Fairmont Kea Lani
"What was your first impression? Describe the aesthetic.From the outside, the Fairmont Kea Lani looks like an all-white royal palace, Maui’s answer to the all-pink Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki; indeed, Kea Lani means “heavenly white.” Once inside, that royal feeling carries throughout the grand spaces, where an open-air lobby has stone floors and domed ceilings and arches. What's the backstory?The Fairmont Kea Lani opened in 1991. Architect Jose Luis Ezquerra, an expert in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean design, is to thank for the resort's distinctly non-Hawaiian features. Ezquerra sought to represent Hawaii’s royal past by giving the property a palatial feel, a nod to the former kings of Hawaii. Thoughts about the rooms?The best thing about the rooms at the Fairmont Kea Lani is their size: only suites (one or two bedrooms) that start at 860 square feet and come with sleeper sofas, microwaves, and private balconies. Book one of the beach-facing villas, which have small kitchens, dining rooms, and private plunge pools. The hotel underwent a renovation and the resulting minimal decor is overshadowed by the epic ocean views in the rooms, which is just fine by us.... Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is included in the $48 daily resort fee, which also covers self-parking for one vehicle, fitness classes, kids' club access, cultural activities, snorkel rentals, and more. What's the deal with the food and drink here?Sourcing 90 percent of its food locally, Kō, the flagship restaurant, serves a menu that draws influences from the various cultures that inhabited Maui during the sugarcane plantation era. Nick’s Fishmarket Maui does fresh-caught seafood alongside favorites like filet mignon. Both restaurants have idyllic views of the ocean. To make the night extra special, reserve a private cabana near the Tranquility pool, where you can feast on select dishes from Kō. How did you find the service?The staff is well-seasoned in arranging activities like water sports, sailing expeditions, snorkeling, and luaus. There's also an energy ambassador, an onsite wellness guru who can help you find ways to stay active on vacation. Who else is checking in?Like most resort-goers in Wailea, the mix includes honeymooners, babymooners, families, retirees, and the occasional conference-goer. What's the neighborhood like?The Fairmont enjoys the full-service luxury of surrounding Wailea, with shops, restaurants, golf, and other resorts. Is there anything you'd change?The rooms need a little bit of design love. Are there any other hotel features worth mentioning?Polo Beach, surrounded on both sides by lava rock walls, gives this resort a secluded feel. There are also three main swimming pools, including an adults-only one. Rounding out the other amenities are a spa and kids' club. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Absolutely—if for the room size alone." - Juliana Shallcross
