"Ask any Hawaii loyalist about the storied Mauna Lani resort on the Big Island and they’ll nod knowingly. For decades, the beloved hotel has been a mainstay, drawing celebrities, well-heeled families, and staycationing locals to the Kona Kohala coast. To say that there was some nervous anticipation when it emerged as an Auberge Resort after a $200 million renovation, is playing it supremely cool. But, full exhale, the brand stuck the landing. There’s still that soothing sense of nostalgia and history that comes with seeing an old friend. But, like all good reunions, there’s some change and even a surprise or two. For starters, it’s lost that early 1980s feel—gone is the high-gloss bamboo furniture and dark wood shutters—replaced with a decidedly Hawaiian 2.0 look of light wood, soft sea shades, and lots of white. The ancient Kalahuipua’a royal fishponds are still there, now an easy walk from the sleek, adults-only infinity pool. And the beach out front remains one of the best places to learn to surf or snorkel as sea turtles and the occasional spinner dolphin cruise past. Other new additions include the oceanfront CanoeHouse restaurant (led by former Nobu chef Matt Raso) for Kona abalone, grilled kampachi, and produce from local farms." - Caitlin Morton
