Depending on the length of your stay, you might want to split your stay on both the Kona side (west side) and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. Fairmont Orchid Resort is the best luxury hotel on the west side of the island and here you will be able to enjoy one of the best beaches on Big Island. Puna - Best Place to Stay on The Big Island on a Budget 3. Now we have come to the end of our Big Island Hawaii tour. The two best areas to stay on the Big Island are near Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa. If youre hungry, head over to the onsite restaurant for locally sourced Hawaiian fare. Im sure you will have a great time here! I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Hilo. You can float the day away in the saltwater pool, stargaze from the hot tub, or grill up freshly caught fish on the barbecue. Theres a shop with ocean sports rentals if you want to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay. Instead, buy an eSIM! The main airport is located on Kona side and all up the coast there are different pockets of accommodations, restaurants and beaches near Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa. This spectacular Hawaiian island oasis is home to all but four of the worlds climates, which means there is a tonne of ground to cover when deciding where to stay on The Big Island. After spending time snorkeling and chilling on the powdery sand of Kona, discover the historical sites and beautiful landscapes at the historic Kaloko-Honokhau National Park. The best way to learn about that history is with a visit to the South Gate Civic Center Museum. Located on the east coast Waikoloa Town offers the best hotels for families. 12 Stunning Airbnbs in Hilo, Hawaii. and wellness spa on the north Kohala coast. The Inn sits on twenty two acres of lush land, surrounding Hawaiis largest privately accessible waterfall. You can also hop on the complimentary shuttle, which can take you to nearby shops, restaurants, and championship golf courses. At the end of an adventure-filled day, youll love unwinding in the modern rooms. So, if you are a budget traveler there is no better place than Hilo! This stellar retreat is nestled in a rainforest just blocks from downtown Hilo. Thanks for reading! Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop! If its your first time on The Big Island and you need a bed pronto the My Hawaii Hostel is just the ticket! One look and its impossible not to fall in love with the B&Bs five luxurious rooms. They offer elegant accommodations in harmony with nature. All rooms, suites, and villas boast ocean views, granite-tiled ensuites with separate soaking tubs, and private lanais. Dont worry, high rollers Hawaii Island has plenty of options for you too. Pack a picnic and explore the unusual formations created by volcanic activity in the Lava Tree State Monument. Kona is probably the most well-rounded region with family-friendly hotels, backpackers hostels, and resorts plus restaurants and activities to suit everyone. You will enter this unique home by a stone bridge over the koi pond before enjoying a beautiful pool, ocean views from the lanai, and laid back Hawaii living. This inventive home is essentially a glass box in the middle of the jungle. Kohala - the best beaches and couple friendly resorts 4. Planning a trip to Big Island, Hawaii? (843)722-7229. Guests will enjoy resort amenities including cable TV, a DVD player, safe, sofa, and kitchenette. So weve created a list of the 12 best hotels on the Big Island to help you plan your perfect getaway! 8.9 Excellent 229 reviews. If you are thinking of jumping onto one of the other Hawaiian Islands after this vacation in Hilo, I recommend you check out the best areas and hotels in Maui. Find out! There is a huge problem with housing affordability and availability throughout the islands which is mainly due to neighborhoods being bought out by foreign buyers leaving completely empty neighborhoods and rising housing costs. Because it is so large, with so much to take in, it can be daunting to find where to stay on the Big Island. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. document.getElementById("ak_js_2").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); document.getElementById("ak_js_3").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Great for a range of different types of travelers, you will find romantic bungalows amongst the trees or perhaps even a unique, post-apocalyptic style hostel perched atop a cold lava flow! Kohala Suites 11. The Sea Mountain is a great hotel or more like apartments rental that has all you need for a medium to long stay on the Big Island and in the same area of the Big Island. Keauhou supplies several top alternatives for luxury seekers, and some resorts rest on sandy beaches. Wildlife enthusiasts will definitely want to embark on a tour to spot humpback whales and go snorkeling with manta rays. Whether you go for a single or mixed gender dorm or splash out on a private room, hanging out in the communal lounge area will have you making friends and heading out in no time. While all of the rooms are nice, its well worth splurging on a room on the exclusive Gold Floor. Hilton Waikoloa Village 6. My 9 things: John Legend's favorite places during a stay in Washington, D.C. My 9 Things: Questlove's top travel tips. to explore and experience from lush jungles and waterfalls, to dry desert land and beaches, to vast expanses of lava rock. Upper Upscale Class. Not only is Hilo home to some of the best hotels on the Big Island but youll have easy access to Mauna Kea, Rainbow Falls, and the famous Hilo Farmers Market. They say two nights just isnt long enough at this special log cabin that is located at the top (yes, the top) of Kilauea Volcano! If you prefer to feel like youre staying in a home away from home, I wanted to make sure to mention the Airbnb and VRBO accommodations on the island. