NEW LISTING $2,750,000  - Top of the line Kolea Penthouse! Coastline views from Maui to Hualalai! Truly outstanding, with all of the bells and whistles, including many upgrades. Watch the whales from your lanai as you enjoy your own slice of paradise. Too many features to mention them all. Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

Close proximity to the Kolea Beach Club’s exclusive amenity and walking distance to two world class shopping centers. Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course. Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

Download the Sales Flyer

NEW Listing! $1,250,000 This tastefully furnished 3 bedroom, 3 bath garden villa is located on the peaceful Kohala Coast. Offering direct beach access in the beautiful gated community of Kolea.  Exceptional view corridors distinguish this 1,716 sf villa from other ground floor Kolea villas. Hear the relaxing waves break on the shore from your lanai.

Enjoy cooking in your gourmet kitchen with top of the line appliances by KitchenAid and granite countertops. Featuring 9′ African mahogany pocket doors and crown molding, walk-in closets and central air conditioning. Guests will love to be entertained in this home! Your summer kitchen comes complete on a 422 sf lanai including Koa wood, refrigerator and a gas grill. Leading out to the soft grassy lawn for the kiddies to play on.

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course. Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

Luxury Living on the Kohala Coast, Big Island Hawaii

The Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii is a place of incomparable beauty. Like so many others, Johnny McElree was immediately captivated by the lifestyle here during a visit several years ago, and was fortunate enough to be able to move here to live his dreams. “I was going to stay for a couple of years to determine how I was going to live the rest of my life,” Johnny says. “I came to realize that this is the best place on the face of the planet for me to do exactly that, to really live my life.  Why not live the way you really want to?”

Now Johnny’s days are filled with living the Hawaiian lifestyle, paddling outrigger canoes, and immersing himself in the Hawaiian experience. “The best thing about Hawaii is that what is important here is not who you are, but what you are,” according to him. “I have learned so much from the people I have met here, both those who have lived their entire lives here, and those of us who are malihini (newcomers) and have reinvented ourselves.”

Come and join Johnny on the Kohala Coast, where you can also live your dreams. You may choose the exclusivity of Kukio, the vibrant community and luxury of Hualalai and the Four Seasons resort, or the classic simplicity of the Mauna Kea. You may want to enjoy the funky little beach town of Puako. The Waikoloa Resort, with its world class shopping and golf may suit you.  Or, you might just want to while away the hours at the Mauna Lani. There is truly something here for everyone.

The next phase of your life starts today. Really live it. There’s no better place than the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.

Top 10 Reasons Why The Kohala Coast is Hawaii’s Best Place to Reside

1. THE PEOPLE. There is a minimum of hustle and bustle here, which results in a casual and relaxed environment.  From the celebrities staying at the Four Seasons to the locals hanging out at the Beach, everyone seems to have a perpetual smile on their face.

2. THE RESORTS. The Kohala Coast is home to some of the finest resorts in the world. From the exclusiveness of Kukio to the classic old Hawaii charm of the Mauna Kea, to the Mauna Lani and the Waikoloa Beach Resort in between, there is truly something for everyone.

3. THE BEACHES. Sprinkled along the Kohala Coast are some of the world’s finest beaches. Hapuna Beach near the Mauna Kea is consistently rated among the top 10 beaches in the world. You can also find many secluded and relatively unknown places, such as Beach 69 near Puako.

4. THE OCEAN. In most places, the water is relatively shallow here for a great distance from the shore. Couple this with a multitude of reefs and underwater lava formations, and the result is outstanding snorkeling, diving, and swimming.

5. GOLF. You could stay here for weeks and never play the same course twice. The signature holes of the resort courses are stunning and are among the most photographed in the world. The Kohala Coast is home to several PGA events, but you also have to dodge the wild turkeys and goats to play at the local course in Waikoloa Village.

6. SHOPPING & DINING.  Tiffany’s to the kiosks of the local artisans.The Kohala Coast is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world. Of particular note is the Blue Dragon in Kawaihae. Enclosed but open to the stars at night, listen to live music while enjoying unique Hawaiian cuisine.

7. WHALES. The winter months are a very special time on the Kohala Coast. The yearly visits of the humpbacks,  with their breaching and tail slapping, are a sight to behold. In February you can’t look at the ocean without seeing one.

8. THE VOLCANOES.  Simply spectacular. Mauna Kea in particular is one of the most unique places on the planet; it is home to some of the most sophisticated observatories in the world. The sunsets there, above the clouds, are something you will never forget.

9. THE WEATHER. Living here is reminiscent of the movie “Ground Hog Day.” Just assume it will be beautiful, and you’ll be correct. There is a minimum of rainfall. The temperature variation between summer and winter is much less than that between day and night

10. THE PRICES. The opportunities to purchase a home here are the best in the last decade. From a multi-million dollar estate to a funky beach house or a luxurious condominium, there are outstanding bargains available. Let me help you find your own little piece of paradise.

 ~ By Keeley Acosta

Every year in Hilo, on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, both Hawaiians and visitors gather for the Merrie Monarch Festival- a celebration of Hawaiian culture and the art of the hula.  The festival always begins on Easter Sunday, and by that time, getting a ticket to the hottest show in town is nearly impossible.  It may take advanced planning to get in to the show, but if you are living your dreams of luxury on the Kohala Coast, this is one event in paradise that you do not want to miss out on.  Hilo is only about a two hour drive from such high-end properties as Hualalai, Mauna Lani, and Kolea, making it an easy day trip or overnight destination from the Kohala Coast resort area.

