In Jan 2020 I had the pleasure of finally seeing where Drew had spent 50% of his time the first three years of our relationship. Drew worked for a firm that redeveloped hotels, and played an integral role in the redevelopment of Mauna Lani, a luxury resort on the Island of Hawai’i.
I got to go during their “soft open”, as Drew was there working and putting in the finishing touches, so there were very few other guests and it was such a respite.
The resort is in a great location on a section of the Kona-Kohala coast, it’s also only 30 minutes from Kona Airport. Mauna Lani’s location gives you easy access to a beach where you can rent snorkeling equipment, and has a great cove for swimming. It’s also close by a hike along the oceanfront, where you eventually will come to an area that has petroglyphs. I’m still in awe that these were written centuries ago and remain today. It was also incredible to see the primordial lava fields nearby, so surreal to envision them as moving lava!
We also did a lot of lounging by the pool, the beach & enjoying meals. The open-air, poolside Hālani restaurant had my favorite dish, which was their Ahi Tuna tartare, I think I ate it nearly every day for lunch! The CanoeHouse is a great dinner option, even if you aren’t staying at the resort to come dine at.
I’m fortunate to have gotten to visit this magical retreat and see the incredible place Drew helped create.
