Multiple levels of ocean views from a variety of vantage points make The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort a wonder for the eyes. The moment you exit your vehicle you can see thru the glass doors to the beautiful Pacific Ocean.
Skip the check desk and go directly to this viewing vantage point 10 steps away. Soak it all in and let your stresses melt away.
The Westin provides an unbeatable experience for all vacation types, it even made my list of the top luxury hotels on the Big Island. Additionally, check out my list of the best things to do on the Big Island to make the most out of your stay.
Unique Features
Without a doubt The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is designed to give you views from almost any spot on the grounds. You can stop just about anywhere, on any floor and gaze upon the beautiful blue Pacific. Restaurants, lounge chairs, pool decks and even the lobby offer unobstructed vantage points.
Beaches in Hawaii are all public so having a private beach is just not possible. Some locations though are just positioned in such a place that it feels like you are on a private sandy spot and this is one of them.
Next door is the Mauna Kea Beach resort and you can head over to enjoy their secluded beach location as well, truly unique in Hawaii. In the evening they run a shuttle between the two locations so you can enjoy additional dining options without getting in your car.
Booking
I booked this room with 40k points via the Marriott Bonvoy program, with rates around $800 per night it was a great redemption to be had. I try to shoot for $.01 per point so $.02 was excellent.
I had Mike check me in while he trained a new front desk person and it was clear why he does the training – quick, personable, and friendly. I was early so I explored until they called me and checked into room 618.
If you’re looking to stay at the Westin Hapuna, make to book your room now.
Click Here For Recent Trip Advisor Reviews Of The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Room
Although the property is in a class of its own, the room left much to be desired.
Scratches on the desk, frayed linens, marked up table, and a stained patio couch left me wondering where I was exactly. If I wasn’t doing a review on the room and hotel I would have immediately gone back to the front desk and asked for another room.
I always review the room that I am given so that you, my readers, know that I am not getting special treatment. Which was clear in this case. As I write this review a basic room here starts at $949 per night, no.
Everything worked properly in the room although it was quite dark, kind of tiki lounge feel but not quite. I think the reusable water bottles are a great amenity especially on a resort property. There were refill stations throughout and they all appeared very well maintained.
Even with 2 queen sized beds and a small couch the room felt roomy and not cramped. With all that the property had to offer on the outside I suspect most wont be in their rooms except to rest up for the next foray.
Bathroom
I did enjoy the bathroom with the high-tech toilet, double vanities, and separate shower enclosure. The Westin robes were hung from the door and neatly pressed, unlike the frumpled ones I got at the Westin Monache. Decent water pressure for the rain head attachment and of course the White Tea scents are always a plus.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort Pools
Amazing!
One day soon I hope to do an article about the best hotel pools in Hawaii and I am sure The Westin Hapuna Beach will be on that list.
Let’s start with the adult only pool. Up a little higher for even better views and a shorter walk this pool was just below some amazing koi ponds that had additional seating areas.
The cascading waterfall provided a white noise background to let you drift off into bliss while relaxing in the infiniti pool. In pool lounge chairs for those hot days when you need to dip and sip at the same time. I always saw a few open chairs during my stay so not overly crowded.
A service cabana with towels was on the same level so no extra stairs and private cabanas were available, book those early.
The family pool was smartly a bit closer to the beach and on the same level as the Naupaka Beach Grill with a variety of kid friendly options. Additional cabanas were available on this level as well along the raised grass area with seating to sit and watch the sunsets. There was also a nice shallow end for toddlers or those just looking to cool their feet. Throw in a pool table, a world class beach, and the kids are good to go all day long.
Dining
Meridia
I had dinner here on my first night and the service was excellent as well as the views from the outside deck. Even with the lights from the restaurant and hotel the stars peeked out from the skies above, magical.
No margaritas on the menu so I tried an Italian Paloma, bitter from the grapefruit juice and well presented. It had a red tinge to it which I believe came from the Alae sea salt, first time seeing this in a cocktail.
Appetizer was a frito misto which was amazing and fresh. A unique blend of calamari, shrimp, chilies, aioli, and parmesan, recommended. Entree was a Big Island wild boar ragu that while filling was not especially flavorful, try a local fish if you get the chance.
Ikena Landing
The day I left I decided to try the breakfast buffet on my quest for the best one in Hawaii and was happy with my choice. Will it make the final list? We shall see.
At $45 dollars I think it was priced appropriately for the offerings provided. Friendly staff at the omelette station always makes me happy and the build your own loco moco was a delightful local boy nod.
After I sat down with my plate I did have to get up to ask for coffee and water which in a buffet setting just shouldn’t have to happen. I was also brought a full platter of fruits and muffins which were delicious although I thought a bit of a waste considering I didn’t eat half of it. I hope they change this to self serve in the future.
Gym/Spa
The gym was completely empty when I visited during the day which makes sense considering the beautiful weather outside. Everything was in great condition and sparkling clean, definitely a gym I would like to work out in. Multiple pieces of equipment and an extensive selection of weights.
The Hapuna Spa by Mandara was also nearby although I did not get a chance to go in. You can see the full menu of services here.They also had a keiki (kids) club for those 5-12 that ran $125 per day.
Parking
I took an Uber from the Kona airport for $74 going and $57 returning so I didn’t have to park. Onsite parking runs $30 per day and with the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel right next door I didn’t need a vehicle.
I got lucky going from the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel over to The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort by hoping a ride with the bell desk agent during a slow period. Thanks guys!
Final Thoughts
Amazing pools and views for days but at $800+ a night for a basic room and the condition mine was in I would think twice before selecting this hotel. If you can ensure a better room then I got you can enjoy the same natural beauty that the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel enjoys but for a few hundred less per night.
Have you stayed here? Did you get a room in better condition then mine? Please share in the comments your experience so other travelers can learn from us.