The Merrie Monarch Festival takes place over the course of a week (this year’s festival begins April 8 and ends April 14).  Free performances and cultural demonstrations, along with an arts and crafts fair, take place at the beginning of the week, and then the main attraction- the individual Miss Aloha Hula and the group hula competitions at the Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium- happens Thursday through Saturday nights.  This competition is often considered the Olympics of Hula.  There is also the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade during the Saturday morning of the festival, a great event for the whole family.

The festival was founded in 1964 to attract more visitors to the island, and is dedicated to the memory of King David Kalakaua, the last elected king of Hawaii, who was known as the “Merrie Monarch”.  He was a patron of the arts, especially music and dance.  During his reign, from 1874 until his death in 1891, he restored many nearly extinct Hawaiian traditions that had been lost or suppressed for years due to the influence of the Protestant missionary teachings.  These included myths, legends, and the hula, which had been forbidden for over 70 years.

The importance to the Hawaiian culture of the hula cannot be underestimated.  Ancient Hawaiians had no written language, and thus all communication took place through spoken word, chants (oli), song (mele), and hula- the visual dance dramatization of the oli and mele.  Generations of Hawaiians passed down their stories, history, culture, mythology, genealogy, and lifestyle this way, expressed and told through their ancient dance. 

There are two main types of hula.  The first is kahiko- it is the ancient hula, as performed before Westerners came to Hawaii, accompanied by traditional instruments and chants. The second is called ‘auana and is hula as it evolved after Westerners- it is accompanied by song and often by acoustic string instruments, such as the guitar or ukulele.  The Miss Aloha Hula event the first night of competition at the Merrie Monarch festival is followed by the men’s (kane) and women’s (wahine) Hula Kahiko contests the second night.  The third and final night is the kane and wahine Hula ‘Auana competition, and capped off with the awards ceremony.

The Merrie Monarch Festival has very strict standards of authenticity for the dances and costumes, and this helps perpetuate the true history and culture of the ancient Hawaiians.  Throughout the year, halaus (hula groups) work with their kumus (teachers) across the Hawaiian Islands and the mainland United States to learn this art and history, and this dedication, combined with educational and cultural organizations such as the Merrie Monarch Festival, ensures that the traditions of the Hawaiian people will carry on for many more generations to come.

Tickets for the competition segments of the Merrie Monarch Festival are in very high demand.  For those who aren’t lucky enough to score a seat in the stadium, the three nights of scored hula are shown on local television as well.  While obviously not the same as being there in person, this is a pretty close second- when viewing on the TV, you are able to hear the background story of the halau, explanations of the dances and costumes, and evaluations of the performances by the commentators.  The next best thing to feeling the beat of the chants for yourself is watching this amazing demonstration from your luxury oceanfront property on the Kohala Coast- modern Hawaii meeting ancient Hawaii in a spectacular fashion.

Recommended Websites

http://www.merriemonarch.com/home – the official home page of the festival.

http://hiloliving.com/MerrieMonarch2012.html – Schedule of events, along with great information about Hilo… restaurants, lodging, maps, etc.

New Listings:

Condos

Villages at Mauna Lani #429- 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath CONDO- $1,895,000

Hali’ipua Villas #3/8 at Hualalai- 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath CONDO- $2,300,000

Kukio Beach Club and Cottages #C18- 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath CONDO- $3,250,000

Land

Hualalai Resort- 38,703 sq ft LOT – $2,099,000

72-114 Lae Kikaua Mauka Street at Kukio- 27,922 sq ft LOT- $3,900,000

Residential

68-1058 Honokaope Court, 49 Black Sand- 5 bedroom, 5 ½ bath HOME- $2,975,000

72-3054 Maniniowali Drive, Kukio- 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath HOME- $4,700,000

72-101 Anea Street, Hualalai- 5 bedroom, 5 ½ bath HOME- $4,995,000

72-148 Ko’olo’aula Place, Kukio- 4 bedroom, 5 ½ bath HOME- $6,400,000

72-106 Poepoe Place, Kukio- 4 bedroom, 5 full and 5 half bath HOME- $8,900,000

New Sales:

Condos

Ka Milo at Mauna Lani #14- sold on 4/12 for $1,310,000

Ka Milo at Mauna Lani #15- sold on 4/10 for $1,359,000

Ka Milo at Mauna Lani #16- sold on 4/30 for $1,362,600

Villages at Mauna Lani #403- sold on 4/10 for $1,567,125

Halia Hale at Kaunaoa #8B- sold on 4/3 for $2,100,000

Kolea Condo Villas #7C- sold on 4/27 for $2,140,000 by Johnny McElree

Na Hale At Kahikole #1- sold on 4/26 for $3,350,000

Land

23,174 sq ft lot at Kukio- sold on 4/11 for $1,135,000

1.09 acre lot at Hualalai- sold on 4/9 for $1,325,000

24,219 sq ft lot at Kukio- sold on 4/4 for $1,550,000

1.01 acre lot at Hualalai- sold on 4/25 for $3,850,000

1.01 acre lot at Kukio- sold on 4/16 for $3,900,000

Residential

68-1059 Honokaope Place, 49 Black Sand- sold on 4/11 for $3,999,000

~ By Keeley Acosta

           Standing on the sandy beach of Anaeho’omalu Bay, you hear it…. Shopping at the Queen’s Marketplace in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, you hear it…. Dining at the Four Seasons Hualalai, you hear it… Lounging at the luxurious beach club pool of Kolea, you hear it…. “There’s snow on Mauna Kea!  Did you see it? SNOW!”

