The reopening of Kona Village Resort on the Big Island brings a slice of paradise back to life, thanks to California real estate developer Kennedy Wilson and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Once a magnet for Hollywood A-listers and travelers seeking adventure, this legendary property, after a 10-year hiatus due to tsunami damage, returns as Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort. Although its earlier incarnation was not defined by luxury, the resort’s oceanfront location and unique standalone bungalows provided the allure. The new Kona Village manages to preserve that allure while adding a deeper connection to Hawaii’s history and culture.
The resort now spans 81 acres of lava landscapes along a picturesque coastline, housing 150 bungalows spread throughout the property. Renowned designer Nicole Hollis and her team have infused the resort with a genuine sense of place and chic, magazine-worthy furnishings. The design is respectful of Hawaiian culture, with a focus on natural materials and decor inspired by traditional Hawaiian tools. More than three dozen native Hawaiian and Hawaii-residing artists contributed works throughout the public spaces and hales, celebrating the region’s rich artistic heritage.
In addition to thoughtful design, the resort boasts remarkable in-room amenities, such as lava-hued soaking bathtubs, outdoor showers, and spacious private lanais. The oceanfront Maheawalu Kauhale stands as the crown jewel of the resort, offering a top-priced suite in Hawaii, complete with an infinity pool and breathtaking views. The resort also debuts Rosewood’s Asaya Spa in the United States, built into the lava flow with views of Hualālai volcano.
The food and beverage program features a variety of options, including Pacific Rim flavors inspired by the region’s history as a major port for Polynesian navigators. Traditional Hawaiian cooking techniques shine at Kahuwai Cookhouse and Market. Guests can immerse themselves in activities, from water sports to cultural experiences, and take part in guided sunrise paddles. Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, strives to offer luxury travelers an authentic connection to the environment, community, and purpose, reflecting a conservative perspective that values preserving and enhancing natural beauty and cultural heritage.