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. Volcano Village Lodge is another great option if you plan on spending a lot of time exploring the amazing Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. After a very impressive day, you can have a delicious dinner at the local restaurants in the Puna town center. on a 30 acre coffee estate in the artist village of Holualoa. Marriott's Maui Ocean Club - Lahaina, Maui. Dont worry, high rollers Hawaii Island has plenty of options for you too. Located on the west coast, Kailua-Kona (aka Kona) is another popular place to stay on the Big Island. And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Hilo, check out our comprehensive neighborhood guide! After visiting the breathtaking black sand of Kaimu beach, enjoy some vivacious live music and food at Uncle Roberts. Check out the real life Hawaiian cowboys in Waimea town, where you can even see a rodeo! 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! I have carefully selected the best of the best accommodations for all budgets but you have to be quick and make a reservation in advance if you dont want to miss them. 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. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. Located on the Kohala Coast, this is definitely one of the best hotels on the Big Island. Explore the 32-acre property and youll come across ancient Kalahuipuaa fishponds and historic petroglyphs. 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. This hotel features an outdoor pool and a 24-hour gym. to explore and experience from lush jungles and waterfalls, to dry desert land and beaches, to vast expanses of lava rock. 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. Kohala the best beaches and couple friendly resorts, 4. Visitors flock to Hawaiis largest island year after year to explore the unreal landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the incredible vistas in Waipio Valley. Plus, the island boasts some seriously good oceanfront sea-to-table restaurants and bustling farmers markets where you can sample fresh fruits, veggies, and artisanal goods. 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. Youll feel like youre living in a treehouse! Ideal for a large group, with four bedrooms accommodating up to 10, this beautiful home is right across the street from Kona's best snorkeling and surfing spot, Kahalu'u Beach. From $214 per night. Hop in the car and go for a drive up Highway 270 where you cant miss the breathtaking Polulu Valley Overlook. Take advantage of all of the hotels cool features and play a round of golf on the Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole golf course, splash around in one of the two outdoor pools and hot tubs, or keep up with your workout routine with the fully outfitted fitness and CrossFit center. Built on top of a cooled lava rock and completely off-grid, Open Gate provides guests with hikes around the nearby volcano (that is visible from the common room) and an incredible atmosphere that is perfect for meeting other like-minded travelers! You can follow her adventures @eylul_travels on Instagram! If you want to go out and explore the area, the hotel offers complimentary bicycle and SUP rentals. Hilo is more historic and feels less touristy than the Kona side. 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. Waaaay bigger than the other Hawaiian islands. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. The recently renovated Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is nestled right on the white sands of Hapuna Beach on the stunning Kohala Coast. This serene Airbnb located within a five-minute walk to stunning Punaluu Beach is the ultimate choice for an adventurous couple with a higher budget. Here are some of our favourite accommodation picks. Hilo Best Place to Stay on The Big Island for Families, 4. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. 1. We frequent the beach here often and love the feel of the resort! Plus, there are tons of kid-friendly amenities if youre traveling with your little ones. $30 per night. Maui Area Guide. However, you will be sure to have the most memorable stay in one of the many unique homestay options available. Stop in for a little shopping in the quaint, historic town of Hawi. For the ultimate in luxury, consider the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu in Kona. Every winter during "Club Season," the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Morgans, and crew flocked to their exclusive cottages on the South Georgia coast. 12 Incredible Airbnbs on the Big Island, Hawaii, 12 Cool Boutique Hotels on Hawaiis Big Island. to see if any of the camping sites are available for your stay! Rather than doing a day trip from Kona, choose to stay in Puna or Kua for the ultimate volcano experience. Complete a scuba ticket course, and head out for a dive with manta rays. Kau Best Place to Stay on The Big Island for Adventure, 5. Kaanapali Beach Hotel is a modern three-star hotel and a great option for where to stay in Maui with kids. I hope you enjoyed reading this and are already thinking about which swimwear to take with you! With so much to offer groups of all sizes and travellers of all ages, youll be sure to find something that suits you. 2. After a long day, youll love relaxing in the luxurious rooms. Hilo is the largest settlement on the Big Island and the county seat. Visit the South Gate Civic Center Museum. 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. The chic rooms are bathed in white and boast beautiful hardwood floors and headboards, plenty of large windows, and colorful artwork. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. You wont have difficulty picking a place in Kohala as you will find the most delightful resorts by the white sand beaches here. 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. Again, thank you! Theres a customary fresh flower lei on arrival, and rooms offer gorgeous ocean or golf course views. CHECK TOP HOSTEL CHECK TOP HOTEL NIGHTLIFE O'ahu Known as the residential resort for billionaires, expect nothing but the best! Thanks for reading! Once youve worked up an appetite, you can grab a cup of Kona coffee at Piko Coffee+Bar, fill up on a poolside breakfast at Ikena Landing, or grab a casual lunch at Naupaka Beach Grill. Here you will find the most family-friendly resorts by the beautiful beaches on the Big Island. Not only is the airport a mere 13 miles away, but youll have easy access to the areas best coffee farms, snorkeling spots, and oceanfront restaurants. If youre visiting The Big Island for the first time and want a classic Hawaiian experience with a modest price tag, The Holua Resort is a perfect choice. Actually, all of the other islands could fit inside the Big Island. 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. But the hotels real standout is the Mediterranean restaurant, Meridia. 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. Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Show prices Enter dates to see prices 9,672 reviews #5 Best Value of 50 Cool & Unique Hotels in Hawaii As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Puna - the best town to see volcanoes and black sand beaches 5. 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. Hilo is where youll find lush jungle, beautiful hiking and plenty of waterfalls as they get a lot more rain than Kona side. 