Exclusive: inside The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on Hawaii’s picturesque Kohala Coast
One of the things I treasure most about The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is the effortless sense of calm that seems to wash over me the moment I walk through our doors.
The fresh ocean breeze gently sweeping through our open-air lobby mixed with our 180-degree ocean views of the Kohala Coast instantly takes my breath away, and our stunning white-sand Hapuna Beach sets the tone instantly for my day.
But it’s the harmony between our island’s natural environment of rugged lava fields and the true Hawaiian hospitality that our dedicated staff provides is what truly creates a unique experience.
Our rooms and suites were designed with a modern home feel that pairs beautifully with island-inspired elements.
Every accommodation features a spacious layout, soothing neutral tones, and natural materials that echo the surrounding landscape.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious private lanais invite guests to take in the iconic Hapuna ocean views while dining, relaxing on the daybed, or simply unwinding.
And because we are a Westin property, wellbeing is an essential part of the experience. Guests find comfort in signature amenities like our Heavenly Beds, spa-like bathrooms, filtered hydration stations, and ample workspace.
For those seeking elevated luxury, our suites offer expanded living areas and panoramic ocean vistas, making them ideal for longer stays or generational family travel.
Our culinary program is one of our resort’s greatest sources of pride. Here on Hawai‘i Island, local agriculture thrives, which gives us the privilege of partnering with exceptional farmers, fisheries, and ranchers and supporting local businesses.
Sourcing locally allows us to craft menus that celebrate the island’s bounty with dishes that feel both elevated and authentically local.
Meridia, our signature restaurant, offers Mediterranean-inspired coastal cuisine rooted in these local ingredients.
To elevate the experience further, our restaurant features its own 8,700-square-foot Chef’s Garden, which grows more than twenty varieties of vegetation and enriches our hyper-farm-to-table approach to both food and cocktails. Its fresh flavors continue to be a favorite among visitors and kamaaina (residents) alike.
Additional dining options include Ikena Landing, our open-air breakfast venue known for panoramic ocean views, with both an abundant island-style buffet and ala carte menu for breakfast.
For a relaxed poolside cocktail, lunch, or dinner, Naupaka Beach Grill serves contemporary fare ranging from bar bites and sandwiches to salads, poke bowls, and loco mocos.
Our x-factor is the extraordinary natural setting that surrounds our resort mixed with our ancillary experiences.
Sitting atop Hapuna Beach, it is one of the few true white sand beaches along this stretch of the Kohala Coast, making it an absolute gem of a destination.
There are little coves near the shoreline that offer remarkable snorkeling with vibrant fish and sea life, while a nationally registered historic Ala Kahakai Trail runs directly in front of the resort which features sweeping views of the coastline, perfect for sunset walks or morning explorations.
In addition to the soft white sands of Hapuna Beach, we offer two different pool experiences: an oversized family pool or a quiet adults-only infinity pool, each providing a distinctly different way to relax and take in the surroundings.
I think the blending of these elements comes together naturally in a way that feels refreshing, restorative, and deeply connected to place.
Loyalty is essential to us. Marriott Bonvoy has a passionate global membership, and we’re honored that so many members choose our resort as their Hawaiian getaway. Bonvoy travelers know they can expect consistency, elevated service, and meaningful recognition, and we take great pride in delivering that experience.
Many of our returning guests celebrate milestones with us, from honeymoons to multi-generational family vacations, and their loyalty fuels our commitment to continual improvement.
Being part of Marriott Bonvoy also allows us to welcome travelers from around the world who are discovering the Kohala Coast for the first time.
I have a few favorite things to do in the local area, starting with a trip to Pu‘ukoholā Heiau. This sacred site is one of the most significant heiau in Hawai‘i and was built under the direction of King Kamehameha I as part of his journey to unite the islands.
Walking the grounds and learning about its history gives you a profound sense of place and a deeper appreciation for the cultural legacy that continues to shape Hawai‘i today.
From there, I like to travel north to the quiet historic town of Hawi, where there are some wonderful shops and eateries.
Afterward, I head a little farther toward Pololū Valley to take in the breathtaking views of the majestic coastline. It’s amazing how vast the landscape is and how small you feel in the presence of the island’s natural beauty.
Then I drive along the upper road and take the elevated scenic route into Waimea to explore Hawai‘i’s unique and fascinating paniolo (cowboy) culture.
Waimea is home to sprawling ranchlands and a proud ranching tradition that dates back to the early 1800s, when Mexican vaqueros taught Hawaiian cowboys the skills of riding and roping.
Today, the paniolo legacy lives on through local ranches, rodeos, and a community that still honors this distinct blend of Hawaiian and Western heritage found nowhere else in the world.
Qantas’ brilliant Business Class ‘Suite’
Qantas operates direct flights to Honolulu from Sydney, Australia, with Airbus A330s and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners that feature the airline’s latest Business Class cabin.
Qantas’ Business Class cabin is headlined by a ‘suite’ seat – available on all the Boeing 787-9, Airbus A330-200, Airbus A330-300 and Airbus A380-800 jets in the fleet and select Airbus A380-800s – that has been popular with executive and leisure travellers since it first arrived on the scene in 2016.
This next-generation Business Class seat from the Flying Kangaroo can be reclined for take-off and landing, and the cabin offering also includes top Australian food and wine and world-class entertainment.