Traveling in California – The Central Coast Part 1

One of the greatest experiences traveling in California are the wonders of the Central Coast. Stretching from Ventura in the south to Monterrey in the north, the central coast includes famous destinations like Santa Barbara, Carmel, Ojai and San Luis Obispo. Conveniently located a few hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is packed with things to do, amazing beaches, restaurants, hiking and horseback riding, scenic mountain retreats and the night life of historic State Street and Old Town. 13,000 years ago, the Chumash people lived in five villages in the area. Mispu (site of the present-day Santa Barbara City College) the site of the El Baño pool along west beach, Syukhtun, chief Yanonalit’s large village located between Bath and Chapala streets; Amolomol was at the mouth of Mission Creek; and Swetete, above the bird refuge. Anthropologists say that these villages were inhabited for eight thousand years by the Chumash, one of the few truly ocean-faring cultures in California. Approximately 8,000 Chumash lived in the area in 1542 when Juan Cabrillo landed there. Syukhtun means “it forks“ in Chumash, possibly referring to the “fork“ visible in the Milky Way. The Chumash realm stretched as far north as Big Sur, as far inland as the San Joaquin Valley, and as far south as Malibu. Most of the channel islands were inhabited by the Chumash, and the major town for this vast and ancient realm was Syukhtun. The plaque on the right is located on one of the main streets in downtown Santa Barbara and explains the spiritual significance of the area to the Chumash where prayers for food, good health, protection from bears and rattlesnakes and a host of other human needs and desires were conducted on the summit of such shrines. One of the most interesting places to visit to see pre-Columbian Chumash art is the Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park a short drive north of Santa Barbara. The smooth and irregularly shaped shallow sandstone cave contains numerous drawings apparently depicting the Chumash cosmology and other subjects created in mineral pigments and other media over a long period ranging from about 200 up to possibly 1000 years or more. [1] [2]

“The first permanent European residents were Spanish missionaries and soldiers under Felipe de Neve, who came in 1782 to build the Presidio. They were sent both to fortify the region against expansion by other powers such as England and Russia, and to convert the natives to Christianity. Many of the Spaniards brought their families with them, and those formed the nucleus of the small town – at first just a cluster of adobes – that surrounded the Presidio. The Santa Barbara Mission was established on the Feast of Saint Barbara, December 4, 1786. It was the tenth of the California Missions to be founded by the Spanish Franciscans. The Mission fathers began the slow work of converting the native Chumash to Christianity, building a village for them on the Mission grounds. During the following decades, many of the Chumash died of diseases such as smallpox, against which they had no natural immunity.” [3]

The Spanish period ended in 1822 with the end of the Mexican War of Independence, which terminated 300 years of colonial rule. The flag of Mexico went up the flagpole at the Presidio, but only for 24 years.

Santa Barbara street names reflect this time period as well. The names de la Guerra and Carrillo come from citizens of the town of this time. They help to build up the town so they were honored by naming not only streets after them, but the dining commons at UCSB are also named after them. Santa Barbara fell bloodlessly to a battalion of American soldiers under John C. Frémont on December 27, 1846, during the Mexican–American War, and after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 it became part of the expanding United States. Santa Barbara is located about 90 miles (145 km) WNW of Los Angeles, along the Pacific coast. This stretch of coast along southern Santa Barbara County is sometimes referred to as “The American Riviera”. In modern time Santa Barbara has become the playground of the rich and famous given its proximity to Los Angeles, mild climate, amazing beaches and beautiful architecture. Famous residents of Santa Barbara include: Tom Cruise, Ellen DeGeneres, Michael Douglas, Jeff Bridges, Kevin Costner, Whoopie Goldberg, Steven Spielberg and from the old days Ronald Reagan, Fess Parker, Carole Burnett and Brian Wilson. What is so special about the area that attracts the rich and famous? [4] First of all there’s everything that you can enjoy for free or affordably.

The amazing beaches:

Horseback riding:

Visiting the Channel Islands:

Or just hanging around downtown:

Now that  you got a taste of the history, scenic beauty and fun activities, you want to know where to stay and eat.

