The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

While the resort itself and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area generally have restrictions on pets, especially on the beach and designated swimming areas, you might find some pet-friendly walking paths or parks further afield on the Kohala Coast. It's always best to check with the resort concierge for the most current local regulations regarding pets on trails and public spaces.

The resort offers a dedicated family pool, which is a great spot for kids to splash and play. Additionally, the Westin Kids Club Program provides supervised activities for younger guests. The shallow waters of Hapuna Beach itself are also very inviting for families. For more active options, the resort offers a complimentary GoPro kit lending service, perfect for capturing family adventures.

While The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort boasts four excellent dining venues, including Meridia for Mediterranean cuisine and Naupaka Beach Grill for casual fare, the surrounding Kohala Coast offers a variety of other restaurants. Guests of The Westin also have reciprocal signing privileges at the sister property, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, which provides additional dining choices and is accessible via a complimentary evening dining shuttle. For options outside the resort properties, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in nearby communities like Kawaihae or within other resorts along the coast.

Public transportation options directly to The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort or Hapuna Beach State Park are limited. Most visitors to the Big Island rely on rental cars for flexibility. The resort is located approximately 24 miles north of Kona Airport. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also available from the airport, but can be costly for the distance.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests. This includes accessible guest rooms, public areas, and facilities. For specific accessibility needs or to inquire about particular features like beach access or pool lifts, it's recommended to contact the resort directly prior to your visit.

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, which passes through Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, offers scenic coastal views. As you walk, you'll encounter ancient Hawaiian footpaths and potentially historic sites, though specific landmarks might be subtle. The trail connects to Spencer Beach to the north and Puako to the south, offering varied coastal landscapes and opportunities to observe marine life from a distance. The trail itself is a natural feature, preserving the traditional Hawaiian coastal route.

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, which is the primary hiking route in the immediate vicinity, generally presents an easy terrain. It's a coastal path, so while there might be minor undulations, significant elevation gain is not typical. It's suitable for leisurely strolls and offers relatively flat walking conditions, making it accessible for most hikers.

Beyond the standard luxury offerings, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort provides several unique amenities. These include a complimentary GoPro kit lending service, allowing guests to capture their adventures, and on-site Tesla car rentals for exploring the island in style. The resort also offers complimentary self-service laundry facilities, which can be very convenient for longer stays.

Both The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and Mauna Kea Beach Hotel are luxurious properties within the Mauna Kea Resort. The Westin, having undergone a significant renovation in 2018, offers a more contemporary, beach-chic design and features like a dedicated Wellness Center with TRX and Peloton equipment, and a modern adults-only infinity pool. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, while also recently renovated, retains a more classic, historic charm. Guests at The Westin enjoy reciprocal signing privileges at Mauna Kea, and a complimentary shuttle connects the two resorts, allowing access to both sets of facilities and dining options.

Yes, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort operates year-round, and its main facilities, including the two outdoor swimming pools (family and adults-only), the Wellness Center, and its four restaurants and lounges, are typically open in December. The Kohala Coast enjoys pleasant weather year-round, making it a popular destination even during winter months. However, it's always advisable to check with the resort directly for any specific holiday hours or seasonal adjustments to services.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers ample parking on-site for its guests. While the intro mentions 'ample parking,' it's common for resorts of this caliber to charge a daily parking fee for guests. For non-guests accessing Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, there is typically a separate public parking lot within the State Park, which may have its own entrance or parking fees. It's best to verify current parking policies and fees directly with the resort or the State Park for the most accurate information.