One thing's for sure: When you're looking to explore the real Hawaii, then this island should definitely on your radar. Dreamy tropical treehouse near Volcano National Park. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! This stellar retreat is nestled in a rainforest just blocks from downtown Hilo. Youll love relaxing in the contemporary rooms. CHECK TOP HOSTEL CHECK TOP HOTEL NIGHTLIFE O'ahu Puna the best town to see volcanoes and black sand beaches, 5. Luxurious and welcoming with a beautiful golf course! Magic Sands Beach Park has rare access to sandy beaches just south of town, whereas the rest of the coast tends to be more rocky. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. 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. If youve always dreamed of staying in a bungalow on the beach, the Lava Lava Beach Club is the perfect pick. I guess white sand beaches, rainforest, lava fields, and lush palm trees are more than enough to explain how unique this island is! Up for trying out tiny living while on vacation? Photo credit: Mauna Lani Volcano Eco Retreat is a great place to stay on the Big Island for those who want to have a relaxing holiday. This luxurious B&B has charm to spare, enchanting guests with its grand architecture and awe-inspiring views . icon-lightbulb 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. ), https://www.facebook.com/freebornaidenblog, https://www.instagram.com/freeborn_aiden/. Perfect for those on a savvy budget, Open Gate is off the beaten track and away from the standard tourist traps of the major towns on Hawaii Island, making it the perfect place to meet like-minded people while gazing at the nearby volcano! Waikoloa best family-friendly resort town to stay on the Big Island, Frequently asked questions about the Big Island, 2. For beach bums, a must-visit place is Coconut Island with its spectacular white sand beaches. 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. 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! Big Island Hawaii Things To Do & Where to Stay Big Island Some of the best resorts here are Fairmont Orchid Resort and Ocean Tower Hilton. One of the most common things people wonder is which side of the Big Island is best to stay on? You can enjoy meals at the hotels restaurant, which is popular with guests and locals alike. One of the coolest things about this hotel is that its located right on a picture-perfect bay. Of course, the best place for you to base yourself in Hawaii depends on what you want out of your trip! There are plenty of reasons visitors flock to Mauna Lani year after year. Having an email that screams YOU as soon as your ideal client opens it is HUGE and Flodesk makes this very easy. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort 4. Belong anywhere with Airbnb. 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. Youll be in the perfect spot for exploring the black sand beaches and other natural wonders formed by volcanic activity. These areas are more populated with locals but can be a great way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in life here. 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 Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Its quieter than staying right in the heart of town and there are incredible views from the property! First upthe Big Island is, as the name implies, a BIG island. The Big Island is divided into two primary areas: the Kona side and the Hilo side. If you're flying into the Big Island, Hilo is probably the first place that you'll land. Group Campgrounds: There are five tent-only group campsites available, each with a capacity of between 20 and 50 people. Enjoy a vegan or vegetarian meal after a day of exploring the nearby volcanic sights. Near Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, this upscale resort also overlooks the beach on the Kohala Coast. Unique Places to Stay in Maui - 15 Cool Hidden Gem Stays Kona - Best Place to Stay on The Big Island For Your First Time 2. This area of The Big Island is home to Hawaiian Volcano Park and is where avid travellers will find their zen. Rent a single home or all three for large gatherings! Do a trail ride on horseback through the Kohala mountains. HONEST GUIDE: Where to Stay on the Big Island, Hawaii - Miss Tourist That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). The kids will love Imiloa Astronomy Centre that provides fun and informative exhibits about Hawaiian culture and astronomy. to see if any of the camping sites are available for your stay! Waikoloa offers a great selection of hotels with family-friendly facilities such as kids clubs and pools. Ali'i Kai, Holualoa, White Sands, and Kuakini Heights are nearby neighborhoods where you can find Kona Airbnbs and VRBO houses. Up for trying out tiny living while on vacation? 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. 20 Most Popular Hotels in Honolulu You Dont Want to Miss! 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. If youre looking to truly unplug, book one of the Peaceful Guest Rooms, which are outfitted with special amenities to create a peaceful environment free of digital distractions. The best way to learn about that history is with a visit to the South Gate Civic Center Museum. Diving with manta rays is an experience that's unique to the Big Island (none of the other Hawaiian Islands have this phenomenon). If youre looking for an ultra-relaxing beach vacation, the Big Island has got you covered. 