Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The South Course is more scenic and popular, with its signature 15th hole featuring a tee
shot over crashing surf. The North Course is more challenging and interesting, however,
with a par-three 17th hole within an amphitheater of black lava rock. Discounts for on-
line bookings and twilight tee times.
Mauna Lani Spa
SPA
MAP
(
881-7922;
www.maunalani.com
; 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows;
massages & facials from $159; treatments 10am-4pm)
A vast indoor/outdoor space land-
scaped with exotic tropical flora and lava-rock sauna. Treatments are pricey, perhaps
overpriced; choose something Hawaiian (eg
lomilomi
or hot stones) for the memory.
Spa Without Walls
SPA
MAP
(
887-7540;
www.fairmont.com/orchid
; 1 North Kaniku Dr, Fairmont Orchid; massages & facials
from $169; 7am-6pm)
Treatments can be done in alfresco
hale
(house), hidden amid
orchids, coconut palms, waterfalls, streams and lily ponds. Treatments feature botanicals
from Kona coffee to
matcha
green tea. Like Mauna Lani Spa, this facility is upscale if
not quite luxurious.
Festivals & Events
Kona Chocolate Festival
FOOD
Chocolate Festival is a three-day celebration of (surprise!) all things chocolate. It in-
cludes a 'chocolate symposium' of workshops and culminates in a gala evening celebra-
tion, with live music and a chocolate cook-off among island chefs. Check the website for
updates on location.
Sleeping
Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows
HOTEL $$$
$$$
MAP
(
800-367-2323, 885-6622;
www.maunalani.com
; 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr; r $400-950;
) Among the top South Kohala resorts, the Mauna Lani offers a wonderfully
Hawaiian atmosphere. The parklike grounds feature landscaped tropical gardens, hun-
