Byline: Amanda Huntsman, Newport Beach resident
Photo Credit: The Four Seasons Hualalai and Mandy Huntsman

We recently took our family of six to the Big Island of Hawaii for a fall escape. Upon arrival, we were greeted with Hawaii's signature floral fragrance, followed by our driver holding a Four Seasons sign and a warm smile. We were quickly transported to our vehicle while our driver gathered our luggage. My husband, two children (ages 9 and 3), my mother, and my mother-in-law traveled with me.

Lush, beautifully landscaped grounds were the first thing we saw as we entered the property, which is a short 12-minute drive from the Kona airport. We first admired the view from the entrance to the resort, which looks down at the lawn, then one of the pools, and then the Pacific Ocean. Once on-site, we got a glimpse of their iconic low-rise, mid-century private bungalow-style rooms, and suites. The check-in process was efficient; they come to you at the Four Seasons. We were seated in a private reception area and offered mini-mango Mai Tais for the adults, Passion Orange Guava juice for our children, along with traditional leis. Within a few minutes, formalities were completed, and we are transported to our room in a golf cart. The kids were already in heaven!

The property underwent a $100 million renovation, and the rooms and suites have been extensively updated while maintaining the authentic Hawaiian design of the Hualalai. Our upscale suite had ample space and high-end amenities, making us feel pampered every moment of our stay. The spacious interior opened to an expansive lawn, perfect for playtime. We especially enjoyed the outdoor lava-rock shower off the main bathroom or the steam shower in the guest powder room.

Everything is highly personable; it’s no surprise that the resort is distinguished by Forbes’ Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler as one of the best places to stay on the Big Island.

Awaiting us on the expansive countertop were cards welcoming us, as well as special celebration treats for our daughter, who turned four while we were there. In our bedroom, the personalization continued with mommy and me matching linen robes in birds of paradise print and a toddler bed with a crane stuffy and children's book.

With golden-sand beaches, calm waters, and fully outfitted kid's clubs, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a paradise for families. Whether you’re after an action-packed vacation or a week of poolside lounging, they ensure everyone from youngest to oldest has the vacation of a lifetime.

We went to bed that first night eager to hit the ground running in the morning. With so many options for activities, it will be hard to decide what to do first. It is one of those places where there is no need to go off-property. We fell asleep easily listening to the sound of ocean waves crashing and birds chirping.

Our first full day included breakfast at the Ulu Ocean Grill. The restaurant is beautifully situated by the beach. I had the gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes, which were nothing less than incredible! We also indulge in other restaurant favorites: the loco moco (Big Island Beef, garlic fried rice, Ali'i Mushroom demi-glace, with a sunny side up egg), the french toast (Hawaiian Sweet Bread, dragon fruit syrup, and caramelized banana), and a traditional eggs benedict to share family style. We couldn’t get over how flavorful everything tasted. Living in California, we are spoiled by great places to dine at; the Ulu Ocean Grill’s breakfast is not to be missed!

Immediately after breakfast, we enjoyed a “Behind the Scenes Pond Tour” with a marine life specialist. We were up close and personal with the Hualālai Resort’s fascinating marine life and unusual habitats. The King’s Pond has over 1,000 fish and more than 90 species. The distinctive 1.8 million gallon swimmable semi-salt water pool is carved into the lava rock. It received a dramatic update during the recent renovation and new experiences led by the Resort’s on-site marine biologists, like tours of the tide pools and fish derbies. On our tour, our marine life specialist went over how they operate their saltwater systems, maintain the health of all the fish, and educated us on all the marine life and their ecosystems. My kids loved learning about Carl the Devil Scorpion Fish and his other friends housed at the Kuma Kai marine center. They also held urchins from the touch tank. The tour also included fish and ray feeding. Meeting Kainalu, the dearly loved resident spotted eagle ray, was a highlight of the trip. We became fast friends. He enjoyed being near us and was very friendly. Later in the day, we snorkeled in the King's Pond, which included complimentary snorkel equipment, including fins, snorkels, and masks. King’s Pond was born from the concepts of marine and ocean preservation and education. It is easy to spend your entire day here.

Although we were tired from a full day of activity, we rallied for a unique early evening experience at Hualalai Four Seasons' Golf Hale. My husband could not wait to try Hawaii’s first-ever Top Golf Swing Suite. It will be hard to top this new and creative way to improve our golf game. The TopGolf® Swing Suite® showcases the latest full-swing simulator technology in a relaxed and modern lounge setting. A powerful combination of data, video, and simulator technology empowers instructors to focus on every single aspect of your game in detail. It is the only facility in the US with all of the latest state-of-the-art technology under one roof; it enables you to track and monitor everything your club does before, during, and after impact. The kids also have non-golf-related options available on the simulators; Taylor and Luke enjoyed playing zombie dodgeball and baseball. Cool technology is only part of the experience. They make available a remarkable assortment of snacks and beverages for your enjoyment, everything from ice cream, Hawaiian chips, fruit, sandwiches, and salads to adult beverages. There is also a dedicated pro to navigate & coach you through the experience. We would come back to the Hualalai for this alone.

After a full day of swimming in the pond, splashes around the pool, and golf, we are ready to retire to our room to test some unique amenities. My kids quickly dash for the outside rock shower while I escaped to the steam room.

