Big Island Escape ~ Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa
The Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa is no exception. Set atop dramatic lava cliffs, this oceanfront resort is surrounded by lush grounds and overlooks the playground of spinner dolphins and humpback whales. Most evenings manta rays glide by for an evening snack (and, rumor has it, some R&R!).
The Ho’ola Spa in the Sheraton is the Big Island’s only oceanfront spa. Many other spas feature massage in an oceanside cabana; however, the treatment is not private, generally requiring guests to traipse through public areas. Because of its seaside situation, the Ho’ola Spa offers a spa experience unlike any other on the island.
Imagine a luxurious massage on a private outdoor lanai, with the ocean waves and warm Hawaiian air easing you into complete relaxation. Ho’ola means “to heal.” What better place to rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit than Hawaii. For a truly romantic treat, book the outdoor whirlpool at sunset, before or after a couples massage. The view is stunning! An absolute must for honeymooners.
The Hawaiian “Pohaku” Healing Stone Massage was one of the most relaxing massages I have ever experienced. Coming from a true spa diva, this is high praise! My therapist used the warm pohaku or volcanic river stones to ease the tension throughout my body, combined with traditional Hawaiian healing techniques. This was relaxation in its purest form.
The Hawaiian Sea Salt Glow was a wonderful way to finish the afternoon, although having an exfoliation after such a relaxing massage was a little odd. The invigorating salt scrub (using Hawaiian salts) was applied using gentle massage techniques; it was followed by a relaxing shower and time in the private steam room. When I left the Ho’ola Spa I was positively floating, or what I like to call “spa stupid.” I found it difficult to remember my own name in my blissful state.
Featuring a full range of Hawaiian island–inspired treatments, the Ho’ola Spa will enhance any visit to the Big Island. Infrared sauna and steam are complimentary with any massage, body treatment or facial.
The Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa is centrally located in Kona, on the leeward side of Hawaii’s Big Island, and offers a great luau (traditional feast) on-site. Nearby attractions include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, spectacular snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and the famous Kona coffee plantations.
Ho’ola Spa, Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa
~ Jennifer Houtby-Ferguson, Spas of America. When not experiencing spas in Hawaii, Jennifer spends her time whale watching on Vancouver Island.
