Best Places To Stay On Big Island Of Hawaii

When planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is 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 accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay on the Big Island, highlighting the top regions, towns, and resorts to help you make the most of your Hawaiian getaway.

Overview of the Big Island’s Regions

The Big Island is divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique character and attractions. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Kohala Coast to the lush coffee farms of Kona, and from the tropical rainforests of Hilo to the volcanic landscapes of Volcano Village, each region offers a unique experience. Understanding the different regions and their characteristics is essential to choosing the perfect place to stay on the Big Island.

Popular Regions to Stay on the Big Island

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top regions to stay on the Big Island, including:

• Kohala Coast: Known for its luxury resorts and stunning beaches
• Kona: Famous for its coffee farms and historic town
• Hilo: A charming town with a rich cultural heritage
• Volcano Village: A unique region surrounded by volcanic landscapes
• Waikoloa: A family-friendly area with plenty of amenities

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Best Places to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for travelers, offering a diverse range of landscapes, climates, and activities. From volcanic landscapes to tropical rainforests, and from snorkeling to stargazing, the Big Island has something for everyone. When planning a trip to this beautiful island, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay on the Big Island of Hawaii, highlighting the top regions, towns, and accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

Kailua-Kona: The Heart of the Island’s West Coast

Kailua-Kona, also known as Kona, is a charming coastal town on the west coast of the Big Island. This historic town is famous for its coffee farms, snorkeling spots, and stunning sunsets. Staying in Kailua-Kona offers easy access to popular attractions like Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Hulihe’e Palace, and the Kailua Pier.

Top Accommodations in Kailua-Kona:

• Kona Inn Hotel: A historic hotel with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Kona Tiki Hotel: A budget-friendly option with basic rooms and a convenient location.
• Hale Hualalai: A luxurious vacation rental with stunning ocean views and modern amenities.

Hilo: The Cultural Hub of the Big Island

Hilo, the largest town on the Big Island, is a cultural hub with a rich history, vibrant art scene, and delicious local cuisine. Staying in Hilo offers easy access to attractions like the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Hilo Farmers Market, and the beautiful Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Tallahassee)

Top Accommodations in Hilo:

• Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: A comfortable hotel with modern rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
• The Inn at Hilo: A cozy bed and breakfast with charming rooms and a warm welcome.
• Hilo Bay Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.

Waikoloa: Luxury and Relaxation on the Kohala Coast

Waikoloa, located on the Kohala Coast, is a luxurious resort area with world-class amenities and stunning ocean views. Staying in Waikoloa offers easy access to attractions like the Waikoloa Beach Marriott, Waikoloa Kings’ Course, and the Petroglyph Preserve.

Top Accommodations in Waikoloa:

• Waikoloa Beach Marriott: A luxurious resort with modern rooms, multiple pools, and a private beach.
• The Fairmont Orchid: A 5-star resort with luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options.
• Vacation Rentals in Waikoloa: Luxurious vacation homes and condos with modern amenities and stunning views.

Volcano Village: Explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Volcano Village, located near the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, is a charming town surrounded by lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Staying in Volcano Village offers easy access to the park’s attractions, including the Kilauea Visitor Center, Thurston Lava Tube, and the Jaggar Museum.

Top Accommodations in Volcano Village:

• Volcano House: A historic hotel with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the national park.
• Kilauea Lodge: A cozy lodge with rustic rooms and a warm welcome.
• Vacation Rentals in Volcano Village: Cozy cottages and vacation homes with modern amenities and stunning views.

Puna: Off the Beaten Path on the East Coast

Puna, located on the east coast of the Big Island, is a lush and rural region with a laid-back atmosphere. Staying in Puna offers easy access to attractions like the Lava Tree State Park, MacKenzie State Recreation Area, and the Kapoho Tide Pools.

Top Accommodations in Puna: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Vt)

• Kalani Retreat: A wellness retreat with comfortable rooms, yoga classes, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Vacation Rentals in Puna: Cozy cottages and vacation homes with modern amenities and stunning views.
• Camping in Puna: For the adventurous, camping options are available in the Lava Tree State Park and MacKenzie State Recreation Area.

Hamakua: Coffee Country and Waterfalls

Hamakua, located on the northeast coast of the Big Island, is a scenic region with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and coffee farms. Staying in Hamakua offers easy access to attractions like the Akaka Falls State Park, Umauma Falls, and the Hamakua Coffee Farm.

Top Accommodations in Hamakua:

• The Inn at Hamakua: A cozy bed and breakfast with comfortable rooms and a warm welcome.
• Vacation Rentals in Hamakua: Cozy cottages and vacation homes with modern amenities and stunning views.
• Camping in Hamakua: For the adventurous, camping options are available in the Akaka Falls State Park.

Summary of the Best Places to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii

In conclusion, the Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse range of regions, towns, and accommodations to suit every taste and budget. from the luxurious resorts of Waikoloa to the laid-back atmosphere of Puna, and from the cultural hub of Hilo to the coffee country of Hamakua, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.

When planning your trip to the Big Island, consider the following key points:

• Kailua-Kona is perfect for snorkeling, coffee farms, and historic attractions.
• Hilo is ideal for cultural experiences, local cuisine, and outdoor activities.
• Waikoloa offers luxury and relaxation on the Kohala Coast.
• Volcano Village is a must-visit for exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
• Puna is off the beaten path, with a laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities.
• Hamakua is perfect for coffee country, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

Remember to choose an accommodation that suits your needs, budget, and preferences, and don’t forget to explore the island’s many attractions and activities during your stay.

Happy travels to the Big Island of Hawaii!

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay on Big Island of Hawaii

What is the best area to stay on the Big Island for a beach vacation?

The Kailua-Kona coast on the west side of the island is ideal for a beach vacation. This area offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, and is close to popular beaches like Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach. The dry and sunny climate of the Kailua-Kona coast makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Key Largo)

Is it better to stay in Hilo or Kailua-Kona?

It depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. Hilo is a charming town on the east side of the island, close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the stunning waterfalls of Akaka Falls State Park. It’s a great base for exploring the island’s natural wonders. Kailua-Kona, on the other hand, is a bustling town on the west coast, known for its coffee farms, snorkeling, and sunset cruises. If you’re looking for a more laid-back, small-town atmosphere, Hilo might be the better choice. If you prefer a more vibrant, tourist-friendly area with a wider range of amenities, Kailua-Kona is the way to go.

What are some budget-friendly accommodation options on the Big Island?

There are several budget-friendly accommodation options on the Big Island, including vacation rentals, hostels, and camping sites. You can find affordable vacation rentals in towns like Hilo, Kailua-Kona, and Volcano Village, which often offer more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room. Hostels like the Hilo International Hostel and the Kona Hostel offer dormitory-style accommodations and communal kitchens. If you’re adventurous, camping is another option, with several campsites available in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and other scenic areas.

Are there any all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island?

Yes, there are several all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island, including the Waikoloa Beach Marriott and the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows. These resorts often offer packages that include meals, activities, and amenities like golf, spas, and water sports. All-inclusive resorts can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially for families or couples celebrating special occasions. However, be sure to research and compare prices, as some resorts may charge extra for certain amenities or activities.

Can I stay in a vacation rental with a private pool on the Big Island?

Absolutely! Many vacation rentals on the Big Island offer private pools, which can be a wonderful luxury, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. You can find vacation rentals with private pools in towns like Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, and Hilo, ranging from cozy cottages to spacious villas. Be sure to filter your search by “private pool” or “pool” to find the perfect rental for your needs. Keep in mind that some vacation rentals may have additional fees for pool maintenance or heating, so be sure to check the fine print before booking.