The Big Island of Hawaii offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences, making it one of the most unique destinations in the world. From volcanic eruptions to lush rainforests and pristine beaches, the island promises an unforgettable adventure. This guide will provide an overview of the best places to stay, including the most suitable areas and specific accommodation recommendations. Whether you’re looking for the best beaches, the most convenient location for sightseeing, or a balance of both, this blog post has you covered. Let’s dive into the best places to stay on the Big Island!
Planning a Trip to the Big Island
When planning a trip to the Big Island, the first step is to decide which areas you want to explore. The island is large and diverse, with various regions offering different attractions and experiences. The Big Island is roughly split into two main sides—West and East—each with its own set of highlights and accommodations. West Hawaii, featuring Kona and the Kohala Coast, is known for its sunny weather, upscale resorts, and beautiful beaches. In contrast, East Hawaii, including Hilo and Puna, offers a lush, tropical landscape with easy access to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. Your ideal stay may depend on whether you’re seeking sun-soaked relaxation or verdant exploration. Balance both landscapes with a well-structured itinerary that includes multiple areas.
Areas of the Big Island
The Big Island can be divided into several key areas, each with its own distinct character and appeal. Kona, on the western coast, is a popular choice for tourists due to its vibrant atmosphere and plethora of amenities. This area is perfect for those interested in snorkeling, diving, and enjoying picturesque sunsets. The Kohala Coast, situated just north of Kona, is known for its luxury resorts and stunning beaches. If you’re looking for a more opulent experience, this area offers some of the finest accommodations and dining options on the island. Hilo, on the eastern side, provides a more laid-back, local vibe, with lush greenery and close proximity to natural attractions like waterfalls and Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. The Puna district, also in East Hawaii, is for the adventurers. It’s close to the active Kilauea volcano and offers unique stays in rainforest settings. Each area provides different perks, and many travelers opt to split their stay across two or more regions to get a fuller experience of the island’s diversity.
Where to Stay on the Big Island FAQs
Which side of the Big Island is the best to stay?
The best side of the Big Island to stay on largely depends on your preferences and itinerary. The western side, particularly the Kona and Kohala regions, offers sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and more tourist-centric amenities. Kona is particularly known for its clear waters and historical sites. On the eastern side, Hilo provides a more authentic Hawaiian experience, with lush tropical rainforests, botanical gardens, and easy access to the stunning Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. The Puna district offers remote and unique stays, perfect for those wanting to explore the island’s volcanic activities. Ultimately, many visitors find that splitting their stay between the East and West sides offers the best of both worlds.
How many days do you need on the Big Island?
To fully appreciate the Big Island, it’s ideal to spend at least a week. This allows ample time to explore both the western and eastern sides without feeling rushed. With a week-long stay, you can comfortably visit major attractions like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the stunning beaches of the Kohala Coast, and the historical sites of Kona. For a more relaxed pace, consider extending your stay to 10-14 days. This extra time will enable you to truly soak in the island’s diverse landscapes, engage in various activities like snorkeling, hiking, and exploring local culture, and even enjoy some downtime by the beach or pool.
Where to stay on the Big Island for beaches and snorkeling?
For beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts, the Kona and Kohala Coast areas on the island’s west side are unbeatable. These regions offer some of Hawaii’s best beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Kona is home to famous spots like Kahaluu Beach Park, known for its colorful corals and tropical fish. The Kohala Coast, on the other hand, boasts stunning beaches like Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach, both of which offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. These areas also provide a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
Where to Stay in Kona
Kona, famously referred to as Kailua-Kona, is a remarkable place that offers a dynamic mix of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. This western coast gem is perfect for travelers seeking sunny weather, cultural sites, and ocean adventures.
Kona hotels
#### Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay For a mix of luxury and adventure, the Sheraton Kona Resort offers stunning ocean views, a rich cultural history, and easy access to water activities. The hotel features a multi-level pool, a lazy river, and direct access to Keauhou Bay, making it a fantastic choice for families. #### Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Located in the heart of historic Kailua Village, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to be in the middle of the action. It offers comfortable accommodations, beachfront access, and is just steps away from shopping, dining, and historical sites.
Where to Stay on the Kohala Coast
The Kohala Coast is renowned for its upscale resorts, beautiful beaches, and world-class golf courses. This area is perfect for those seeking a luxurious vacation experience with plenty of relaxation and pampering.
Kohala Coast hotels
#### Mauna Kea Beach Hotel One of the Big Island’s most famous luxury resorts, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers exquisite accommodations, fantastic dining options, and a pristine white-sand beach. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to relaxing at the on-site spa. #### The Fairmont Orchid This luxurious oceanfront hotel provides an elegant setting with lavish rooms, a beautiful lagoon for snorkeling, and excellent dining options. The Fairmont Orchid also has an incredible spa and multiple pools, making it a great choice for couples and families alike.
Where to Stay in Hilo
Hilo presents a stark contrast to the sunny beaches of the west, with its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and proximity to volcanic landscapes. This eastern city offers a more laid-back, local vibe, perfect for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the Big Island.
Hilo hotels
#### Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – a DoubleTree by Hilton Offering modern accommodations and stunning views of Hilo Bay, this hotel is an excellent choice for those who want comfort and convenience. It’s located near downtown Hilo, making it easy to explore local attractions, shops, and restaurants. #### Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Nestled on the Banyan Tree Drive, this hotel offers great views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea. It’s close to the Hilo Farmers Market and Liliuokalani Gardens, making it a convenient base for exploring the eastern side of the island.
Where to stay near Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park (Puna)
The Puna district is a treasure trove for adventure seekers, offering a unique landscape shaped by recent volcanic activity. Staying near Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park provides unparalleled access to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea.
Volcano and Fern Forest accommodations
#### Volcano House Located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Volcano House provides a unique experience with its stunning crater views and close proximity to hiking trails and lava viewing areas. It’s a perfect base for those who want to be immersed in the park’s volcanic landscape. #### Fern Forest Retreat A more secluded option, Fern Forest Retreat offers unique, eco-friendly accommodations in the lush rainforest near Volcano Village. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary
Crafting the perfect itinerary can elevate your trip from good to unforgettable. The Big Island is teeming with so many opportunities that having a structured plan can help you make the most of your visit.
Get The Big Island Itinerary
When planning your visit to the Big Island, consider dividing your stay between the west and east sides. A typical itinerary might include a few days in Kona or the Kohala Coast to soak in the sun, enjoy water activities, and relax at luxurious resorts. Following this, a few days in Hilo or near Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park would provide a contrasting experience of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. To make your planning easier, there are numerous pre-made itineraries available that can provide you with day-by-day schedules, ensuring you don’t miss any key attractions. These itineraries often include a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural activities, tailored to make the most out of your time on the Big Island. Final thoughts “`html
| Region | Highlights | Top Hotels |
|---|---|---|
| Kona | Sunny weather, beaches, snorkeling | Sheraton Kona Resort, Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel |
| Kohala Coast | Luxury resorts, golf courses | Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, The Fairmont Orchid |
| Hilo | Lush rainforests, waterfalls | Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, Hilo Hawaiian Hotel |
| Puna (Volcanoes National Park) | Volcanic landscapes, hiking trails | Volcano House, Fern Forest Retreat |
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