Fairmont Orchid is a luxury resort and spa located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. We first visited the resort a few years back, and decided to visit once more during our last trip to the island.

About the Resort

Fairmont Orchid is conveniently located about 30 minutes north of Kona International Airport. The 32 acres of the property is surrounded by the ocean and tropical gardens. While the hotel has 520 guest rooms, it doesn’t feel crowded unlike other Waikoloa resorts (We’ve stayed at about 3 of the major resorts). The pool is big and the beach has protected, tranquil waters perfect for kids and water activities.

Accommodations

The guest rooms are up to date as they were renovated recently. Traveling as a family of four, a standard Fairmont room will suffice at 522 square feet. The bathroom is generously sized with a double vanity, separate room for the toilet, bathtub and the shower. Our bathroom seemed unchanged since our last visit. I’m unsure if other rooms have been updated. Toiletries were provided by Le Labo (Rose 31).

Activities

There are plenty of activities to do on property. My favorite is the morning SUP (stand up paddleboard) yoga, which I first tried years ago at the same property. The beach at Pauoa Bay is great for kids as the waters are very calm being protected by crescent-shaped lava walls. There isn’t much shade so wear a rashguard and lather up on the SPF as the sun is very strong, especially during the summer.

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At Pauoa Bay, there is a shack where you can sign up for other water activities and sea adventures.

Fairmont Orchid also has a Keiki Aloha Children’s Program for keiki (children) between the ages of 5-12 years. Reservations are encouraged. We didn’t take advantage of this during our recent trip.

Be sure to take a trip to Hapuna Beach, one of our favorite beaches on the island.

Dining and Entertainment

Rarely do we stay on property to dine, but we did enjoy poolside meals. Their mahi mahi tacos and Mai Tais are pretty good.

In the evening, there is live music near the lobby and Luana Lounge.

Closing Thoughts

During our first visit we were greeted with a lei upon checkin, but this time we weren’t. Not sure why.

Fairmont Orchid is well worth the price. For a few bucks more, upgrade a standard room to a Fairmont Gold room which includes extra perks. While the resort is big, it’s not too crazy unlike other nearby resorts.

Have you stayed at this resort? What are your thoughts?