For a truly unique experience, try the Villa Rosa Inn. The Villa Rosa is one of the best boutique hotels in Santa Barbara. Its more like a bed and breakfast with only 18 rooms but it is close to the beach and a short walk to State Street and downtown. Its very affordable and double or single occupancy includes a continental breakfast plus complimentary evening wine and cheese with snacks. All rooms are furnished with king or queen size beds and private bathrooms. “Every room at the Villa Rosa boasts a spectacular view, whether of the ocean, the harbor, the mountains, or the beautiful garden courtyard. There are also deluxe rooms with fireplaces to make romantic evenings that much more special. Only 84 steps away from Santa Barbara’s East Beach and an easy stroll from Stearns Wharf, with its numerous shops, restaurants, and activities. The Villa Rosa Inn was originally called the “Hilton-by-the-sea,” this Spanish Colonial Revival building was designed by George M. Thomas Studios in 1931. Serving as off-campus housing during the winter season for the U.C.S.B. Riviera campus, the rooms were rented to tourists in the summer months. Acquired in 1981 by Mark and Beverly Kirkhart, Robert Young and Lisa Young, the Villa Rosa Inn opened to the public on July 11, 1982. [5]

One of the newest additions to the luxury lineup is the Bacara Resort and Spa. Located a little north of Santa Barbara in Goleta the Bacara is a destination resort. “Bacara’s beautiful hotel rooms are located within one, three, or four-story villas, connected by graceful garden paths, scenic courtyards, and picturesque fountains. Offering relaxed, coastal charm infused with modern amenities and current technology, Bacara offers a luxury Santa Barbara escape unlike any other. Located at the edge of the Pacific, The Bacara offers expansive ocean views and is the perfect retreat for get-togethers with families and friends. Bacara guests can indulge in a range of cuisine and ambiances at the resort’s many restaurants. Their acclaimed culinary team, led by renowned Executive Chef Vincent Lesage, blends locally grown ingredients with innovative techniques to bring you the unique flavors of Santa Barbara County. Escape to the bluffs and beaches of the Santa Barbara coast. While you are here, treat yourself to Bacara’s new oceanfront restaurant, Angel Oak. Bacara also features special events. Join wine pioneer Richard Sanford as the guide for a “Celebration of the Santa Rita Hills.” The evening traces the evolution of this unique Santa Barbara appellation, founded by Sanford, as eight wines from four Santa Rita Hills wineries will be paired with a special four-course menu created by Bacara’s Executive Chef Vincent Lesage. The vineyards include the Alma Rosa Winery Longoria Winery, Brewer Clifton and Diatom Wineries and the Tyler Winery. Bacara is recognized as one of the finest spas in the world, The Spa at Bacara is spectacular in every way, from its beautiful architecture and incredible array of services to its expert staff. With treatments, guests enjoy a wealth of amenities, including an adults-only pool, Jacuzzi, redwood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, fireside lounge areas, wellness classes and a rooftop terrace. The facilities at the fitness resort also include a 3,500 square foot cardiovascular and strength training center, yoga and Pilates studios, and four Har-Tru surface tennis courts. Bacara is ideal for corporate retreats and investor meetings, team-building and social events, any occasion is larger-than-life at Bacara. Bacara offers more than 70,000-square-feet of flexible space designed to promote creativity and exceed business goals, ensuring that your next event will be a true success. For a truly enjoyable experience try the Bacara. Santa Barbara never looked so good.

If you have made it this far here is a nice little secret spot that doesn’t come up on the tourist maps that often and is truly “local”. For that unique dining experience in SB try the El Paseo Mexican Restaurant. This out of the way place is hidden down the El Paseo walkway between Anacapa and State Streets. The restaurant was first built in 1922 as part of an 1826 adobe complex. Architect James Osborne Craig designed and restored many of the existing buildings and added the Spanish village and “Street in Spain” surrounding the restaurant. The El Paseo complex was an inspiration for the revival of Spanish Colonial architecture in Southern California, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the oldest restaurant in Santa Barbara, and has been the host to many of Santa Barbara’s celebrations over the years. Over the years, the restaurant has been the site of many fiesta celebrations and host to numerous luminaries, including Clark Gable, Carol Lombard, Jean Harlow, William Powell, Ginger Rogers, Shirley Temple, Rita Hayworth, Edward G. Robinson, Fred Astaire, Katharine Hepburn, Salvador Dali, Stravinsky, Will Rogers, Howard Hughes, Charles Lindbergh, Herbert Hoover, Quentin Tarantino and Jennifer Lopez. El Paseo is led by Alex Castillo one of Santa Barbara’s most talented chefs. The guacamole is awesome and made right at your table. The restaurant features an open air courtyard with a central fountain and a balcony. There’s a side bar to the right as you walk in that is very cozy especially in winter with a roaring fire in the massive fire place. Here is the get away for an intimate dining experience. The margarita’s are spectacular, the Huachinango delicious, the fajitas are sizzling and their tequila selection is extensive. Treat yourself to a fantastic dining experience and bask in the history of old Santa Barbara. This is really living.

