Rosewood Kona Village vs Auberge Mauna Lani

Question

Hi,

Looking for advice re: these two resorts.

Family of four with college-age kids. I was planning to stay at the Auberge but looking into the Rosewood as well. The Rosewood is about 20% more expensive and gets better “official” reviews from Forbes, Michelin, etc. but there are several mediocre reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, etc. Can anyone here comment on which is better?

Also, the Rosewood website shows that the Ocean View rooms (hale) don’t seem that close to the water so I’m wondering if its worthwhile paying for the view or saving some money (200 USD/night) and booking a Garden or Mountain View.

At either place, we’ll be getting two rooms. I looked into the 4S but the cost of two rooms is ridiculous.

Thanks

Answer

Both the Rosewood Kona Village and the Auberge Mauna Lani are exceptional resorts on the Big Island, each offering a unique experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose between the two, along with insights into the Ocean View rooms at the Rosewood:

Rosewood Kona Village

The Rosewood Kona Village is known for its luxury, privacy, and exclusive feel. It has received high praise from Forbes, Michelin, and other official reviewers, but as you've noted, some guests report mixed experiences, particularly regarding service. Here are some points to consider:

Price: It’s 20% more expensive than the Auberge, which might make it feel less worth it depending on your budget. The premium cost is due to its exclusivity and the luxury experience offered, such as private hales (cottages) with spacious outdoor living areas, and fine dining options.
Ocean View Rooms: The Ocean View rooms are priced higher, but you are correct in noting that they might not be directly on the water. These rooms offer beautiful views, but if you're looking for something more immersive in terms of proximity to the ocean, you may want to reconsider. For the price difference, you may not be getting the “oceanfront” experience you expect.
Atmosphere: The Rosewood is more secluded and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat with less hustle and bustle compared to some of the other resorts on the island. This makes it a good option if you value privacy and a more serene experience.

Auberge Mauna Lani

The Auberge Mauna Lani, on the other hand, offers a more vibrant and active atmosphere, with plenty of activities and an expansive beachfront. It’s slightly less private than the Rosewood but still very luxurious. Key factors to consider:

Family Friendly: With college-age kids, the Auberge might offer a better range of activities. The resort has a larger variety of dining options, pools, and sports activities, which could be more engaging for your family.
Proximity to Attractions: The Auberge is located near Mauna Lani’s cultural sites, such as petroglyphs and historical fishponds, which could add to your family's cultural experience on the island.
Beach: The resort has a beautiful, swimmable beach, and the kids will likely enjoy the water sports and activities offered. It has great facilities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and other beach activities.

Which is Better?

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for in your experience:

If you’re looking for a more quiet, private luxury experience with beautiful, high-end amenities, the Rosewood Kona Village is a fantastic choice, especially if your priority is a peaceful stay. However, if you're expecting to be close to the water in the Ocean View rooms, it may not be worth paying the extra $200 a night.
If you want a more active, family-friendly experience with plenty of amenities and a larger variety of dining options and activities, Auberge Mauna Lani would be the better choice. It offers great value for a family, especially with college-age kids, and is also more centrally located for exploring the island.

Room Selection: Ocean View vs. Garden/Mountain View

Considering the difference in price for the Ocean View rooms at the Rosewood Kona Village, it may be worthwhile to consider Garden or Mountain View rooms if your budget is a priority. These rooms still offer plenty of luxury and comfort but without the premium for a less-than-ideal ocean view. If you’re not expecting to spend all your time in your room, this could be a good way to save money without sacrificing too much.

In summary, both resorts are fantastic options, but they cater to slightly different preferences. If you prefer a quieter, more secluded experience, the Rosewood Kona Village is ideal. If you're looking for a vibrant, activity-filled environment with plenty of options for your family, the Auberge Mauna Lani is a great choice.

Rosewood Kona Village vs Auberge Mauna Lani

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