New Maui spa is ready to pamper

The new spa at Kapalua Resort on Maui is ... well, the word enormous comes to mind.

The Kapalua Spa, which was scheduled to open yesterday, covers 30,000 square feet, has 19 treatment rooms (including 10 outdoor hale) three private stone soaking tubs and dual treatment space for couples.

It has the expected spa features—sauna, steam room and whirlpool—but also cold-rain showers and a saline lap pool. There are fitness facilities with a cardio, strength and full-range-of-motion Kinesis Circuit System. Other pampering features include his and hers relaxation lounges, a juice bar and a spa boutique.

For more information, see kapalua.com or call 1-866-941-KSPA, ext. 5772.

Wailea resort gets a new name

The Diamond Wailea Resort & Spa is no more. It's now called Hotel Wailea Maui and its 72 suites are being updated.

Originally an exclusive club for affluent Japanese visitors looking for privacy, the upgrades include refurbishing of bathrooms and lighting. Each 900-square-foot suite has two 32-inch flat-screen TVs (in the living rooms and bedrooms), new sofas, artwork, cordless telephones and i-Home clocks.

The hotel was acquired by Black Diamond Hospitality in May 2008 and is managed by Aqua Hotels & Resorts. For reservations, call 1-800-800-0720 or see hotelwailea.com.

Hotel lures kamaaina with low rates

You say Auntie is coming in from Kauai and space at your house is tight? No worries. This year kamaaina can vacation on the cheap through Dec. 21, thanks to Ala Moana Hotel's new low rates. Room prices start at $99 in the Kona Tower and $129 in the Waikiki Tower, with suites starting at $229.

A Hawaii ID must be presented at check-in. For more information, call 1-808-955-4811, toll-free at 1-800-446-8990 or visit alamoanahotel.com.