Stay tuned for our next feature when Kaz Headrest brings you part 2 in the central coast series focusing on Ojai.

What to Have in Your Carry-On

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or you only travel once a year, we all have times when we’ve been packing our carry-on luggage and have felt frustrated by either packing too much or packing too little. We forget something, like our air travel pillow, that feels like it can make or break our air travel experience.

The key to packing a carry-on is to pack enough, but not too much. This seems like an obvious point, but really, actually doing just that is very difficult. Things you need to take into consideration are how long your flight is going to be, what potential problems you could encounter along the way, such as delays, and what you need to have the most comfortable trip possible. Along with these things, you must keep in mind airline rules and regulations regarding luggage size and items you can carry with you on the plane; consider how much you actually want to carry through the airport and squeeze into the overhead or under your seat.

Though this is not an exhaustive list, below are some of the main things that you should highly consider having in your carry on:

Comfort Items

When packing and trying to remember to pack items we wouldn’t normally need, it can be easy to forget the basic items that we usually carry with us in our pockets or purses: chapstick, lotion, eye drops, tissues, etc. Each person’s list of comfort items will be different from another’s: simply think about what you carry with you on a daily basis that you use consistently. Don’t forget to take medications you might need during the flight!

Snacks

The amount of snacks that you take with you depends on how long you will be flying, what time of day you are flying, and your general snack needs. No matter when you are flying, you should always have at least one snack to hold you over just in case you are met with an unexpected delay or problematic situation. Also, it can be an overall better traveling experience to have a snack to keep your blood sugar and your spirits up.

Water

Though many airlines do serve complimentary drinks, having a bottle of water is another essential item to have with you while you travel to stay hydrated. Hydration will not only keep your body from drying out, you will also avoid feeling as tired and keep your digestive system moving and yourself free from headaches. Buy a bottle of water after you go through security on your way to your gate, and have a means of staying hydrated no matter if your flight attendants can get up to serve you or they are kept in their seat due to turbulence.

Entertainment

As you pack your carry-on and extra bag, don’t forget to bring entertainment, such as a good book, magazine, music, or even a movie. For many of us, it’s easy to over-plan and bring one of each thing to keep us occupied, because we might not know what we will want to do until we actually board. If you are one of these types, choose one thing to read and one other type of entertainment.

Clothes

If you are going to be on a longer flight or you may have a flight that could possibly be delayed, take an extra set of clothes, and even a set of comfortable clothing just in case you find yourself sleeping at the airport.

Sleeping Comfort

Many pass the time while flying by sleeping. When you are prepared to sleep on a plane, be sure to grab your earplugs. If earplugs are uncomfortable, try baby earplugs: They are smaller and more malleable. You can also bring socks to keep your feet warm, and a blanket. Lastly, you need an air travel pillow with the utmost comfort: You need a Kaz Headrest air travel pillow.

Kaz Headrest Air Travel Pillow

The Kaz Headrest is compact, feather-light, yet sturdy and adjustable for ultimate comfort. It is the only front-facing headrest on the market that truly has all the features that you need in an air travel pillow: It can also function as a laptop and book holder as well, so you can travel in the most comfort possible. Read more about all the possible functions of this versatile air travel pillow and buy your own Kaz Headrest today!