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. True to its name, the Big Island is massive, so its best to choose where you want to stay based on what you plan to see and do during your trip. One of the coolest things about this hotel is that its located right on a picture-perfect bay. This is the hotel for luxury seekers who appreciate a hotel with history. Kau is the true adventurers paradise as it is the most remote region on the island. Punaluu. in paradise. The west and north sides of the island is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of beaches Ive ever laid eyes on. Venturing around the island, youll find lush rainforests, peculiar lava trees, golf courses, volcanoes, and sun-soaked beaches. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. The Big Island is the largest island in the USA and among the Hawaiian Islands. Four Seasons Resort is located on the west side of the island in Kona and is one of the best luxurious resorts to stay on the Big Island. Her travel passion led her to step into over 40 countries and 200 cities. FUN FACT: I have lived in New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Kentucky, and South Carolina, in both big cities and small towns. They have a gorgeous community area for bonfires and BBQs. After visiting the breathtaking black sand of Kaimu beach, enjoy some vivacious live music and food at Uncle Roberts. Such a special and unique place to stay when visiting! "The Halekulani provides a unique 5-star experience in a traditional Hawaiian location that for the most part has gone mid-range in recent years." Visit hotel website 2022 5. We still get rain, especially up on the mountain (up mauka), but youll find a more arid landscape on this side of the Big Island. These are, in my humble opinion, some of my favorite places to stay on the Big Island of Hawaii. to explore and experience on the Big Island. Rent a single home or all three for large gatherings! This is a great place to teach the kids about nature and the islands diverse landscape. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. At check-in, youll be greeted with welcome gifts and leis, while fresh Mauna Kea banana bread and papayas will be waiting for you in your beautiful room or suite. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. When it comes to wining and dining youll have a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from. Caffeine addicts will want to visit at least a few coffee farms in the world-famous Kona region! And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Hilo, check out our comprehensive neighborhood guide! Can't resist a colourful shirt, and ideally one with zero buttons. For more affordable, budget-friendly resorts, consider going to Kohala or Waikoloa. Do you see why this town is perfect for first-timers? If you like outdoor activities, Hilo also has the best hiking trails with scenic cliff views. There are loads of kids activities on offer here, as well as numerous tennis courts and an on-site pool! The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is one of the best hotels on the Big Island if youre looking for an ultra-luxurious Hawaiian getaway. You could easily spend your whole vacation here because it truly offers something for everyone regardless of budget or age! The Palms Cliff House Inn is a Victorian-style bed and breakfast situated atop a lush oceanside property. Plus, the attentive staff will treat you like royalty! Luxury Class. What's the best place to stay on Big Island: Hilo, Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa? Overlooking the 18th green, the upscale steakhouse serves up some seriously good surf and turf, including oysters raised at the hotel! Youll be greeted with a glass of refreshing tropical juice and a cold towel. If budget isnt as much of a concern, there are some incredible options of accommodations available including upscale luxury resorts. Hotels are aplenty here, so youll have no shortage of great options to choose from when deciding where to take the kids! Maui's 5 Best Areas to Stay in. Enjoy a soak in the hot pools at Isaac Hales Beach Park one of the islands most notable black sand beaches. Step inside your newly renovated room and youll find the hotels signature Heavenly beds, spacious workstations and sitting areas, and private lanais with chaise lounges. This unforgettably unique bamboo cabin is the perfect place to stay on the Big Island for couples looking for a little romance combined with adventure! This area of the island is why its sometimes referred to as the Golf Capital of Hawaii because its home to one of the richest Big Island neighbourhoods where youll find world-renowned golf courses surrounded by five-star resorts and sunny beaches that are straight out of a postcard. Do a trail ride on horseback through the Kohala mountains. also overlooks the beach on the Kohala Coast. These areas are more populated with locals but can be a great way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in life here. If youre up for shared accommodations, you can stay in this stunning, multiple-unit open air home in your own private room just 10 minutes to the beach and downtown. Hire some snorkeling gear and explore the coral reefs off Kealakekua Bay. