"Kona Resorts" - Hawaii Day 8

Suz and I spent Day 8 touring hotels and shopping. We headed from the Fairmont Orchid to the Kona Village Resort. The Kona Village Resort is one of the most interesting resorts I've been to. The resort has been around since the 1960's. The rooms are actual bungalows located on top of the hardened lava over looking the ocean. The bungalows do not have air conditioning, phones or television. Meals are included, which is unheard of in Hawaii. (drinks additional) Plus, they have a great family friendly feel. I thought it was awesome!!

Just remember "no life guard on duty"

Great bay area for kayak's

No, lifeguards, but you still have protection.

The bungalows at the Kona Village Resort

No fishing!

Our next hotel was the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu. This resort is AMAZING! I had been told from many of my co-workers that this is the # 1 resort on all of the Hawaiian islands. It is true!!! No wonder the movie stars flock to this resort. From the lobby to the pool, to the restaurants, and the beautiful beach, this resort is HIGH CLASS and breathtaking. Here is a quote from the resort website: "Opulent luxury, no pretension. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf course, full-service spa, incomparable dining and six pools will keep you there. The friendly, attentive service will make you never want to leave." OC Metro, February 2008...... I totally agree!

Quiet Pool at the Four Seasons

Random shot of a flower pot on the grounds of the Four Seasons

Pool # 2 at the Four Seasons
This shot makes me want to be there right this minute!

Loved this. Shhhh...the Turtles are resting!

Perfect for the generational family getaway!
There is a chair for everyone!

Old School Classic Beach Car!

Once I could tear myself away from the Four Seasons, Suz and I headed to our resort for the night, which was the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa. Along the way we stopped at the Kings and Queens outdoor mall's. This is one of the best places in Kona for dining and shopping, however I discovered the stores were mainly stores found at home. However, King's did have some very high end shops such as Couch, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Tommy Bahama's.

The Marriott was another beautiful resort and the perfect resort to end my stay in Hawaii. We arrived near sunset and here are a few of my favorite sunset shots.

The cabana on the beach.

Sunset Surfing

A mom and her naked toddler walking the beach at sunset.

A couple strolling along the beach at sunset.

This was my final night on the islands. My heart is never far from home, but it was hard to leave such a beautiful place. I spent my final day lounging at the pool. I think after 8 days, it was time to relax at the pool. :) Around 7PM, I started my journey home, which took 3 planes and 12 hours. Was it worth it? YES!!!

Top 5 things I learned...

1) Waikiki is full of entertainment, resorts, nightlife, and restaurants. You also have Pearl Harbor, China Town, rain forest's, high-end shopping and beautiful beaches. I suggest 3-4 nights in Waikiki.
2) You need to make it to the North Shore, which is an amazing drive through lush green landscapes and breathtaking beaches. Plus, don't forget Ted's Bakery and Giovanni's Shrimp Truck along the way.
3) The Turtle Bay Resort is the perfect escape from the city life of Waikiki. It is also located near the Polynesian Cultural Center. Which is another must see!
4) Landing in Kona, on the big island, is like landing on Mars, because of the dried black lava as far as the eye can see. However, the resorts are gorgeous, and 20 minutes away is the green lush mountains and valley's that bring the island to life. The volcano is a helicopter ride or 4-5 hour drive from the Kona area.
5) The top resort in Waikiki is the Kahala Resort. The top resort in Kona is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

I'm headed to Mexico, so check back in a week for updates. Adios!