When planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, choosing suitable accommodations can significantly enhance your experience. This diverse island offers various lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Big Island has it all, whether you prefer luxurious beachfront resorts, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, or budget-friendly hotels. Opt to stay in vibrant Kailua-Kona for its bustling social scene or retreat to Hilo’s lush, tranquil surroundings. Each island region presents unique attractions and activities, making your choice of where to stay an integral part of your Hawaiian adventure. Explore our detailed guide to discover the best places to stay on the Big Island, ensuring your visit is memorable and comfortable.
Flying into the Big Island
When flying into the Big Island, you have two main options: Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east. Kona International Airport is a popular choice for travelers in the Kailua-Kona area, known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
In contrast, Hilo International Airport is ideal for those wishing to explore Hilo’s lush, green landscapes and tranquil environment. Both airports offer a range of facilities and services to make your arrival smooth and welcoming. Be sure to check flight availability and consider your accommodation location when booking your flight to maximize your travel convenience.
Renting a Car on the Big Island
Renting a car on the Big Island is essential for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes and attractions. The island’s expansive size and varied terrain make personal transportation highly convenient, providing flexibility and freedom to design your itinerary.
Numerous rental car agencies can be found at both Kona International Airport and Hilo International Airport, offering various vehicle options to suit your needs, from compact cars to SUVs. While driving, visitors can traverse the scenic Saddle Road, visit the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, and venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems.
Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure competitive rates. Having your vehicle will make your stay on the Big Island more comfortable, allowing you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty and rich culture fully.
A Quick Look at the Best Hotels on the Big Island
Regarding accommodations, the Kona area on the Big Island boasts some of the best hotels that cater to various tastes and budgets. Here are a few top picks:
Kona Area:
Royal Kona Resort
Royal Kona Resort is located right on the oceanfront and offers stunning views in a prime location. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a private beach lagoon, and a saltwater pool. The resort also features a spa, fitness center, and on-site dining options that showcase delicious Hawaiian cuisine. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Kona coast.
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
Situated in the heart of Kailua-Kona, the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel provides a convenient base for exploring the island. This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and direct access to a sandy beach. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site restaurant, which serves fresh, locally sourced dishes and a variety of water sports and activities. Perfect for families and couples alike, this hotel combines comfort and convenience with a touch of Hawaiian history.
Kona Area:
Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay
At the historical Keauhou Bay, Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa offers a serene escape with modern amenities. This resort features oceanview rooms, a lagoon-style pool, and the Hoola Spa, providing a relaxing retreat for guests. Dining options at the resort include Rays on the Bay, which offers stunning views and delicious local cuisine. With its cultural activities and proximity to snorkeling and other water sports, the Sheraton Kona is an excellent choice for relaxation and adventure.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is an unparalleled option for those seeking luxury. This five-star resort boasts elegantly designed rooms, seven swimming pools, and a world-class golf course. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences, a lavish spa, and various ocean activities, including snorkeling with manta rays. The lush landscape and impeccable service make the Four Seasons a perfect destination for a luxurious and memorable stay.
Hilo Area:
SCP Hilo
SCP Hilo, or the Soul Community Planet Hilo Hotel, offers a unique, eco-friendly accommodation experience. This hotel focuses on sustainability and wellness, offering comfortable rooms and various wellness-oriented amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site yoga and meditation spaces, a saltwater pool, and farm-to-table dining options that highlight local produce.
SCP Hilo also provides easy access to downtown Hilo’s attractions, including the Hilo Farmers Market and Liliuokalani Gardens, making it an excellent choice for conscious travelers who wish to explore the island while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – a DoubleTree by Hilton
Positioned along the peaceful shores of Hilo Bay, the Grand Naniloa Hotel offers modern accommodations with breathtaking views of Mauna Kea. This hotel provides a range of amenities, including a 9-hole golf course, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
Guests can savor contemporary Hawaiian cuisine at the on-site restaurant and enjoy live music and entertainment. With its proximity to the Hilo Farmers Market and the stunning Rainbow Falls, the Grand Naniloa Hotel combines convenience and comfort in a picturesque setting.
