HAWAII - BIG ISLAND
ACCOMMODATION AND TRAVEL GUIDE
KONA VILLAGE RESORT
Kona Village Resort, located on the site of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, prides itself on offering the world's most precious commodity - peace and quiet. Located on the Kona-Kohala Coast, this tranquil Polynesian village is where you can shed the tensions of civilisation without giving up its comforts.
Within the lava-crested bay lies a natural sandy beach of salt and peppered sand, one of very few on this coast spared from the lava flows. In this 82 acres of lush lagoons, Mother Nature reigns supreme. This is Hawaii as it was meant to be.
A few feet from the beach, natural spring dedicated to the Hawaiian god Kane flows into the ocean. The walking paths, lined with native trees and flowers will lead you to multitude of adventures and facilities in this Eden including two freshwater swimming pools with whirlpool spas, a fitness centre, three lighted tennis courts, volleyball and basketball courts. There are also Sunfish sailboats, kayaks, snorkelling, glass-bottom boat excursions and fishing. Take your sense of wonder to the beach and explore the tide pools. Gaze in child-like awe at the reef, a marine sanctuary where schools of tropical fish cruise like swimming rainbows and on some days you may be lucky enough to spot a green sea turtle. December through April is whale watching time.
Land based activities include botanical tours, Hawaiian rafts, storytelling, hula lessons, watercolour painting classes, and tours exploring ancient petroglyph fields. Nearby there is golfing on five 18-hole championship golf courses and horseback riding in the lush mountain ranch lands. Helicopter tours can be arranged through the activities desk.
ENCHANTING BEAUTY
The 125 beachfront thatched roof fales are built in eight architectural styles representing the major island cultures of ancient Polynesia. Conveniences include coffee makers, ceiling fans and refrigerators, but there are no in-room telephones, radios or televisions - only the music of the winds and the sea.
For exceptional dining there are two restaurants serving meals ocean-side with new gourmet selections provided daily and on Friday evenings is the popular Hawaiian Luau feast and Polynesian revue.
The complimentary Keikis in Paradise children's program is on offer year round (except May and September which are set aside for couples) and gives parents time for themselves. Children six and up are offered a side range of activities including hula classes, fishing contests, coconut painting, net throwing, informal marine discovery programs, Hawaiian crafts and poolside fun. All activities are supervised by experienced program co-ordinators and older children have further options such as snorkelling, Sunfish sailing, tennis and kayaking lessons. A special dinner for children six and older is followed by a variety of activities such as learning to make Hawaiian toys. At 8.30 p.m. children are reunited with their parents and can watch the giant mantas which frequent the shoreline at night.
At Kona Village Resort, which has a AAA Four Diamond rating, even doing absolutely nothing is an art form. A licensed wedding co-ordinator is on hand to design your perfect wedding or honeymoon, but whatever the reason for your stay, you will leave with memories to last a lifetime.
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KONA VILLAGE RESORT
HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
The Hilton Waikoloa Village, set in 62 acre of unparalleled beauty on the sunny Kohala Coast, is a complete destination in itself. Once you are ensconced in the luxurious surrounds and encounter the enormous array of leisure activities and dining options on offer, you'll realise you have everything you need without going anywhere else.
Arriving guests cruise on mahogany boats along serene waterways flanked by lush gardens and exotic wildlife to lavish accommodation. An air-conditioned tram provides an alternative mode of transport and there are also leisurely flagstone walkways lined with Polynesian and Oriental artworks along the resort's Museum Walk.
The Hilton Waikoloa Village has three low rise buildings - the Ocean Lagoon, and Palace Towers which contain 1,240 air-conditioned guest rooms including 52 elegant suites and five Presidential Suites. All feature their own private lanai offering spectacular tropical views, as well as all the amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel. Furnishings are refined, yet comfortable, and art treasures and antiquities abound. Children 18 and under stay free when existing bedding is utilised.
WHERE REALITY SURPASSES EXPECTATION
Virtually any activity under the sun is on offer from water-sports like snorkelling, swimming, scuba diving and nearby deep-sea fishing, to simply lazing around in hammocks big enough for two.
The Kona Pool features a 175 foot water slide, three jacuzzis and a sandy-bottomed children's pool. For a more peaceful dip, there is the Kohala River Pool which is actually three pools connected by waterslides and a gentle river current. The Ocean Pool is an adults only escape, and at the Lagoon Beach there are suncats, kayaks, paddle boats, water bikes and snorkel gear for rental. The resort's 50 luxury catamaran offers a range of cruises including whale watching in season. Tennis players have a choice of eight courts including a 450' seat stadium court, and there is also volleyball, racquetball, and mountain bikes available on the property, as well as a Stargaze Astronomy Program. Golfers can test their skills on either of the resort's two spectacular championship golf courses set among the lava fields adjacent to the ocean.
