The Lodge at Kukui’ula

I agree with the person who stated this is a country club experience not a resort, although the staff was friendly they were not helpful, the first night there arriving in the dark I asked for directions back to my bungalow, they had no concrete answer and gave me the...

I agree with the person who stated this is a country club experience not a resort, although the staff was friendly they were not helpful, the first night there arriving in the dark I asked for directions back to my bungalow, they had no concrete answer and gave me the security phone number if I got list! The breakfast was a joke, the pool amenities were no existent, I do have to say our bungalow was very clean and well appointed, the spa, although pricey was impressive. If you are looking for a beach, be prepared to drive to a rocky somewhat clean beach. I would have to say for the money if you want to be pampered and experience Hawaiian luxury your money would be better spent elsewhere.

Picky, Picky: As an architect who has worked on luxury hotels and high-end homes, I am more critical than most guests. I must admit the folks who did the Lodge at Kukui’ula (Alexander & Brown and DMB Development) did a very, very good job. Lush Surroundings: The siting of the...

Picky, Picky: As an architect who has worked on luxury hotels and high-end homes, I am more critical than most guests. I must admit the folks who did the Lodge at Kukui’ula (Alexander & Brown and DMB Development) did a very, very good job. Lush Surroundings: The siting of the lodge is excellent, with beautiful sunset views over a terraced lawn and an axial view of the dramatic Spouting Horn blowhole. The pool and surrounding area are well designed to provide play areas for families and secluded areas for a couples. The grounds are lush with beautiful and surprisingly mature trees. The units are arranged to afford much privacy. The architecture respects the aesthetic of historic local plantations without devolving into caricature. Impressive Quality: Perhaps most impressive is the quality of the accommodations themselves. Typically, “luxurious” accommodations sadly reveal dozens of cheap short cuts that may escape some eyes, but not those of professionals. Not so at this property. All the materials, furnishings, appliances, fixtures, and fittings are very high quality. The bathrooms are fabulous, with excellent bathtubs and nice showers, including an outdoor "garden" shower. Very impressive! Unimpressive Breakfasts: Continental breakfast at the clubhouse is included, but it’s a bit on the meager side (not even any fruit juice). No Recycling: We dutifully segregated our recyclables, only to discover a notice at the dumpster informing guests that the Lodge at Kukui’ula has no recycling program and guests should take their trash to a recycling center a couple miles away. Huh? Unbelievable. Noisy Equipment: Some may argue that one should know that sleeping adjacent to a golf course means being awakened at 6:30 AM by groundskeepers; however, these days there are quiet, electric alternatives. Unfortunately, they are not used here. Guest Services: These folks were very attentive. Kyle made sure we were booked into a more secluded unit. Caleb received us graciously and followed up. Nyleen gets a shout out as she was very helpful throughout our stay.

The facilities are all there but getting very dated. Great restaurants near by which is good because the food at The Lodge is mediocre. Be prepared if you rent a Cottage for a lot of deferred maintenance, fans in our unit don’t work, the electric is a mystery. We have...

The facilities are all there but getting very dated. Great restaurants near by which is good because the food at The Lodge is mediocre. Be prepared if you rent a Cottage for a lot of deferred maintenance, fans in our unit don’t work, the electric is a mystery. We have five remotes to operate the living room A/V. The hot water takes so long to come on not sure the dishwasher or laundry really worked. $350 for a round of golf, we played behind some member guests who may never have played golf before. Check out the unit before you commit $20,000 for a week you should get the optimal experience.