Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is welcoming visitors along Hawaii’s Kona Coast. An inspired reinvention of the original Kona Village Resort, which opened in the 1960s and subsequently shuttered in 2011 following a tsunami, a familiar silhouette has returned to the island’s horizon. Kennedy Wilson, a global real estate investment company, reconstructed the property, partnering with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to prioritize environmental responsibility and local culture in the guest experience.
Spanning 81 acres, Kona Village draws inspiration from Kaʻūpūlehu’s heritage, culture and surroundings. The resort’s cultural center pays tribute to the region’s history, the sacred archeological sites it is home to, and the region’s resources. The resort also houses a collection of art commissioned by Nicolehollis, and created by over 60 multimedia artists—the majority of whom are native Hawaiians or residents.
The property’s layout centers on its 150 hale, or thatched roof huts, spread around the resort’s public spaces. Spanning one to four bedrooms, these traditional Hawaiian structures offer modern comforts as well as thoughtful changes made to certain legacy elements that are no longer considered sustainable. For instance, the new thatched roofing is made from recycled materials rather than traditional native leaves.
Kona Village’s restaurants and bars focus on fresh, local ingredients, international influences and indigenous practices. Options include Moana, the resort’s signature restaurant offering a Pacific Rim-to-table experience, and Kahuwai Cookhouse and Market, where traditional Hawaiian cooking techniques are on display. Legacy guests will recognize the iconic Shipwreck and Talk Story Bars, which have been restored and occupy enviable locations along the shoreline.
Situated at the heart of Kona Village, Kahuwai Bay is the launch pad for the resort’s “Ocean Pursuits” program. Highlights include guided paddle using the traditional Hawaiian canoe, while additional recreational facilities include tennis, paddle and bocce ball courts and a fitness center. The guest experience includes immersive programming, such as activities curated by Rosewood Explorers Keiki Club for children.
The Hoʻokipa lawn and stage hosts Kona Village’s lū’au—traditional Hawaiian feasts. Just beyond, built into the black lava flow with views toward the Hualālai volcano is Asaya Spa, offering an integrative wellness concept. Guests can choose from a menu of therapies and treatments inspired by the spiritual quality and landscape of Kaʻūpūlehu.
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