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is one of the the original "Rock Resorts" founded by Laurance Rockefeller in the mid-1960s. You can fuel up for the day at Big Island Breakfast, snack on light bites in the afternoon at Lagoon Grill, and get your caffeine fix at Waikoloa Coffee. From Kona International Airport, head north for just 20 minutes and youll be right on the edge of the Kohala region. The resort also happens to boast some of the best restaurants in the area. Coffee lovers can enjoy a tasting of iconic Kona coffee. Want a glimmer of paradise in your inbox? The island of Hawaii is a land of diversity and choices, and that includes the island's accommodations. Best affordable accommodation in the center. If you feel like shopping, head to the main street of Kona, Alii Drive to check out some cool boutiques and have a beer in one of the many local bars. If you want a traditional vacation of staying at a resort, going out to eat, etc. I also would like to remind you of the importance of making a reservation in advance as the Big Island is a very popular and expensive travel destination. 17 Super Awesome Airbnbs to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii, 5 Amazing Islands & Best Hotels in Hawaii, Find Your Perfect Rental In These 14 Los Cabos Airbnbs, Your Ultimate Guide for Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta, The Best 5 Neighborhoods with Great Hotels in Santa Ba, Visit the historic Kaloko-Honokhau National Park, Swim in the crystal clear water at white sand beaches like Kamakahonu Beach, Two Step, and Kua Bay. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options. Travel around the island and youll find all sorts of opportunities to hike to cascading waterfalls, snorkel with sea turtles, and take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Or maybe "glamping" in a well-appointed cabin tent is more your style. Kohala coast has the best spots for snorkeling on the Big Island. Thanks to its gorgeous white sand beaches, historic landmarks, trendy bars, and restaurants, Kailua-Kona Coast is the best place to stay on the Big Island for the first-timers. The resort was given a $200 million makeover and reopened its doors in 2020 so expect everything to be new and top of the line. The Big Island aint called that for nothing! The mini-fridges, coffee makers, and bathrobes are much-appreciated extra touches. Start discovering Waikoloa Village by going to Kings Shops Farmers Market. Volcano Village Lodge is another great option if you plan on spending a lot of time exploring the amazing Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Luxury price tag but incredible property. In 1888, America's wealthiest families opened the most exclusive resort in the world - Jekyll Island, Georgia. Kona / Kailua-Kona - the best place to stay for the first time 2. A beautiful, tucked away eco-boutique hotel and wellness spa on the north Kohala coast. All rooms have a private lanai so its well worth booking a room with an ocean view! If youre still not sure where to stay in Hawaii, your best option is the Holua Resort because of its central location and ultimate Hawaiian experience! A historic ranch on the Big Island of Hawaii offering 4 beautifully restored plantation era cottages. Ali'i Kai, Holualoa, White Sands, and Kuakini Heights are nearby neighborhoods where you can find Kona Airbnbs and VRBO houses. Aloha, and welcome to your ultimate couples getaway at the undeniably luxurious Four Seasons. This two-story wooden bungalow only has six rooms, so expect to feel right at home during your stay. The spacious 2-bedroom suites are an ideal option for families who want more privacy than a traditional hotel room gives. This newly renovated property is a great choice if you are staying over in Hilo. The beach at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has very few Big Island rivals. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. Courtyard by Marriott - Charleston Waterfront. Let the tropical vibe load! I recommend staying 1 week in Big Island to explore the islands best beaches, national parks, and the volcano. The volcanic island offers some of the state's cheapest accommodation, making it our pick for one of the best places to stay in Hawaii on a budget. Imagine yourself having a Hawaiian cocktail under the palm trees watching the surreal color of the ocean. As Ive already mentioned, Kailua-Kona is the best place to stay for first-timers but I highly recommend renting a carto discover different coasts of the island and take day trips to the volcano, the rainforest as well as some black sand lava beaches. .path-1{fill:#333;}.path-2{fill:#fff;} Filled with over 100 of our all-time favorite island stays, restaurants, cafes, beaches, places to shop & tips for traveling this beautiful, big island this is the only guide youll need to get off the beaten path and ENJOY your time. You can even rent snorkels from the front desk if you want to check out all of the colorful fish swimming right offshore. If you want to stay at one of the islands best oceanfront resorts, Waikoloa and the Kohola Coast are both amazing places to base yourself. We list the most popular unique places to stay in hawaii! Kona Best Place to Stay on The Big Island For Your First Time, 2. Hilo is more historic and feels less touristy than the Kona side. Plus, kids will be endlessly entertained by the PlayStations in each room! Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. at the foot of the worlds most active volcano. Thats why here you will be able to find accommodations for a relatively cheaper price. Check out our favorite books and travel guides! There are plenty of reasons visitors flock to Mauna Lani year after year. Kohala Coast is located in the northwestern part of the island just above Kona and is known for its white-sand beaches and resorts in nature. This incredible third-floor condominium rental has everything you could possibly need to make your Kona stay unforgettable. Prices & Photos. For a culture fix, you can attend an authentic luau or learn about local traditions at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Park. Just a short drive outside of Hilo proper, this private Big Island vacation rental boasts ocean views, a secure, gated pool and a furo tub. Images courtesy of Airbnb. We do not represent World Nomads. Featuring a well-appointed spa, shops, and a golf course, the resort boasts stunning guest rooms dotted along the perimeter of the beach and golf course. The fireplaces, mini-fridges, and coffee makers are handy extra touches. Of course, the best place for you to base yourself in Hawaii depends on what you want out of your trip! If thats not enough, the entire 138-room hotel was recently given a full renovation so everything is brand new. See the Mokuaikaua Church and the historic landmark, Take a pint at the Kona Brewery and Puband taste the islands local beers, Go for a walk at the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, Check out the shops and restaurants at Alii Drive street, Go surfing or snorkelingat the white sand beach, Kahaluu, Discover the white-sand beaches of Coconut Island in Hilo, Go for a stroll at Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, Go snorkeling at Lapakahi State Historical Park, Spend time at the Big Islands largest white sand beach, Hapuna Beach, Swim in the crystal clear water at Spencer Beach Park in Kohala, Check out the Big Islands stunning view from Polol Valley, Explore the islands incredible lava fields at, Visit theLava Tree State Park and Volcano Village, Take impressive photos at Kehena Black Sand Beach, Try delicious nuts at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, Go for a walk at MacKenzie State Recreation Area, See many kinds of beautiful trees at Waikloa Dry Forest Initiative, Go shopping at Kings Shops Farmers Market, Take a day trip to the beautiful Hamakua Coast, Make sandcastles and swim in the crystal clear water at Waikloa Beach. Anaehoomalu (A-Bay)! Photographer, marketing strategist and environmental advocate focused on sharing more regenerative, sustainable concepts for our lives and businesses. Staying in Puna will let you spend your hard-earned cash on experiences (or a few keepsakes from the farmers market) instead of a ritzy hotel. When youre not adventuring around town, youll love lounging around the tropical hotel. Located on the western side of the island, this sprawling 825-acre resort has so many cool amenities you wont have to leave the hotel if you dont want to. Dont forget to grab a bike or snorkel gear from the front desk before you start your adventure! Waikoloa Village is also popular for its golf clubs so if you want to have some adult time while playing a round, you are in the right place! Here are the best of the best hotels in Kohala that I carefully picked for you. This hotel offers 2 swimming pools with incredible ocean views and spacious rooms with quality products, This hotel offers affordable family-friendly accommodation on the west coast with comfortable rooms with a nice garden, Located right on the bay this Airbnb features deluxe rooms, private beach access, and a lush swimming pool. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. The city is the largest on the Big Island, but remains a true Hawaiian community through and through with small eateries, gorgeous . After a long day, youll love relaxing in the luxurious rooms. When staying on the Big Island, for those who are budget conscious, we recommend staying in a small inn or vacation rental. Do a little research to make sure the owner is legitimate or stay at an eco-friendly hotel instead. Soak up the history in Kailua Village on a self-guided walking tour of the sights dating back to the 1800s! But dont miss out on a special dinner at Hualalai Grill. Perched on a hilltop location on the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay at Larnach Castle makes it easier to look down your nose at the peasants of the nearby Dunedin. Failed rock star turned failing writer. Puna. Holualoa Inn 