Mauna Kea Resort

Hawaii
United States

The Experience

Sometimes it’s Mother Nature (rather than a brutally honest review) that pushes a hotel toward a drastic remake. Such is the case with the Mauna Kea, an all-time Hawaiian classic that was basically on autopilot (and badly in need of renovation) until a 2006 earthquake suddenly rocked its world. Prince Resorts closed the property and pumped $150 million into a two-year nip and tuck. With a soft reopening slated for December 20, 2008 (and a grand reopening in March, 2009), the overall look won’t be that much different—a dramatic post-modern structure looming over one of the best beaches in the Pacific (one of the nation’s 150 best works of architecture according to the American Institute of Architects). But underneath are all sorts of changes, including entirely new guest rooms and restaurants, and a retooled oceanfront golf course. The quake break also provided an excuse for the Mauna Kea to restore its renowned art collection—1,600 Asian and Pacific works amassed by original resort developer Laurence Rockefeller.

The Rooms

With the number of rooms reduced from 310 to 258 during renovation, guests will have lots more room to sleep, preen and mellow out. The new décor is an updated version of the Mauna Kea’s trademark “Hawaiian modern”—sleek wooden furniture framed by white tiles and floral prints. And they’re now wired to the max with iPod docks, wide-screen HD televisions and wireless internet, among the electronic amenities. But the biggest change is the super-sized bathrooms, which feature large soaking tubs, rain showers and private lanais. Size now ranges from 550-square-foot regular rooms to 1,600-square-foot suites.

The Service

Service is the big question mark. The old Mauna Kea was always known for its long-term staffers (who greeted you like family) and exemplary island-style service. Given the two-year hiatus, not all of them will be back. Which undoubtedly means teething problems after reopening. An intensive staff training program hopes to reduce (if not eliminate) faux pas.

The Highlights

Rees Jones has been busy refurbishing the course originally designed by his celebrated father in the 1960s. And while the layout remains largely the same, the links have been upgraded to full USGA standards including completely new greens and bunkers. The course includes a new pro shop and club house restaurant that converts into a family eatery after dark. The Mauna Kea’s classic oval pool and Seaside Tennis Club remain unchanged, but beach chairs, cabañas and umbrellas are brand new. Also back are the resort’s popular art and garden tours, and Hawaiian cultural encounters. Of course, that wonderful beach never went away, and neither did the manta rays that gather around the black volcanic rocks at either end.

 

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