Inspired by the Kilolani, Hawaiian stargazers who used the moon to guide all aspects of daily life, the brand-new Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (HI) offers a truly out-of-this-world wellness experience that is deeply rooted in Hawaiian traditions and culture. The final element to the resort’s multi-million-dollar renovation, which also included five reimagined restaurants, new modern interiors, and upgrades to all guest rooms, the 50,000-square-foot Kilolani Spa was designed to preserve the heritage of the landmark hotel and honor local traditions. “Following the moon cycles, the spa’s programming continuously evolves in tandem with the 10-day moon period and features native botanicals, signature products hand-crafted on Maui, and holistic treatments,” says David Erlich, senior director of spa and wellness at Kilolani Spa.
The spa, which opened in February 2024, boasts 40 treatment rooms, including a mix of secluded single rooms, single rooms with direct views of the Paci c Ocean, and couples’ treatment suites, as well as a meditation lounge, a reflection lounge, halotherapy infused infrared saunas, and a hammam. What’s more, the spa features open-air Hydrothermal Gardens that include cleansing showers, a sauna, a steam room, a vitality pool, waterfall showers, and a garden. “Connecting these spaces is the co-ed hydrothermal circuit designed to welcome groups to experience wellness together,” says Erlich. “Outdoors, the saltwater pool is a soothing flotation experience, flanked by halotherapy infused infrared saunas. Kilolani Spa utilized the concept of kilolani to design open-air spaces and embrace and accentuate Hawaii’s natural beauty. The spa’s various lounges and treatment spaces, as well as its full-service salon and studio, provide a range of social and private settings for individuals, couples, and groups.”
Treatments at Kilolani Spa follow the moon cycles, so the spa’s programming is always evolving. “Spa consumers are so smart and knowledgeable these days,” says Erlich. “We find that most understand the importance of wellness as a lifestyle. With our locally sourced ingredients coming from Hawaiian agricultural partners, we curated our signature rituals. Those are typically booked consistently along with massage.” The Helu Pō Ritual ($489, 2 hours), ʻAwa Relaxation Ritual ($465, 2 hours), and Ho’omālie Ritual ($465, 2 hours) each incorporate classic Hawaiian techniques, inspiration, and products to provide the guest with a holistic healing experience tied to the spa’s location.
For example, the Helu Pō Ritual, which is aligned to a specific anahulu, or 10-day period, of the lunar cycle, highlights native botanical remedies, intuitive bodywork, and a mindfulness practice for holistic healing and wellness. The ʻAwa Relaxation Ritual features an application of ground ‘awa root and Maui lavender polished over the body with coconut oil and warm lava stones; rich volcanic clay and an herbal-infused wrap to detoxify and balance the system; and a soothing massage with local botanical balm for deep relaxation. Meanwhile, the Ho’omālie Ritual incorporates rhythmic lomilomi techniques to encourage deep relaxation and release tension with the help of cocoa butter and native botanical essences to leave skin soft and nourished, while a warm pōhaku stone foot treatment and hydrating coconut scalp massage provide head-to-toe rejuvenation.
In addition to a wide range of face, body, and nailcare services, the spa debuted an innovative type of sound healing, which includes a blend of harmonic sound therapy with oli, Hawaiian chants for wisdom, wellbeing, and preservation. Spearheaded by Kalei Uwekoolani, Grand Wailea’s cultural programming manager, this experience is designed to clear negative energy and improve overall wellbeing. Kilolani Spa also provides its guests with a variety of approaches to fitness and wellness ranging from fitness equipment from Peloton and Technogym to mind-body and movement classes, such as beach yoga and group cycling. A biostation features anti-aging and wellness services with the goal of redefining preventative healthcare.
To attract hotel guests to the spa, Grand Wailea created the Kilolani Discovery package, which is available for a limited time. This immersive resort and spa package includes three of the signature treatments available at the property, the Helu Pō Experience, a 60-minute massage treatment, and sound healing, as well as access to all of Kilolani Spa’s amenities. “The booking package is an ideal introduction to the space and our offerings, that guests are able to build off of for their own unique experiences,” says Erlich. “Guests of the resort are also welcome to purchase a day pass to access the Kilolani Spa amenities without booking a treatment.” Because the spa is open to non-hotel guests as well, it is launching a membership program available to the local community, which will provide visitors with complimentary access to the spa, discounted treatments, discounted access to the biostation, and more, according to Erlich. In addition, locals and hotel guests alike are sure to enjoy browsing the spa’s retail area, which features a selection of locally made items, including Kilolani’s signature Lokelani Essentials oils, as well as a curation of crystals aligned to the Hawaiian moon cycle, robes, locally crafted jewelry, and so much more.
According to Erlich, Kilolani Spa’s plans for the future include adding new treatments to the menu of services and offerings, as well as the addition of cutting-edge technology and products. It also plans to continue its recruitment efforts to deal with staffing challenges and ensure that all of its staff are properly trained. “We have spent a lot of time and money on sourcing and hiring the appropriate mix of providers for all positions,” says Erlich. “We also committed to additional training hours and sessions with multiple partners to provide the team with an inspirational injection of knowledge and passion for our new offerings. We still need many additional team members and we continue to focus efforts on recruitment. Staffing is a serious consideration for everyone on Maui, and Kilolani Spa is becoming part of the solution.”
