Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts after a three day’s visit evaluating the guest experience. The hotel excelled distinctively in its breathtaking oceanfront design, diverse resort activities, and warm hospitality.
Arrival at this Hawaiian retreat begins with a profound sense of place. Guests are greeted by the fresh scent of sea air mingled with tropical flora, while the sound of waves rolling onto the nearby shore immediately sets a calming tone. The entrance is open, expansive, and inviting, encouraging a seamless transition from the outside world into a sanctuary rooted in both natural beauty and cultural richness. Located on the Kohala Coast in Puako, the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts captures the essence of the island’s spirit, grounding visitors in Hawaii’s rhythms from the very first step.
The open-air lobby greets guests with soaring ceilings framed by tall palms, polished wood floors, and a reflecting pool anchored by a traditional canoe. Vertical slatted panels filter in natural light, casting warm patterns across lounge areas filled with cushioned seating. The atmosphere is serene yet vibrant, blending Hawaiian heritage with contemporary elegance in a truly inviting way.
Accommodations here serve as sanctuaries of rest. Rooms and suites frame either the rolling mountains or the endless Pacific, allowing mornings to begin with the glow of sunrise or the shimmer of the sea. Plush bedding, spacious layouts, and thoughtful touches—like rainfall showers and modern conveniences—ensure that the retreat caters to both leisure and comfort. Each detail, from the art on the walls to the design of the balconies, is intended to extend the story of the island indoors.
Beyond the guest rooms, the resort offers lifestyle-driven experiences. The spa delivers treatments infused with local elements, blending tradition with modern wellness practices. Active guests are drawn to sunrise yoga, rounds of golf framed by ocean views, or leisurely swims in the outdoor pool. Dining elevates the journey, where fresh seafood and locally sourced produce take center stage, inviting guests to savor Hawaii in every bite.
What gives this hotel its character, however, are the people. Service is friendly and prompt, marked by warm interactions that feel genuine rather than scripted. During the stay, however, check-in was less seamless than expected, with reception understaffed and assistance eventually provided by the concierge. While this moment revealed room for improvement in the front-of-house team, the remainder of the staff carried the establishment’s reputation for excellence forward with attentive care and thoughtful gestures that more than restored confidence.
As the visit drew to a close, the lasting impression was of a place that understands how to blend luxury with authenticity. With its breathtaking design, immersive experiences, and heartfelt hospitality, the resort stands as a destination for romantic couples, wellness seekers, and travelers in pursuit of Hawaii’s natural and cultural richness. It is not merely a place to stay, but a space to feel renewed—proof that the spirit of the islands can be lived as much as it can be seen.
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