Is it ever a bad idea to start planning a getaway to Hawaii? We personally don’t think so, especially because Hawaii appeals to such a wide range of travelers. Backpackers flock to the islands for hostels and hiking, honeymooners lounge out at some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, and adventurous thrill-seekers can take advantage of natural sights like strenuous but rewarding hikes and black sand beaches.
Most travelers, however, choose to stay in one of the islands’ over-the-top luxurious resorts, which is understandable for a destination that holds so many of them. If you’re making your way to the Island of Hawai’i, also known as the Big Island, there’s only one resort you should be considering for top-notch amenities and accommodations in a seriously pristine location. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, an Autograph Collection by Marriott, is centrally located directly on Kauna’oa Bay. While the Island of Hawai’i is typically overlooked for its more popular sisters Oahu and Maui, this resort alone is enough of a reason to make your way over.
What to expect during your stay
Out of all of the Hawaiian resorts, what is it about Mauna Kea Beach Hotel that makes it so spectacular? For starters, the location simply cannot be beat. When you exit the hotel, you’ll find your feet on the impeccable white sands of Kauna’oa Bay. Kauna’oa Bay typically has calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and even boogie-boarding.
There are 252 rooms total, each offering a private balcony with furniture. For the real créme de la créme, snag an oceanfront room. Aside from being located directly on the shore, one of the most sought-after features of the hotel is the Mauna Kea Golf Resort, which is uniquely built atop of ancient lava terrain.
Dining options are anything but lacking at this pristine resort, as well. Manta Restaurant is open for both breakfast and dinner, offering outdoor seating where you can hear the waves crash as you enjoy your meal. For a libation, head to the Copper Bar, offering innovative cocktails that will make you feel like you’re at a swanky underground spot in Brooklyn as opposed to the tropical island of Hawaii.
What’s worth exploring outside of the resort
While it might be hard to venture outside of the resort, which essentially offers you everything you could possibly want and need for a proper Hawaiian getaway, there’s a lot to see on Hawaii’s largest island.
Most impressively, you might think Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, but it can actually be found on the Big Island. Mauna Kea, whose base begins far beneath the water surface, is technically the largest mountain in the world, so it’s safe to say, a visit here is quite special. There are a few different ways to visit Mauna Kea. A common way is to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Note that if you have a standard vehicle, you won’t be able to go beyond the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Center, as driving conditions can be unsafe. For those who don’t want to personally drive, book a sunset tour to watch a beautiful sunset from the highest peak in the Pacific.
You also don’t want to miss bucket-list worthy Akaka Falls. Akaka Falls is a Hawaiian State Park filled with lush vegetation and abundant wildlife, and hikers are rewarded on this trek which leads to two waterfalls, and is a fairly easy hike at only a total of .4 miles.