Kaz Headrest Makes Green Globe Travel’s “Best Gift For Travelers”

I’ve never been good at sleeping on planes. At 6’2″ I’m too tall to get comfortable, and sleeping isn’t my strong suit under the best conditions. This ingenious invention makes a huge difference.  Weighing less than 2 pounds and folding for easy storage, the ergonomic device attaches to your tray table to provide a massage chair-like position that even makes middle seat sleeping more comfortable. When you’re not traveling, the sturdy base is strong to serve as a laptop stand. Read more

 

 

The Luxurious Kona Coast Part III – Travel First Class

When you travel first class, there are many aspects of the journey that go beyond 600 thread count sheets and Kobe rib eye. Gaining a knowledge of the people and the culture truly sets apart the traveler from the tourist. Thats why we bring you a closer understanding of the local flavor and indigenous roots of the people that you will be visiting.

The “Big Island”of Hawaii is a perfect example of a place where you can explore the vestiges of ancient civilizations and enjoy a five star experience.  In Holualoa, just south of Kona lies the historic Hawaiian village Pu’uhonua or “City of Refuge”.  “Up until the early 19th century, Hawaiians who broke a kapu (one of the ancient laws) could avoid certain death by fleeing to this place of refuge or puʻuhonua. The offender would be absolved by a priest and freed to leave.  Defeated warriors and non-combatants could also find refuge here during times of battle. The grounds just outside the Great Wall that encloses the puʻuhonua were home to several generations of powerful chiefs.” At Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, a large wall marks the division between the royal grounds or Honaunau and the refuge quarters or Pu’uhonua. The royal grounds of Honaunau descend from the slope of Mauna Loa to the ocean, which provided the 13th century village with optimal land for farming. The location of the royal quarters on Honaunau Bay also gave residents access to fresh drinking water. Servants caught fish from the royal pond to serve the village ali’i (chiefs). Residents had access to the resources they needed, but travel to and from the island was not possible for villagers who did not belong to the royal court. Chiefs and their attendants were the only inhabitants of Honaunau who could use the canoe landing on the beach. To prevent villagers from using the canoes or leaving Honaunau, Ki’is (wooden images) stood around the temple of Hale o Keawe to caution residents against defying the kapu.” (From the National Parks Site)

 

Heading back north of Kona we are about to explore a newer “village” with a rich modern history the MaunaKea resort. In 1960 Hawaii’s Governor William Quinn invited Laurance Rockefeller to visit the Big Island and scout beachfront sites for potential resorts. A noted conservationist and lover of the outdoors, Mr. Rockefeller believed that buildings should conform to, not intrude on, beautiful natural surroundings. As they flew over the white sand crescent of Kauna‘oa Beach, Mr. Rockefeller asked if he could go in for a swim. From the water, he looked upslope at the towering summit of Mauna Kea and was inspired to create a great hotel that reflected the spirit of this special place.”

“The word ‘kauna’oa’ may refer to a few different things, any of which may have been why native Hawaiians named this beach so: the first definition refers to a thin, orange vine with yellow flowers, which is found throughout most Hawai’i (this is the official lei vine of Lanaʻi). However, the second definition refers to a mollusk and a third definition refers to a tough seaweed.”

“When it opened in 1965, The Mauna Kea was the most expensive hotel ever built at the time, at $15 million. Praised by travel writers and critics worldwide, the luxury resort hotel was named one of the “Three greatest hotels in the world” by Esquire magazine, one of “10 best buildings of 1966″ by Fortune, and presented with an honors award by the American Institute of Architects.” “The original concept for The Mauna Kea luxury resort was a cluster of individual cottages along the beach-with no televisions or air-conditioning to interfere with the natural experience. In 1967. The “exorbitant” room rates started at $43, including breakfast and dinner in the Pavilion, which featured rotating menus of international cuisines.”

Times have changed and things are always “improving”. “Following a $150 million renovation, the luxurious Mauna Kea Beach Hotel reopened in December 2008. With a fresh new expression of the unmistakable Mauna Kea style.” Nowhere is the blending of the old and new more visible than when you choose to dine at the Mauna Kea. There are five restaurants ranging from the casual to the fine dining experience. Travel first class and have an amazing grilled bone in, rib eye Paniolo steak with Hamakua Ali`i style mushrooms at the Manta or experience a traditional Hawaiian luau with imu-roasted kālua pig, fresh island fish, laulau pork wrapped in taro leaves, lomi salmon, sashimi and piles of pineapple, papaya, and more. Learn the joy of finger-licking poi, dancing hula to the “Hukilau” or being wowed by the fire dance.”