            Winter on the Big Island of Hawaii is marked by two phenomena of nature- the return of the humpback whales, and snow on a tropical island.  To look up from your lounge chair at the beach and see a giant mountain topped with white powder is a view that not many see in their lifetime.  Far fewer experience a morning spent floating in the ocean in their bathing suit, followed by an evening bundled up in a parka gazing at the stars from the summit of the tallest mountain in the world.  Whether it’s in the snow-capped winter or in the warm summer sun, day or night, visiting Mauna Kea is a must-do on the Big Island.  But before diving in to the ins and outs of visiting the summit, it is important to recognize the cultural, spiritual, and geographical significance of this beautiful mountain, so that one can truly appreciate the full bounty of what you can derive from such a trip.

            Starting with the obvious, Mauna Kea is a HUGE mountain- in fact, it is a huge dormant shield volcano.  Above sea level, it stands 13,796 feet tall, making it the highest peak in the state of Hawaii.  But the true story is hidden under the sea.  When measured from its oceanic base, Mauna Kea is 33,500 feet tall, making it the highest mountain in the world.  Mauna Kea is almost 2 million years old, and while still active, has long passed its most active shield-building stage as a volcano.  The last eruption was 4,600 years ago (while Mauna Kea is likely to erupt again, it is not thought to be happening anytime soon, and, according to the USGS, as of March 2012, the Volcanic-Alert Level is “Normal”).  The volcano has a smoother, steeper appearance than its neighboring peaks due to its dormant status and weathering from strong trade winds.  It is topped by several tall cinder cones.

Mauna Kea is a place that holds great spiritual significance to the Hawaiian people.  There are five peaks on Hawaii Island, all sacred, and as the highest peak, Mauna Kea is one of the most sacred.  It is also known as Mauna O Wakea- the mountain of the god Wakea, from whom all things in Hawaiian are descended.  The summit of Mauna Kea was seen as the “region of the gods”, a place where benevolent spirits reside.  An ancient kapu- law- allowed only high-ranking tribal chiefs to visit its peak.  Mauna Kea was a landmark for ancient navigators and has been, and continues to be a place of prayer and reflection for Hawaiians, who go to Mauna Kea in search of their mana- divine power- and to understand those ancient spiritual connections between heaven and earth.  This is symbolized by the stone and wood lele- the altar- at the summit.  It is a place to show your appreciation for all that Mauna Kea means and to remember to malama the aina- take care of the land.  There has been, and continues to be, great debate among Hawaiians over human constructions, such as the telescopes, at the summit- many feel this is a desecration of their beliefs. The Office of Mauna Kea Management is advised on such matters by a council called Kahu Ku Mauna, which aims to preserve the spiritual and cultural perspectives of the Hawaiians during any development on the mountain.

            In Hawaiian mythology, Mauna Loa and Kilauea are the home of Pele, the goddess of fire.  But Mauna Kea is home to her rival Poli’ahu, the goddess of snow- and, it has been said, Hawaii’s most beautiful goddess.  It is thought that in the winter, Poli’ahu, the daughter of Wakea, spreads her beautiful white kapa across Mauna Kea’s summit, and adorns the mountain with her pink and gold cloak in the summer.  Her sisters, Lilinoe, Waiau, and Kahoupokane, also live with her on Mauna Kea and are her “ladies in waiting”.

             Ancient Hawaiians lived mostly along the shores of the island, as food and water sources were most plentiful here.  As they began to spread up the slopes of Mauna Kea, they relied on its extensive forests for food, and quarried the dense volcano-glacial rock on its flanks to make tools. When Europeans arrived in the late 18th century, settlers introduced cattle, sheep and game animals, many of which became feral and began to damage the mountain’s ecology. Mauna Kea can be ecologically divided into three sections: an alpine climate at its summit, a māmane–naio (two types of endemic trees) forest on its flanks, and a koa–ʻōhiʻa (also two types of trees) forest, now almost completely cleared by cattle and the former sugar industry, at its base. Parker Ranch, a large cattle ranch, is still in operation today on the northern slopes of Mauna Kea.   In recent years, concern over the vulnerability of the native species, and the endangerment of several, has led to court cases that have forced the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources to eradicate all feral species on the mountain. The lower slopes of Mauna Kea are popular for hunting, hiking, sightseeing, and bird-watching, while the upper part of the mountain is a popular spot to snowboard and ski in the winter, along with stargazing, sightseeing, and hiking.

             Near the summit of Mauna Kea, is the world’s largest astronomical observatory, with 13 optical, infrared, and submillimeter telescopes operated by astronomers from eleven countries.  The extremely dry and cloud-free atmosphere of the summit of the mountain leads to one of the highest proportions of clear nights in the world, making it ideal for astronomical observation.  This is coupled with no pollutants, its distance from city lights and, as you may have already noticed, the Big Island has a strong light pollution ordinance in place, requiring all areas to use specific street lights that do not cast their glow upward into the sky.  As a result, the faintest galaxies are visible from the telescopes atop Mauna Kea.

