Aloha and Mahalo Mahalo, Mahalo! We stayed at this amazing Villa at the Hualalai Resort in June 2013. Although I have been traveling to Hawaii for the past 27 years, this was my first time visiting and staying in historic Kaupulehu. What a lifetime treat! The Villa is chic, yet comfortable. Beautifully decorated, but not pretentious. I could feel the layers of work and traveling melt as soon as I stepped onto one of the double balconies and listened to the soft trade winds blow through the palm trees. The Villa is well stocked with everything you need to cook a big meal or to simply relax. Trust me, I love to cook and I had everything I needed at my fingertips. Oh, except a can opener, which was easily delivered in 10 minutes! Honestly, we found the Villa so warm and welcoming, we ate many meals on the "lanai"/balcony and found ourselves barbecuing more often than not. The Villa is pristine and very family friendly. Four of us easily found comfort. Two of my favorites: Waking up to a sunrise in the master bedroom and rolling out to the balcony to greet the day. (Ps...Love the "Bears" Art!) Also, a special treat is the sound system in the living room. Turn on your favorite Hawaiian Radio station, open up all the doors (including the kitchen door) and let the fresh air flow in and out. Seriously, it's intoxicating! And there is NO need for the air conditioning! The beaches are lovely, not crowded and we saw turtles everyday, either sunning themselves or we snorkeled with them. Saw an array of beautiful fish. I LOVED driving the Golf Cart (provided with the rental of the Villa) to Hapuna Beach where I would swim every day and the rest of our group would snorkel. The Four Seasons Staff manning the Cabana with rental gear are helpful and always had "heads up" whoever is in the water. Take a picnic basket and enjoy!
TIPS: -We ventured out to experience zipline in Kona , it's one of those lifetime memories. Dress in layers, it does get a little cool in the higher elevation. You may find a discount coupon at the activities desk.
-3 hr drive to see a Volcano. You can actually drive there, explore for 2 hrs, then drive 3 hrs back all in one full day. Pack snacks!
-At the Resort: You MUST try the Spa. Well, at least the steam room and outdoor showers. Heaven! We definitely will be returning to this lovely Waiulu Villa and I have already recommended this home to our friends and family. Again, Mahalo!