Of course you will have access to the Mauna Kea Spa which offers a combination of Balinese and Hawaiian-inspired therapies. You can choose from a variety of massage, body treatments, aromatherapy and skincare services. There are  five luxurious treatment rooms including a couples suite with balneotherapy.

You can immerse yourself in traditional Hawaiian activities and learn how to weave lauhala, make a flower lei, dance the hula and fish with hawaiian throw nets. You can also play Paniolo horse shoes and Makahiki games. Paniolo is  the traditional name of the Hawaiian cowboys and Makahiki is the ancient Hawaiian New Year festival, in honor of the god Lono.

Of course Mauna Kea has one of the finest golf courses in the world. “The stunningly beautiful and award-winning Mauna Kea Golf Course, created in 1964 by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. on a previously barren black lava field, remains an all-time favorite in beauty and design. The elevated, undulating greens and prevailing coastal winds demand accuracy. The challenging course offers stellar coastal views as it tumbles across seaside cliffs. Some holes play right alongside the ocean – or across it.”

When you’re visiting the Kona coast you can’t help but travel first class and experience the finest resorts, the most amazing beaches and cultural landmarks that add to your enjoyment and pleasure. Stay tuned for more stories about this wonderful part of the world.

Aloha

 

 

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The most versatile airline travel pillow – Wheelchair Accessibility

 Kaz Headrest is the most versatile airline pillow in the market today and has a wheelchair accessibility option so you can rest comfortably while seated in almost wheelchair.

With a simple adapter, the Kaz Headrest can provide wheelchair users with a comfortable way to rest that supports the back, neck and chest. As the population gets older there are more and more people using wheelchairs and seeking greater wheelchair accessibility. Here’s some quick facts:

• There are an estimated 3.3 Million wheelchair users in the United States and the number is increasing every year
• The demand for wheelchairs is increasing due to the large need among the baby boomer generation
• There are about 2 Million new wheelchair users every year
• 1.825 million wheelchair users are the age 65 or older
• 17.4% of working-age wheelchair users have jobs

While there are many devices that help people in wheelchairs rest their legs and arms, the headrests are primarily back supported. Kaz Headrest provides front supporting capabilities that give wheelchair users another option that is comfortable and can be adjusted to almost any position.

The earliest records of wheeled furniture was an inscription found on a stone slate in China and a child’s bed depicted in a frieze on a Greek vase, both dating back to the 5th century BCE.^[1][2] The first records of wheeled seats being used for transporting the disabled date to three centuries later in China; the Chinese used their invented wheelbarrow to move people as well as heavy objects. A distinction between the two functions was not made for another several hundred years, around 525 CE, when images of wheeled chairs made specifically to carry people begin to occur in Chinese art

Wheelchair seating systems are designed for wheelchair users to redistribute pressure from areas of the body. A headrest can promote correct posture, prevent deformities, help your breathing. Besides supporting weak neck muscles, a headrest also can be used for positioning throughout the day if your neck becomes fatigued, said Dave Hass, an assistive technology supplier (ATS) at Binson’s Home Health Care Center in Detroit.

With the addition of a crossbar, the Kaz Headrest provides a sturdy, comfortable option for wheelchair users. For more information please go to our Amazon page by clicking here and scroll down for more images.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Luxurious Kona Coast Part II – Resorts in Hawaii

Continuing our exploration of the  Luxurious Kona Coast, Kaz Headrest presents the second article in the series on resorts in Hawaii. Just north of Kona is the Kohala Coast. So we thought we would feature some of the amazing places in the neighborhood.

For thousands of years the Hawaiian people lived and recorded their lives by carving pictures in the rock in the area called Puako.  Ancient Hawaiians called their stone art k’i’i pohaku, or images in stone or as we call them petroglyphs. “The 233-acre Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District. is the largest concentration of petroglyphs in the Pacific .   These Malama Petroglyhs were made thousands of years ago. The field has over 3000 carvings including paddlers, sails, marchers, dancers, and family groups, as well as dogs, chickens, turtles, and deity symbols.”

