Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

After a $200 million renovation, the Mauna Lani has transformed into a luxurious resort that offers all the activities you may need with the flexibility to venture off property for island exploration.

• An expansive beach with wonderful whale watching and view of Maui
• The open and airy lobby and public spaces designed with a combination of Hawaiian and Japanese influence
• The Malama Honu Turtle Program, an educational sea turtle conservation program, which cares for baby turtles until they are ready to be released into the wild.

As you pass through the Mauna Lani gates, the property's sense of place is immediately juxtaposed against the surrounding natural landscape: vast collections of deep-black volcanic rock lay side by side with a well-kept golf course, while the stunning coastline greets the hotel's manicured entryway. The newly renovated resort has kept the bones of the original resort with its 29 oceanfront acres, two golf courses, tennis courts, an indoor and outdoor spa, and a year-round children’s camp while the new, fresh design’s attractive interiors combine Japanese minimalism with breezy, island vibes.

While there is a beach, the sand is a combination of soft sand and rocks. Once you pass the rocky entry, however, the water is pleasant and comparatively calm enough for wading or paddle boarding. Guests can also enjoy the family-friendly pool or the adults-only pool for a refreshing dip. Although the arrow-shaped building is large with high-rise tower blocks, the interiors of the hotel have been redone very tastefully. The guest rooms and suites all come with private lanais, double marble sinks, and rain showers. The décor is light with natural tones of gray, white and beige making for a calming, beachy retreat. For the more exclusive experience, reserve one of the five bungalows tucked behind a gated driveway: they each have two master bedrooms, a 50-inch plasma TV, a private pool and hot tub, a personal butler, and private access to the beach.

Activities on property are creative and cultural ranging from sunset catamaran sails to coconut frond weaving and rock running. The Hale I'ike Sense of Place is a Hawaiian culture immersion activity that shouldn't be missed by anyone fascinated by cultural exploration, and the Malama Honu Turtle Program has a sustainability focus, designed to spread awareness for endangered sea turtles through education and conservation practice. In addition, the property's keiki-only (kids only) Explorers Club offers an outdoor base camp that emulates a tropical playground with tree swings, hammocks, and a sandbox.

Those who are looking for a luxurious home base where they can enjoy their vacation with a combination of relaxing on property and venturing off-property to explore. For those looking to commit themselves to a resort for the full duration of their stay should consider the Four Seasons Hualalai.