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Rosewood's Kona Village Resort Opens on Hawaii's Big Island

architecture-design · 2026-06-16

Rosewood has reimagined the Kona Village resort on Hawaii's Big Island, which opened in 2023. The property, located on land leased from the Kamehameha Schools-Bishop Estate, was originally constructed in the 1950s on lava flow-devastated land. After a tsunami damaged the previous property, Rosewood stepped in, preserving petroglyphs and incorporating Hawaiian healing traditions at the Asaya spa. The resort features thatched hales, a shipwreck bar, and an outrigger canoe experience led by local waterman Pua. Rosewood has also updated its brand identity, shifting from navy blue to Discovery Green, and emphasizes local immersion at properties like Rosewood Miyakojima and in Amsterdam. At Kona Village, guests can visit the Kahiko Mala`ai organic farm and participate in conservation programs.

Key facts

  • Kona Village is stewarded by Rosewood on Hawaii's Big Island.
  • The resort opened in 2023 after a tsunami damaged the previous property.
  • The land is leased from the Kamehameha Schools-Bishop Estate, founded by Princess Bernice Pauahi Pākī Bishop.
  • The hotel was originally constructed in the 1950s.
  • 75% of the area's petroglyphs are visible from the Ala Hele Papa boardwalk.
  • The Asaya spa incorporates Hawaiian healing traditions.
  • Rosewood's new brand palette is Discovery Green.
  • Kona Village grows its own food at the Kahiko Mala`ai organic farm.

Entities

Artists

  • Pua

Institutions

  • Rosewood
  • Kona Village
  • Kamehameha Schools-Bishop Estate
  • Princess Bernice Pauahi Pākī Bishop
  • Asaya
  • Rosewood Miyakojima
  • Kahiko Mala`ai

Locations

  • Hawaii
  • Big Island
  • Kahuwai Bay
  • Mauna Kea
  • Maui
  • Okinawa
  • Amsterdam

Sources