Some of the best resorts here are Fairmont Orchid Resort and Ocean Tower Hilton. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. For those travelling on a budget with a little more adventure in mind, you can not go past the Open Gate Hostel. Its simply one of the most unique hostels in the world wouldnt you want to say youd slept on a lava rock? Courtyard by Marriott - Charleston Waterfront. which side of the Big Island is best to stay on? Hilo is where youll find lush jungle, beautiful hiking and plenty of waterfalls as they get a lot more rain than Kona side. What's the best place to stay on Big Island: Hilo, Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa? The views from your private balcony will take your breath away, and if youve had enough relaxing on the lanai, the superb location means youre just a stones throw from the beach and other local establishments! For beach bums, a must-visit place is Coconut Island with its spectacular white sand beaches. It has spacious rooms which offer comfortable accommodations for families. Located on the Kohala Coast, this is definitely one of the best hotels on the Big Island. Or if you want to spend your days at the hotel you can splash around in the pool, host a barbeque meal at the communal grill stations, or watch the little ones play on the playground. 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. Volcano Eco Retreat is a great place to stay on the Big Island for those who want to have a relaxing holiday. Another option is to head to the hills. Her travel passion led her to step into over 40 countries and 200 cities. Dont be intimidated, though, its just as friendly and welcoming as the rest of the island if youd still like to pass through and check out the scenery. The Big Island is the best Hawaiian island for families with somewhat older kids and travelers with a taste for adventure. Venturing around the island, youll find lush rainforests, peculiar lava trees, golf courses, volcanoes, and sun-soaked beaches. Its the most remote and quietest part of the island, so you wont find any major resorts or tourist traps here. The beach at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has very few Big Island rivals. This hotel will be the source of your kids most memorable vacation yet! This hotel features an outdoor pool and a 24-hour gym. Prices & Photos. 20 Best Island Vacations in the World. If you want all of my Big Island recommendations all in one convenient, organized place, you can check out our Big Island Travel Guide! If you want to spend your vacation relaxing, you can float the day away in one of the pools, get a traditional lomi lomi massage at the spa, or sip tropical drinks at the pool bar. Once youve gotten your feel for the island in Kona, pack up the kids and head to beautiful Hilo! Caffeine addicts will want to visit at least a few coffee farms in the world-famous Kona region! Practice your swing at one of the many exceptional golf courses. There are loads of kids activities on offer here, as well as numerous tennis courts and an on-site pool! This 3,700-acre preserve is crisscrossed by trails running along a creek shaded by sycamore and oak trees. #4 Paia - Coolest Place to Stay in Maui. Or perhaps a yurt, or even a real train caboose? Kau Best Place to Stay on The Big Island for Adventure, 5. The fireplaces, mini-fridges, and coffee makers are handy extra touches. Stop in for a little shopping in the quaint, historic town of Hawi. 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. The three-star SCP Hilo Hotel is a great pick for families. While the hotel doesnt have your average amenities, the beachfront location more than makes up for it. Volcano. SCP Hilo Hotel 10. But dont miss out on a special dinner at Hualalai Grill. While all of the rooms are nice, its well worth splurging on a room on the exclusive Gold Floor. If youre looking for a place to stay, theres no doubt that the Big Island is dotted with secluded B&Bs, lavish oceanfront resorts, and incredible family-friendly hotels. These hosts have three tiny houses and are located above Kona and just below the Kaloko Cloud Forest on three beautiful acres. Holualoa - Where to Stay Near Kailua-Kona for Coffee Lovers 3. Not only are all of the parks attractions just a short drive away but Hilo International Airport is just three miles down the road. Plus, Kona Airport is just 30 minutes away so getting to the hotel is a breeze. Thats why here you will be able to find accommodations for a relatively cheaper price. Kohala coast offers not only the islands best beaches with spectacular landscapes but also the best spot for snorkeling. Hilo is the largest settlement on the Big Island and the county seat. Hale Nana Kohala is one of our favourites in Big Island but theyre not taking guests right now. I guarantee that you will have so many postcard-perfect photos here! They offer eco friendly accommodations that are high tech and high style with all the amenities and comforts you need for an awesome getaway vacation. Photo credit: Mauna Lani Jan 26 - Jan 27. My 9 Things: What I packed to travel with my pet. Hawaii is such a sacred, incredible place and its my pleasure to share ways to experience fully, tread lightly and honor the space in which youre exploring. Thank you so much for supporting this project! