Luxury Meets Adventure at Hawaii's Big Island Resorts

Auberge's Mauna Lani resort leads the way with a $200 million renovation and immersive cultural experiences.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:39pm

Hawaii's Big Island is known for its striking lava rock landscapes, endless outdoor adventure, and a thriving dining scene. The Mauna Lani resort, part of the Auberge collection, has undergone a major $200 million renovation, transforming the property into one of the premier luxury stays on the island with a revamped lobby, private Francis Brown Club, cultural learning experiences, and a refurbished beach club with pools, cabanas, and multiple dining options.

Why it matters

As Hawaii's tourism industry continues to evolve, high-end resorts like the Mauna Lani are raising the bar for luxury accommodations that also immerse guests in the local culture and natural beauty of the Big Island. This reflects a broader trend of travelers seeking more meaningful and experiential vacations.

The details

The Mauna Lani resort's $200 million renovation has touched every aspect of the property, from the grand lobby with ocean views and a historic outrigger canoe centerpiece, to the new Francis Brown Club for a more private guest experience. The resort also features the Hale 'I'ike, or 'house of knowledge,' where guests can learn about Hawaiian traditions and culture from local experts. Nearly all guest rooms have ocean views, with accommodations situated on either the sunrise or sunset side of the resort. The refurbished beach club is a highlight, with two saline pools, a sandy-bottomed toddler pool, and cabanas alongside the resort's dining options like the Mediterranean-inspired HāLani and the pan-Asian and Hawaiian CanoeHouse.

  • The Mauna Lani resort first opened in 1983.
  • Auberge took over management of the resort in 2018.
  • The $200 million renovation has been rolled out in phases since Auberge's acquisition.

The players

Mauna Lani

A luxury resort on Hawaii's Big Island that has been part of the Auberge collection since 2018.

Auberge

A hospitality company that manages a collection of high-end resorts, including the Mauna Lani on the Big Island.

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The takeaway

The Mauna Lani resort's extensive renovation and focus on immersive cultural experiences exemplifies how luxury hotels in Hawaii are evolving to meet the changing demands of modern travelers seeking more than just a beach vacation.