            The breathtaking view of both the land and the heavens makes a trip to the summit something that should be on everyone’s bucket list.  However, this is an adventure that should also be taken seriously, as the high elevation can cause altitude sickness if the proper precautions are not adhered to.  Mauna Kea is one of the only places in the world where you can drive from sea level to 14,000 feet in about 2 hours. At the summit there is 40% less oxygen than at sea level, so acclimatization to the altitude is essential.

             All visitors to Mauna Kea need to stop at the Onizuka Center of International Astronomy Visitor Information Station (VIS), located at the 9,200 foot level, which is open year-round from 9 am to 10 pm.  It is recommended that those under 16, pregnant women and anyone in poor health do not go any further than the VIS.  If you have any question about whether your health is good enough to make it to the summit, please visit your doctor prior to attempting such a trek. Also, please to not plan to go to the summit within 24-hours of scuba diving.  While you are acclimatizing at the VIS, staffers and Mauna Kea Park Rangers are available to provide health and safety information, along with current weather conditions at the summit.  In addition, they provide education about the mountain and the observatory and telescopes.  The VIS has its own telescopes for stargazing, including a solar telescope to look at the sun during the day.  In fact, the telescopes at the summit are private and not open for use to the public, so your best shot at great stargazing is at the VIS during their nightly free stargazing programs from 6-10 pm.  They have special programs the first and third Saturday night of each month.  On Saturdays and Sundays, Escorted Summit Tours are available from the VIS.  After acclimatization and a brief orientation, you caravan in your own vehicle to the top, with a guide meeting you at the summit to give you a tour.   Also available at the VIS are restrooms and a bookstore that also sells snacks and drinks.

             Once you have spent time at the VIS and have adjusted to the altitude, you may proceed to the summit.  Four-wheel drive is a MUST to get to the top, as the paved road ends about 300 yards past the VIS, and is a steep graded-gravel road the rest of the way.  Check with your rental car company that they allow trips up Mauna Kea, and do not forget to fill your gas tank before your trip. The road is narrow, curving, and can be closed during winter months due to ice.  Please follow all safety and speed guidelines.

             When you reach the top of Mauna Kea, the most important rule to remember is this:  Malama the aina.  Please take the utmost care to preserve the land around you as it is.  Take only pictures, leave only footprints is the best rule of thumb.  Remember that this is a sacred Hawaiian area, and treat it as such.  Enjoy the view, but do not disturb the landscape or leave any trash behind.  The second most-important rule is monitor how you are feeling and to descend if you begin feeling any altitude sickness- this is can get very serious, very quickly.

             Not many make the trek to the very top of Mauna Kea.  The Visitor Information Station is a spectacular spot in its own right as well.  Whether you are going to the summit, or just part of the way up, you are sure to be thrilled.  While you are up on the mountain in the sky, looking down at the Kohala Coast, take a moment to reflect and realize that living your dreams in the luxury of Hawaii is within your reach, no matter how high you have to climb to get there.

 Recommended Websites:

http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/ – Mauna Kea Visitor Information Center Website

http://mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/  - Current weather conditions on Mauna Kea

http://www.malamamaunakea.org/ – Website for the Office of Mauna Kea Management- information on the cultural preservation of Mauna Kea.

]]> http://www.hawaiiluxurylistings.com/visiting-mauna-kea-the-white-mountain/feed/ 0 http://www.hawaiiluxurylistings.com/%e2%80%9cthe-mayor%e2%80%9d-keeps-on-rolling/ http://www.hawaiiluxurylistings.com/%e2%80%9cthe-mayor%e2%80%9d-keeps-on-rolling/#comments Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:53:56 +0000 Keeley http://www.hawaiiluxurylistings.com/?p=5846

~ By Keeley Acosta

The 2011 numbers are in and, once again, Johnny McElree is the top-selling real estate agent in the Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii. The man known on the Kohala Coast as “The Mayor” sold close to $15 million in luxury Waikoloa Beach Resort property alone. In dollar volume, this amount is almost four times greater than the sales volume of any other agent on the island who sold a property in the Waikoloa Beach Resort in 2011. Last year, Johnny was also involved in over double the number of transactions within the resort compared with his competition. This makes him the top individual agent at the Waikoloa Beach Resort for the 2nd year in a row in both the number of sales transactions and in total sales volume with a cumulative total of nearly $26 million dollars in sales at the beach resort area since 2008. Johnny’s specialty within his specialty at the beach resort is, of course, Kolea. In 2011, Johnny sold $12.9 million dollars in luxury home and condo properties.

This accounts for 31% of all sales at Kolea this past year, three times that of his closest competitors. Again, Johnny has dominated this luxury Hawaiian subdivision for the last 4 years, with over $22 million in sales from over 19 transactions. While Johnny’s numbers are impressive in and of themselves, it is when they are compared with all of the Century 21 realtors nationwide that the big picture truly emerges. Johnny was #81 out of the over 100,000 Century 21 realtors in the country, putting him in the top 10th % of the top 1% of all Century 21 realtors. This is an outstanding feat, and the product of his endless dedication and determination to his clients, both the buyers and the sellers. In the improving real estate climate of today, you want to choose wisely whom you buy or sell with. Clearly, the money is being both made and saved at the Waikoloa Beach Resort with one agent on the Big Island. Johnny McElree works tirelessly for his clients, putting hundreds of miles on his flaming GEM car in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, making sales happen and helping people “Live Their Dreams” of luxury here in Hawaii.

