Hawai‘i Island’s first resort has entered a new chapter. The legendary Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, originally conceived by visionary Laurance S. Rockefeller, has completed a sweeping $180+ million, multi-phase transformation—the most significant in its 60-year history. An Autograph Collection hotel within the greater Mauna Kea Resort—alongside The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and Mauna Kea Residences—the revitalized resort is now fully open, welcoming both longtime admirers and first-time visitors. The renovation carries forward Rockefeller’s founding philosophy: pairing refined hospitality with Hawai‘i’s natural landscapes, cultural legacy, and environmental responsibility.
At the heart of the transformation are 252 completely redesigned guestrooms and suites, complemented by a refreshed family pool area featuring a new oceanfront hot tub and five private cabanas outfitted with plush seating, mini-refrigerators, and privacy drapes. Wellness has been elevated with the introduction of a new oceanfront retreat, including a state-of-the-art 2,500-square-foot fitness center and a serene adults-only infinity lap pool with expansive lanai views. Public spaces and dining venues have also been thoughtfully reimagined, while a museum-quality installation from the Rockefeller Art Collection—valued at more than $1 million—now showcases over 500 restored works, including Hawaiian kapa cloth, quilts, and rare Pacific Rim and Southeast Asian artifacts.
Sustainability remains central to the resort’s evolution. Newly installed photovoltaic solar panels now supply approximately 45 percent of the hotel’s overall energy needs. Additional enhancements include the redesign of the Mauna Kea Golf Course by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the debut of the 28,000-square-foot Ulu Garden, and upgraded in-room amenities such as filtered water stations and complimentary reusable bottles—further reducing single-use plastics throughout the property.
“Every aspect of this renovation was guided by Rockefeller’s original vision—preserving the architecture, honoring local craftsmanship, and celebrating Hawai‘i’s culture and natural beauty,” said Kansas Henderson, Hotel Manager. “With all guestrooms, pools, dining venues, and resort enhancements now complete, we’re excited to welcome guests into a new era at Mauna Kea. This spring, we’ll unveil the Spa at Mauna Kea, an entirely new wellness sanctuary unlike anything previously offered here.”
The redesign spans both the Main Tower and Beachfront Wing, honoring the resort’s iconic midcentury modern roots while introducing a renewed sense of warmth and understated luxury. Original terrazzo flooring in the Beachfront Wing, the signature blue tile floors of the Main Lobby, and the Main Tower’s expansive lanais have been carefully preserved. New design elements—including rich wood finishes, handcrafted textiles inspired by Hawaiian weaving and quilting, plantation shutters, ceiling fans, expansive glass lanai doors, intuitive bedside lighting controls, and spa-like bathrooms with deep soaking tubs—create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Works by local artists and layered textures throughout the resort deepen the connection to place.
Culinary offerings have also evolved. The beachfront venue has been reimagined as Hau Tree Cantina, transitioning from casual daytime fare—salads, burgers, and Baja-style fish tacos—to an evening menu inspired by the regional cuisines of Mexico, including Sinaloa, Sonora, Campeche, Oaxaca, and Yucatán. Contemporary interpretations are paired with a thoughtfully curated tequila and mezcal selection, alongside inventive non-alcoholic offerings. Beloved classics such as the Frederico and Ovaltine Froth remain on the menu.
Meanwhile, the resort’s signature restaurant, Manta, has introduced a renewed hyper garden-to-table dinner menu rooted in locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from Hawai‘i Island farmers, fishermen, ranchers, and the on-site Ulu Garden. Set high above Kauna‘oa Bay, the restaurant continues to showcase a Kohala Coast–inspired Pacific Rim culinary perspective.
Opening in spring 2026, The Spa at Mauna Kea will further expand the resort’s wellness offerings. The spa will feature 11 treatment rooms, including indoor, outdoor, and couples suites; separate men’s and women’s purification gardens; steam and sauna facilities; a movement pavilion; and a vitality pool. Designed to flow organically with the land and grounded in Hawaiian healing traditions, the spa journey will begin with an oli chant and extend beyond treatments to include plunge pools, soaking rituals, and a contemplative wellness deck. These additions will complement existing amenities such as the award-winning Seaside Racquet Club, home to nine tennis courts and eight pickleball courts.
The completion of this landmark renovation aligns with the resort’s 60th anniversary and a grand reopening gala scheduled for June—marking six decades of timeless hospitality on the Island of Hawai‘i.
