Mauna Kea Hotel Family Photographers – Big Island, Hawaii
Rich History and Rockefeller Legacy
Laurance S. Rockefeller’s Vision
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on Big Island, Hawaii, has a fascinating history that begins with Laurance S. Rockefeller. In 1959, this visionary venture capitalist and environmentalist visited the newly minted 50th state and fell in love with Kauna’oa Bay. Rockefeller saw potential in this tranquil crescent of white sand beach and decided to create an elegant, luxury resort that would reflect the spirit of this incredible location. Rockefeller’s vision went beyond just building a hotel. He wanted to create a cross-cultural experience that would showcase the beauty of Hawaii while incorporating art and culture from across Asia and the Pacific Rim. This unique approach set Mauna Kea Beach Hotel apart from other resorts and helped establish it as a must-visit destination on Big Island, Hawaii.
Midcentury Modern Architecture
The hotel’s design is a testament to midcentury modern architecture. Initially, Rockefeller considered a cluster of individual cottages but ultimately chose a single-building concept. Architect Edward Charles Bassett of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill created an open-air design that was truly breathtaking. The structure curves to reflect the land’s shape and incorporates lava rock, seamlessly blending with its surroundings.
Art Collection
One of the most remarkable features of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is its extensive art collection. Rockefeller and his team acquired over 1,600 original artifacts and sculptures from Asia, Oceania, the Pacific Rim, and Hawaii. These pieces are displayed throughout the hotel, creating an intimate and interactive experience for guests. Notable items include a 12th-century pink granite Buddha from India and Hawaii’s largest standing collection of Hawaiian quilts.
Unparalleled Location on Kauna’oa Bay
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel sits on one of the most stunning beaches in Hawaii. Kauna’oa Bay boasts a crescent-shaped stretch of powdery white sand that’s simply breathtaking. A location like this is truly a dream for Mauna Kea Hotel Family Photographers. This protected bay offers perfect conditions for various water activities. Guests can enjoy gentle waves for body boarding or explore the vibrant coral reefs on both sides of the bay while snorkeling. It’s common to spot sea turtles in the morning and manta rays at night, adding to the magical experience of staying at this oceanfront paradise.
Stunning Sunsets
As the day winds down, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel treats its guests to some of the most spectacular sunsets on Big Island. The golden hour paints the sky in vibrant hues, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for evening strolls along the shore. Many visitors gather at the Hau Tree bar to sip on sunset cocktails while taking in the awe-inspiring views. The hotel’s location provides the perfect vantage point to witness the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the Pacific Ocean.
Nearby Attractions
While Kauna’oa Bay is a slice of heaven, the surrounding area offers even more to explore. Just minutes away, you’ll find Hapuna Beach, voted the #1 beach in the USA. This half-mile stretch of soft white sand is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. For those seeking variety, a short drive leads to six of Hawaii’s most spectacular beaches, including the unique Black Sand Beach. The Mauna Kea Resort also provides exclusive access to two world-class hotels and beaches, allowing guests to enjoy the best of both worlds during their stay on Big Island.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Wonders
Golf and Tennis
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel boasts top-notch golf and tennis facilities. The resort’s Seaside Tennis Club, with its 11 courts, stands as one of Hawaii’s biggest and most popular tennis spots. Its oceanside location helps it maintain its rank among the world’s finest. Visitors can take lessons, join clinics, and compete in tournaments while enjoying stunning ocean views. If you’re lucky, you might even see humpback whales jumping out of the water during whale season!
Water Sports
The resort sits right on Kauna’oa Bay, giving guests plenty of chances to enjoy water activities. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and outrigger canoe rides. The Beach Club lets you rent gear and offers a free sand toy program for children. One special experience is the Manta Ray Moonlight Snorkel. You can join researcher James Wing on a private tour to watch these beautiful creatures in their natural home.
Stargazing and Volcano Tours
For a truly unforgettable experience, visit to the summit of Mauna Kea. This 7.5-8.5 hour tour takes you to the top of the world’s tallest mountain (measured from its base on the ocean floor). Watch the sunset among world-class observatories and then descend for some incredible stargazing. The clear air and total darkness make Mauna Kea one of the best stargazing spots globally.Don’t miss the chance to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Witness the awe-inspiring Kilauea caldera, hike through lava tubes, and if you’re lucky, see the orange glow of lava illuminating the steam and ash cloud at twilight. These natural wonders showcase the raw beauty and power of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.
Book your Mauna Kea Hotel Family Photographers
Yes, there is a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail near Waimea, Hawaii, leading to Mauna Kea Beach. It’s generally considered an easy hike, taking about 45 minutes to complete.