Contact Johnny today to get in on the action, and start living your dream today!  Sign up for my newsletter on the right side on this page >>>

Jammin’ with John Keawe 

~ by Keeley Acosta

Johnny McElree loves nothing more than a cold beer and some great guitar music.  Upon moving to the Big Island of Hawaii in 2004, he quickly discovered John Keawe, one of the most talented songwriters and master slack-key guitarists in the Hawaiian Islands, and a Grammy and multi Na Hoku Hano Hano award winner.  Luckily for Johnny, John Keawe plays frequently at not only two of his favorite island restaurants (Blue Dragon in Kawaihae and the Bamboo in Hawi), but right down the road from his Kolea home every Tuesday evening from 6-7 pm, at the Kings Shops at the Waikoloa Beach Resort.  These twilight performances, Music with the Island Touch by John Keawe, may feel like a priceless luxury when surrounded by the beauty that is Waikoloa, but it is indeed free for both locals and visitors to the island to enjoy.

John Keawe was born and raised on the Big Island, growing up in the small town of Hawi on the northern tip of the island’s Kohala Coast.  He liked rock and roll and, in particular, singer/songwriters making their own music.  John joined the Navy, returning to Hawaii when his time was done.  It was at this point in his life that the Hawaiian slack-key guitar and John Keawe began to groove.  John started to study this genre and is a self-taught slack-key guitarist, which is no small feat.

Slack-key is the English term for ki ho’alu, which means “loosen the (tuning) key” in the Hawaiian language.  Slack-key guitar is a fingerstyle genre of guitar music, in which most tunings are achieved by started with a classically tuned guitar and detuning (“slacking”) one or more of the strings, until the six strings form a single chord (frequently G major).  This type of guitar-playing originated here in Hawaii.  It is believed that Mexican cowboys, known as paniolos in Hawaiian, brought over guitars in the late 19^th century, teaching the Hawaiians the very basics of guitar and then leaving, which allowed the Hawaiians to develop their style on their own. There is some speculation that merchants from whaling boats also brought guitars over, contributing their playing style as well.  The Hawaiians adapted the slack key guitar to accompany the rhythms of Hawaii dancing, such as hula, and the harmonic structures of Hawaiian music and chants.  It began to integrate the music of all the different cultures that have come to the Hawaiian Islands, including North Americans, Portuguese, Filipinos, and South Pacific Islanders.  Slack-key remained a truly Hawaiian musical style, not receiving the same attention as the ‘ukulele or steel guitar that mainland listeners associated with Hawaii.  The first recordings of slack-key guitar were made in 1946-47 by Gabby Pahinui, and then during the 1960s and especially the 1970s it experienced a boost in popularity, coming to be seen as a great expression of Hawaiian spirit.

John Keawe not only taught himself all the intricacies of the slack-key guitar, but developed a style all his own that is respected and admired in the Hawaiian Islands and around the world.  As he learned, he also began to perform in public, and began writing his own songs.  His music is reflective of the things he loves the most:  Hawaii and his ohana (family).  His music is a sincere and realistic interpretation of his life.  John has released ten recordings under the label Homestead Records.  Of these ten, seven were nominated for Na Hoku Hano Hano Awards (the Hawaiian “Grammys”).  He won the 1994 award for best instrumental performance for his CD “Ho’onanea”.  In 1998, John won the best slack-key artist at the Hawaii Music Awards for his “Mana’olana” CD.  In 2003, he received a Hawaii Music Award for “Aloha Kaikua’ana”.  He also won a Hoku Award for Ki-ho’alu, which is a special award given to an artist for perpetuating the art of the slack-key guitar.  In 2005, John was honored as a contributing artist on Hawaii’s first Grammy award for Best Hawaiian Music Album, titled “Slack-Key Guitar Volume 2” by Palm Records.  In 2009, John Keawe received one of the biggest honors of his career as he was the recipient of the first Na Hoku Hano Hano Award for Slack-Key Album of the Year for his CD “Hawai’i Island… Is My Home”.  2011 brought his fourth Na Hoku award, Slack-Key Album of the Year, for his 10^th album “Play With Me Papa”.

John continues to spread his music and message of Aloha around the world, most recently completing a short tour in Japan.  He is often accompanied by his beautiful wife, Hope, who performs graceful hula interpretations of his songs, adding another magical layer to already wonderful performances.  Hope was also born and raised on the Big Island, in North Kohala.  She and John married in 1973, and have 3 sons and 9 grandchildren.  John and Hope raise their granddaughters in the same town he grew up in, Hawi, and they also frequent the stage with him, singing back-up or dancing hula with their tutu (grandma).

Whether you are living your dreams here on the Big Island, or just coming to bask in the sunshine for a short time, a John Keawe show should be on your list of must-sees. Chances are, you will see Johnny McElree there, cold beer in hand, living HIS dreams. 

For a current schedule of John Keawe performances:

www.johnkeawe.com/calendar.html

Video of John, Hope and their granddaughters performing:

http://youtu.be/PRU2uO1YDgs

This resort home is built with unequivocal craftsmanship—designs and materials that cater to the most distinguishing of tastes. The exceptional exterior is made with durable, close-grained, elastomeric stucco with pebble finish in combination with cement lap siding on the accent walls. It has Wailea Blend barrel shaped, cementations tile roof and copper gutters. Take pleasure in the three bedroom suites, each with their own elegant bathroom and private outdoor shower. The flooring in the main living area consists of notable Hebei Gold Quartzite. Maryl vaulted or coffered ceilings featured in every room with soffited edge details, recessed lighting and wood inlays. Each room is also equipped with its own control to a high efficiency air conditioning system. Plus, you’ll appreciate the silent and energy-efficient ceiling fans. All doors and windows are trimmed in mahogany with custom mahogany shutters.

