The Mauna Lani Resort area sprawls over more than 3,000 acres of breathtaking scenery on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. The very name of the resort, which means “mountains reaching heaven,” portrays the spectacular terrain of this shoreline location which is nestled amid five mountains: Hualalai, Kohala, Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and Mauna Kea.
The historic area is considered to be a “living museum.” The resort opened 25 years ago, and this location has a rich and vibrant history dating back more than 700 years. Back then it was inhabited by Hawaiian warriors, fishermen, and royalty. Today the resort welcomes visitors from all over the world.
In 1984, the Mauna Lani Resort merited the Historic Preservation Award from the Historic Hawaii Foundation. The award is given in appreciation for the respect and honors the resort community has for this wonderful Hawaiian location and its historic ancestors.
Mauna Lani is an area of unsurpassed natural beauty and is home to 27 acres of historic parks including Kalahuipua’a Historic Park and Puako Petroglyph Park.
The resort also has two historic trails running through it. The Ala Kahakai coastal trail was designed to connect ancient fishing villages. The inland King’s Trail was used to connect ranchers with traders.
Mauna Lani Resort has also initiated a preservation landscape program which is reestablishing native plants and rare and endangered species. The resort is also renowned for the fact that it generates more solar power for electricity than any other luxury resort.
Experiences to Try Out at Mauna Lani
Mauna Lani offers activities for every type of guest, from aquatic adventurers to those looking for a holistic mind-body relaxation experience. These activities include:
- Paddle-boarding
- Outrigger canoe excursions
- Coastal adventures
- Kohala sunset sailing
- Reef scuba diving
- Cross-training on the beach
- Training for breath holding
- Yoga on the beach
- Beachside breathing and meditation
- Hiking the Ala Kahakai Historic Trail
- Horse riding adventures
- Stargazing
- Oceanfront entertainment at the historic cottage
- Off-road biking
Mauna Lani Resort and Golf
Mauna Lani offers a refreshing combination of idyllic scenery and exquisite luxury on Hawaii’s Big Island. With its 32 acres of expansive oceanfront, idyllic fishponds, unique lava planes, and breathtaking tropical landscapes, all surrounded by attractive beaches, the resort has something for every taste. Mauna Lani offers an awe-inspiring haven which has preserved deeply rooted cultural traditions and blended them seamlessly with a modern lifestyle.
Golfing at Mauna Lani
Both professional and amateur golfers love teeing-off on Mauna Lani’s beautifully landscaped golf courses. If you’re looking to improve your game, you can take advantage of the professionally guided golf lessons and clinics. The resorts 45 holes of golf provide a memorable experience whatever your skill level.
The Francis H. I.i Brown North Course
Built on a lava bed, the North Course has a lush, rolling terrain interspersed with mesquite forests. Hole number 17, a par three, sits in Mauna Lani’s natural lava amphitheater. The North Course is one of the most popular tournament courses on the Big Island. On the northern boundary of this course lies a 230-acre protected archaeological district.
The Francis H. I.i Brown South Course
The South Course has its claim to fame as the home of the annual Skins Game PGA tour from 1990 – 2000. This course winds through the rugged terrain of the prehistoric Kaniku lava flow and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. It’s a challenging course and home to hole number 15, which is a beautiful over-the-water hole, and one of the most photographed in the world.
WikiWiki Course
When you’re in the mood for a quick round of golf, the WikiWiki course is perfect. The course has just 9 holes and is designed to be played in about an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to participate in the resort’s many other activities.
Equity Residences’ Mauna Lani Resort Villa
Equity Residences’ presence at Mauna Lani is a modern luxury villa facing the sparkling ocean. It is located in Laule’A, one of the Big Island’s newly designed exclusive neighborhoods. The home is within comfortable walking distance of the Mauna Lani Resort and has spectacular views of the ocean and golf course – the villa overlooks the first fairway of the spectacular South Course. Enjoy a moment of serenity as you take in the views from your upper balcony or lanai. Relax in the infinity-edge pool and spa. When you stay at Equity Residences’ Mauna Lani Resort Villa you can also take advantage of access to all Mauna Lani golf courses, and you’ll have access to the Mauna Lani’s exclusive Beach Club.
