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Curator’s statement
Hawai'i has been a very special destination for my family as we’ve been going since my daughters were little. It’s truly our happy place, from the kind locals, exceptional seafood and local culture. The weather is great most of the year with lots of fresh fruits and veggies.
The Fora Difference
Book with Mania to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Hawai'i
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Royal, family-friendly Hawai'ian hotel nestled along the dramatic Kohala Coast, in the center of five great mountains.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fairmont Orchid Hawaii
A Hawai'i resort and spa located on the Kohala Coast, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls and a tranquil white sand beach and lagoon.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
The Big Island’s standout resort on the quiet Kona-Kohala coast, home to an enormous spa, lauded golf course and raft of family-friendly activities.
Fora Perks
- ★
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort
The iconic Kona Village Resort is located on the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawai‘i, a historic and culturally rich destination.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
Island-style hotel with an array of activities including legendary Hawaii surfing.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Mania to book your trip.
Things to do in Hawai'i
Hawai'i is a perfect place for water activities such as parasailing, kayaking and paddle-boarding. All these can be found close by or at most resorts and public beaches. Kona is also known for amazing snorkeling and diving. One of our favorite places is Kealakekua Bay, although there are dozens of great sites scattered up and down the coast.
There are also great cultural centers for local performances, such as the Japanese cultural center of Kona.
Another fun thing to do is to sample Kona coffee, which can only be grown and cultivated in the Kona district, such as the Hala Tree Coffee.
Diving with Manta Rays is another fun activity to do in Kona. The Kona coast is one of the only places in the world where you can see the rays up close.
Kona (along with Kohala and Hilo) is one of the best places for whale watching. While it’s possible to see them from shore, a boat tour can take you further into the ocean, so increasing your chances of seeing the pods. In addition to the whales, you might also see dolphins, turtles and even whale sharks on your trip too.
Going to a Hawai'ian Luau is a great experience for families, couples or anyone visiting Hawaii. With great food, live music and traditional Polynesian dancing, it’s easily one of the coolest things you can do to learn more about Hawaiian culture.
Make sure to check out the volcanos at the volcano national park by doing a helicopter tour.
Places to eat & drink in Hawai'i
Here is a list of great places to eat in Kona:
The Canoe House - located at the Mauna Lani resort, this place has the best views and ambiance with the freshest fish
Brown’s beach house - located at the Fairmont orchid hotel, its setting is gorgeous by the ocean and usually live music playing while you dine with delicious appetizers and fish dishes.
Ulu ocean grill - located at the four seasons hotel, this is a special dining experience directly on the beach and most menu from local ingredients.
Kona brewing company - great beer and drinks at a local spot with good pizza and sandwiches.
Need to know
The big island of Hawai'i is a special and unique destination full of adventure and great food!
Travel Advisor
Mania Mirroknian
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawai'i. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Jen Huyck's guide, Best of The Big Island, Hawai'i.