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. Complete with the quintessential Hawaiian beaches, spend your days relaxing, or head out on the water for some wildlife-watching, snorkeling, or scuba diving. It is officially called the island of Hawaii. Travel Inspiration | Hilton Volcano. Rooms and suites are all outfitted with Hawaiian-style decor, private lanais, and views of either the ocean, garden, or mountains. It became the hub of the social elite for 60 years. Is your phone eSIM ready? experience is phenomenal, just minutes from town, but completely secluded. So youre going to Hawaiiyou lucky thing! You can literally fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping against the shore. 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. Reserve now, pay when you stay. 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. With its koi ponds, waterfalls, and tropical gardens, youll be in vacation mode the moment you step foot on this one-of-a-kind property. Aloha! There's a home-away-from-home that will satisfy every taste and price range, from world-class resorts to charming inns and spacious vacation rentals.. Major resort destinations on the island of Hawaii include the Kohala Coast and Kona area (Keauhou, Historic Kailua Village). Its also much quieter than the western side of the island, making it one of Hawaiis safer destinations. Plus, kids will be endlessly entertained by the PlayStations in each room! Email[emailprotected]to find out how. Its just that easy. 14 Best Vacation Rentals on the Big Island, Hawaii Kahaluu-Keauhou - Where to Stay Near Kailua-Kona for Families 4. Whether youre on a romantic getaway or traveling with the family, youll love the spacious suites. 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. Its the perfect way to cap off another amazing day on the Big Island! This gem of a hotel was actually founded by Laurance S. Rockefeller in 1965 and was the first-ever resort on the island! Such a special and. Animal lovers will love the flocks of free-roaming birds, the green turtle-filled lagoon, and the dolphin training and swim sessions. Wildlife enthusiasts will definitely want to embark on a tour to spot humpback whales and go snorkeling with manta rays. Knowing where to begin looking for the world's best islands to visit can be confusing. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. When it comes to food and drink, youll be spoiled for choice. This side is a little more casual and suits a younger more adventurous crowd as its primary accommodation offerings are mid-range hotels and hostels. Finally, Hilo is the lush and rainy cousin to Kona on the eastern side of the island. Youll love the luxurious ensuites, which boast rain showers, separate soaking tubs, and enclosed Japanese-style toilets. Punaluu. If you prefer a more adventurous kind of holiday, then Kau is for you. Spaceship House For a trip out of this world, book the Spaceship House in Navarre Beach. FUN FACT: I have lived in New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Kentucky, and South Carolina, in both big cities and small towns. 28 Things to Do on the Big Island (That You Can't Do Anywhere Else in The spacious 2-bedroom suites are an ideal option for families who want more privacy than a traditional hotel room gives. The mini-fridges, coffee makers, and bathrobes are much-appreciated extra touches. Every morning you will enjoy a very good breakfast while watching the ocean views for a great start to your day! This hotel will be the source of your kids most memorable vacation yet! After visiting the breathtaking black sand of Kaimu beach, enjoy some vivacious live music and food at Uncle Roberts. The Rainforest Zoo and lava fields are just 15 minutes drive from the hotel. 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. One of the coolest things about this hotel is that youll have access to all of the amenities, golf courses, and restaurants at the hotels sprawling sister property Hilton Waikoloa Village. Kona Best Place to Stay on The Big Island For Your First Time, 2. Related articles. Another option is to head to the hills. Luxury price tag but incredible property. You can spend your days lounging around the hotels seven pools and sipping your favorite umbrella drinks. Plus, for each guest that stays here, the hotel works with the Hawaii Wildlife Fund to remove 2.2 pounds of trash from local beaches! We list the most popular unique places to stay in hawaii! This 3,700-acre preserve is crisscrossed by trails running along a creek shaded by sycamore and oak trees. But the hotels real standout is the Mediterranean restaurant, Meridia. Close, Where to Stay in The Big Island (2023 COOLEST Areas! Hotels are aplenty here, so youll have no shortage of great options to choose from when deciding where to take the kids! Something that a lot of people dont talk about is staying in off-the-beaten path places to stay on the Big Island. Here, the region's history is preserved for locals and . Kau is the true adventurers paradise as it is the most remote region on the island. View on Airbnb. With its natural and intimate setting, this charming bed and breakfast is a great alternative to the Big Islands massive resorts. Find out! With room left over! You can also enjoy a private beach and rent paddle boards to discover the bay area. 