Planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding where to stay. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from volcanic deserts to lush rainforests, and its many attractions, such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea Observatory, the Big Island offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect place to stay. That’s why it’s essential to research and find the best places to stay on the Big Island, ensuring that your trip is comfortable, convenient, and memorable.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay on the Big Island
The Big Island is a large and diverse island, and the best place to stay will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the activities you have planned. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and camping sites, there’s something for everyone on the Big Island. In this guide, we’ll explore the top regions to stay on the Big Island, including Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Waikoloa, and Puna, as well as the best accommodations in each area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled trip, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay on the Big Island.
What to Expect in this Guide
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the best places to stay on the Big Island, including the top hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and camping sites. We’ll also provide an overview of each region, including its attractions, activities, and amenities, to help you make an informed decision about where to stay. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the perfect accommodations for your Big Island adventure.
Best Places to Stay on Big Island Hawaii
Planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding where to stay. With its diverse landscapes, climates, and attractions, the Big Island offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay on the Big Island, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is a popular destination on the west coast of the Big Island, known for its beautiful beaches, coffee farms, and historic sites. Staying in Kailua-Kona puts you close to many attractions, including snorkeling and scuba diving spots, coffee tastings, and the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.
Top Accommodations in Kailua-Kona:
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The Fairmont Orchid: A luxury resort with lavish rooms, multiple pools, and a spa.
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The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort: A beachfront resort with modern rooms, a pool, and a golf course.
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Kona Inn Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a pool.
Waikoloa
Waikoloa is a coastal resort area on the west coast of the Big Island, about 30 minutes north of Kailua-Kona. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and luxury resorts. Staying in Waikoloa offers easy access to snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, as well as shopping and dining at the Waikoloa Village.
Top Accommodations in Waikoloa:
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The Waikoloa Beach Marriott: A beachfront resort with modern rooms, multiple pools, and a spa.
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The Hilton Waikoloa Village: A luxury resort with lavish rooms, multiple pools, and a golf course.
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Vacation rentals: Consider renting a condo or villa through services like VRBO or Airbnb for a more home-like experience. (See Also: Best Places To Stay On Santorini)
Hilo
Hilo is a charming town on the east coast of the Big Island, known for its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Staying in Hilo puts you close to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Hilo Farmers Market, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum.
Top Accommodations in Hilo:
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The Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo: A historic hotel with comfortable rooms and a pool.
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The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with basic rooms and a pool.
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Vacation rentals: Consider renting a house or apartment through services like VRBO or Airbnb for a more home-like experience.
Volcano Village
Volcano Village is a small town near the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, about 45 minutes southwest of Hilo. Staying in Volcano Village puts you close to the park’s attractions, including the Kilauea volcano and the Thurston Lava Tube.
Top Accommodations in Volcano Village:
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Volcano House: A historic hotel with comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
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Kilauea Lodge: A rustic lodge with basic rooms and a restaurant.
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Vacation rentals: Consider renting a cabin or cottage through services like VRBO or Airbnb for a more secluded experience.
Puna
Puna is a rural district on the east coast of the Big Island, known for its lush rainforests, hot springs, and alternative communities. Staying in Puna puts you close to the Lava Tree State Park, the Kapoho Tide Pools, and the Pahoa Town.
Top Accommodations in Puna:
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Kalani Retreat: A wellness resort with eco-friendly rooms, a pool, and a spa. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Maldives For Honeymoon)
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Vacation rentals: Consider renting a house or cottage through services like VRBO or Airbnb for a more secluded experience.
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Camping: Puna has several campgrounds, including the Lava Tree State Park Campground and the Kapoho Beach Park Campground.
Other Areas to Consider
Besides the areas mentioned above, there are several other destinations on the Big Island worth considering:
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Waimea: A charming town on the north coast, known for its ranches, cowboy culture, and scenic views.
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Kohala Coast: A luxury resort area on the west coast, known for its golf courses, beaches, and high-end amenities.
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Naalehu: A small town on the south coast, known for its coffee farms, beaches, and scenic drives.
Accommodation Types
Besides hotels and resorts, the Big Island offers a range of accommodation types to suit different budgets and preferences:
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Vacation rentals: Rent a house, condo, or cottage through services like VRBO or Airbnb for a more home-like experience.
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Bed and breakfasts: Stay in a cozy B&B with a local family or couple.
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Hostels: Budget-friendly options with dorm rooms and shared facilities.
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Camping: Pitch a tent or rent an RV at one of the island’s many campgrounds.
Tips and Considerations
When choosing where to stay on the Big Island, consider the following factors:
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Location: Stay close to the attractions and activities you want to experience. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In London For Nightlife)
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Budget: Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
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Amenities: Consider what amenities are important to you, such as a pool, spa, or kitchen.
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Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the accommodation’s quality and service.
Recap
In conclusion, the Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, there’s something for everyone. Consider staying in Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, Hilo, Volcano Village, or Puna for easy access to the island’s attractions and activities. Remember to set a budget, consider amenities, and read reviews before making a decision. With the right accommodation, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable trip to the Big Island.
| Area | Top Accommodations |
|---|---|
| Kailua-Kona | The Fairmont Orchid, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, Kona Inn Hotel |
| Waikoloa | The Waikoloa Beach Marriott, The Hilton Waikoloa Village, Vacation rentals |
| Hilo | The Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Vacation rentals |
| Volcano Village | Volcano House, Kilauea Lodge, Vacation rentals |
| Puna | Kalani Retreat, Vacation rentals, Camping |
By considering the factors mentioned above and choosing the right accommodation, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay on Big Island Hawaii
What is the best area to stay on the Big Island for families?
Kailua-Kona is a great area for families to stay on the Big Island. It offers a variety of accommodations, including resorts, vacation rentals, and hotels, many of which have amenities like pools and game rooms that kids will love. Additionally, Kailua-Kona is close to many popular attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the beach, making it an ideal location for families.
Is it better to stay in Hilo or Kailua-Kona on the Big Island?
It depends on your preferences and what you want to do on your trip. Hilo is a great base for exploring the eastern side of the island, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the rainforests. It’s also a more laid-back and local-feeling town. Kailua-Kona, on the other hand, is a better base for exploring the western side of the island, including the beaches and resorts. It’s also a more touristy area with more amenities and activities. If you want to split the difference, you could consider staying in Waikoloa, which is roughly equidistant from Hilo and Kailua-Kona.
What are some budget-friendly options for accommodations on the Big Island?
There are several budget-friendly options for accommodations on the Big Island. Consider staying in a vacation rental or hostel, which can often be more affordable than hotels. You could also look into camping or staying at a bed and breakfast. Additionally, consider visiting during the off-season (usually mid-April to mid-June or September to mid-December) when prices tend to be lower.
Are there any all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island?
Yes, there are several all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island. One popular option is the Waikoloa Beach Marriott, which offers a variety of amenities and activities, including multiple pools, a fitness center, and golf courses. Another option is the Hilton Waikoloa Village, which has a private beach, multiple pools, and a variety of dining options. Keep in mind that all-inclusive resorts can be more expensive than other types of accommodations, but they can also be convenient and offer a lot of value.
What is the best way to get around the Big Island if I don’t have a car?
If you don’t have a car on the Big Island, there are still several ways to get around. One option is to use public transportation, including the Hele-On bus system, which connects many of the island’s major towns and attractions. You could also consider using a shuttle or tour service, which can take you to popular attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Additionally, many resorts and hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport and around the island. Another option is to use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft, which are available on the Big Island.