#Mauna lani wellness center

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Best Volcanoes National Park Safari: Adventure Awaits in Hawaii

When planning an unforgettable getaway, the allure of Hawaii often tops the list. Renowned for its natural beauty and volcanic landscapes, the Big Island offers a unique experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Among its gems is the Volcanoes National Park, a haven for exploration and discovery. For those yearning to immerse themselves in this volcanic wonderland, a well-organized safari promises to transform your trip into a lifetime memory.

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For my tumblr bestie @random-rave early birthday gift 🎁

@thenaluarchive Nalu Week 7-part story

“So, you and Gray will be heading back home to Cali for the summer?” Lucy questioned her friend Natsu. The University of Hawaii at Hilo just finished their spring semester, and all the dormies needed to vacate soon.

“Yeah, our lease is up at the end of the month.”

Lucy pursed her lips briefly. “In that case, I was wondering if you guys would like to come with Levy and I to my family’s beach house in Waikoloa?” She questioned. It had become their tradition to go after school finished for two weeks. “We’ll be back before you leave.”

“I’ll check with Gray, but I think he’ll say okay. So, just the four of us?”

“Yup. Gajeel,” Levy’s longtime boyfriend, “has to work so he can’t come.”

“Sounds like a plan!”

One week later, the four friends piled into Lucy’s Toyota 4Runner and headed out to Waikoloa. The quickest route was a 1-1/2 hour drive on the Daniel K. Inouye highway. A scenic route that cut between two of the island’s volcanoes, Mauna (mountain) Kea and Mauna Loa. Flanked by ancient ohia forests and lava flows on the eastern side, and miles of open fields on the west. You can even see rising across the ocean, mount Haleakala on the island of Maui on a clear day.

They arrived in Waikoloa’s Anaeho’omalu area nestled along the azure blue Pacific Ocean. A developed piece of land surrounded by crumbling ancient lava flows and sparse grass lands— a very dry environment. Here hotels like the Hilton and Marriott had built along side condos like the one Lucy’s family owned.

“Very nice,” Natsu remarked as he got out of the vehicle. “How much does a place like this cost?”

“I’m not sure,” Lucy responded. “All I know is they bought this place a couple years after I was born.” Her mom had heard about it’s sale while working at her realty company.

He chuckled, “so, out of our price range, got it.”

“Yeah,” she giggled too.

Lucy lead the group into the home and parceled out the rooms. It was a three bedroom condo, so she and Levy got one room each while the two boys had to share one. But they were fairly large and comfortable, plus Natsu and Gray were already used to sharing a dorm. Then after a quick tour of the place, they head out for supplies at the nearest store.

Foodland farms market was located in a shopping center a few miles away near the Mauna Lani resort. Since this was the boys first time there, the group walked around the shopping center, window shopping really. It was just a mix of clothing stores and restaurants.

“Can you believe there used to be a 4-D theater here?” Lucy explained. “They only played really short films, but it was the first time I experienced 4-D.”

“Yeah I saw a scene from that movie Journey to the Center of the Earth here,” Levy added. “That scene where they’re on the boat and flying fish we’re jumping all over, they spritzed us with water!”

Everyone laughed.

“At least you got to try a 4-D, I haven’t seen one yet,” Natsu griped.

“Well one day while here, we can check out the luxury cinemas at Queen’s marketplace.” Lucy offered Natsu with a light blush to her cheeks. “I haven’t been there yet.”

“Like a date? I’m game,” he teased pulling a deeper flush from Lucy.

“When you two are done flirting, meet us at the market,” Levy teased before pulling Gray away from the now flustered pair.

After a couple seconds, Natsu and Lucy gained their composure and followed. The group shopped for food to last a few days along with drinks and snacks. It was a decent haul leaving them with arms full of groceries.

On the way back to the car, Natsu stopped Lucy briefly. “I just wanted to say thanks again for inviting us. I think this is gonna be the best vacation I ever had.”