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. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Thanks for reading! SafetyWing is convenient, cheap, and trouble-free Insurance was never this easy! Here are some of our favourite accommodation picks. 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! A beautiful, tucked away eco-boutique hotel and wellness spa on the north Kohala coast. When staying on the Big Island, for those who are budget conscious, we recommend staying in a small inn or vacation rental. And CanoeHouse is the perfect pick for oceanfront sunset dinners. 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. Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around South Park, California. 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. 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! Our vacation rental in Kona Coffee Country in January was well priced and a great place to stay in the action. In 1888, America's wealthiest families opened the most exclusive resort in the world - Jekyll Island, Georgia. 2. 2481 S El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA, 92672. 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. 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. Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill is one of the best local-food . 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. Ill be happy to leave a reply to them! All rooms have a private lanai so its well worth booking a room with an ocean view! With the ability to add on services when you book as needed (such as housekeeping and childcare) your every need will be taken care of, leaving you to enjoy your holiday! Or if you want to work on your tan, just plop down on one of the beachfront lounge chairs. This gorgeous hotel has an amazing powdery private beach that you will want to spend hours on, family-friendly rooms, swimming pools, an upscale spa, and a fabulous fitness center. 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. The recently renovated Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is nestled right on the white sands of Hapuna Beach on the stunning Kohala Coast. Hilo Best Place to Stay on The Big Island for Families, 4. Rent a single home or all three for large gatherings! For those travelling on a budget with a little more adventure in mind, you can not go past the Open Gate Hostel. Forest A-Frame Home is one of our favourites in Big Island but theyre not taking guests right now. Sourcing Sustainable Hardwood Flooring For Your Ho. ) You can spend your days splashing around in one of the three massive pools, sliding down the 150-foot waterslide, or golfing at the famous Kings Golf Course at Waikoloa or the Beach Golf Course Waikoloa. Its got plenty of space and all the amenities you could need; mum and dad can relax on the porch with a cocktail while the kids run amok on the playground outside. Theres a customary fresh flower lei on arrival, and rooms offer gorgeous ocean or golf course views. 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. Puna is the closest town to visit the famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Parkand the Volcano Village. Rather than doing a day trip from Kona, choose to stay in Puna or Kua for the ultimate volcano experience. Hilton Waikoloa Village 6. You may enjoy the amenities of the larger resorts like the King Kam Marriott, Royal Kona Resort, or the Sheraton. You can shower under the stars in the outdoor rock shower, chill out on the private ocean-facing lanai, and get up in the mornings and walk directly out into the ocean. One of the most unique Airbnbs on the Big Island is this incredible glass tiny house near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. And dont forget the bottomless cup of Kona coffee! At 3,000 feet, it's the highest-elevated campground, so it also offers the best views. Waikoloa Village is located on the west coast and next to Kona Town. The two best areas to stay on the Big Island are near Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa. Explore the 32-acre property and youll come across ancient Kalahuipuaa fishponds and historic petroglyphs. Hampton Inn & Suites San Clemente. Think poke nachos, Hukilau chowder, and coconut shrimp. If youre hungry, head over to the onsite restaurant for locally sourced Hawaiian fare. 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. 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. This is a personal preference based on what you enjoy as both Kona and Hilo are beautiful. Where to Stay near Kailua-Kona (2023 Coolest Areas!) Images courtesy of Airbnb. If you are asking for the best place to stay on the Big Island for couples, my answer is definitely Kohala! 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. Kohala Suites 11. A large pool overlooks the ocean, and palm trees sway in the breeze what more could you ask for? For lunch and dinner affairs, some of the best places to eat Big Island food are Da Poke Shack for a fresh, delicious poke bowl, the 'Ulu Ocean Grill (which is the perfect romantic dining spot for a Big Island honeymoon), and Kaaloa's Super J's for authentic Hawaiian fare. Guests will enjoy resort amenities including cable TV, a DVD player, safe, sofa, and kitchenette. 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.