Westin Hapuna Beach: A Secluded Hawai'i Island Retreat

The Big Island of Hawai'i isn't known for its beaches, but the Kohala Coast's Hapuna Beach is the most noteworthy exception.

The sand is soft and white, and the snorkeling off the beach when the currents and surf are docile enough are spectacular. It's easy to see why the north end of the public beach is the ideal spot for a resort hotel.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort occupies this space, newly remodeled and reflagged as a Westin from its former Prince Hotels flag. The Japanese hospitality conglomerate, which operates a number of branded hotels in Hawai'i, continues to operate the resort under the Westin name.

The resort was originally constructed for Prince Hotels and in a rather grand design. The concrete structure is built into the side of a hill, with distinctive multi-level columns, huge open public spaces, and a series of half circles terracing toward the ocean. The result is wide corridors, plenty of open public spaces with ocean view seating and ocean breezes wafting through the open floor plans instead of air-conditioned, enclosed walkways.

Refresh guest rooms have plenty of space for lounging, whether on indoor divan sofas or outdoor daybeds on generous balconies. Most guest rooms also have wooden louvered shutter doors should guests wish to cool their rooms with a breeze from the ocean. Interestingly, balconies also have bar-height breakfast tables for guests to take advantage of their views over the railings.

When not relaxing in guest rooms, each terrace step toward the beach offers a different experience. Just below the lobby there's Piko, a deli and bar open throughout the day. A step lower is Ikena Landing, where guests can sip fresh fruit juice and enjoy a rotating house-made grain bar amuse bouche (consistent with Westin's status as a wellness brand) and enjoy a full breakfast buffet with a full view of the sun rising onto the beach.

One more step down is a koi pond with plenty of seating. This sits just above an infinity pool for adults.

Families can step down another terrace for the expansive pool designed for all guests to enjoy. Here, casual lunches and dinners can be had at Naupaka Beach Grill, where the bar also serves up potent cocktails. The space just above is dedicated to the Mediterranean-inspired Meridia, with both indoor and outdoor dinner-only dining with ocean views.

Beyond that is the beach itself, where chairs and umbrellas are set up by dedicated staff each morning. The water is a snorkeler's delight, where sharp-eyed swimmers can often spot honu, or green sea turtles.

The Takeaway

At first glance, the lack of buzzing staff and expanse of empty spaces can make the hotel feel almost abandoned, but after some time goes by and guests realize their needs are being eagerly attended to by engaged but non-intrusive staff, one begins to understand the method. The feeling of almost abandoned seclusion steals the attention to the beauty of the natural surroundings and the solid harmony of the design.

The Math

I've seen rates from around $275 per night. The resort fee is an additional $30 plus tax.

Instagrammable Moment

Breakfast views are pretty spectacular, as are shots from the pool and beach.

Loyalty

SPG and Marriott Rewards, now combined, will have a new program name in 2019.

Good To Know

The resort is not particularly close to other shopping or dining options on the island, but it's well-located for day trips across the north and west coasts.

Hapuna Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, making this hotel particularly suitable for guests with high beach expectations, although it's important to pay attention to surf conditions; swimming is often not advisable for children or novice swimmers.

Situated upon the Hapuna Golf Course, an 18 hole course designed by Arnold Palmer, the resort is a golfer's dream.

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