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I am a beach baby so I tend to stay more on the west side, occasionally venturing to the north or south shores but there truly is something different for each traveler, 15 Best Sustainable Bedding Brands of 2022, The best places to eat & sip coffee, grouped by area: Kona, Waikoloa, Waimea, Honokaa & Hilo, Our favorite beaches, adventures & places to explore, More in-depth information on where to stay, ways to be a mindful traveler & experiences not to miss. The resort also happens to boast some of the best restaurants in the area. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is one of the best hotels on the Big Island if youre looking for an ultra-luxurious Hawaiian getaway. Group Campgrounds: There are five tent-only group campsites available, each with a capacity of between 20 and 50 people. Plus, theres a huge selection of restaurants, shops, nightlife, and activities! I am a beach baby so I tend to stay more on the west side, occasionally venturing to the north or south shores but there truly is something different for each traveler no matter where you venture. Below, you'll find our hand-picked guide to the best towns and hotels to stay in while you are on the Big Island. Katie's Kaboose, which is also a unique place to stay in Florida at Adventures Unlimited, is a renovated train caboose equipped with a full-sized bed and a single trundle bed. The Big Island's Top 5 Areas to Stay in 1. Do a trail ride on horseback through the Kohala mountains. The kimono-style bathrobes, illy espresso and coffee machines, and Bose wireless Bluetooth speakers are nice added touches. I guess white sand beaches, rainforest, lava fields, and lush palm trees are more than enough to explain how unique this island is! THE FALLS AT REED'S ISLAND This stellar retreat is nestled in a rainforest just blocks from downtown Hilo. Theres a full kitchen and BBQ for cooking home-cooked meals, and a literal binder full of things to see and do! Kohala Coast is one of the best areas to stay on the north coast and some of the best hotels that I can recommend here are Waikoloa Beach Marriott and Kings Land Hilton. You can sip your tropical cocktails on the private beach and have delicious meals at onsite restaurants inside the lush gardens. With so much to offer groups of all sizes and travellers of all ages, youll be sure to find something that suits you. Big Island is, as the name suggests, Hawaii's largest island. If you prefer a more adventurous kind of holiday, then Kau is for you. She is also an adventurer and extreme sports enthusiast who surfed in 4 continents. Kailua-Konais a town located inside the region of Kona on the Big Islands west coast. Beautifully lived in open-air home walking distance from the sea. Ill be happy to leave a reply to them! Hilo the best place to stay on the Big Island on a budget, Perfect Hotel Options & the Best Areas from Luxury to Budget in Oahu, Your Complete Guide for Where to Stay in Hawaii 5 Incredible Islands. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The resort boasts all sorts of amazing amenities to keep you entertained, including an 18-hole championship golf course, oceanfront tennis courts, and a luxury spa. There are plenty of reasons visitors flock to Mauna Lani year after year. The chic rooms are bathed in white and boast beautiful hardwood floors and headboards, plenty of large windows, and colorful artwork. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. The city is the largest on the Big Island, but remains a true Hawaiian community through and through with small eateries, gorgeous . Kapaau. Located in the north of the island, the area features excellent beaches and beautiful scenery. Here are the best places to stay in Pune for all budgets. This incredible third-floor condominium rental has everything you could possibly need to make your Kona stay unforgettable. Youll love relaxing in the contemporary rooms. Plus, there are tons of kid-friendly amenities if youre traveling with your little ones. You can follow her adventures @eylul_travels on Instagram! This luxurious B&B has charm to spare, enchanting guests with its grand architecture and awe-inspiring views . FUN FACT: I have lived in New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Kentucky, and South Carolina, in both big cities and small towns. Kahaluu-Keauhou - Where to Stay Near Kailua-Kona for Families 4. You can relax and unwind on 50 acres of sacred land covered in gardens, wild groves, and ancient valley trails. Update Your Online Presence with New Photos , Where you'll find advice, freebies, and tools to help you chart new waters in life & business. Afterward continue your trip to visit the main landmarks of Puna, Lava Tree State Park, and Volcano Village in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. So weve created a list of the 12 best hotels on the Big Island to help you plan your perfect getaway! One thing's for sure: When you're looking to explore the real Hawaii, then this island should definitely on your radar. Puna - the best town to see volcanoes and black sand beaches 5. I hope you enjoyed reading this and are already thinking about which swimwear to take with you! Hilton Waikoloa Village 6. You can also enjoy steak dinners at Manta Restaurant, experience a luau on the