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Nestled in a prime location near Coconut Island, the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning bay or mountain views. This comfortable hotel features an outdoor pool, a lush garden, and Ban’s Drive-In, a retro-style diner serving tasty local dishes. Guests can easily explore nearby attractions such as Liliuokalani Gardens and the Imiloa Astronomy Center, making it an excellent base for discovering the island’s eastern side.
The Kona and Hilo areas offer a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets, ensuring that every traveler can experience the magic of the Big Island in comfort and style.
Kohala Area:
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, offers modern luxury and Hawaiian tradition. Nestled along the Kohala Coast, this resort features elegant rooms with stunning ocean, mountain, or garden views. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a world-class spa, and several dining options that use locally sourced ingredients. The resort also provides direct access to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and cultural activities, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, a part of the Autograph Collection, is a historic and iconic resort on the Kohala Coast. Known for its pristine white-sand beach, the hotel offers spacious rooms with spectacular ocean views.
Guests can partake in various recreational activities, including golf at the renowned Mauna Kea Golf Course, tennis, and water sports. The hotel also boasts a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to delicate dining showcasing local flavors. Its timeless elegance and top-notch amenities make it a perfect destination for discerning travelers.
Fairmont Orchid
Situated on 32 oceanfront acres, the Fairmont Orchid is a luxurious oasis offering serene escapes. The resort features well-appointed rooms and suites with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, lush gardens, and dramatic waterfalls.
Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the award-winning spa, swim in the oceanfront pool, or enjoy golf. Dining at the Fairmont Orchid includes several exceptional restaurants that highlight the best of Hawaiian and international cuisine. The resort’s commitment to impeccable service ensures a memorable stay for every guest.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is famed for its stunning location on one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. This resort offers modern, spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the ocean or the manicured resort grounds. Amenities include a large infinity pool, a full-service spa, and access to the 18-hole Hapuna Golf Course—dining options at the Westin range from casual beachside fare to elegant dining experiences. The resort’s prime beach access and range of activities make it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure seekers.
Best Snorkeling on the Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii offers some of the best snorkeling spots in the world, with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Whether you are a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, there is something for everyone to explore beneath the surface.
Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is considered one of the premier snorkeling destinations on the Big Island. Located on the Kona Coast, this marine sanctuary is home to a stunning array of tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral formations. The bay can be accessed via kayak, boat tour, or a hike down the steep trail from the Captain Cook Monument.
Honaunau Bay (Two-Step)
Honaunau Bay, also known as “Two Step,” is named for the natural rock steps that provide easy entry into the water. Situated near the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, this site offers excellent snorkeling conditions with its clear waters and diverse marine life. The area is teeming with vibrant coral gardens and schools of fish, with occasional sightings of dolphins and manta rays.
Kahalu’u Beach Park
Kahalu’u Beach Park, located just south of Kailua-Kona, is a fantastic spot for beginners and families. The shallow water and calm waves create a safe environment for snorkeling. This beach park features a reef home to hundreds of fish species and various colorful corals. Turtle sightings are common, adding to the excitement of snorkeling at Kahalu’u. The park also has restrooms, picnic areas, and snorkel gear rentals.
Puako Bay and Beach 69
Puako Bay and Beach 69, which is nearby, offer exceptional snorkeling experiences on the Kohala Coast. The waters here are known for their clarity and abundant marine life. The protected bay harbors plenty of reef fish, sea turtles, and occasional manta rays. Beach 69, named for the number marked on a utility pole near the entrance, is a lesser-known gem with excellent snorkeling opportunities. Both locations provide a serene setting away from the more crowded tourist sites.
Richardson Ocean Park
Richardson Ocean Park in Hilo is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island’s eastern side. The black sand beach and sheltered coves offer calm waters and various marine species to observe. The park is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a great place to spend the day. Facilities include picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, making planning a comfortable and enjoyable visit easy.
Exploring these top snorkeling sites on the Big Island will give you a window into the vibrant underwater world off the coast. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquility, the waters of the Big Island have something spectacular.
