Mauna Lani's services don't quite live up to the other reviews. I stayed with an unlimited golf package, but the golf course didn't seem to have my reservation from the hotel which costed quite a bit of confusion, with the golf course sorting it out but discussing for 15 minutes on the phone with the resort. Also, the hotel's restaurants all need prior reservation... not unheard of but it is problematic when the breakfast wait is 30 minutes... you would think that at least for breakfast the resort should be able to accommodate all guests. Turndown service was a joke, they only placed a tray with water on the nightstand. Staff was nice enough but not remotely close to the real luxury hotels especially in Asia.
Beyond that, this is certainly a family resort. I would not recommend for couples, stay at the four seasons instead. Kids are everywhere. Rooms were nice, but outdoor furniture was stained and shower heads were full of buildup.
Overall, we stayed here for golf, which was nice. Apart from that, the views were beautiful and amenities were nice although a bit tempered with kids running around. I would not recommend anyone to stay here with the expectation of a real luxury experience, it feels closer to my past hilton/sheraton stays than to four seasons or mandarin oriental trips. I can see more of a value proposition for families with kids - it certainly seems to excel at keeping kids busy with activities.
a month ago
We were originally told that our AE card would upgrade us to an ocean-view suite, but after going upstairs, we realized that the room was neither ocean-view nor upgraded. The front desk later explained that there were no available rooms because it was the weekend.
Compared to other high-end hotels in the same category, the facilities and room size felt relatively outdated and small.
What disappointed us the most was the housekeeping service. It was not attentive at all — on our last day, our towels and bedding were not replaced, and small towels, slippers, and bathrobes were not replenished.
Overall, this stay was very disappointing. We stayed at another five-star hotel on a different island during the same trip, and the service there was noticeably more thoughtful, detailed, and guest-oriented.
As for hotel activities, the staff did not seem very enthusiastic. We couldn’t help but feel that the service toward us was less warm and attentive compared to other guests — possibly because we are Asian.
At the last point, the location is toooooooo far for all popular activities, especially the volcano. So if you are a tourist, I am not recommend this place. Not good enough for the price.
2 months ago
Good upper level resort. Not quite 5 star accommodation but almost. Staff were attentive and offered to take care of even simple tasks like setting up pool lounges. Lots of families with kids around but the adult pool was quiet and kid free. Valet was easy, prompt, friendly and courteous. Rooms were clean and well serviced multiple times daily. No complaints but based on past experiences at high end resorts this deserves a 4.5 rating.
2 months ago
We stayed at the Mauna Lani for 3 nights over President's day weekend. They were pretty fully booked but it didn't seem way too crowded. I would stay there again.
Positives
Friendly, welcoming staff
Really nice breakfast
Morning yoga by the beach was lovely
Relaxed, upscale vibe
Any tour with Ethan is excellent — outstanding guide
Nice lei greeting on arrival
Great indoor/outdoor gym
Kiddie golf course is free
Fun dragon dance for the Lunar New Year
Nice hotel shops
Good swimmable beach with turtles out on the rocks.
Negatives
Rooms are on the small side, but had a nice balcony with a view. (we stayed in Room 328)
Canoe restaurant (and the food generally) is really overpriced
Lots of kids running around
Not a ton of complimentary activities
3 weeks ago
I am a Marriott guy through and through and prefer the Ritz and St Regis - but our company recently built an Auberge, so I decided to give this hotel a try. I was beyond impressed.
For starters, this hotel seems to do a better job than most resorts with programming. There were constant events planned throughout our stay. Snorkeling. Fresh coconut peeling. Pizza made on the beach. Lei making for my daughter.
Secondly, the location and beach was superb.
The service was very good.
The food options were spectacular.
We left very impressed and ready to plan our next Auberge vacation.
3 months ago