Enjoy entertaining in the media room, pool and spacious open living room floor plan with pocket doors that magically disappear to reveal the white sand beach and shimmering aquamarine sea, capped by brilliant and frothy surf. Just a short walk away is world renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.

Treasure living in Kolea with the sparkling Anaehoomalu Bay just steps from this home. Enjoy the infinity pool and children’s pool, spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

To download the sales flyer click here.

We Do!

The new year of 2012 began with a buzz here on the Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii.  After being signed into law by Governor Neil Abercrombie on February 23, 2011, the Hawaii Civil Unions Law (also known as Act 1) came into effect on January 1, 2012 , making it legal for any same-sex couple to enter into a civil union in the state of Hawaii.  Hawaii is one of 5 states in the Unites States that now recognizes such civil unions, with 3 more states recognizing them in limited degrees, and 7 states allowing gay marriages.

Hawaii has long been one of the most open-minded states, with a thriving gay and lesbian community.  It is not surprising that Hawaii, a place known for its diversity and tolerance, would be one of the states to enact such a law… after all, accepting people for what they are is just how we do things here in the Aloha State!  For this reason, it has also been a very appealing vacation spot for gay and lesbian travelers. Resorts including Kolea and Hualalai are some of the best. Visitors and aspiring residents need to look no further than the Kohala Coast for a luxury lifestyle that fits their needs.

Despite the diversity of the state, the road that led to the passing of the Hawaii Civil Unions Law was not a smooth one.  It began in 1993, with the Supreme Court of Hawaii case Baehr v. Lewin.  It was argued by three same-sex couples that the state was violating the State constitution by not allowing them to marry.  The plaintiffs prevailed and a full trial was ordered in which the state needed to show reasonable proof why same-sex marriages should be prohibited.  That trial, held in 1996, also went in favor of the plaintiffs, which opened the door to same-sex marriage in the state.  The result was the Reciprocal Beneficiaries Law of 1997, which stated that any two single adults (including same-sex partners) were allowed to have access to around 60 spousal rights, at the state level.  This momentum was halted abruptly in 1998, when the Hawaiian voters approved an amendment to the state constitution (later affirmed by the State Supreme Court) that essentially defined marriage as limited to a man and a woman, thus denying same-sex couples the protection of equality guarantee.  This amendment did not address the legality of civil unions, leaving the door open for this current legislation.  It took over a decade to come to fruition, however, as the longtime governor Linda Lingle (2002-2010) opposed the legalization of such civil unions.  She vetoed a bill passed by the State Legislature in 2010 that legalized civil unions, and preferred a public referendum to determine the course of action.  Her successor, Governor Abercrombie, immediately signed the bill into law after it was passed in early 2011, making civil unions available to all same-sex couples that wish to be legally joined together.

DOWNLOAD THE REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER INTO A CIVIL UNION HERE

Once approved, your license is valid in the State of Hawaii for 30 days from the date you receive it.  Next comes the fun part- planning your ceremony!  Finding an officiant on the Big Island is not hard.  A simple internet search yielded a large number of licensed performers, and it is recommended to interview a few to find the right fit for you and your partner.  Similarly, there were many different venues and event planning companies that offer availability and ideas for civil union ceremonies.  The Kohala Coast is crawling with options, from the glamour of the Four Seasons Hualalai, to a simple yet elegant  ceremony on the beach at Anae’ho’omalu Bay at Waikoloa.

The Kohala Coast is a great place for gay and lesbian couples to reside.  With the new benefits afforded to you by the new civil union legal status, it is the perfect time to invest in some Hawaii luxury real estate.  Johnny McElree is the perfect match when it comes to finding you luxury real estate in the Kohala Coast, and has great knowledge of both the business and the community.  He can help you obtain the luxury lifestyle you desire in a diverse and welcoming part of Hawaii.  Come live ALL of your dreams today on the Big Island!

Here are some great links with more information:

Department of Health informational page on the requirements of obtaining a civil union license:

http://hawaii.gov/health/vital-records/vital-records/civilunion/index.html

To begin your application process:

https://civilunion.ehawaii.gov/emrs/public/home.html

Great new GLBT magazine, launching in February 2012

www.outaloha.com

Two Times as Good Second Year in a Row!

Award winning sales agent for Century 21 All Island – Double Centurion Award.  Second highest sales award and the only one presented to a Big Island agent.  SECOND year in a row!  

Real Estate can often require expert mediation and negotiations. Why not work with a sales agent who has the experience (and snappy armor) to lead you through the trenches to success?

Double Centurion at your Service!

” Johnny McElree … is 3rd in total production for the entire All Islands Century 21 firm. Rock on Mr. J.”   ~ James W. Wright, RB, CIPS, CRB, RSPS, SFR, TRC, GRN, President/Chief Executive Officer Century 21 All Islands |  #9 Century 21 Firm USA

THE WHALES ARE HERE!

