
[An aerial view of the ‘aquarium’ at King’s Pond; image via Four Seasons Resort Hualalai]
The King’s Pond, located in the heart of the property boasts a 1.8-million gallon “aquarium” created out of the natural lava rock found all over the island. Utilize the complimentary snorkeling equipment to take in the 4,000 tropical fish from over 98 species which include a spotted eagle ray. Seeing its beauty under water close-up was probably one of the coolest aquatic experiences I’ve ever had (well, perhaps a tie with #2 on the list!), but if snorkeling isn’t your forte or your visiting with young children, the pond tour or daily fish and eagle ray feeding may be more up your alley.

[A picture taken from land while I did SUP; a canoe is in the distance]
WOW! What an incredible experience to be out in peaceful waters observing nature at its finest! While at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, I did the SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) adventure, which took us out into the clear option, and at one point, able to see down close to around 40 feet! Being peak whale-watching season at the time (January-March), the large ocean creatures, along with dolphins, are frequently spotted passing through only a couple of yards from where we were. Other options to explore the depths of the ocean and get a bit of a work out in the process are via a one,two, four or six-person outrigger canoe, snorkeling, or going for a scooter snorkel voyage, in which you can dive deeper without exerting hardly any energy.

[A hot moment at a private luau; image via Four Seasons Resort Hualalai]
Experiencing this ancient Hawaiian tradition is certainly a bucket-list item for a visit to the islands, but what if the dinner and dancing was for…your senses only? The luau becomes an extra special event when a private table is set in front of the resort’s stage at Hoku Amphitheater while a chef prepares a customized five-course meal, with celebrated wine pairings. During the meal you’ll enjoy the sounds of Hawaiian music proceeded by the main event: hula and fire dancers. Talk about up close and personal! To make this fantastic memory even more secure, the special evening can be filmed and photographed for your viewing once you return home and to share with friends and family.

[There’s nothing quite like relishing a favorite dish al fresco]
Have you ever considered starting the day with Four Seasons signature lemon ricotta pancakes with a side dish of fresh papaya squirted with lime, or ending it with a Mai Tai and freshly caught local fish, ocean side? The talented chefs on staff have created menus that reflect the best local fare around, with 75% of the food served at the Resort coming directly from the Hawaii Island, which translates to about 160 local farms and fishermen. The two lounge restaurants, ‘ULU Ocean Grille and Sushi Lounge and Beach Tree Bar & Lounge open up to face the water, and in the evening, provide a full sensory experience with the sites and sounds of the crashing waves in full view, thanks to subtly placed spotlights in the water.

[Head out to one of the eight courts at the resort, with two of them illuminated at night]
Or an idyllic day spent on the golf green, or getting vertically inclined on the climbing wall, or shooting hoops, or even trying your hand at bocce. There’s no reason to break with your workout routine while at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai,with the opportunity to even dramatically enhance it with your stay thanks to the state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Amenities include complimentary iced water, sports beverages and towels, plus you can choose from a wide selection of fitness classes with private options and personal training available. While there I took a yoga class, set on the vibrantly green lawn only a few feet from the sand with the sound of the ocean murmuring in the distance. There’s not much else that comes to mind that would better set the mood for mindful meditation and a zen yoga session, am I right?
Of course this resort oasis provides all of the traditional r&r essentials such as a beach-lined property, seven swimming pools and five whirlpools, a spa, and lanai (porch) off of every room, but the exceptional value and unrivaled luxury it delivers in every experience make Four Seasons Resort Hualalai truly paradise found. Check rates and availability at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai via this link.
Full Disclosure: Fashion Pulse Daily was provided with complimentary and discounted services during the stay at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.