OUTRIGGER KONA RESORT AND SPA HAWAII’S $60M RENOVATION COMPLETE
The $60 million renovation of OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa is now complete and the 22-acre resort stands ready to welcome guests to Keauhou, a name that signifies a “New Era.”
Perched on the cliffs of Keauhou Bay with spectacular ocean views across the Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawai‘i, the history of Keauhou resonates throughout the transformed property.
The revitalized 511 guest rooms/suites and meeting spaces artfully blend the property’s profound heritage and reverence for voyaging with modern aesthetics. Inspired by the concept of “kōī au,” symbolizing a flowing current and eloquence, the resort’s design by Looney & Associates seamlessly incorporates oceanic currents and wave motifs into its interiors, offering a genuine reflection of the spirit of Keauhou Bay.
The expansive Kaleiopapa Convention Center also underwent enhancements, solidifying its status as a premier event venue with more than 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space.
“Through meticulous design and a deep-rooted cultural narrative, we aspired to etch an enduring impression on our guests’ hearts and minds, fostering a profound connection with Hawai‘i’s rich tapestry of history and traditions,” stated Geoff Pearson, general manager of OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa. “With enhanced amenities including Piko Coffee & Wine Bar, we look forward to a new era of Keauhou and perpetuating the legacy of this sacred place.”
Located in the center of the property, the new Piko Coffee & Wine Bar features a variety of white and red wines, rosés and champagnes, sourced from California, France, Italy and New Zealand. Partnering with Big Island Coffee Roasters, a custom blend of Kona and Kaʻu coffee allows for a unique experience that evokes a sense of place through locally sourced ingredients.
Guests can now unwind in style amidst the upgraded lounge chairs and cabanas gracing the adults-only and oceanfront pools, while the young and young-at-heart delight in the 200-foot waterslide. Club-level room guests gain exclusive access to the new Voyager 47 Club Lounge, adding a touch of indulgence to their stay.
The adventurous traveler can take part in nightly manta ray tours via the Kini Kini, a 40ft Hawaiian sailing canoe to learn the myths, legends and facts of the Hahalua (manta ray) before getting in the water and snorkeling alongside these magnificent creatures. Kona is the premiere destination for manta ray sightings, and the property embraces conservation and education for these animals through the Manta Center and annual Manta Day festivities in September.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in daily cultural activities, including a captivating 90-minute guided tour of the historic villages of Kaukulaelae and Keauhou Bay, the birthplace of King Kamehameha III.
As the sun sets, the Feast & Fire Lū‘au pays tribute to the first Polynesians to land in Hawai‘i on the oceanfront of Keauhou Bay, just south of Kamakahonu, the residence of ali‘i (royalty). Developed by Traditions Hawaiʻi, a local production company backed by the iconic Lim and Yap family, guests are treated to a mesmerizing performance that transports them through Hawaiian history. Newly announced for the summer, the Feast & Fire Lūʻau package includes accommodation and two complimentary general admission seats, inviting guests to take part in the vibrant cultural celebration.
The evening also includes an Artisan Village where guests can make lei, watch a poi pounding demonstration, create an art piece by traditional bamboo stamping (ʻOhe Kāpala), or shop a selection of curated treasures from local artisans. For those who enjoy games, traditional Hawaiian games can be found on the Makahiki gaming grounds, featuring native stone bowling, Hawaiian checkers and more.
