Hawaii’s Big Island Uncovered: Our Stay at the Fairmont Orchid
As the Big Island comes into view, you realize this is Hawaii on a whole new level.
The island's size hits you first — it's over 4,000 square miles, making it larger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined.
Then, as the plane descends, you’re struck by the vibrant contrast of neon-blue waters against vast black lava fields — an introduction to an island that boasts 8 of the world’s 13 climate zones, from lush rainforests to arid deserts.
Coming straight from the buzz of Waikiki, I couldn’t wait to slow things down.
Stepping off the plane and onto the tarmac at the quaint Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, it was like we had traveled back in time.
No long corridors or crowded terminals — just a small airport that gives you instant “aloha.”
My boyfriend, Cory, and I tossed our bags into a white convertible Jeep, ready to explore the island in true Big Island style.
Driving along Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, with Jimmy Buffett’s “Volcano” playing in the background, I felt like we were on the moon.
The endless black lava fields on both sides of the road were surreal. But as we turned toward the Fairmont Orchid, the landscape began to soften — lush greenery and swaying palm trees replaced the stark lava fields, signaling that we had arrived at our Hawaiian home away from home.
The moment we walked into the Fairmont Orchid’s lobby and saw the sparkling ocean view, we knew we’d never want to leave.
There’s something about the Big Island that just clicks, and this was definitely the vibe.
Everything about our stay was spot-on. Our room had not one, but two balconies with stunning ocean views.
Mornings were spent sipping coffee, watching snorkelers search for turtles and bright-colored humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (Hawaii’s state fish) in the crystal-clear Pauoa Bay.
The resort’s private beach was the perfect spot for morning yoga, followed by refreshing Mai Tai’s at the Kahakai Bar, where both hotel guests and friendly locals from the nearby Mauna Lani community gathered.
Fairmont Orchid’s grounds are a dream to explore.
There are pathways leading to beaches covered in black and white coral, perfect for a quiet stroll or morning jog.
And if you’re looking to get your heart rate up, they even offer walk, run, and hike clubs that take you through some of the island’s most scenic spots. (Just remember to fill up your complimentary Fairmont Orchid thermos at one of the many freshwater stations before heading out.)
After a day of adventure, relaxing by the resort’s huge pool or unwinding in the hidden jacuzzi was Heaven.
It was like we had Hawaii to ourselves.
And the food? Amazing.
Brown’s Deli opens at 5am for their specialty Kona coffee, which was perfect for us mainlanders waking up extra early. For breakfast, we couldn’t resist the spread at Orchid Court’s continental buffet (especially the mini-donut wall — a sweet start to the day).
For dinner, we mixed it up.
One evening we had a laid-back meal under tiki huts at Hale Kai Restaurant, where the sand is literally under your feet.
And another night we splurged and reserved a table at Brown's Beach House, a five-star spot known for its live music, romantic sunsets, and the perfect setting for celebrating special occasions.
For dessert, we would order s’mores kits and gather around a fire pit to stargaze.
With minimal light pollution, we could see the Milky Way and constellations clearly — an unforgettable way to end each night.
As our trip came to a close and we reluctantly packed our bags, we reflected on everything the Big Island had offered us — from driving through the surreal lava fields to spotting sea turtles in Pauoa Bay.
The Fairmont Orchid wasn’t just a luxurious stay; it became our gateway to all the island's natural beauty and local charm.
We may be back on the mainland now, but our hearts? They're still on island time, already planning our next Big Island adventure.
Lindsay DeLong is the Editor-in-Chief of Laguna Beach Living and Founder of the City Living Network. A brand strategist and web designer, she specializes in building hyper-local digital publications from the ground up and coaching fellow bloggers on how to run city-specific publications in their own towns. To inquire about starting a publication in your city schedule a free discovery call HERE.
Photography by the author and Photographers in Hawaii. Rui and Marissa, a husband-and-wife team, bring fun, creativity, and brightness to every shoot. Along the way, they’ll sprinkle in fascinating Hawaii history and fun facts, making the experience both engaging and educational. I highly recommend booking them for your next Big Island adventure!