Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Kaʻupuleho Cultural Center
MUSEUM
MAP
(
325-8520; Four Seasons Resort; 8:30am-4pm Mon-Fri)
We give a lot of
credit to the the Four Seasons for establishing this often-overlooked Native Hawaiian
cultural center. Excellent, informative displays are organized around the center's collec-
tion of 11 original paintings by Hawaiian artist Herb Kawainui Kane, each depicting an
important facet of traditional Hawaiian culture. In addition, each work is accompanied by
a hands-on exhibit: shake an
ʻuliʻuli
(feathered hula rattle), test the heft of a
kapa
(mul-
berry tree bark) beater and examine adze heads.
It's run by Hawaiian cultural practitioners who actively link the present with the past.
The center holds classes (usually open to resort guests only), but they'll happily refer you
to
kumu (
teachers) directly. At the Four Seasons gate, tell them you're visiting the cen-
ter.
Sleeping
The Kona Village Resort was closed due to damage sustained by the March 2011
tsunami that devastated Japan. Plans for its reopening proceed slowly. Check the website
for updates.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
RESORT $$$
$$$
MAP
(
800-819-5053, 325-8000;
www.fourseasons.com/hualalai
;
72-100 Kaʻupulehu Dr; r $700-1700,
ste from $1500;
) It's no accident that the Hualalai is the island's only five-dia-
mond resort. Those accolades are earned through lavish attention to detail (fresh orchids
in every room, lava rock gardens, 42in TVs, kids' robes and crayons, and multimedia lib-
rary) and top-flight service. The golf course, spa and lap pool are world class, plus
there's a big, well-stocked snorkel tank, including manta rays. Garden units have won-
derful outdoor showers.
Eating
Beach Tree Bar & Grill
INTERNATIONAL $$$
MAP
(
325-8000; Four Seasons Resort Hualalai; lunch mains $12-18, dinner mains $15-36;
11:30am-8:30pm)
Do you know what's better than enjoying tangy ceviche or one of the is-
