The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort Opens For Business

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort makes its official debut after a $46 million renovation. The extensive renovation included brand new suites and guest rooms; four new culinary concepts; and a complete transformation of the resort's public spaces as well as a brand new adults-only infinity pool.[[{"fid":"5002985","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default","alignment":"center","field_image_alt[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_title[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_caption[und][0][value]":"","field_has_syndication_rights[und]":"1","field_licensor[und]":"","field_license_id[und][0][value]":""},"type":"media","field_deltas":{"1":{"format":"default","alignment":"center","field_image_alt[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_title[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_caption[und][0][value]":"","field_has_syndication_rights[und]":"1","field_licensor[und]":"","field_license_id[und][0][value]":""}},"attributes":{"class":"media-element file-default media-wysiwyg-align-center","data-delta":"1"}}]]

The upgraded property is the only Westin on Hawaii Island. The pool overlooks the beautiful Hapuna Beach. The lobby has a hip, new "Living Wall" vertical garden and interactive check-in pods. The first of the four new concepts is Meridia, a Mediterranean inspired restaurant touting a beautiful display kitchen, craft cocktails, expanded al fresco dining and a charcuterie and crudo bar with house-made artisanal bread. Of course, all menu items are made using locally sourced ingredients and is infused with the island's rich bounty. Naupaka Beach Grill is a new casual poolside grill restaurant with an extensive list of local brews on tap. Enjoy a salad, sandwich, or pupus while the sun sets with the beautiful ocean views. Ikena Landing, an open-air breakfast venue with a buffet, a la carte options and fresh juices by The Juicery.  Piko Coffee+Bar serves 100% Kona Coffee along with a light menu and snacks. Check out their website to find out more about the new property: http://www.hapunabeachresort.com

[[{"fid":"5002987","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default","alignment":"center","field_image_alt[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_title[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_caption[und][0][value]":"","field_has_syndication_rights[und]":"1","field_licensor[und]":"","field_license_id[und][0][value]":""},"type":"media","field_deltas":{"3":{"format":"default","alignment":"center","field_image_alt[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_title[und][0][value]":false,"field_image_caption[und][0][value]":"","field_has_syndication_rights[und]":"1","field_licensor[und]":"","field_license_id[und][0][value]":""}},"attributes":{"class":"media-element file-default media-wysiwyg-align-center","data-delta":"3"}}]]

Is visiting Hawaii safe?

Many visitors may be wondering if visiting Hawaii is safe at the moment considering all the media coverage that has been happening. It seems like every day there's some viral video of molten lava engulfing someone's property. I can assure you that it is absolutely safe. Hawaii is open for tourism.

Although Kilauea has consumed more than 50 homes in the Leilani Estates subdivision, that area is far away from any tourist spots. The eruption is very localized to the Puna area of the island where very few tourists visit. There have been many trip cancellations recently due to all the media coverage that is been blown out of proportion. It's actually a great time to visit the Big Island and Hawaii in general. Enjoy some deals and discounts with all the cancellations going on. Don't let it deter you from having a wonderful trip of a lifetime!