The new Sheraton Keauhou, about 10 minutes outside of Kona, enjoys one of the best locations of any hotel on the Big Island. While secluded on it's own dramatic bluff, it is still only a short drive to the vibrant shopping, dining and sight- seeing of Kona town. Crowning an ancient lava flow cascading into the serene waters along Hawaii's leeward coast, the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa is a refuge unlike any other. Once the playground of Hawaiian royalty, Keauhou now beckons all travelers in search of genuinely unique Hawaiian experiences. Opening in October 2004 following a $45 million renovation, the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa will offer a true sense of Hawaiian place. The pool is an experience in and of itself, with one of the largest waterslides in Hawaii. Also, you can see the Manta Ray nightly as they gather outside the hotel in the moonlight. This hotel is a great balance of modern luxuries while offering glimpses into the cultural and natural history of this ancient land.

The Sheraton Keauhou is so committed to providing top-notch service to their bridal guests, they have hired a new "Director of Love", Natalie Cone. Natalie provides warm, sincere customer service, and takes care of every detail of her client's events. The property boasts it's very own seaside wedding chapel, which is very secluded from the rest of the property. The romantic white chapel is perched on the entrance of the Keauhou harbor, and boats sail in and out in front. There is a lovely lawn outside, and a great function area on an outside terrace at the hotel. This is a great choice for an elegant yet intimate Big Island wedding.

The tranquil Ho'ola Spa is located oceanfront on the ground floor of the Sheraton Keauhou. This full service spa has several private treatment rooms, and boasts a wide array of cutting edge treatments and services. I enjoyed my tour of the Spa, and it immediately made one feel relaxed with the soft lighting, immaculate interiors and soft colors. The smells of aromatherapy and the sounds of lapping waves are a lovely backdrop for a traditional Hawaiian spa treatment.

Our family had the great privilege and opportunity to meet the dolphins and staff at Dolphin Quest, located in the lagoon at the Hilton Waikaloa Village. This educational and captivating activity allows for personalized, up close interaction with these magnificent mammals. The dolphins are friendly and exuberant, and show their enthusiasm with dramatic water play. This safe yet exciting activity is a must for any trip to the Big Island.

The second half of our stay was at the Shores at Waikaloa, an upscale condominium property within the resort area of Waikaloa, on the Kohala Coast. These condo's are a perfect choice for the friends and family of a destination wedding couple, who are looking for a spacious, well kept lodging at a great value. The condo's have a nice pool area, and a well kept public barbeque. It is walking distance to the Hilton Waikaloa, the Marriott Waikaloa and Kings Shops. These condo's are managed by Aston, which is always a brand that ensures consistency and quality.

High in the hills above Kona is one of the largest organic coffee and tea plantations in the USA.. Hawaii's highest grown coffee, perched at 3000ft in the rainforest with ocean views of Kailua Bay. Free tours of coffee orchard, mill and roasting facility. Be a roast master for the day,roast your own coffee! They also grow chocalate , noni, mac nuts, pinnaple, bannanas and more. Hand feed geese and sheep. Gift shop and espresso bar, free tasting of 100%pure organic Kona coffee and tea, lunch available with reservations.