“The field of petrogylphs can be accessed from the Holoholokai beach park in Mauna Lani Resort to the south of Puako. The park can be accessed either by going through the Mauna Lani resort, or via the Puako beachfront southwards from Paniau (utility pole 143) at the south end of Puako road. There are restrooms and shower facilities here. Petroglyphs are very culturally significant to Hawaiian culture. Please visit these with respect. “

 

“The Mauna Lani Resort  sits oceanfront on the finest stretch of shoreline on the sunny Kohala Coast and is one of the most amazing resorts in Hawaii. Located 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport, this resort features 30 oceanfront acres and three miles of secluded shoreline. The resort features two 18-hole courses, the championship Francis H. I’i Brown North and South. Carved from ancient lava fields, the oceanside golf courses are rated among the most beautiful resort courses in the world. The Mauna Lani also features an amazing spa with nine indoor treatment rooms, a steam bath and whirlpool, manicure and pedicure facilities, facial rooms, a full-service hair and beauty salon and spa boutique. The land where Mauna Lani Spa sits is known as Kalahuipua’a, a place of spiritual power and energy (mana) where Hawaiian royalty used to escape to rejuvenate their health and spirit. Built among ancient lava, Mauna Lani Spa resembles a peaceful Hawaiian village with outdoor thatched hale (huts) for treatments. A Hawaiian medicinal garden with lemongrass, tea leaves and Kukui nut bring soothing and healing elements to the environment. The elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water influence the treatments and experiences, such as mud wraps using volcanic ash, hot stone therapies and seaweed wraps and baths.Mauna Lani Spa’s unique open-air Lava Sauna Experience is the perfect way to experience the spiritual powers of the surroundings.” Every month when the full moon rises, Mauna Lani gets ready for an enchanted evening of storytelling and entertainment on the lawn at the oceanfront Eva Parker Woods Cottage. Hotel guests,Hawaii residents, and resort employees and their families are all welcome to join Danny Akaka for “Twilight at Kalahuipua‘a,” a night of storytelling, music and perhaps a little hula.

“Chef Clayton Arakawa’s passion for showcasing local ingredients in bold and innovative ways is evident in each dish he prepares. Born and raised in Hawaii, his personal take on contemporary Hawaii cuisine draws from the Islands’ diverse multicultural population, while emphasizing the distinct flavors that are truly unique to Hawaii. He has held the position of Executive Chef at Mauna Lani since early 2012. He acknowledges great traditions such as roasting Kalua Pig and that being in the center of the Pacific Ocean, you get the freshest fish. Working closely with the farmers and ranchers of Hawaii Island is at the forefront of his culinary creations. Chef Arakawa’s cooking style is simple and unique, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors on the plate. In addition to overseeing the entire culinary operations at Mauna Lani Bay, including the famous CanoeHouse restaurant and the popular Bay Terrace restaurant, Chef Arakawa leads signature culinary events for the resort, including the annual Celebrity Chef Tour weekend benefiting the James Beard Foundation each January.”

As one of the premier resorts in Hawaii, the Mauna Lani  features 341 guest rooms and suites each with a tropical ambiance and private lanais. The ocean Bungalows are secluded yet conveniently located within a minute’s walk of the hotel lobby. Each bungalow features 4,000 square feet of living space, including two master bedrooms, three baths, a private swimming pool, whirlpool spa, a spacious lanai and a full kitchen.

Treat yourself to a beautiful experience at the Mauna Lani and satisfy your every whim from the world class golf course, the amazing, relaxing spa and some of the finest cuisine in all the resorts in Hawaii. Get in touch with ancient Hawaii and marvel at the Puako petroglyphs and theTwilight at Kalahuipua‘a, full moon ceremony. Travel in comfort, relax and enjoy life at the Mauna Lani. Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows sits oceanfront on the Kohala Coast, Island of Hawaii. Located 23 miles north of the Kona International Airport.

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The Luxurious Kona Coast

The luxurious Kona coast of Hawaii is the home of Kaz Headrest. So we thought we would start our Travel in Comfort series right next door.  Hawaii has some of the best beaches and finest resorts in the world and Kona is home to several of the most elegant.

“Kona is a moku or district on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. The youngest island in the archipelago, the Big Island is believed to be the first island Polynesian voyagers from the Marquesas Islands discovered 1,500 years ago. The oldest archeological site in the state is  at Ka Lae (South Point).

