The iconic Kona Village Resort has been brought back to life following its 2011 closure. Embracing the culture of early Hawaii, the rebuilding focuses on conservation, sustainability and a casual ‘sense of place’. One feels marooned by choice amongst the individual guest room buildings, the natural landscape of lava, lush vegetation, and natural anchialine ponds alongside the beauty of Kahuwai bay.
The resort features 150 individual guestroom structures offering luxurious accommodations that invite you to enjoy ocean or mountain views. Televisions are by request only and technology is minimized to emphasize the natural beauty of this secluded place. Interior design themes respond to its location within the resort – influenced by the beach, pond or lava fields.
Dining is offered in open covered lanais or ‘feet in the sand’ tables under the stars in a village atmosphere emphasizing the community experience that is reminiscent of the original resort. Guests will be delighted to discover the re-built specialty bars at Shipwreck and Talk Story for the perfect sunset view over the ocean. Ho’okipa which means hospitality in Hawaiian offers open air dining and a hula performance across the old fishing village pond.
The Spa experiences are separated by natural lava flows for a private wellness adventure guided by nature. The texture of the building materials and the craft of local artisans elevates the mood in contrast to the desolation of the lava. Preservation of the natural formations exemplifies the intention across the resort to be “light on the land".
The design raised the standards to address energy efficiency, water conservation and performance for green building design, construction, and operations. Kona Village Resort is the first Hawaiian hotel to receive LEED v4 Gold certification for three of its buildings. Each certification earned innovation, pilot and exemplary performance credits highlighting the unique features.