Inside the Fairmont Orchid: Luxury Resort Stay on Hawai‘i’s Big Island

The Fairmont Orchid is an oceanfront resort on the sunny Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, and it offers such a memorable balance of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. The moment you arrive, you are greeted with a fresh flower lei, which sets the tone for the warm hospitality you’ll experience throughout your stay. The property itself is stunning, with 32 acres of lush grounds, waterfalls, and a calm white-sand lagoon that makes swimming and snorkeling easy and enjoyable for everyone.

One of my favorite aspects of this resort is how seamlessly Hawaiian culture is integrated into the experience. You’ll find thoughtful touches like fresh POG juice at breakfast, ube rolls, and macadamia nut cinnamon rolls that are truly heavenly. Daily cultural programming includes lei-making, hula lessons, and storytelling, which help connect guests to the island in meaningful ways. The spirit of Aloha feels present everywhere, from the way the team shares their gratitude for the island to the care that goes into every detail.

The activities here really make it a standout. The protected lagoon is perfect for families and less experienced swimmers, and I highly recommend taking advantage of the snorkeling, where sea turtles often make an appearance. Guests also have access to tennis, nearby golf, an amazing pool, and a convenient car service to explore local dining and shops.

Practical amenities like refillable water bottles with stations throughout the resort, complimentary sunscreen, laundry access, and even a complimentary 45-minute photo session with Pacific Dream Photography all add to the ease of staying here.

The Fairmont Orchid is a great fit for couples who want a romantic Hawaiian getaway, families who need kid-friendly amenities with a luxury feel, and multi-generational groups who want something for everyone. It works beautifully for honeymoons, milestone trips, and family vacations alike.

With its combination of luxury service, authentic cultural touches, and one of the best locations on the island, the Fairmont Orchid is a resort I can confidently recommend to clients looking for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

The Fairmont Orchid is one of those resorts where the little details make the experience seamless, from complimentary sunscreen at the pools to refillable water bottles with stations around the property. Families will appreciate the washers and dryers with detergent on every-other floor, and couples will love the complimentary 45-minute photo session with Pacific Dream Photography to capture special memories. The lagoon is calm year-round, but I especially recommend snorkeling early in the morning when the water is clearest and sea turtles are most active.

If your travel dates are flexible, September through early November is considered the off-season. The resort is quieter during this time, and you’ll often find fewer crowds both on property and around the island, making it a lovely window to enjoy a more peaceful Hawaiian experience.

If you are planning to adventure over to Hilo for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park or to explore that side of the island, keep in mind it is a several-hour drive from the resort. I recommend renting a car for the flexibility to explore at your own pace and to make the most of your time on the Big Island.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hawai‘i page.