“Winter in Hawaii…. It’s better than your summer!” ~Unknown

If you are a visitor to the Big Island of Hawaii, you may be hard-pressed to figure out what season you have arrived in as you step off of the plane.  For those of us who live here and are acclimated to the climate, we notice small seasonal changes in humidity and temperature (81 degrees instead of 83?  We can tell!).  However, there are two signs of “winter” on the Big Island that are hard to miss…. Snow sprinkled on the top of both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, and humpback whales jumping out of the ocean.

The arrival of the whales is equally exciting every year.  “The whales are here!” can be heard up and down the Kohala and Kona Coasts as news spreads of the first sighting.  This whale season, the first whale to arrive in the Hawaiian Islands was spotted on September 26, 2011 at Honaunau Bay here on the Big Island- very early, but not unusual.  The majority of the whales arrives in late November, and most leave in April, though some stay as late as May.  The humpback whales come from the North Pacific, and more specifically, most are from Alaska.  These whales feed all summer long in Alaska to get ready for their 3500 mile journey to the warm Hawaiian waters. They consume massive quantities of krill and small fish in preparation for months of no food- the whales are thought to not eat much on their journey down to Hawaii, and do not eat at all once here in Hawaii.

When they are full, they begin their migration south in the Pacific Ocean.  Two-thirds of the North Pacific whale population heads to Hawaii.  This is as many as 12,000 whales.  The rest swim to either western Mexico and to the southernmost islands of Japan.  The koholas (Hawaiian word for whales) travel continuously to get here, swimming at a pace of 3 to 7 miles per hour.  This journey takes them 1 to 2 months.  Once they arrive here, the humpbacks give birth to their calves, nurse, and mate.  Hawaii is the only US state where this humpback activity occurs.  The whales love Hawaii for all the reasons we humans do… the great weather, the warm and clear waters, and the lack of predators.

To spot one of these magnificent creatures is thrilling.  Humpback whales spend 90 percent of their lives underwater, so that sudden glimpse of a fin or tail or an entire whale is pretty special.  Humpbacks can grown anywhere from 40-52 feet in length, and weigh about 1 ton per foot of length, but are still only the 5^th largest kind of whale.  Their gestational period is 10-12 months, so this means that the whales give birth when they arrive in Hawaii, and then mate again before they leave, carrying their babies for the long journey back to Alaska and then back again to Hawaii.  Calves are usually around 3,000 pounds when they are born and about 10-16 feet in length.  Humpbacks live anywhere from 40-60 years.  Each whale has distinctive color markings and patterns, specifically on their tail, to distinguish it from the others.  This particular type of whale gets its nickname, the “humpback,” from its tendency to round its back as it dives down deep into the water.

These gentle giants can put on quite the show.  Adult humpbacks can remain submerged under water for as long as 45 minutes, but they tend to surface every 10-15 minutes (calves surface every 3-5 minutes).  When they come up, a variety of behaviors can occur… you may see a whale spout right at the surface, a small puff of water and whale snot to let you know they are there.  Head lunges and rises are thought to be the whale peeking out of the water to see what’s happening.  Tail slaps are generally a protective warning behavior.  Slaps of the pectoral fin are thought to be communicative in nature.  You may also get a glimpse of the tail as the whale dives back below.  But the Holy Grail of humpback behaviors for whale-watchers is the BREACH.  To see an animal of that size propel its body completely out of the water feels nothing short of a miracle.  The splashes of these breaches can be seen from miles away.  Rumor has it that whales prefer to jump on windy days (which the Kohala Coast has plenty of).  No one is sure why, but the general thought is that maybe the wind speed helps them lift all of that weight out of the water, or that it just makes it more fun and feels good.

To see these whales in action, you can watch them from the coast, charter your own boat, or climb aboard a whale watching tour.  If you choose to stand on the shore, all you need is binoculars.  The whales can be seen from all the beaches, and another great way to view them from the shore is to stop at either the Scenic View turnout on the Queen K highway above Kiholo Bay (between the Hualalai and Waikoloa Beach Resorts) or at any turnout on the highway between Kawaihae and Hawi.  If you choose to join a whale boat for a tour, Johnny recommends the tours done by Ocean Sports- hop on a boat right from the sands of Anaeho’omalu Bay and within minutes you will be looking for breaches.  Whale-watching tours are worth every penny- the knowledge of the captains is incredible and a great learning experience for all ages.  Also on whale-watching boats, you will be able to hear the whales “singing” and “talking” through special microphones dropped into the water.  While both genders can “talk”, only males can “sing” the humpback songs- a sequence of sounds over and over in a pattern that can last for up to 30 minutes.

The humpback whale is on the endangered species list, and therefore certain rules must be followed by those engaged in whale-watching.  The NOAA has established the Hawaiian Humpback Whale Sanctuary in the waters surrounding the main Hawaiian Islands. While within this sanctuary, you are not allowed to go within 100 yards of a whale, whether you are on a large boat, kayak, surfboard, or swimming.  Touching a whale is obviously off-limits as well.  Of course, there is no guarantee that a friendly whale may not come closer to you, and this has been known to happen many times, with whales approaching boats and spouting on eager fans.  Johnny himself has had several whales dive underneath his canoe while paddling outside of the A-Bay- just another day spent living the dream!

