The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas celebrated its opening with a traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony; pictured, from left, are Makalapua Kanuha, complex director of culture, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas; Ron Hensel, regional project director, Vistana Signature Experiences; Chris Rabang, general manager, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas; Angela Nolan, area managing director, Hawaii Villas, Vistana Signature Experiences; and Bruce McNish, vice president of operations, Vistana Signature Experiences.

KAANAPALI – Vistana Signature Experiences, developer of Sheraton Vacation Club and Westin Vacation Club resorts, recently opened The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas.

Situated on 16 acres of North Kaanapali Beach, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas recently held a traditional Hawaiian blessing. Kahu Kapono’ai Molitau led the blessing ceremony, which included a maile lei untying, symbolic in Hawaiian culture for opening a space.

The resort’s first guests arrived on April 15.

“Maui is one of the world’s most desirable destinations, and we are excited to open our doors to this extraordinary resort,” said Steve Williams, chief operating officer, Vistana Signature Experiences. “The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas is a truly unique resort that combines Hawaii’s rich heritage with the aloha spirit for which the islands are known.”

Comprised of one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas is designed to be a relaxing haven replete with culturally inspired programs and distinctive Hawaiian experiences. Under the careful guidance of the resort’s cultural director, Makalapua Kanuha, the essence of Hawaii has been carefully woven into design elements throughout the property. Additionally, the Pu’uhonua o Nanea Cultural Center will be at the resort’s heart. Its innovative and educational cultural offerings will honor local history, language, art, crafts, music and dance.

“In the Hawaiian language, nanea means to be in a state of relaxation,” said Chris Rabang, general manager. “We are thrilled to begin welcoming guests and are looking forward to helping them embrace our resort’s namesake through meaningful experiences and signature Westin features.”

Amenities include an expansive lagoon-style swimming pool, children’s beach pool and play area, oceanfront cabanas, WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, Mauka Makai restaurant, and Inu Pool Bar. Guests also enjoy access to resort amenities at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas located next door, including Spa Helani, a Heavenly Spa by Westin.

Each of the villas at The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas offers many of the key amenities of home, combined with signature Westin touches. The master bedrooms include king-size signature Westin Heavenly Beds and Westin Heavenly Baths with showers, bathtubs and vanities. The living areas offer armoires, queen-size sofa sleepers and private furnished lanais. Villas also come with fully equipped kitchens and washers and dryers.

For more information, or to make a reservation, visit westinnanea.com.