An event benefitting The Kokua Restaurant & Hospitality Fund for Maui
Last weekend we experienced magic, hosting The French Laundry for two unforgettable evenings. Our hearts are full and overflowing for every guest who joined us, all in support of The Kokua Restaurant and Hospitality Fund to benefit West Maui hospitality professionals.
Guests enjoyed a nine-course meal led by Hotel Wailea Executive Chef Ryan Cruz and The French Laundry Chef de Cuisine David Breeden. Each course was paired with fine wines from Smith-Madrone, Pulido~Walker, Rivers-Marie, Dominus Estate, Massican, Schrader Cellars and Laurent-Perrier, all curated to complement and enhance the flavors of the dishes.
“We were so honored to host Chef Thomas Keller and bring the magic of The French Laundry to Maui for the very first time,” said Jonathan McManus, Founder of Hotel Wailea and Private Label Collection. “This dinner event was a culinary journey like no other, fusing together the flavors of Napa Valley and Hawaii for an unforgettable gastronomic experience that benefits our Maui ʻohana.”
We are grateful to the incredible teams at Hotel Wailea and The French Laundry, who went above and beyond in support of each other and our guests. A heartfelt mahalo to all our food and wine donors for their generous support and partnership, and to all the stunning hotels and restaurants that contributed to the silent auction.
All photos by Melia Lucida / Video by Daniel Jones
Hotel Wailea’s unique story and mesmerizing authenticity has been celebrated for decades but never has its essence been captured within the pages of an Assouline publication – until now. Bringing a bright burst of culture and modern style to coffee tables around the world, Assouline’s insightful portrayal of Hotel Wailea’s fascinating history and contemporary experiences retells interesting bits of the resort’s history while highlighting the unmatched Maui charm found in the present day. With a reputation for partnering with some of the most unique and enchanting resorts in the world, Hotel Wailea is a part of an elite lineup of destinations featured in Assouline publications. Hotels such as the Ocean Club, Four Seasons, and the Farnham Estate have been included in the brands collection of hospitality. Matching Assouline’s literary expression and renowned charm, acclaimed local journalist Malia Mattoch, craftly dives into the hotel’s backstory with intrigue and sophistication through a distinct narrative complementing the original photography decorating each page.
Recognized as one of the best hotels in Hawaii and worldwide, Hotel Wailea was named the No.1 Hawaii resort in Travel + Leisure’s 2023 World’s Best Awards. Additionally, the resort was honored through Travel & Leisure Top 500 World’s best list for several years and counting. The most celebrated lure of the property is found in the quiet seclusion, on an island known to attract crowds. Peeking through 15 acres of luscious hillside – 300 feet above sea level – Hotel Wailea embodies a private wonderland beaming with glamorous amenities, exquisite coastal views, and a proud Aloha spirit, mimicking an intimate Hawaiian village for a picture-perfect Maui escape.
Being the first luxury brand to honor culture, Assouline holds a status bred in modern flamboyancy, culturally rich stories, and enthralling narratives. Each creation ignites a special kind of magic – destined to reside on coffee tables, endlessly flipped (and reflipped) through. Every exceptional edition tells an exceptional story of history and culture thoughtfully representing each establishment – creating perfect leisurely moments to spend turning pages and dreaming of your next getaway.
We’ve put together these island ideas to help you craft your perfect stay.
DAY 1: Begin Your Stay in Island Leisure
Rise and shine with an easy stretch in one of our morning fitness classes set in our stunning open-air fitness studio. In between deep, breezy inhales and invigorating yoga poses, make sure to sneak peeks of ocean views drenched in the morning sun.
Relax in style with some Cabana Downtime. Spend a sunlit afternoon sipping cocktails and soaking up the poolside vibes.
Watch the sun dip below the horizon at The Birdcage. Enjoy culinary delights from the Japanese Grill, sushi and raw bar, perfectly crafted cocktails and mesmerizing island views.
DAY 2: First, Unwind. Then, Adventure
Start the day with authentic tastes of Maui: Enjoy a light breakfast at The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea where fresh fare and artisanal island flavors are served in an open-air space.
Leisure lovers, leave some time to indulge today. Unwind with a soothing lomi-lomi massage and other treatments in the comfort of your suite with our Paradise Retreat offering, including natural, Hawaiian-infused products.
From leisure to adventure, carry out the remainder of the day with a new and unique perspective — from the seat of a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe. Local guides provide guests with a truly authentic Hawaiian Outrigger Canoeing experience along the south Maui coast.
DAY 3: Experience Something New on the Island
Cultivate inner peace and reawaken your body with a bespoke yoga session in our open-air wellness studio. Looking for something new to try? Spice up your fitness routine (and vacation) and unleash your inner acrobat with an invigorating, private Aerial Yoga experience.
Experience an island classic—in a classic. Nostalgia takes the wheel as you tool around Maui in a replica 1957 Porsche Speedster with our Vintage Cruising experience.
Dine within a canopy of mango trees and moonlight at The Treehouse. Coveted as Maui’s best kept secret, our ultra-romantic dining experience is further elevated by intimate service, dazzling ocean views and an exquisite, seven-course, private-chef-prepared dinner. Advanced reservations are required.
DAY 4: A Day on the Shore
Find your fun in the sun! Let our valets escort you to any beach in the Wailea area, where you’ll enjoy full beach services including lounge chairs, umbrellas, bottled water, and towels. When you’re ready to bounce from leisure to adventure, paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear are also available to rent.
Catch a wave (or ten!) at Maui’s best breaks with your own private surf instructor in our Surf Safari experience.
At the end of a sun-drenched day, return to your suite for sumptuous in-suite dining. Stay in and soak up the comforts of your lanai as you’re served award-winning cuisine from The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea.
