As a foodie and lover of travel, I enjoy new experiences and looking for the next adventure. Lately, I’ve found that the overall experience of our outdoor dining options, with their ocean views and natural ambiance, has dominated my restaurant choices here on the Big Island of Hawaii. Maybe it’s because this island is truly magical, and sitting by the ocean enjoying a great meal with friends is the perfect life for my clients and me.
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing HaLani at Auberge Resort within the Mauna Lani Resort. I had an amazing time and was blown away by the ambiance and laid-back feel. Sometimes you just need a cocktail, good company, and a great view – and this Mauna Lani restaurant does offer a great experience. It made me think of all the wonderful dining options we have here on the Big Island, and I just had to share my favorites.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection Hotel
The Auberge Resort is the newest update to Mauna Lani. They remodeled in 2018 with a $200 million renovation, and the transformations are stunning. Before the renovation, the hotel was already an icon, but now, with the update, it’s a one-of-a-kind place to experience when it comes to Hawaii outdoor dining.
Canoe House @Auberge
The Canoe House is an open-air oceanfront restaurant featuring white sand, palm trees, and a fire pit out front. The restaurant has a luxury feel, so it’s a great excuse to wear a dress and heels. With a light breeze in the air and the sound of the waves, you can relax and enjoy farm-to-table dishes. The Canoe House is only open for dinners, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy season.
HaLani @Auberge
HaLani is located in the center of Auberge Resort and is all about comfort and relaxation. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I enjoyed lunch with co-workers recently and found the atmosphere very inviting with its wood theme, bench seating, and casual environment. Our seats did not overlook the ocean, but there was no need for that as we enjoyed the food (and each other) so much.
Other Big Island Dining Options in Mauna Lani
Tommy Bahama
Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar is a classic lunch and dinner spot in Mauna Lani Shopping Center. It’s always a good choice and a place where I know I’ll get a good meal. And if I can make it to happy hour (daily from 3-5 pm), even better! Have you tried their coconut shrimp?
Napua Restaurant
A small restaurant in Mauna Lani’s Beach Club serves only dinner, and the restaurant features open-air dining with an oceanfront setting. The Beach Club sits in front of the restaurant and is a nice place for an evening walk to enjoy the sunset. The vibe is very romantic but with a casual feel. Enjoying a gorgeous sunset is only part of the charm of the location. My husband and I celebrated our 17th anniversary here and had a great meal with good service and a fantastic view.
Fairmont Orchid Hotel
The Fairmont Orchid Hotel also features two great restaurants that I recommend: Brown’s Beach House and Binchotan Bar and Grill. Brown’s Beach House is located on the ocean and is also an open-air restaurant. It is one of the best fine dining options on the Big Island, and it’s coupled with palm trees and set on Pauoa Bay. Binchotan Bar and Grill is Fairmont’s newest addition to its restaurants. I have yet to experience this mix of Hawaiian-Japanese grill, but I’m looking forward to trying it.
Your Mauna Lani Resort Real Estate Specialist
As an experienced Big Island Realtor, I have sold homes all over the western part of the island, but I’ve grown to adore the resort areas in particular. Each has something special to offer, and Mauna Lani Resort is no exception. The outdoor dining options alone are one of the standout features of this area of Hawaii. If you want to learn more about how Mauna Lani Resort can become your home or your next favorite vacation spot, contact me, and we can look at what’s available!
With aloha,
Leeana
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