Here are some great links related to the humpback whale:

General information about the humpbacks and conservation efforts to save this endangered species

www.hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/

Tips for Whale Watching

www.aloha-hawaii.com/things-to-do/activities/whale-watching/tips/

Ocean Sports Whale-Watching Tours

www.hawaiioceansports.com/html/whale_cruises.html

Adopt a Whale

www.pacificwhale.org/whales

REDUCED to $2.75M  

Kolea Resort 4C ~ Fascinating 3 bedroom, 3.1 bath, end-unit penthouse with expansive views of the ocean. Located on the peaceful Kohala Coast in the famous Kolea Beach Club. The only development within the Waikoloa Beach Resort offering direct beach access in a beautiful gated community. Watch sunsets 365 days a year & enjoy over 2,140 sf of interior living.  Incorporating virtually all of the upgrades offered by the developer & equipped with Koa cabinets, including extra Koa cabinets in the kitchen, granite counter tops, wine cooler & top of the line appliances. Enter your penthouse through a semi-private elevator.

The villa boasts power shades, tile floors, African mahogany trim, crown molding, ceiling fans, central air conditioning, a built in media center with sound throughout, a security system, and a bamboo ceiling treatment in the great room. 9’ retractable pocket doors reveal your 429 sf lanai & the peaceful sounds of the waves breaking on the shore. Complete with a summer kitchen, Koa wood, refrigerator & a gas grill. The lanai adjoining the master bedroom shows Maui in the background. This penthouse represents an opportunity to own one of the jewels of the Kohala Coast, and to provide your family with a legacy residence in which it can be enjoyed for generations to come. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.

Come live your dreams at Kolea today!  

To download the sales flyer click here.

Enchanting 3 bedrooms, 3 bath features over 1,700 sf of interior living space. Enjoy your gourmet kitchen, granite countertops, Viking & SubZero appliances, disappearing 9’ glass and African Mahogany pocket doors, crown molding, central air, ceiling fans and walk-in closets. Treasure your own private 422 sf lanai complete with summer kitchen, Koa wood, refrigerator and a gas grill.

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.

Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

To download the sales flyer click here.

CONTINGENT - Delightfully calm and peaceful, this 3 bedroom, 3.1 bath penthouse, makes for an exquisite residence on the brilliant Kohala Coast. With outstanding views this ground unit offers direct beach access in the gated community of Kolea. Designer furnishings and stone floors turn this villa into a masterpiece, priced to sell and fully loaded.

This traditional 2,147 sf end unit features African Mahogany trim, stainless steel appliances, retractable mahogany and glass pocket doors. Benefit from the extra custom (Gourmet) kitchen cabinets, a built-in wine cooler and granite counter tops. Take pleasure in your own private lanai with a summer kitchen complete with Koa wood, a wetbar, refrigerator and a gas grill.

Enjoy the sophisticated sound system as well as the high-end televisions and stereo components. Also included is a glass shower enclosure in the third bedroom and a tile soap dish in the master shower. As the new homeowner you’ll appreciate the semi-private elevator, Viking and Sub-Zero appliances, crown molding, motorized blinds and central air conditioning.

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.  REDUCED $2,450,000

Come live your dreams at Kolea today! 

To download the sales flyer click here.

Watch your family play in the pool from the comfort of your 429 sf lanai. Complete with a summer kitchen, Koa wood, refrigerator & a gas grill. Enjoy cooking tasty meals in your gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, wine cooler & top of line Viking & Sub Zero appliances. Enter your penthouse through a semi-private elevator, tile flooring throughout, African mahogany trim, crown molding, ceiling fans, central air conditioning & 9’ retractable pocket doors leading to the expansive lanai.

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.

Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

To download the sales flyer click here.

Kolea Resort
OPEN HOUSE  M TH F  9:00 – 4:00 pm
69-1000 Kolea Kai Circle
Garden, Ocean, Sunset & MountainViews!
Live Your Dreams Today at Kolea!
http://www.hawaiiluxurylistings.com/kolea-resort/

See one of these listings or inquire about another.

Close proximity to the Kolea Beach Club’s exclusive amenity and walking distance to two world class shopping centers. Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.  Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

Chef’s delight! Cook your favorite dishes in your gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, wine cooler & top of line Viking & Sub Zero appliances. With Tommy Bahama style furnishings, tile flooring throughout, African mahogany trim, ceiling fans, central air conditioning & 9’ retractable pocket doors leading to the expansive 428 sf lanai. Complete with a summer kitchen, Koa wood, refrigerator & a gas grill where your guests are sure to enjoy barbeques.

Treasure living in Kolea! The white sandy beach and the sparkling azure waters of Anaehoomalu Bay are just steps from this villa. Enjoy the infinity pool and sand bottomed children’s pool, lava rock spa and exercise hale at the Kolea Beach Club. Your guests will appreciate the traditional Hawaiian village guest hales. Part of this beautiful setting, and protected by the resort, are ancient fish ponds, where settlers of the Hawaiian Royalty used to trap and grow fish for their meals. Anchialine ponds filter up through the lava to create and form sparkling clear life supporting pools, also protected by the resort.

World-renowned Waikoloa Beach Resort and the Hilton’s Kohala Spa are just a short walk away. Stroll through the Queens’ Marketplace & the Kings’ Shops which have famous retail stores including Louis Vuitton, Tommy Bahama, and Macy’s; jewelry stores such as Tiffany’s and Orchid Jewelers; restaurants, art galleries and many more boutiques. If you love to golf, you’ll enjoy two championship golf courses: The Waikoloa Golf Course and The Francis H. I’i Brown Golf Course.

Come live your dreams at Kolea today!

To download the sales flyer click here.