Spa at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

Location
Kohala Coast, Hawaii
Launch
June 2026
Size
22,000 ft2
Scope of Services
  • Concept/Ideation
  • Spa Design
  • Programming

The largest new spa development on Hawaiʻi Island in more than a decade, the 22,000-square-foot open-air Spa at Mauna Kea reimagines the guest wellness experience while honoring founder Laurance S. Rockefeller’s original vision of capturing the spirit of the island with minimal environmental impact. 

A landmark destination in Hawaiʻi since 1965, Mauna Kea Resort’s spa transformation re-envisions wellness through a biophilic, culturally grounded design inspired by the Hawaiian philosophy of Hoʻōla i Loko—healing from within. Natural ventilation, locally inspired materials, and a thoughtfully choreographed guest journey create a seamless connection between architecture and landscape, guiding guests through lush gardens, tranquil courtyards, and open-air pavilions overlooking Kanaloa Bay. 

The spa offers a collection of experiences that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Alfresco treatment rooms open to private gardens, while couples’ suites feature secluded lanais with soaking tubs and outdoor showers. Coed hydrothermal wellness areas—including steam rooms, saunas, cold plunges, and hot soaking pools—support restorative pre- and post-treatment rituals designed to encourage relaxation and renewal. 

A coed wellness deck provides a communal space for outdoor reflection with a vitality pool and hot tub, while a dedicated mind and body pavilion offers a tranquil setting for yoga, meditation, and guided wellness practices. 

The Spa at Mauna Kea was brought to life through a multidisciplinary partnership that united expertise across planning, architecture, design, culture, and operations. The award-winning wellness destination reflects a thoughtful integration of place, purpose, and innovation—setting a new benchmark for hospitality wellness in Hawai‘i.

Collaborators

  • AHL (Architects)
  • MADE Brands (ID)
  • Christi Cano (Spa Culture and Operational insight)

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the opening of Spa at Mauna Kea. This project reflects the passion, creativity and expertise of an outstanding team of architects, designers, wellness specialists and hospitality leaders who worked together to create a truly exceptional destination rooted in place, culture and wellbeing.

Jeanine Allpress-Cliffe, President
TLEE Spas + Wellness