“Aww,” Lucy blushed, “I think so too.”

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Where To Eat

Bamboo Restaurant 55-3415 Akoni Pule Hwy Hawi, - Known for fabulous cocktails and Hawaiian cuisine like fresh fish and pulled pork.

Kona Brewing Company Pub and Brewery ‪74-5612 Pawai Place Kailua, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, HI ‪96740. Sit in the large outdoor lanai surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and tiki torches. Or enjoy one of many different cold beers inside the air-conditioned bar area at the koa U-shaped bar. The gift shop offers colorful T-shirts, hats, towels, coasters, mugs and much more. Great place for pizza and beer!

Tommy Bahamas 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive Kamuela HI – Located in the Mauna Lani “Shops” plaza, TB features an amazing happy hour (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) with pupus and specialty drinks. A perfect location to meet friends after a day on the beach or golf course.

Lava Lava Beach Club 69-1081 Ku’uali’I Place Waikoloa Village. Located at Anaeho’omalu Bay this location ideal kicking off your shoes and enjoying drinks and music with your feet in the sand.

Holuakoa Café and Gardens Café - 76-5900 Old Government Road Hokualoa, Hawaii – A must! Nestled in the heart of coffee country, try either the espresso bar or wander to the Garden Café for a five star meal. The menu changes every few days but no need to worry we love everything. Food is very fresh and delicious. Closes between 2:30 – 5:30

Volcano House - Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, HI.  Located in the Park, this historic building was recently refurbished and overlooks Kilauea caldera.   The menu offers a creative blend of island cuisine and much of the meat, seafood, fruit and veggies are from local sources. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We strongly suggest calling to make reservations (808) 441-7750, especially during the winter months.

Merriman’s – (808) 885-6822. Award winning Chef Peter Merriman invites island visitors and residents to enjoy a genuine Hawaii regional dining experience. They use 90% local products.

Lilikoi Café – (808) 885-6325. A hidden treasure around the back of Parker Ranch Center for tasty, fresh food. The array of deli salads is very tempting. Breakfast is served all day and hot entrees are available. Like desserts? Well you came to the right place.

The Fish and Hog - (808) 885-6268. This has local fare including amazing fish tacos, seafood, and slllooowww-cooked BBQ and pulled pork sandwiches.   It is located in a historic building. Come hungry.  

By no means these are no necessarily the best places for meals, only a few suggestions… and we have yet to mention Roy’s and other fabulous places in the resorts and within Kona.  

[adventoursofwifesquared]

  When my wife told me to pack for a quick trip, I didn’t think a 6 hour flight from Phoenix  to the Big Island would start our 36 hours on Kailua. Honestly, it was one of the best trips we have had. We started out in the Kona airport area, but the island is small enough that you can easily adjust what attraction/site to do first if you start your drive on the Hilo side.

Day 1

We flew out of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport with one carry on bag each on a direct flight at 10:45 am heading to the Kailua-Kona airport. Arriving at 2:20 pm makes for a perfect time for most travelers, since you can grab your rental car and head to normal check-in hours like we did.

If you choose to fly into the Kona airport, then it is wise to have a hotel close to this destination. A few places we recommend are The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, The Fairmont Orchid, The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, or The Royal Kona Resort. All of these are a short drive from the airport and have some great views.

If you decide to go the luxury route, then the Fairmont Orchid is one of our favorites and offers some of the best options for a short time. From the airport, after getting a rental car, it will take you about 30 mins (22.4 miles) to drive to the hotel. This will have you arrive at the required check in time.

View from the Fairmont Orchid pool at sunset

After check-in, head to the Hale Kai Restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat, a drink and enjoy the view of the ocean. Afterwards, is a perfect time to relax in by the pool or cuddle in a hot tub. It’s always nice to sit back and enjoy the views that this island has to offer.