4 Main Areas of the Big Island: Where to Stay and Why
Kona: For First-Time Visitors to Hawaii
Kona is an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Hawaii due to its convenience, accessibility, and abundance of activities. The Kona side of the island is well-known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, making it the perfect spot to experience the quintessential Hawaiian vibes.
The area has historical sites such as the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and the Hulihe’e Palace. Kona also boasts an array of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels to high-end resorts, ensuring that every type of traveler finds a comfortable place to stay.
With its vibrant dining scene, local markets, and coffee plantation tours, Kona provides a well-rounded introduction to the Big Island’s cultural and natural offerings.
Kohala: For Luxury Travelers
The Kohala Coast is the ideal destination for those searching for luxury and high-end experiences. This region is home to some of Hawaii’s most luxurious resorts, offering exceptional amenities such as world-class spas, gourmet dining, and pristine golf courses.
The natural beauty of the Kohala Coast includes stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes that provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Exclusive cultural experiences, from historical site tours to traditional Hawaiian luaus, add to the allure of this area.
The Kohala Coast caters to travelers seeking the finest accommodations and services, making it a premier spot for a lavish Hawaiian getaway.
Hilo: For Nature Lovers
Hilo is the perfect base for nature enthusiasts who want to explore the lush, verdant side of the Big Island. Known for its rich greenery and frequent rainfall, Hilo is surrounded by breathtaking waterfalls, tropical gardens, and intriguing volcanic landscapes.
Visitors can immerse themselves in natural beauty at places like Akaka Falls State Park, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and the famous Rainbow Falls. The town offers a unique charm with its vibrant farmers markets, historic buildings, and friendly local culture. Hilo provides easy access to the eastern side’s natural wonders, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to connect with the island’s diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty.
Volcano: For National Park Enthusiasts
Volcano is the go-to area for those eager to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a highlight of the Big Island. This region offers unique opportunities to witness active volcanic activity, hike through diverse landscapes, and learn about the island’s geological history.
Accommodations around Volcano range from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to cozy lodges, providing adventurers with a rustic yet comfortable stay. Highlights include the Kilauea Caldera, Thurston Lava Tube, and Devastation Trail. With its dramatic landscapes and volcanic features, the Volcano area is a haven for national park enthusiasts and geology buffs.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island of Hawaii offers diverse experiences, catering to a broad spectrum of travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking to soak up the sun in Kona, a luxury traveler seeking the finest amenities along the Kohala Coast, a nature lover ready to explore Hilo’s lush landscapes, or an enthusiast of unique geological phenomena at Volcano, the island has something for everyone.
Each area boasts unique charm and attractions, ensuring a fulfilling journey no matter where you choose to stay. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and endless recreational activities, the Big Island stands out as a remarkable destination that promises unforgettable memories for all who visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Big Island of Hawaii?
The best time to visit the Big Island depends on what you want. The dry season from April to October is ideal for sunny weather and beach activities. However, the rainy season from November to March can offer fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes, especially on the island’s eastern side.
Do I need a car to explore the Big Island?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Big Island. The island is vast, and public transportation is limited. Having a car allows you to visit various attractions, from beaches and national parks to historic sites and local markets, at your own pace.
What are the must-see attractions on the Big Island?
Some must-see attractions include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, Mauna Kea Observatory, and the black sand beaches of Punaluʻu. Each island area offers unique sights and experiences, so plan to explore a bit of everything.
Are there any cultural experiences unique to the Big Island?
Yes, the Big Island offers several unique cultural experiences. You can attend a traditional Hawaiian luau, explore ancient petroglyphs, visit historic Hawaiian temples (heiau), and tour coffee plantations to learn about Kona coffee production. Local festivals and farmers markets also glimpse the island’s vibrant culture.
How can I experience the Big Island’s volcanoes safely?
To experience the volcanoes safely, visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can see active volcanic sites and learn about the area’s geology and safety guidelines from park rangers. Stick to marked trails and lookout points, and always follow the instructions provided by park authorities.
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