beach, and sip cocktails at the pool bar, Copper Bar, and Hau Tree. Start your day by hitting some of the best white sand beaches on the island such asKahaluu Beach, Kamakahonu Beach, Two Step, and Kua Bay. As the name implies, Aston Kona by the Sea is perched directly on a wild and rugged stretch of black sand beach in Kailua-Kona. And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Hilo, check out our comprehensive neighborhood guide! This rental will be the perfect place to relax and unwind after a big day of exploring, or simply sit back and relax by the pool while you enjoy the sound of the ocean nearby. Home Blog Where to Stay in The Big Island (2023 COOLEST Areas!). Couples looking for a relaxing, adults-only getaway with a difference, this is the place for you. The Big Island really does have something for everyone! Soak up the history in Kailua Village on a self-guided walking tour of the sights dating back to the 1800s! 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. Its got spacious rooms, a spectacular pool, and a convenient location to nearby sights which is key when travelling with kids! No matter your party size, if youre looking for a luxurious holiday, this is the place for you. In fact, this island is unique among the Hawaiian islands for being the only one with active volcanoes: Mauna Loa (the largest volcano in the world) and Kilauea (the most active volcano in the world). All different and contrasting. The ultimate luxury resort in paradise. 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. Kohala Best Place to Stay on The Big Island for Luxury, Final Thoughts on Where to Stay on The Big Island. 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. Failed rock star turned failing writer. Be sure to have at least one family dinner at Nui Italian, which serves up classic Italian fare with a Hawaiian twist. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. I'm a photographer, writer & environmental advocate excited to be sharing regenerative solutions, ideas & concepts for our lives & businesses with you. The inn is located in the art-centric town of Holualoa and is just 15 minutes from Kailua-Kona. Your email address will not be published. This is a personal preference based on what you enjoy as both Kona and Hilo are beautiful. Again, thank you! There is a huge 3.5-acre pool that has slides, a children's play area, and a spa on-site. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. 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. Each room is completely unique but all are adorned with beautiful wood furnishings, original artwork, and meticulously curated decor. 12 Stunning Airbnbs in Hilo, Hawaii. 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. You can easily access it on your smartphone, computer or iPad which is perfect for while youre out exploring. And CanoeHouse is the perfect pick for oceanfront sunset dinners. When I was in my twenties, I backpacked through Europe for six weeks. Its perfect for a larger group, with room for six guests spread over three bedrooms. Home to a variety of vacation rentals, B&Bs, and oceanside hotels, the Hilo side of the Big Island has everything you need to enjoy your Hawaiian getaway. Photographer, marketing strategist and environmental advocate focused on sharing more regenerative, sustainable concepts for our lives and businesses. At 3,000 feet, it's the highest-elevated campground, so it also offers the best views. 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. Luxurious and welcoming with a beautiful golf course! Located on the west side of the island, Fairmont Orchid is a quintessential Hawaiian resort. Hop in the car and go for a drive up Highway 270 where you cant miss the breathtaking Polulu Valley Overlook. Can't resist a colourful shirt, and ideally one with zero buttons. After a very impressive day, you can have a delicious dinner at the local restaurants in the Puna town center. Planning a trip to Big Island, Hawaii? If exploring the volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is at the top of your to-do list, then a hotel near Hilo on the eastern part of the island is your best bet. 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. Its hands down one of the coolest treehouses in Hawaii. The west and north sides of the island is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of beaches Ive ever laid eyes on. Overlooking the impossibly blue Kaunaoa Bay and nestled right on a sandy beach, the setting cant be beat. 1. With its natural and intimate setting, this charming bed and breakfast is a great alternative to the Big Islands massive resorts. This hotel offers a pleasant stay in Hilo with its comfortable rooms, ocean views, good breakfast, and free airport shuttle, Big Island Hostel is the best budget accommodation on the east side of the island and offers free parking and comfortable rooms with free wifi, This Hilo Airbnb offers free parking, beautifully decorated rooms, a fully furnished kitchen, and easy access to the beaches. Its just that easy. Puna Best Place to Stay on The Big Island on a Budget, 3. Some of the main landmarks you should not miss on the Big Islands are Volcano village, Rainbow Waterfalls, Hamakua Coast, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, and Hapuna Beach. 