Welcome to your second island escape, a fantastic diversion from Los Angeles with a direct route and final destination on the majestic island of Maui. Get ready for a vacation suited for royalty for legend maintains that the demigod, Maui, magically withdrew the islands of Hawaii up from the ocean to create the tropical paradise it is today. Still covered by sugar-cane fields and native flora, the sweet smell of Maui’s blossoming vegetation lingers everywhere. The relaxed and friendly environment seethes into every place, and overflows inside the Fairmont Kea Lani Resort.

Just a short distance from the airport, but far enough away to feel a bit of seclusion, the Kea Lani is an oasis in a magnificent leisure land. It’s saturated with palm trees, deep blue water, white sand beaches, adventure activities and smiling faces.

Among the picturesque beaches, the palm trees and the umbrella-decorated Mai Tai’s, lies a luxurious and breathtaking island resort many of Hollywood’s most famous stars visit throughout the year. The open-aired palatial entrance resembles a Moroccan castle, which overlooks the largest of three pools as it trails off into the white silken sands of the resort’s private Polo Beach. With views of the bordering islands of Kahoolawe and Lanai from the shore and terraced lounge areas, it’s an ideal getaway complete with activities for everyone.

Spending a relaxing day at the beach with a fruity cocktail, is naturally, one of the many pleasures to be enjoyed on this island escape. However, if you get in the mood for water sports, the resort’s Hawaiian cultural canoe experience is an unforgettable adventure. You may just feel as if you were one of the first settlers on Maui as you paddle along to the native chants sung by your canoe guide. Plus, you will learn important paddling techniques and hear the amazing story of conquests and struggles met by native Hawaiians and Polynesians.

But don’t let the adventure stop there. For those who have always wanted to try scuba diving, the resort offers the perfect opportunity, as an experienced staff member instructs first-timers on basic scuba techniques in a safe and guided environment. However, if you’re a bit more timid, just plan to enjoy a lesson in Koi fish-feeding, Ukulele lessons or coconut frond weaving.   

At some point on your vacation, you must devote a relaxing day to spend lounging on a white chaise lounge next to one of the resort’s spectacular pools. If you want some privacy, send the kids to the main pool with the waterslide, and enjoy the adults-only Olympic size pool just around the bend. Stroll along the grounds, and opt to take a private picnic basket to your destination of choice, provided by Caffe Ciao Bakery and Deli.

Those who prefer a day on the golf course can tee-up at one of the three championship courses of the Wailea Golf Club, just minutes from the resort. Or, if shopping is more appealing to you, jump aboard the resort’s shuttle that will take you straight to the exclusive ‘Shops at Wailea’ located just ten minutes away.  

And, what would a vacation be without a top-quality, awe-inspiring spa treatment (especially after a day of golf or shopping?). Not to worry, the Spa Kea Lani will not disappoint. Contending with the best spas around the world, your spa experience aims to rejuvenate you like never before. With exotic Hawaiian techniques of traditional massages, facials, hydrotherapy and romantic treatments for couples, the therapists at the spa do their best to transform your stress into blissful peace. One of the spa’s newest star additions to their relaxation menu is the ‘Ka Hina Ui’ facial. During the facial, therapists use only local Hawaiian products, including honey for cleansing and volcanic clay masks, to provide a deep cleansing treatment. 

Yet another masterful resort achievement is the outstanding cuisine offered at the four restaurants located on site. One not to miss is Nick’s Fishmarket, one of Hawaii’s premier seafood restaurants. Aside from the impeccable service, the award-winning cuisine surpasses many guests’ expectations. Choose from the fresh local fish, live Kona lobster, steak or pasta. You cannot go wrong, especially when there’s a magnificent 2000-bottle collection of wines to accompany every meal! But, be certain to save room for desert, because the after dinner excitement is all in the Cherries Jubilee. Truly, your waiter will amaze you as he pours a flaming liqueur from a decanter hovering high above the table onto your cherry delight.

Whatever it is you are looking for in a vacation, you will find it here. The Kea Lani is more than just a remarkable resort, it is a reprieve from real life. It doesn’t matter when you visit Maui, for year-round it offers the same gorgeous panoramas and activities galore. Just brush up on your “alohas” and “mahalos” and get ready to witness  memorable sunsets from a place where your indulgence is the Kea Lani’s priority.  (The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, 808-875-4100, www.fairmont.com/kealani).