Day 2

Start your day by grabbing some snorkel gear from the hotel or get yours out. Check with your hotel, sometimes it is included in the resort fee. The Fairmont Orchid has a wonderful private area of beach in the Pauoa Bay for snorkeling. Within 5 mins of snorkeling, we had some Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas) swimming right under us. This area is great for seeing some wildlife within a short amount of time.

Green Sea Turtle

Some other areas to see some marine wildlife and green sea turtles is at Kahaluu Beach Park , Honaunau Bay , Kiholo Bay , and Punaluu Black Sand Beach.

Next, shower and get dressed to head to Puako Petroglyph Park where it is free and easy to see some the islands past history. Here is a good site for info on hiking the park.

This next part is where your rental car comes in handy. Next, its time to start driving and head back to the Queen Ka’ahumanu Hwy 19. This hwy will take you past other parks and places that could easily be part of your schedule or substituted for another activity.

Continue on hwy 19 and stop by the W.M. Keck Observatory. If you really want to see the top of the 14,000 foot summit, then a 4×4 vehicle is needed and is something that needs to be planned in advanced. Otherwise you can visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Center at an elevation of 9,200 feet.

Temperatures can change from one side of the island to the other. The Kona side is hot/dry, the middle mountain areas are colder, and the Hilo side is more of a rainforest ecosystem. Bring appropriate clothing for the weather.

Continue the drive along the Mamalahoa Hwy 19 towards the Akaka Falls State Park. It will cost you $5 per car. The trail is only a 0.4 mile loop, where you will have views of the Akaka Falls (422 feet high) and the Kahuna Falls. The trail is paved with some steps.

Another place to stop by is the Wailuku River State Park where they have two attractions to see: Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pot. If your in the area around 10 a.m. and it’s a sunny day then look out for the rainbow that is formed in the mist of the 80 foot waterfall. Unfortunately for us it was a cloudy on this side of the island when we were visiting.

Rainbow Falls at Wailuku River State Park

Wailuku River State Park

Since May 2018, the Kīlauea volcano has had activity where most of the Volcanoes National Park had to be closed. It has since reopened as of September 22 of 2018. The Kīlauea Visitor Center will have up to date information on road closures or any other current conditions, as well as exhibits on the formation of the island and its history. Make sure to vista their site before making your drive, it can always change at a moments notice. Some parts of the park are sometimes closed.

Kilauea Caldera at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The entrance fee for a car is $25, while a individual will cost $12. These passes will last you 7 days, so if you have more time, then try to spend it hiking and exploring this park. The park is open 24 hours, but the visitor center closes around 5 p.m. so plan to visit it first. If you only have a short time, then it is possible to see some of the sites in this park, before leaving to do the 2 hour drive back to the Kona Internation Airport for the 10 p.m. flight back.

Beware that it could take longer to drive to your desire destination, due to traffic or road conditions.

  This guide is based off of having only 36 hours on the island. If you have more time then try to spend a few days working your way around the island. Here are some other points of interest: Kula Kai Caverns , Hawaiian Vanilla Company , Tropical Botanical Gardens , or one of the many Eco Tours are great things to try to see or do.

How To Spend 36 Hours On The Big Island Guide When my wife told me to pack for a quick trip, I didn't think a 6 hour flight from Phoenix  to the Big Island would start our 36 hours on Kailua.

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The Luxurious Kona Coast Part II – Resorts in Hawaii

Continuing our exploration of the  Luxurious Kona Coast, Kaz Headrest presents the second article in the series on resorts in Hawaii. Just north of Kona is the Kohala Coast. So we thought we would feature some of the amazing places in the neighborhood. For thousands of years the Hawaiian people lived and recorded their lives by carving pictures in the rock in the area called Puako.  Ancient Hawaiians called their stone art k’i’i pohaku, or images in stone or as we call them petroglyphs. “The field of petrogylphs can be accessed from the Holoholokai beach park in Mauna Lani Resort to the south of Puako. “The 233-acre Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District. is the largest concentration of petroglyphs in the Pacific .   These Malama Petroglyhs were made thousands of years ago. The field has over 3000 carvings including paddlers, sails, marchers, dancers, and family groups, as well as dogs, chickens, turtles, and deity symbols.” The park can be accessed either by going through the Mauna Lani resort, or via the Puako beachfront southwards from Paniau (utility pole 143) at the south end of Puako road. There are restrooms and shower facilities here. Petroglyphs are very culturally significant to Hawaiian culture. Please visit these with respect.