Children can escape their parents at Camp Menehune which caters to 5-12 year olds with supervised crafts, games and water activities geared towards a different Hawaiian theme each day. An adventure completely unique to Hilton Waikoloa and extremely popular with both adults and children is DolphinQuest, an educational encounter with bottlenose dolphins under the expert guidance of marine mammal specialists.
If your body craves pampering on your vacation in paradise, a highlight of your stay will be the Kohala Spa, a 25,000 square foot facility which offers workout rooms, fitness classes, Tai Chi classes and even personal training, Health, beauty and well-being treatments range from seaweed body masques and aromatherapy to Lomi Lomi Hawaiian-style massage.
Each of the Hilton Waikoloa's nine restaurant offers its own distinctive cuisine with everything from gourmet dining in elegant surroundings, to international theme nights, traditional Japanese or Chinese, and casual poolside snacks. A must is the 'Legends of the Pacific' dinner luau show on Friday evenings which features the food, culture and dancing of the Pacific Rim.
An ocean-side pavilion is the perfect setting to 'tie the knot' and a range of ballrooms and meeting rooms can cater for any event from the most intimate reception to the grandest conference.
With a policy of making even the most unreasonable requests happen, staff at Hilton Waikoloa Village are empowered to make your stay a magical world class experience that exceeds your wildest holiday dreams.
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HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE
KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL
Located just between minutes from the airport on the white sandy shores of beautiful Kamakahonu Bay in the middle of Kailua Kona, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is the perfect introduction to the traditions and wonders of the Big Island.
The sheltered cover and white sand beach fronting King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel are one of the most culturally significant sites in the islands as they were once the retreat for Hawaiian royalty.
For King Kamehameha, the great unifier of the islands, this place became a cherished last residence. He made Kamakohonu the centre of the kingdom during the final years of his reign and it was during this time that the Ahu'ena Heiau (temple) became the hub of a complex that included fishponds, farms and quarters for those who served the king.
As the focal point of the hotel grounds today, the restored heiau stands as it did nearly 175 years ago. This priceless part of Hawaiian history overlooking the gentle blue water of the bay has been declared a National Historic Monument.
REGAL HOSPITALITY
The hotel's fully appointed guest rooms and suites are air-conditioned and include refrigerator, remote control colour television, in-house pay movies, telephone in-room safe and a private lanai.
Your day can be filled with as little or as much activity as you wish. Aside from the pool and whirlpool spa, there are four tennis pool and whirlpool spa, there are four tennis courts, beach services and a Travel Desk that can arrange everything from deep-sea fishing to horseback riding. Guests can experience the culture and history of old Hawaii through a complimentary tour of the mini museum and the historical landmarks located within the hotel grounds. The spacious lobby offers 28 shops and boutiques, and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the best activities, attractions and shopping in Kona.
The Billfish Bar serves the perfect mix of cool refreshments and hot entertainment into the night. Paddler's Grille offers daily lunch specials, great sandwiches, salads and snacks, while superb seafood is showcased daily at the Kona Beach Restaurant. For a taste of traditional Hawaii, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is the home of the only beachfront luau in Kona, the Island Breeze Luau, which begins with outrigger canoes gliding into shore at dusk to commence an evening of feasting, song and dance.
For gatherings, whether business or pleasure, the hotel's comprehensive facilities make functions a breeze.
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel integrates the traditions and culture of the ancient voyagers with the best of the present for today's discerning travellers.
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KING KAMEHAMEHA'S KONA BEACH HOTEL
KONA SURF RESORT AND COUNTRY CLUB
Positioned on the dramatic lava cliffs of the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kona Surf Resort and Country Club is located just six miles south of Kailua-Kona. The unique architectural design of the oceanfront resort offers a picture-perfect view of the Pacific Ocean from most of its great rooms. Built on varied levels, the Kona Surf Resort consists of three wings extending out onto the spectacular lava cliffs. In addition, a six-storey tower set back on the cliffs offers an exotic setting.
The Kona Surf Resort offers 530 guest rooms including eight suites, all of which overlook the ocean. All guest rooms are spacious (500 square feet) and include a private lanai. The rooms also include a separate dressing area, mini refrigerator, coffee maker and air-conditioning. Non smoking rooms are also available.
EXOTIC, DRAMATIC AND ROMANTIC
The resort's restaurants and lounges include casual dining at Pele's Court, complete with cascading waterfall and an atrium filled with exotic flora, as well as the Nalu Terrace, home of the 'Polynesian Paradise' revue on Tuesdays and Fridays. The Puka Bar nightly invites guests to join in on the karaoke fun!
