Shipwreck Bar & Sushi, which was built out of resort founder Johnno Jackson’s restored schooner, offers delightfully fresh sushi, poke, ceviche and more, as well as cocktails and local draft brews.
Situated along the secluded Kahuwai Bay, on the northwest side of the Island of Hawai‘i, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort (konavillage.com) is in a prime position for spectacular sunsets. But there’s much more to the newly restored 81- acre luxury property than breathtaking views.
It’s evening when I arrive from the nearby Kona International Airport. Blanketed by nightfall, Kona Village has an inherent sense of magic, its crushed-coral paths and native foliage illuminated by torchlight. When I wake the next day, the resort is a feast for the senses.
Hales have an indoor-outdoor feel with oversize lanais for scenic garden, lagoon, mountain or ocean views, and expansive bathrooms featuring outdoor rain showers
On a tour of the property, I learn that when tasked with restoring the original Kona Village Resort—established in 1965 and sadly devastated by a tsunami in 2011—real estate investment company Kennedy Wilson honored the land and prioritized social impact by consulting with a cultural committee of lineal descendants of Kahuwai Bay and local community members on the redesign. Impressively, the resort is powered by more than 8,000 solar panels (making it the largest privately owned microgrid in the state). Its on-site garden, Kahiko Mala`ai, produces fresh veggies, herbs and more used in its restaurants. Ka’uluola Cultural Center honors the island’s history by hosting interactive experiences, including ukulele lessons and petroglyph tours.
Asaya spa is situated among lava fields, offering healing journeys in a unique environment that honors the natural beauty of the ancient land.
As I explore the property, the stark contrast between its lava fields and lush greenery (80% of the plants on-site are native to Hawai‘i) highlights classic Hawaiian beauty. It’s a stunning setting that respects the land while providing privacy and seclusion for its guests. During its restoration, 25 stand-alone, thatched-roof hales (rooms) were added to the original resort’s 125. Interior design firm NICOLEHOLLIS handled the hale interiors, prioritizing natural materials and local art.
A sailing canoe is one adventurous way to explore Kahuwai Bay through Kona Village’s Kilo Kai program
Water is another primary feature of the resort, with tucked-away lagoons and the vibrant bay. Kahuwai Beach is home to the Kilo Kai program, dedicated to the art of kilo (observing) kai (the ocean). From guided sunrise paddles on an outrigger canoe to underwater exploring on a SEABOB, the coastline is an aquatic playground. And, of course, cocktails and bites can be delivered to those who prefer to bask in the sun beachside or poolside at one of Kona Village’s four pools.
The Moana Family Pool is an ideal spot for relaxation and play
The resort’s Shipwreck Bar & Sushi and Talk Story bar become my favorite spots for a casual meal or snack, including the freshest poke and sushi. (And each bar and restaurant has its own variation of a mai tai, so be sure to try them all.) For dining, Moana is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the open-air Kahuwai Cookhouse hosts guests for lunch and dinner, as well as Paniolo (cowboy) Night, a buffet of authentic flavors backed by the blazing sunset and sounds from local musicians, every Thursday. The resort also hosts Island Roots, a communal dinner highlighting the island’s flavors with entirely local produce.
For rest and relaxation, Kona Village is home to the first Asaya spa in North America. Situated among the lava fields, the serene space boasts open-air treatment rooms, volcanic views, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna and a steam room. From the spa to the sea, the land and the island’s rich history are honored and elevated at Kona Village, making it difficult to leave this Hawaiian paradise.
