We just returned from a trip to Kona Village. From the moment you drive onto the property with white sand driveways, green lawns and palm trees you know you are somewhere special. We've stayed at many beautiful resorts on the Big Island including the Four Seasons Hualalai, as well as the Four Seasons Beach Resort and Sensei on Lanai, and several others on Oahu, but Kona Village is now our very favorite.

Upon arrival we were greeted by Daniel Scott (Regional Manager), Maria Jose Rodriguez (Resort Manager), and a delicious tropical cocktail. Check In was quick and the staff was so friendly and welcoming. We were driven to our hale by golf cart and shown where the gym, spa, restaurants and a secluded beach (with the most amazing sealife) are located. The decor inside our hale was beautiful and had everything we needed. There are no TVs but you can use your laptop or ask the front desk if they have a one to use. WiFi is excellent. The welcome refreshments in our room were a nice touch to enjoy on the huge lanai before lunch.

We enjoyed several meals at the Kahuwai, Moana (where the french toast with vanilla cream is a must) and at the beach. By far the most enjoyable meal was the Island Roots dinner. It takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays, located in a secluded area near the gardens surrounded by kiawe trees. The food is all locally sourced. Cocktails and appetizers were served upon arrival, followed by dinner which was explained by Chefs Kai and David. The menu included salad and vegetables from the garden, locally caught fish and lobster, kalua pig with cabbage, and other items. Dessert was presented by the pastry chef who described her fabulous creations. Cocktails and several white and red wines were served with dinner. Seating is communal, giving us the opportunity to meet other guests who were first timers like us, as well as those who have been coming to the resort for over 40 years.

With the beach, pools and restaurants we never left the property. We used the bikes to get around, it was so much fun. Bikes are parked everywhere, you just take one to ride around the resort or to/from your hale. The resort is easily walkable but you can always call to have someone in a golf cart pick you up. We played pickleball and tennis. Rackets, paddles and balls are available anytime, along with water and fruit. The gym is great and has cardio equipment outside to enjoy the views.. The spa is beautiful. There is an activity shack to get snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks, etc. Everything is included along with other planned activities like canoe rides, snorkeling adventures, and cultural classes. There are also cooking and fitness classes with nominal fees. Check the schedule in your room and book as soon as possible. The big beach in front is a great snorkeling spot, you'll see so many fish and sea turtles, but for me the little beach/cove has the best snorkeling, it’s like being in an aquarium.

We had a wonderful time at Kona Village and look forward to our next visit. Thanks to the entire staff, especially Maria, for making our stay so memorable.

Stunning accommodations and spa - Abyssmal service and dining at Moana. Dirty glasses and unbussed tables, and waits exceeding 15 minutes after being seated for meals are just the beginning at this seriously under staffed resort. The dinner menu at Moana was uninspiring and overpriced, yet we loved the meals by Chef Jose at the cookout restaurant. The spa is fresh and beautiful - but the server falsifying a tip for my drink order at Shipwreck Bar and tipping herself a generous amount left me with a bad taste in my mouth.

My husband and I went to get some relaxation and peace. This resort exceeded every expectation, providing everything we could imagine. Restaurants and food were incredible and great variety; never got tired of the menus. I even asked for some recipes from the chef to try at home. Staff was kind, over the top accommodating, and made sure our experience was five star. Spa was beautiful, great amenities and services were so good we made second appointments. Hula and ukulele classes were fun and entertaining; the teacher was so sweet and knowledgeable about Hawaiian history. The most stunning reef and fish were only meters off the beach! The outdoor team showed us all the best spots, gear was clean and new, canoe/sailing was an experience I’ll never forget! This is a vacation we will be doing every year.

We don’t have kids but the kids camp looked very popular and fun! I even wanted to join them in feeding ducks and fishing. I’ve encouraged my family members with children to books trip and try it out!

We went to the four seasons (next door) twice for dinner. It was much more crowded and didn’t have a personal touch. Service was slow, but food was good!