For over three decades, the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows served as a centerpiece on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island due to its secluded and peaceful location. Although, after more than three decades of operation, the quality of the hotel began to deplete. After several different owners over the years, in 2018, the hotel was bought by Auberge Resorts Collection. It is known for its opulent style resorts that resemble 5-star quality in its design, staff, and location. The purchase and rumors of possible renovations to the hotel had not only the locals excited but the loyal guests of the hotel as well. As the first Auberge Resorts Collection property in Hawai’i, they wanted to transform and revitalize the hotel in its image while continuing to emphasize Hawaiian culture. Auberge Collections began by renovating the multi-floor lobby in which they created an open space, moved the registration desk, and installed a 100-year-old historical hand-carved canoe as the centerpiece for the bottom floor.
The resort now has 333 rooms, suites, and five private bungalows, all of which have been updated to emphasize contemporary designs. Each room features natural decor such as rich hardwoods, natural fabrics, and updated lanais to highlight the gorgeous mountain and ocean views. The expansive 4,265 square-feet Francis H. I’i Brown Suite, named after Hawai’i’s renowned golfer and Senator, features a spacious living room, full-scale gourmet kitchen, and large lanai with a built-in firepit. The suite also overlooks a pool, the Hawaiian fishponds, the Great Lawn, and not to mention its expansive ocean views. The resort added brand new adult and family pools. The 2,000-square-foot adult pool features an infinity edge and private cabanas with ocean views and royal fishponds. Auberge redesigned the look of the family/resort pool; it expands 3,900 square feet and now has an unobstructed view of the ocean.
The resort’s spa was also updated to emphasize wellness, natural products, and harmony. The spa prides itself on using all-natural treatments and products by outsourcing to local farms on the island and features locally made Honua Hawaiian Skincare products. In addition to the spa, a brand new fitness center was implemented; it is now 5,000 square feet and features Peloton bikes and Precor exercise machines; guests also have the option to hire personal trainers as well. The state’s first Goop store was also added to the resort, created by Gweneth Paltrow, it features athletic wear, resort fashion, luxury beach essentials, and clean beauty and wellness products. The famous Canoe House restaurant underwent renovations to not only its design but also its menu; it now encompasses all locally sourced produce, focusing on Hawaiian-inspired dishes with a gourmet twist. The renovations took a total of 14 months to complete and cost over $200 million dollars.
If you are looking for a larger place to stay near the Mauna Lani Bay, check out the Mauna Lani Terrace condos.