The next day, I separated from the family to explore the spa. I waited for my treatment in The Waiea Garden (Water of Life), which features multi-textured rocks from around the island to soothe your feet. My therapist led me to a private outdoor hale (thatched hut) where I enjoyed one of their signature treatments, the Lomi Lomi massage. It’s a traditional Hawaiian massage. It is a sacred healing art handed down from generation to generation by the kupuna (elders). Techniques are rhythmic and unique to each therapist, integrating the use of palms and forearms for an excellent full-body wellness massage. I melted into the massage bed listening to the not-so-distant waves crashing on the beach; now, this is how you spa! There are 28 private outdoor treatment rooms, including spa hales with soaking tubs, outdoor showers, and a glassed steam room. The spa is decorated with dark woods to inspire relaxation. Other signature treatments include Polynesian Niu (coconut) Scrub (50 minutes) and the Iliahi (sandalwood) Island Glow Body Treatment (80 minutes). The minute you enter the facility, you are greeted with Four Seasons' signature customer service and Hawaii's signature aloha. The facilities are immaculate and gorgeous. The spa at Four Seasons is one of the best on the island, and is known for its health and wellness focus. Treatment options extend beyond the typical range of massages and facials to include wellness initiatives like chiropractic sessions, acupuncture, guided meditation, and nutrition assessments.

After my spa treatment, I met up with my family for a quick bite from the Hualali Trading Company, a quick service country style market located at the resort. I highly recommend the avocado toast made with 12-grain bread, Keauhou avocado, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a cup of Hualalai Coffee Company coffee (delicious local Kona Coffee).

We then hang out at the Keiki Pool, with the white-sand bottom shallow pool that feels like the beach! It is specially designed for young kids. There is plenty of shade, and a water feature kids love; little ones can frolic here all day long. The resort provides children’s-size chaise longues and a treasure chest of water toys. My 3-year-old daughter couldn’t get enough.

My 9-year-old son wanted to swim somewhere a little more up to his speed, so he headed with my husband to the “Ocean Pool.” It’s a spot for tranquil ocean swimming; this rectangular “pool” carved out of the oceanfront lava rock features a natural breakwater. Protected from the waves and home to sea life, including honu (turtle), this is an excellent place for young kids, new swimmers, and anyone who wants the ocean's feel with the pool's security.

Meanwhile, my mom and mother-in-law took advantage of their downtime before babysitting the kids at the Palm Grove Pool. Ambient music and cocktails set the scene at this adults-only pool. Patrons can enjoy in-pool bench seating and bar for a cold Kona beer or a mojito before settling into one of the oversized hammocks or poolside chaise longues. Or you can also spend the day in one of the Couples Nests: These private-lounge areas with spa treatments, personal attendants, snacks, and cocktails are romantic sanctuaries for two.

We wrapped up our epic pool day, and all headed to our respective dinners. My husband and I enjoyed a date night at Ulu Ocean Grill while the grandmothers went to the Beach Tree for a more casual dining experience on the sand with the kids. For our grand finale, we had the most romantic table, steps away from the beach with the sun setting in shades of orange and pink before us; we felt like we are in a movie. The culinary philosophy at Ulu begins with ingredients from the island and beyond – ensuring the freshest, most sustainable ingredients available. Working with over 160 local farms, approximately 75% of the food served is from the Island of Hawai'i, prepared oven-roasted, flame-grilled, and wok-fired – fusing the flavors of Hawaii with Pan-Asian techniques. I had the opportunity to tour the onsite herb garden. They grow tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs and have their Hualalai shrimp ponds in the garden, all used daily in restaurants throughout the property.

Our meal was out of this world; the MisoYaki Kanpachi is not to be missed. Wondering what Kanpachi is? Hawaiian Kanpachi is a Hawaiian yellowtail. It is grown in the open ocean off the Kona Coast of the Big Island. It is Hawaii–hatched, reared, and harvested using state-of-the-art aquaculture technology without depleting wild fisheries or harming the ocean environment. We are still talking about this dish. There is nothing to compare it to; it's a must to taste if you are a foodie. We also tasted the excellent broiled king crab leg and hamachi carpaccio (which I describe as clean and bright)! The staff was informative, friendly, and very attentive. An incredible way to end our stay at the incredible Four Season Hualalai.

With 196 rooms and 53 suites, Four Seasons Hualalai is large enough to provide ample opportunities for guests but small enough to maintain an intimate atmosphere. Overall we highly recommend bringing your family here; whether for the upcoming holiday season or off-season, there is plenty to do. From world-class golf, beautiful beaches, and consistent sunshine, it’s a near-perfect paradise. The Four Seasons Hualalai does a great job of making you feel like you are somewhere luxurious but also uniquely Hawaiian. As a brand, the Four Seasons is known for family-friendliness, and this resort lives up to that reputation.

We had an unforgettable stay at the Hualalai Resort! This is a vacation we will remember for years.

Insider Tips:

During whale watching season (January – March), guests can board the resort’s Ribcraft boat to spot humpback whales less than a mile from shore. You may even be able hear them through the boat’s underwater sound system.

The best time to snorkel at King’s Pond is first thing in the morning when visibility is its best.

At the beginning of your trip, make your first stop the Ka’Upulehu Cultural Center, which offers many complimentary classes curated to share the 'Aloha' of Hawaii. From lei making to Hawaiian language to ukulele lessons, guests of all ages can enjoy learning about the history of the islands from the mea ho‘okipa (host).