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. 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. Waimea. Dont forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels on Hawaiis Big Island. In this post, Ill share different accommodation options and a unique, curated list of some of my favorite places to stay on the Big Island, One of the most common things people wonder is. 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. 11 of the worlds 13 climate zones in one place, there is. For the ultimate in luxury, consider the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu in Kona. From stunning black sand beaches to lava-spewing volcanoes, theres a lot to love about Hawaiis Big Island. $30 per night. 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! Plus, the island is home to postcard-perfect black, white, and even green sand beaches where you can work on your tan or surf the oceans massive waves. These areas are more populated with locals but can be a great way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in life here. is a great choice if you are staying over in Hilo. More information. residing along the beautiful Kohala Coast where all of the most beautiful, big beaches are located. 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 is one of the most incredible things to do on The Big Island and will give you major bragging rights at home! Its the perfect way to cap off another amazing day on the Big Island! to see if any of the camping sites are available for your stay! You can also hop on the complimentary shuttle, which can take you to nearby shops, restaurants, and championship golf courses. That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. Puna. Related articles. Waikoloa. 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. 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. As I mentioned, there is so much to explore and experience on the Big Island. You can easily spend a week or two lounging around one of the islands luxurious resorts and sipping fruity drinks by the pool. This resort features an epic swimming pool overlooking the ocean, spacious rooms with scenic views, a nice spa, and a very good breakfast. Splash out on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour of Kona and surrounding areas including Kilauea volcano and active lava flows. You can even rent snorkels from the front desk if you want to check out all of the colorful fish swimming right offshore. For those who are curious about the other Hawaiian Islands, check out my complete guide to the best areas to stay in Hawaii! When youre not adventuring around town, youll love lounging around the tropical hotel. Puna is the closest town to visit the famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Parkand the Volcano Village. We have discussed why the Kona side (west side) is by far the best place to stay on the Big Island, and these two areas provide the most options for accommodation, stores, and restaurants, and are within the closest proximity to beaches. Lap up your Hawaiian experience with an evening luau and hula dancing, or take part in one of the many outdoor activities on offer with the hotel. Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around South Park, California. I recommend staying 1 week in Big Island to explore the islands best beaches, national parks, and the volcano. 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. It became the hub of the social elite for 60 years. If big hotel chains arent your thing, Holualoa Inn might just be the perfect pick. Adults-only pools, private white-sand beaches, and top-tier service mean you will want for nothing on this special vacation! With two spacious bedrooms and a living room with a sleeper sofa, the suites can sleep up to six people. We frequent the beach here often and love the feel of the resort! Second-longest-serving member of team Broke Backpacker. The casual restaurant specializes in locally sourced, beach-to-table cuisine. Every winter during "Club Season," the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Morgans, and crew flocked to their exclusive cottages on the South Georgia coast. Spectacular Oceanview Condo is one of our favourites in Big Island but theyre not taking guests right now. The two best areas to stay on the Big Island are near Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa. 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. Kona / Kailua-Kona the best place to stay for the first time, 2. 3. Lets check out the best places to stay in Hilo: This hotel is one of the best places to stay on the east side of the island. You can buy some local foods from there and hit the beautiful Waikloa Beach or Beach 69. Email[emailprotected]to find out how. This hotel offers spacious rooms with a kitchen, a pool, a fitness center, and a couple of dining options in Kohala, Surrounded by beautiful trees this hotel offers comfortable rooms with a coffee machine and easy access to the beaches, This Airbnb is the best housing option on the north side of the island with an epic ocean view and a private swimming pool. There are several unique places to stay in Hilo, Hawaii. In 1888, America's wealthiest families opened the most exclusive resort in the world - Jekyll Island, Georgia. 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.