Located 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport the Mauna Lani Resort  sits oceanfront on the finest stretch of shoreline on the sunny Kohala Coast and is one of the most amazing resorts in Hawaii. The Mauna Lani features 30 oceanfront acres and three miles of secluded shoreline. The resort has two 18-hole courses, the championship Francis H. I’i Brown North and South. Carved from ancient lava fields, the oceanside golf courses are rated among the most beautiful resort courses in the world. The Mauna Lani also features an amazing spa with nine indoor treatment rooms, a steam bath and whirlpool, manicure and pedicure facilities, facial rooms, a full-service hair and beauty salon and spa boutique. The land where Mauna Lani Spa sits is known as Kalahuipua’a, a place of spiritual power and energy (mana) where Hawaiian royalty used to escape to rejuvenate their health and spirit. Built among ancient lava, Mauna Lani Spa resembles a peaceful Hawaiian village with outdoor thatched hale (huts) for treatments. A Hawaiian medicinal garden with lemongrass, tea leaves and Kukui nut bring soothing and healing elements to the environment. The elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water influence the treatments and experiences, such as mud wraps using volcanic ash, hot stone therapies and seaweed wraps and baths. Mauna Lani Spa’s unique open-air Lava Sauna Experience is the perfect way to experience the spiritual powers of the surroundings.” Every month when the full moon rises, Mauna Lani gets ready for an enchanted evening of storytelling and entertainment on the lawn at the oceanfront Eva Parker Woods Cottage. Hotel guests,Hawaii residents, and resort employees and their families are all welcome to join Danny Akaka for “Twilight at Kalahuipua‘a,” a night of storytelling, music and perhaps a little hula.

“Chef Clayton Arakawa’s passion for showcasing local ingredients in bold and innovative ways is evident in each dish he prepares. Born and raised in Hawaii, his personal take on contemporary Hawaii cuisine draws from the Islands’ diverse multicultural population, while emphasizing the distinct flavors that are truly unique to Hawaii. He has held the position of Executive Chef at Mauna Lani since early 2012. He acknowledges great traditions such as roasting Kalua Pig and that being in the center of the Pacific Ocean, you get the freshest fish. Working closely with the farmers and ranchers of Hawaii Island is at the forefront of his culinary creations. Chef Arakawa’s cooking style is simple and unique, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors on the plate. In addition to overseeing the entire culinary operations at Mauna Lani Bay, including the famous CanoeHouse restaurant and the popular Bay Terrace restaurant, Chef Arakawa leads signature culinary events for the resort, including the annual Celebrity Chef Tour weekend benefiting the James Beard Foundation each January.” As one of the premier resorts in Hawaii, the Mauna Lani  features 341 guest rooms and suites each with a tropical ambiance and private lanais. The ocean Bungalows are secluded yet conveniently located within a minute’s walk of the hotel lobby. Each bungalow features 4,000 square feet of living space, including two master bedrooms, three baths, a private swimming pool, whirlpool spa, a spacious lanai and a full kitchen.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Brought to you by Kaz Headrest. Travel in comfort with a Kaz Headrest. Available on

from Blog – Kaz Headrest https://www.kazheadrest.com/blog/the-luxurious-kona-coast-part-ii-resorts-in-hawaii/

[kazheadrest]

