We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Our ceremony and reception will be adults-only, but kids are invited to join the welcome party. If needed, the hotel offers childcare services you can arrange for during the wedding.
Logan & Gavin
We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Our ceremony and reception will be adults-only, but kids are invited to join the welcome party. If needed, the hotel offers childcare services you can arrange for during the wedding.
Logan & Gavin
Things to Do
In Hawaii, most resorts offer the convenience of booking a wide range of experiences and activities directly through their concierge services. Guests can enjoy indulgent spa days, thrilling snorkeling adventures, whale-watching tours, fishing excursions, catamaran cruises, surf lessons, and even spearfishing experiences. Many resorts also provide rentals for water equipment, including paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, boogie boards, and more.
With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of activities and destinations that are cherished favorites for my family—absolute must-visits every time we travel to Kona!
Activies
Book a Tee Time at Mauna Lani Golf Courses
Beautiful seascape views, rolling lava fields, and vibrant sunsets create a memorable golfing experience. Both the North and South Courses offer well-designed fairways that have been enjoyed by countless pros.
Hapuna Beach
Perfect spot if you're looking for waves! While most resort-area beaches are calm and ideal for snorkeling, Hapuna offers excellent conditions for body surfing and boogie boarding. To grab a good spot we suggest heading there in the morning as it can get pretty busy.
https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/kohala/hapuna-beach-state-park
Cliff Jumping
A popular cliff jumping spot known as "End of the World" can be found near Kualanui Point at the southern tip of this bay. When the surf is low and calm, adventurous jumpers can take a plunge here. However, it's important to note that this activity should only be attempted by experienced individuals or under the guidance of locals who can show you how to do it safely.
Secret pond
Kalāhuipua’a Historical Park at Mauna Lani Terraces showcases ancient Hawaiian lava tube dwellings, and fishponds once used by royalty, including Kamehameha the Great. Ancient Hawaiians lived in this area for nearly 800 years before the discovery of Hawaii by the Western world. The best part is the "secret pond" as it offers a refreshing swim and a unique experience as small fish gently nibble and clean your skin.
https://www.smartrippers.com/en/hawaii/the-mysterious-ponds-of-kalahuipua-a-and-their-secret/
Hiking
A short steep hike down a tropical cliff to a black sand beach. The hike takes about 30-45 minutes. Located about an hour away from the resorts.
https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/kohala/pololu-valley-lookout
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Located just a 35-minute drive from the Fairmont Orchid Hotel and the other nearby resorts, this unforgettable experience allows you to witness huge manta rays gliding through the water. These gentle giants often perform graceful flips and swim so close that they sometimes brush against you.
https://www.viator.com/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Sunset-Manta-Ray-Snorkel/d669-8571P1
Places to Eat
Napua Mana Lani Brach club:
A Peters family favorite. Has an amazing view great food and the people who run and work at the restaurant are amazing. It is located on the Owners Beach of the Mauna Lani Terraces
Canoe House
A signature oceanfront restaurant with Japanese-inspired dishes is a must-try.
Hale Kai
Located at the Fairmont Orchid this is a great toe-in-the-sand restaurant and often turtle sighting location.
Manuela Malasada - Big Island
Peters family's personal favorite for a sweet treat is a food truck that sells the best malasadas only about a 10-minute drive from the Resorts
https://www.yelp.com/biz/manuela-malasada-big-island-waimea-2
Merriman's
Located just 30 minutes upland from the Fairmont Orchid, this restaurant is well worth the drive. The food is exceptional, and they serve the best Mai Tais on the island. You would want to drive yourselves there or have a driver take you and wait to take you back. It is hard to get an Uber back down from the upland.
Browns Beach House
Another restaurant located at the Fairmont Orchid is Brown's Beach House restaurant. It is well known for its incomparable Hawaii Regional Cuisine and beautiful oceanfront setting.
Kohala Burger & Taco
If you’re in the mood for a casual dining experience, this spot is a must-visit. The food is incredible, they offer delicious Dole Whip, and there’s also a Hawaiian shave ice shop right next door!
Pueo's Osteria
Great Italian resturant with an amazing chef located in Waikoloa Plaza.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Marlin Bar
Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, the restaurant offers breathtaking sunset views from the spacious lanai and aloha-inspired flavors from locally sourced produce and seafood.
https://www.tommybahama.com/restaurants-and-marlin-bars/locations/mauna-lani
Drinks & Apps
Lava Lava Beach Club
This lively beachfront restaurant and bar is a great spot for apps and drinks as they offer lots of entertainment. Most afternoons feature live music, and the lawn is stocked with games for all to enjoy!
https://lavalavabeachclub.com/bigisland/
Tuesdays
The best boutique shop to buy wine, spirits, and beer. They also host free tastings on Tuesdays. Brandon who also owns the Napua restaurant and his good friend Jonny own this. They are great people who you will want to meet.
Kona Brewing Co.
Kona Brewing, a globally popular craft beer brand, stays true to its Hawaiian roots through innovation, sustainability, and community outreach. Still headquartered in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island, it’s a must-visit for beer lovers. This is about a 45-minute car ride.
https://konabrewinghawaii.com/come-visit#kona-pub-and-brewery