Legend has it that the Big Island was first discovered by Hawai’iloa. Hawai’iloa was a Polynesian navigator, who eventually lent his name to the state. Other stories have it that the Big Island and the rest of Hawaii was once the realm of Hawaiki. This is supposedly where people go in their afterlife as this was the gods’ realm.”

“In the Hawaiian language, kona  means leeward or dry side of the island, as opposed to ko‘olau which means windward or the wet side of the island. In the times of Ancient Hawaiʻi, Kona was the name of the leeward district on each major island.” However the luxurious Kona coast is special in all Hawaii.

The ancient Hawaiians knew that the Kona coast was special place and just north of Kailua Kona they built one of their most beautiful villages Honokohau. “At Honokohau, ancient Hawai’ians took advantage of abundant freshwater springs to site a large community centered around fishing, fishponds and taro fields. Now the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park preserves a vast complex of important archeological sites, including several heiau, fishponds, fishtraps, house sites, burials, a holua (sledding track), a Queen’s Bath and abundant petroglyphs.”

“The reconstructed Kaloko Fishpond spotlights the enormous construction projects the Hawai’ians were capable of undertaking in their heyday. A kuapa, or rock wall, separates the fishpond from the ocean, with a gated opening which allows fresh tidal waters to pass in and out of the pond, but through which the growing fish cannot swim. Aquaculture of this magnitude could feed thousands of people; however, other foodstuffs besides fish were grown at Kaloko. Looking around the countryside from the Kaloko fishpond it is possible to see many elevated planter boxes made of the local basalt rocks, in which taro was gown. Taro, prepared as poi and baked as unleavened bread, was a staple food for the early Hawai’ians.”

Among the most breathtaking resorts on the luxurious Kona coast is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai . “The resort was opened in 1996 and makes use of natural materials indigenous to Hawaii, including rattan, bamboo and lava rock.” It was among the 100 of Travel + Leisure’s world’s best resorts awards in a readers poll and ranked in several “top lists” by Zagat Surveys. Condé Nast Traveler placed the resort on their “Gold list” for best resorts since 2005. Needless to say this amazing resort is one of the most luxurious in Hawaii.

The Four Seasons serves delicious cuisine at “three restaurants: Hualalai Grille, Ulu Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge, and Beach Tree Bar & Lounge. Menus typically feature Big Island-grown and raised items such as avocado, goat cheese, red and yellow tomatoes, mushrooms, lobster, white organic honey, and baby abalone.” You can “enjoy a tempting variety of styles throughout the week, from Tuscan cucina rustica and beachfront barbecues to Asian-Pacific cuisine and Polynesian pupus (appetizers).”

Relax and rejuvenate at the Hualalai tropical garden spa, which features “eleven different types of massages and facials.” The facility integrates tropical gardens with cool interior spaces and feels distinctly Hawaiian. “Enjoy relaxing by a quiet stream in the open-air Waiea (Water of Life) garden. Or savor the lap pool, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and cold plunges, all set amidst lush greenery. Your choice of massage and body treatments may be enjoyed outdoors or in an exotic “hale”, secluded for privacy. You can customize your treatment with a variety of local Hawaiian ingredients, including black lava salt, hibiscus and crushed macadamia nuts along with scented oils and botanicals.”

The Four Seasons pays homage to the Hawaiian culture at the Kaʻupulehu Cultural Center. There visitors can learn about Hawaiian culture and history with programs and lessons held throughout the week. Guests can take ʻukulele classes and learn the art of hula and lei making. The center also hosts a collection of Native Hawaiian art, including 11 commissioned paintings by artist Herb Kawainui Kane.

Probably the most famous amenity on the luxurious Kona coast is the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature Hualalai Golf Course at the Four Seasons. The course has been designed with extreme sensitivity to the land.  “Winding over 7,100 yards, this carefully groomed course begins in a lush kipuka (oasis) and then flows across brilliant green fairways contoured against black lava. Finally, the course returns to the ocean, where the finishing holes capture the drama and the beauty of direct seaside golf. After an exhilarating game, relax in the clubhouse where tropical refreshments, ocean views and a club-away-from-home experience await you.”

From 5 Star resorts to ancient Hawaiian villages, the Kona coast has everything you need to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable vacation. Check out our previous story on how to make your flight to Hawaii as comfortable as possible and stay tuned for our next story on the Luxurious Kona Coast.

Aloha

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