenated and reset. Oceanfront rooms from $1,590, suites from $1,990, villa suites from $18,295
A couple’s room at Hualālai Spa
Don’t miss out on these thrilling ocean activities.
Snorkeling You’ve surely snorkeled before, but Sea Quest does it better. Sit back and relax as captain Kalani Nākoa and his team take you to the best spots along the Kona Coast. Trust their expertise as they guide you to the best little-known coves and bays. As you cruise along the coastline, listen in as Nākoa tells tales of the ancient Hawaiians.
Canoeing The Four Seasons has a variety of water adventures on offer. I opt for a paddle in an outrigger canoe. Not long after heading out, a boat comes near, alerting me and my guide to the spinner dolphins not far off. Our direction determined, we set off toward the pod. It’s not long before we’re engulfed by nearly 50 of these stunning creatures. Closer to shore, we even spot a turtle bobbing for its breakfast.
Swimming With Manta Rays Nākoa has rebuilt a double-hulled Hawaiian sailing canoe and, along with his crew at Eka Canoe Adventures leads small groups for night swimming with manta rays. It—quite literally—takes your breath away as these massive animals perform somersaults, getting centimeters from your body. Each manta has a name (the spots on their bellies are as unique as a fingerprint) and they have the personalities to match. Big Bertha is the largest at a whopping 16-foot wingspan, and Amanda Ray, the sassiest, is known for getting up close and personal. These are gentle creatures, but it’s important to listen closely to your guide’s instruction and never touch the mantas. Our skin interferes with their protective layer and can cause bacterial infections.
Photography by: Courtesy of brand
