Nestled along Hawaii’s North Kohala coast, Hawaii Island Retreat is an eco-boutique hotel and wellness spa set on 50 oceanfront acres of pristine gardens, ancient valley trails, and wild groves. This sustainable sanctuary combines elegant accommodations with complete harmony with nature, powered entirely by renewable energy through solar panels and wind power. The resort offers luxurious rooms, bungalows, and glamping yurts, complemented by an infinity pool, wellness studios, and a private cove. Guests can experience authentic Hawaiian healing traditions through spa treatments, cultural activities, and farm-to-table dining sourced from the retreat’s organic gardens.
Their story
Hawaii Island Retreat, also known as Ahu Pohaku Ho’omaluhia, was established by Jeanne Sunderland and Dr. Robert Watkins as a pioneering eco-boutique hotel on Hawaii’s North Kohala coast. The retreat embodies their vision of creating luxury accommodations in harmony with nature. Through sustainable practices like 100% renewable energy usage and organic farming, they’ve created a sanctuary where ancient Hawaiian healing traditions meet modern eco-conscious hospitality. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The eco-lodge runs entirely on renewable energy from solar panels and wind power. Its solar-heated infinity pool uses salt purification instead of harsh chemicals.
- Buildings incorporate natural materials and traditional Hawaiian design elements.
- Water conservation measures include recycling systems and rainwater harvesting.
- Their sustainable practices have earned recognition from the Hawaiian Green Business Program and TripAdvisor’s Green Leaders certification.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge uses rooftop solar panels as its main energy source, powering guest rooms, spa facilities, and wellness studios. It also supplements with wind energy from an on-site windmill.
- Even the infinity pool is solar-heated, using salt purification instead of harsh chemicals. This thoughtful system shows how luxury and sustainability can work hand in hand.
Pioneer in waste management
- The property composts organic waste from their gardens and kitchen for reuse in their organic farming operations.
- They maintain an extensive recycling program for glass, plastic, paper and metal materials.
- The facility uses biodegradable cleaning products and encourages guests to minimize waste through refillable water bottles and eco-friendly toiletries.
- Their goat sanctuary helps reduce food waste by consuming appropriate kitchen scraps.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The eco-lodge grows its own fruits, vegetables, and herbs in organic gardens, which are used in their farm-to-table cuisine and spa treatments.
- Their infinity pool uses salt purification instead of harsh chemicals, and even their toiletries are organic.
- The retreat center produces its own natural signature products from home-grown ingredients.
Actively protects nature and community
- Their goat sanctuary and forest management protect local wildlife, while guests can explore ancient valley trails and participate in traditional Hawaiian cultural activities.
- They involve guests in gardening and animal care activities to create a meaningful connection with nature. This hands-on approach supports the preservation of Hawaii’s natural heritage for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Hawaii Island Retreat
- Yoga and meditation classes in oceanfront studios.
- Spa treatments including traditional Hawaiian Lomilomi massage.
- Guided tours of 50-acre organic farm and gardens.
- Hiking trails to private cove and ancient valley paths.
- Hawaiian cultural activities like lei making and hula dancing.
- Wellness retreats and transformational programs.
- Sacred garden tours featuring native plants.
- Goat sanctuary visits and sustainable farming education.
- Snorkeling and horse riding excursions nearby.
- Day trip to Kohala Zipline, one of the longest ziplines on the Big Island.
- Visiting some of the nearest waterfalls on the island.
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Best Time To Visit Hawaii Island Retreat
- The best time to visit Hawaii Island Retreat is from November to April when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities and whale watching from the private cove.
- Peak season falls between mid-December and March, bringing higher rates but optimal conditions for hiking the 50-acre property’s ancient valley trails and enjoying the infinity pool.
- The shoulder seasons of May-October offer lower rates and fewer crowds, though temperatures can be warmer.
- Wellness activities, spa treatments, and yoga classes are available year-round, but visitors should note that winter months may experience occasional rain showers.
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