From the moment I arrived, the staff welcomed me with a warm aloha, a fragrant lei, and a refreshing juice that instantly soothed my senses. Entering the expansive open‑air lobby, I was in awe. Warm cedar details, breathtaking floor‑to‑ceiling windows, and a handcrafted wooden outrigger canoe at the centre create a space that feels both grounded and sacred. Hawaiian artifacts and murals by local artists celebrate the land and its stories, making the entire environment feel deeply connected to the nature surrounding the resort.
The Mauna Lani spans 34 acres of oceanfront beauty that include royal fishponds, lava plains, lush tropical gardens, and breathtaking beaches so close you can hear the calm ocean waves from your rooms lulling you to sleep at night. Mornings begin with sunrise yoga on the front lawn, days unfold with swims in the Pacific Ocean with its clear blue water you will enjoy seeing tropical fishes (I was lucky to capture a turtle gliding through the water), and evenings end with dinner at sunset, the sky painted in gold and rose.
I stayed in a stunning Ocean Front One‑Bedroom Suite, complete with a spacious living area and a private balcony overlooking a panoramic sweep of the Pacific. Waking up to the sound of waves and watching the horizon shift throughout the day felt like its own kind of meditation—calming, expansive, and unforgettable.
From the moment I arrived, I felt an immediate calmness. Once I was welcomed to Mauna Lani, I felt an overall sense of peace, as though the resort itself were a breathing sanctuary that embodies and celebrates Hawaiian culture and traditions. The name Mauna Lani translates to “mountain reaching heaven,” capturing the majestic presence of the Island of Hawaiʻi surrounding volcanoes—Hualālai, Kohala, Mauna Loa, and Mauna Kea. The resort is nestled between five sacred mountains and rests along a coastline shaped by black lava fields, aquamarine waters, and soft white‑sand beaches. It’s the kind of landscape that makes you take a deep breath by the shore, then another as you settle into a daybed with your book, cooling off with a swim in one of the many pools or dipping into the crystal‑clear ocean.
Walking through the property, I was struck by how seamlessly Mauna Lani blends modern luxury with the natural beauty of the outdoors. Expansive windows and open‑air spaces make you feel immersed in nature no matter where you are.
During my morning walks, I loved admiring the local flowers and the open‑concept design that echoes traditional Hawaiian architecture with a contemporary, elegant twist. Throughout every space, there is a sense of “mana”—the spiritual energy and life force that flows through all things in Hawaiian culture. You feel it in every experience at Mauna Lani. As a Virtuoso‑preferred property, Mauna Lani offers exceptional privileges and elevated service for our clients, and during my stay, I experienced firsthand what makes it so special.
When you visit Mauna Lani, you will experience:
- Daily breakfast for two at HāLani, the resort’s open‑air restaurant overlooking the ocean. I recommend the tropical fruit and the fresh malasadas— pillowy, egg‑rich Portuguese doughnuts.
- A room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability. I was offered a sweeping oceanfront room where I enjoyed the sound of waves each morning with my cup of tea.
- A $100 USD resort credit to enjoy toward a spa treatment or dining.
- Early check‑in and late check‑out, based on availability—perfect for a slower morning and ensuring nothing gets left behind in your suitcase.
These Virtuoso amenities truly enhanced my stay and are exclusive to clients who book through North South Travel.
One of my main takeaways from my time at Mauna Lani is how deeply they prioritize curated experiences that connect guests with Hawaiʻi’s culture and nature. I had the privilege of taking part in a traditional sunrise canoe ceremony, guided by a cultural ambassador who shared Hawaiian oral traditions through songs and stories passed down through generations. It was a moving, grounding experience that filled me with peace and gratitude for the land I was visting—unlike anything I’ve felt before.
The resort also offers exceptional experiences for every traveler and mini‑traveler. The Holoholo Kids Crew provides enriching programs that teach children about Hawaiian history, ocean conservation, and cultural practices. Couples can enjoy beachfront dinners under the stars or indulge in private spa treatments inspired by local healing traditions.
Dining with Soul
Mauna Lani’s culinary offerings are abundant and heartfelt. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying quiet time alone with a book, every space feels welcoming and delicious.
I dined at CanoeHouse, one of the island’s most celebrated restaurants, where each dish honours Hawaiian culture and tells a story. The grilled Kona kampachi with fermented chili and pickled mango was a standout. Dining there at sunset—watching the sun dip into the Pacific—felt like pure magic.
Why Mauna Lani?
Mauna Lani is luxury refined—not just in service and sophistication, but in the emotional connection it fosters. It’s ideal for clients seeking a blend of wellness, adventure, romance, and being immersed in the culture. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, planning a multigenerational trip, or seeking time to reconnect with yourself, this is a destination that meets you where you are and elevates your experience.
As a travel advisor, I love recommending Mauna Lani to clients who crave more than just a beautiful hotel. It’s a place that speaks to the soul—inviting reflection, connection with nature, and the creation of your own personal sanctuary that stays with you long after you leave.
Contact Jane Patrick
If you’re interested in experiencing Mauna Lani with exclusive Virtuoso benefits, I’d be thrilled to help you plan your journey. Please reach out to me at jane@nstravel.bc.ca to begin planning your personal itinerary.