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. Its simply one of the most unique hostels in the world wouldnt you want to say youd slept on a lava rock? Hawaii Island (also known as The Big Island) is one of the most beautiful places on earth. We used to live in Keauhou + LOVE the area. Unique Lodging. When it comes to wining and dining youll have a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from. You can even rent snorkels from the front desk if you want to check out all of the colorful fish swimming right offshore. 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. Happy exploring! 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. "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. Hi Im Yulia! Unique places to stay on the Big Island: Waikui right in the West-North coast is a fantastic area to stay. 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. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. If big hotel chains arent your thing, Holualoa Inn might just be the perfect pick. Spend some time exploring Punaluu Beach where you may even be lucky enough to spot one of Hawaiis famous Green Sea Turtles sunbaking on the black sand! 10.69 mi from Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base. Best Unique Places to Stay in Maui for Couples: Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux Best Boutique Hotel + Bungalows: Paia Inn Unique Place to Stay in Maui on a Budget: Plantation Inn Best Unique places to stay in Maui for Families: Montage Kapalua Bay Most Adventurous Resort in Maui: Hana-Maui Resort Unique Places to Stay in Maui For more affordable, budget-friendly resorts, consider going to Kohala or Waikoloa. With SO many different areas - from mountain to beach, and desert to forest - you can find a little bit of everything in this big beautiful state. They both have good locations and great reviews too! Theres also a kids club, an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace and a beauty centre. While the hotel doesnt have your average amenities, the beachfront location more than makes up for it. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is one of the best hotels on the Big Island if youre looking for an ultra-luxurious Hawaiian getaway. Hilo has a more local vibe and is a bit less touristy compared to the other parts of the island. THE FALLS AT REED'S ISLAND This stellar retreat is nestled in a rainforest just blocks from downtown Hilo. For a culture fix, you can attend an authentic luau or learn about local traditions at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Park. Hotels are aplenty here, so youll have no shortage of great options to choose from when deciding where to take the kids! Rampant psytrance addict, quaffer of ale, and serial cat fancier. This newly renovated property is a great choice if you are staying over in Hilo. Puako and Kawaihae, South Kohala. The Big Island is divided into two primary areas: the Kona side and the Hilo side. There are some spectacular, off the beaten path places to stay on The Big island with high style and lots of character. Sites range from $65 to $165 per night depending on vehicle and camper capacity. 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. Now we have come to the end of our Big Island Hawaii tour. Punaluu Beach Retreat is one of our favourites in Big Island but theyre not taking guests right now. Do you see why this town is perfect for first-timers? All rooms have a private lanai so its well worth booking a room with an ocean view! You could easily spend your whole vacation here because it truly offers something for everyone regardless of budget or age! If you want to read more about things to do on the Big Island, you can read more here. Here, the region's history is preserved for locals and . If you're looking for accommodations on the Northeastern side of the island (near Hilo), Palms Cliff is the destination for you. They have a gorgeous community area for bonfires and BBQs. This gem of a hotel was actually founded by Laurance S. Rockefeller in 1965 and was the first-ever resort on the island! Required fields are marked *. Waikoloa Village is located on the west coast and next to Kona Town. You can relax and unwind on 50 acres of sacred land covered in gardens, wild groves, and ancient valley trails. This is a great place to teach the kids about nature and the islands diverse landscape. 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. The kids will love Imiloa Astronomy Centre that provides fun and informative exhibits about Hawaiian culture and astronomy. It became the hub of the social elite for 60 years. Because it is so large, with so much to take in, it can be daunting to find where to stay on the Big Island. Youll love the luxurious ensuites, which boast rain showers, separate soaking tubs, and enclosed Japanese-style toilets. Located just minutes from the Volcano National Park and completely surrounded by trees, youll love climbing the outdoor spiral staircase to your private suite and lounging on the lanai while taking in the spectacular views surrounding you. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. There are several unique places to stay in Hilo, Hawaii. This is also a great place to stay if you want to swim with manta rays or attend the famous Voyagers of the Pacific luau. These resorts are also the most preferred by couples for those who want to have a romantic getaway. 1. Confusing, right? You can relax and unwind on 50 acres of sacred land covered in gardens, wild groves, and ancient valley trails. The beach is just a few minutes walk from the hotel and you can rent paddle boards or bicycles to discover the east coast. When I was in my twenties, I backpacked through Europe for six weeks. Waikoloa Beach Marriott offers a lush swimming pool area where you can enjoy sunny days with tropical cocktails, a good fitness center, and a spa to pamper yourself after a great breakfast. Welcome to one of the best Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island. 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. Images courtesy of Airbnb. Splash out on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour of Kona and surrounding areas including Kilauea volcano and active lava flows. Plus, Kona Airport is just 30 minutes away so getting to the hotel is a breeze. And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. 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. Youll barely need to leave the resort with all the dining options, on-site golf course, and endless facilities available to you. Start discovering Waikoloa Village by going to Kings Shops Farmers Market. Wood rafter ceilings, wing back rattan chairs, curated art, and tropical plants pepper the space with style. Can't resist a colourful shirt, and ideally one with zero buttons. 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. If youre looking to unplug and be out in nature, this tropical home among lush greenery offers the simplicity of off-grid living together with homey comforts. SCP Hilo Hotel 10. So, if you are a budget traveler there is no better place than Hilo! In the backyard, you'll enjoy breathtaking ocean views and a hot tub ideal for soaking after a day of play. If its your first time on the island, its easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding which accommodation to choose.