The Luxurious Kona Coast Part II – Resorts in Hawaii

Continuing our exploration of the  Luxurious Kona Coast, Kaz Headrest presents the second article in the series on resorts in Hawaii. Just north of Kona is the Kohala Coast. So we thought we would feature some of the amazing places in the neighborhood. For thousands of years the Hawaiian people lived and recorded their lives by carving pictures in the rock in the area called Puako.  Ancient Hawaiians called their stone art k’i’i pohaku, or images in stone or as we call them petroglyphs. “The field of petrogylphs can be accessed from the Holoholokai beach park in Mauna Lani Resort to the south of Puako. “The 233-acre Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District. is the largest concentration of petroglyphs in the Pacific .   These Malama Petroglyhs were made thousands of years ago. The field has over 3000 carvings including paddlers, sails, marchers, dancers, and family groups, as well as dogs, chickens, turtles, and deity symbols.” The park can be accessed either by going through the Mauna Lani resort, or via the Puako beachfront southwards from Paniau (utility pole 143) at the south end of Puako road. There are restrooms and shower facilities here. Petroglyphs are very culturally significant to Hawaiian culture. Please visit these with respect.

Located 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport the Mauna Lani Resort  sits oceanfront on the finest stretch of shoreline on the sunny Kohala Coast and is one of the most amazing resorts in Hawaii. The Mauna Lani features 30 oceanfront acres and three miles of secluded shoreline. The resort has two 18-hole courses, the championship Francis H. I’i Brown North and South. Carved from ancient lava fields, the oceanside golf courses are rated among the most beautiful resort courses in the world. The Mauna Lani also features an amazing spa with nine indoor treatment rooms, a steam bath and whirlpool, manicure and pedicure facilities, facial rooms, a full-service hair and beauty salon and spa boutique. The land where Mauna Lani Spa sits is known as Kalahuipua’a, a place of spiritual power and energy (mana) where Hawaiian royalty used to escape to rejuvenate their health and spirit. Built among ancient lava, Mauna Lani Spa resembles a peaceful Hawaiian village with outdoor thatched hale (huts) for treatments. A Hawaiian medicinal garden with lemongrass, tea leaves and Kukui nut bring soothing and healing elements to the environment. The elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water influence the treatments and experiences, such as mud wraps using volcanic ash, hot stone therapies and seaweed wraps and baths. Mauna Lani Spa’s unique open-air Lava Sauna Experience is the perfect way to experience the spiritual powers of the surroundings.” Every month when the full moon rises, Mauna Lani gets ready for an enchanted evening of storytelling and entertainment on the lawn at the oceanfront Eva Parker Woods Cottage. Hotel guests,Hawaii residents, and resort employees and their families are all welcome to join Danny Akaka for “Twilight at Kalahuipua‘a,” a night of storytelling, music and perhaps a little hula.

“Chef Clayton Arakawa’s passion for showcasing local ingredients in bold and innovative ways is evident in each dish he prepares. Born and raised in Hawaii, his personal take on contemporary Hawaii cuisine draws from the Islands’ diverse multicultural population, while emphasizing the distinct flavors that are truly unique to Hawaii. He has held the position of Executive Chef at Mauna Lani since early 2012. He acknowledges great traditions such as roasting Kalua Pig and that being in the center of the Pacific Ocean, you get the freshest fish. Working closely with the farmers and ranchers of Hawaii Island is at the forefront of his culinary creations. Chef Arakawa’s cooking style is simple and unique, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors on the plate. In addition to overseeing the entire culinary operations at Mauna Lani Bay, including the famous CanoeHouse restaurant and the popular Bay Terrace restaurant, Chef Arakawa leads signature culinary events for the resort, including the annual Celebrity Chef Tour weekend benefiting the James Beard Foundation each January.” As one of the premier resorts in Hawaii, the Mauna Lani  features 341 guest rooms and suites each with a tropical ambiance and private lanais. The ocean Bungalows are secluded yet conveniently located within a minute’s walk of the hotel lobby. Each bungalow features 4,000 square feet of living space, including two master bedrooms, three baths, a private swimming pool, whirlpool spa, a spacious lanai and a full kitchen.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani.

Brought to you by Kaz Headrest. Travel in comfort with a Kaz Headrest. Available on