5. Forest A-Frame Home is one of our favourites in Big Island but theyre not taking guests right now. The Big Island is divided into two primary areas: the Kona side and the Hilo side. Its the best location for enjoying the local sights of Pahoa or heading out on a day trip to Lava Tree State Monument. Youre connected. Be sure to have at least one family dinner at Nui Italian, which serves up classic Italian fare with a Hawaiian twist. #1 Lahaina - Where to Stay in Maui for Your First Time. Or if youre looking for something more active you can go surfing or kayaking with the hotels residential experts, go golfing at the PGA-designated golf course, or participate in fun activities at the cultural center. Explore the 32-acre property and youll come across ancient Kalahuipuaa fishponds and historic petroglyphs. There are several unique places to stay in Hilo, Hawaii. Puna is located on the east coast of Big Island right opposite Kona and offers incredible landscapes and scenic views. Its just that easy. Youll love relaxing in the contemporary rooms. Youve paid the big bucks for your luxury accommodation, why not spend a little time in your resort or villa checking out all it has to offer. I also highly recommend you to rent a carin advance too, to get around easily on the Big Island of Hawaii and see all those incredible day trips! Hawaii's Big Island towns and resorts each carry their perks for enjoying the variety of features and views of the largest island in the Hawaiian chain. As I mentioned, there is so much to explore and experience on the Big Island. Kaanapali Beach Hotel is a modern three-star hotel and a great option for where to stay in Maui with kids. These listings and availability can change often but I try to keep this list updated! Confusing, right? You can fuel up with Kona coffee and a hearty breakfast at Halani, grab lunch poolside at Surf Shack, and sip some seriously good Mai Tais at HBar. Second-longest-serving member of team Broke Backpacker. Some of the best hotels in Kailua-Kona are Four Seasons Resort and Big Island Retreat; however Hilo is better for budget travelers. This heavy timber built villa is one of the most luxurious places to stay on the Big Island, and everything you could ever need for your high-end family vacation. Its quieter than staying right in the heart of town and there are incredible views from. Volcano. One of the most common things people wonder is which side of the Big Island is best to stay on? Moderately priced and suitable for a family or group of four, the cosy Crater Rim Cabin comes with a fully stocked and functional kitchen and is surrounded by lush gardens and forestry. If youre up for shared accommodations, you can stay in this stunning. Kau. .path-1{fill:#333;}.path-2{fill:#fff;} Fairmont Orchid Resort with its stunning white sand beaches and 32 acres of coastline on the west coast is incredible! So youre going to Hawaiiyou lucky thing! Wake up in the mornings to a lavish gourmet breakfast prepared with estate-grown ingredients and served with award-winning estate-grown Kona coffee! You can shop for supplies and whip up gourmet meals in the fully outfitted kitchen, get cozy and have a movie night in the modern living room, or pour a glass of wine and watch the sunset from your private lanai. Be sure to have at least one family dinner at Nui Italian, which serves up classic Italian fare with a Hawaiian twist. Your email address will not be published. On the Kailua-Kona Coast, you will be able to find more than enough accommodations from luxurious resorts to budget hotels. residing along the beautiful Kohala Coast where all of the most beautiful, big beaches are located. Visit the fascinating town of Karapana that was partially covered by lava flows in 1990. You can also pull up a lounge chair and soak up the sun on the hotels manmade beach. While the hotel doesnt have your average amenities, the beachfront location more than makes up for it. Here another impressive landmark you shouldnt miss is the Waikloa Dry Forest Initiative. Check out the real life Hawaiian cowboys in Waimea town, where you can even see a rodeo! The only tropical zoo in the United States the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is located right in Hilo and is one of the most family-friendly things to do on The Big Island. After youve had your fill, explore the 30-acre property, where youll find lushly landscaped gardens, a lovely pool and hot tub, and a rooftop gazebo with endless views of the Pacific Ocean. You can relax and unwind on 50 acres of sacred land covered in gardens, wild groves, and ancient valley trails. If exploring Hawaii National Volcanoes Park is on your to-do list, SCP Hilo Hotel is a great place to base yourself. On the eastern side of the island is Hilo rainier than the west, Hilo is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and, you have the convenience of a vibrant town situated amongst waterfalls and flowering gardens. Hilo offers the best of both worlds, boasting an exciting town centre, miles of beautiful landscapes, and heaps of fun activities to take part in. Puna - the best town to see volcanoes and black sand beaches 5. Whether youre a resort-style traveller with kids or a chilled couple wanting a little peace and quiet, youre bound to find the perfect place to stay.