The spirit of Ohana (family) abounds in this wonderland. The resort is perched on the sandy shore of a pristine lagoon—one of four lagoons along a most beautiful and gentile coastline —just 20 minutes northwest of Honolulu on the island of Oahu.
The real magic is behind the glass doors of the Laniwai Spa. The Hawaiian translation of Laniwai is freshwater heaven. And every aspect of this Spa indeed pays homage to name—from the unique water features, to the signature treatments, and the lush gardens, the warm pools—this environment welcomes guests to enjoy a momentary glimpse into the aloha spirit of the true Hawaii.
My Journey Begins
Arriving in the afternoon I was greeted by a Spa Hostess, and the lovely scent of hibiscus transported me to a dreamy place I call Spa Heaven. I was asked to select a Pohaku Makamae, a wishing stone, from a bowl with various messages etched atop, and escorted down the O’Hia—a Transformation Corridor. This is the hub of the spa with four hallways all converging together and a large pool with a wall of water providing the soft sounds of relaxation. As I made a wish, I tossed my happiness stone, hau’oli, into the pool, beckoning the start of my journey.
A welcoming Attendant escorted me on a well-paced tour of the Spa. All of the predictable were here, from wet steam-room, to dry sauna, locker rooms, showers, relaxation waiting rooms for the women/men and a co-ed waiting area for couples as well. The Salon was dramatic in size and color palette and made me want to sit down and have an up-do, as I peered inside the space.
A Connection with Nature
The real pulse of this retreat is shockingly found outside where you are hidden from the grounds and the sounds from outside. It is the perfect refuge. Lush island-infused flowers, greenery and trees create a perfect backdrop to the clusters of chaise lounges and large circular warm soaking pools with a dusting of Seaweed or Eucalyptus scents. I sunk myself slowly into the Eucalyptus pool with my toes peering toward the sky. The area is expansive with surprises at every turn. I tip-toed across pebbles offering an instant reflexology respite, and danced in the Rain Shower Circle with six different streams and jets, creatively started by stepping on the tiled floor. I was so looking forward to my treatment, however I found myself not really wanting to leave this heavenly playful garden retreat. Next time I will curl up with a good book and bask in this glory for hours!
As we returned to the relaxation room, we paused at a Pulu Bar to create a custom scent for a scrub mixture for use during my visit, or to it could be packaged for later use in my guestroom. The fragrances are so authentic. I selected a hibiscus fragrance, while the other choices included: pineapple, mango, plumeria, orchid and maile (greenery that is believed to protect the wearer). For the men, the scents are different. Of course they are!
The list of Laniwai’s Spa Treatments are seemingly endless—from soaks, to scrubs, massages, signature treatments, facials and skin enhancements. But my day was all about water, and I could not resist the Kilikili, fine gentle rain, treatment. The journey began in an expansive wet room. Chuck, the lead therapist at Laniwai Spa, first applied a delicious hibiscus scrub, and the gentle flow of warm water covered me completely up and down. Using coconut oil under streaming jets of warm water, a deep-tissue Lomilomi Hawaiian massage ensued.
Lomilomi means to soften or tenderize, using rhythmic movements in series of three, to replicate the wave-pattern of the ocean. I floated in and out of a dreamy state of relaxation, and his firm hands soothed the tight muscles in my neck & back. The finishing was a signature body butter to nourish my skin. My arms and legs were aglow. After my shower I was presented with a selection of three teas to enjoy while drying my hair and getting dressed. It was such a nice touch. The staff is very attuned to the guests and are helpful, however not ever-present.
As my journey concluded, and I was about to re-enter the real world, I was gifted a beautiful fabric packet of bath salts with the word Hau’oli, happiness, on the label. I had come full-circle in my journey, and I was lighter than air as I made my way back to the resort’s plethora of fun.
Despite the large numbers of tourists however, there are areas on the lake
where things are quiet and serene. One area of planning comes settling
for a reservation for your entourage. ll encounter stunning castles, forts
and relics that date back to the days of the crusades.