The Kona Royal Chapel, located within the resort, is a quaint setting well-suited for romantic and memorable weddings, vow renewals and baptisms. Built in 1987, the private chapel seats 40 and has floor to ceiling louvred windows that open to allow the ocean trade winds to gently cool its guests. Surrounded by lush gardens and a lagoon filled with more than 300 koi (corp), the copper-roofed chapel features imported Spanish marble floors and stained-glass ceilings. A full-time wedding coordinator is also available to help with those special plans.
A number of recreational activities are available for those who lead an active lifestyle. Choose from the resort's two pools - a freshwater swimming pool or the unique oceanfront saltwater pool, situated on the lava rocks, just a few feet above the crashing surf. The championship Kona Country Club golf course which overlooks the sparkling Pacific Ocean offers 36 holes and a Pro Shop. If tennis is your game, the resort has three lighted tennis courts for your convenience.
Nearby Keaihou Bay offers a multitude of ocean activities such as snorkelling, diving, and deep sea fishing. Or guests can just relax and enjoy a coastline cruise. The grounds at the Kona Surf Resort are just waiting to be discovered. Challenge yourself with a walk or run on the many paths and extensive garden trails. Other activities include volleyball and shuffleboard.
A host of complimentary 'extra' include free parking, coffee in the mornings, a kid's program and Polynesian shows. The Kona Surf Resort Offers 31,000 square feet of diverse meeting space, including the Convention Centre with 9,840 square feet. The Convention Centre can accommodate receptions for up to 1,200 people, dinner dances for 80-0 or a classroom setting for 650.
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KONA SURF RESORT AND COUNTRY CLUB
SUNQUEST VACATIONS
SunQuest Vacations has the tried and true experience that spans twenty years, providing the ideal holiday location for thousands of satisfied customers.
Located in Kailua-Kona on the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii, SunQuest Vacations has the finest selection of private homes and condominiums on the Kona Gold Coast.
With a quality selection of vacation properties designed for every budget, the 'savvy' SunQuest staff provides you with choices ranging from a small studio condo to a five bedroom villa complete with private pool and hot tub. Most properties feature fully equipped kitchens, washers, dryers, and dishwashers, offering guests relaxed comfort in the near perfect weather of Hawaii.
FOR A 'COMPLETE' VACATION
The sun-kissed area is world famous - most notably for giant Pacific Blue Marlin sport fishing, the 'Iron Man Triathlon', being the winter home of whales and, of course, delicious Kona Coffee.
The calm coastal waters provide a playground for fun water-sports, such as surfing, snorkelling and diving. Land-based leisure activities include championship golf and tours to ancient sites.
SunQuest Vacations will also arrange car rental and help you plan your trip. Special seasonal packages are available that include the seventh night free and up to ten nights free for lengthier stays. They also offer complete leisure packages and can arrange for visits to other destinations throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
SunQuest Vacations is your ideal choice for a fantastic vacation!
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SUNQUEST VACATIONS
CASTLE RESORTS
BIG ISLAND
HILO HAWAIIAN HOTEL
Hilo's only first class hotel, the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is located on Hilo Bay, approximately two miles from Hilo Airport and is the perfect base from which to explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Recently renovated, every deluxe room or one-bedroom suite (with kitchenette) features air-conditioning, colour cable television and outstanding vies of the ocean or quaint Hilo Town framed by snow-capped Mauna Kea.
There's a pool and sun deck, a 9-hole golf nearby. Enjoy views of Hilo Bay over breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Queen's Court Dining Room or kick up your heels at the Wai'Oli Lounge featuring nightly entertainment. Banquet and meting rooms are also available.
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HILO HAWAIIAN HOTEL
KONA REEF
Splendidly located oceanfront on the sunny Kona Coast of the Big Island, Kona Reef is a convenient ten minute walk from the historic fishing village of Kalua-Kona.
All one, two or three bedroom suites are air-conditioned and have telephone, colour cable television, a full kitchen equipped with refrigerator, oven/stove and dishwasher, washer/dryer, private lanai and daily maid service.
Enjoy the great facilities on site - swimming pool, sundeck, party pavilion, barbecue area and spa. Nearby are golf and tennis facilities, and Kalua-Kona offers great restaurants and shopping within walking distance.
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KONA REEF
WAIMEA COUNTRY LODGE
The Waimea Country Lodge is located at 7,500 feet above sea level in beautiful Kamuela at the base of Mauna Kea. It is renowned for its good upcountry atmosphere and traditional Big Island hospitality.
All rooms are spacious and have scenic mountain views. They feature telephone with dataport, ceiling fans, colour cable television, and writing desk. Some units have a kitchenette and deluxe rooms have a VCR.
This unique and quaint hotel is within walking distance to historic Waimea town, with its numerous dining and recreation spots. Parker Ranch Visitor Centre, Mauna Kea stables and golf are all just minutes away. Hapuna Beach is a short 15-20 minute drive.
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