Capturing the spirit of aloha
Big Island luxury at Rosewood’s Kona Village
There’s no shortage of beautiful resorts throughout Hawai’i, each showcasing a different slice of paradise. Some offer picturesque views and warm hospitality while others feature thoughtful amenities and direct beach access (always a plus). It’s less common, however, to find a luxury property that blends all these elements together without losing the relaxed, authentic “aloha” spirit so essential to the islands. Yet Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort seamlessly finds that balance, creating a place that’s nothing short of spectacular.
Located on a stunning stretch of the Big Island’s Kona Coast, Kona Village has a unique history in the region. Once a thriving fishing village, the site was abandoned for more than two decades before it was transformed into the Kona Village Resort by Johnno and Helen Jackson in 1965. For years, the resort served as a beloved hideaway for travelers from around the world, but was forced to close its doors in 2011 after sustaining significant tsunami damage. After more than a decade of lying dormant, the land was revitalized and reborn, reopening in July 2023 as Rosewood Hotel Group’s first property in Hawai’i.
When my family and I arrived, we were immediately struck by the natural beauty surrounding us — swaying palm trees, rugged volcanic rock, and the vivid blue ocean before us. But it didn’t take long to discover what truly makes Kona Village so special: its effortlessly relaxed vibe that puts you at ease from the moment you arrive. Spoiler alert: Even while traveling with two young kids, that sense of calm never wavered during our stay — a true testament to the resort’s ability to create a stress-free oasis for every guest.
After a warm welcome, complete with signature cocktails (and kid-friendly non-alcoholic versions), we were whisked away by golf cart to our accommodations, a standalone thatched-roof hale (essentially a luxurious bungalow) with direct views of the ocean. Tastefully decorated using soothing earth tones, wood accents, and local artwork, our hale also featured an oversized lanai and outdoor shower. Perfection.
There are 150 hales and suites across the resort’s sprawling 81 acres, each thoughtfully positioned to reflect the community-focused spirit of the original Kona Village. As tempting as it may be to hang out in the hales all day, the resort’s impressive array of amenities makes it nearly impossible to stay inside. There are five restaurants and bars on site, including a beachfront bar offering the most epic sunset views and a once-sunken sailboat that’s been refurbished into a unique dining and drinking destination. The resort also features a serene wellness spa, an indoor/outdoor fitness center, an adults-only pool and a family-friendly pool, a cultural center, a kids’ club, bikes for cruising around, weekly special events, and a range of ocean activities. Each day we found ourselves naturally gravitating between these incredible amenities, seamlessly transitioning from relaxation to adventure and back.
Outside of delivering friendly hospitality and top-notch amenities, Kona Village is also deeply committed to sustainability. In fact, the resort is 100 percent powered by solar energy, has a zero-waste commitment, and features extensive on-site gardens that supply fresh produce to its restaurants and bars.
Though our time spent enjoying this island paradise felt far too brief, the memories we made as a family will stay with us forever, and I’m already counting the days until we can return one day. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is so much more than a getaway — it’s a sensory-rich experience that will linger long after the last sip of mai tai. With its flawless blend of Hawaiian heritage, thoughtful details, and understated luxury, it offers an escape that feels timeless, unhurried, and refreshingly restorative, exactly what’s needed in today’s fast-paced world.
–By Hana-Lee Sedgwick
