Big Island Of Hawaii Hotel Guide
Welcome to the ultimate guide for Big Island of Hawaii hotels! The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most beautiful and diverse destinations in the world, boasting breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and luxurious accommodations. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best hotels on the island, ranging from opulent beachfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts nestled in the lush rainforest. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, there’s a perfect hotel for you on the Big Island.
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Where to Sleep
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Kohala Coast
Also known as the Golden Coast on the far northwest tip of the island, this is one of the most diverse areas on the Island of Hawaii. The Kohala Coast was, at one point in time, known for its sugar cane plantations. Now the dominating presence of the Gold Coast is the famous Parker Ranch. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Hapuna Beach, is in the Kohala Region.
Hilo
Hilo is the largest city on the island and is crowned the wettest in the United States. The area gets around 70+ inches of rain per year. Thanks to all that precipitation, Hilo is incredibly lush and has several awe-inspiring orchid gardens. In addition, the region has many beautiful state parks, including Rainbow Falls State Park and Wailuku River State Park.
Kailua – Kona
One place you want to take advantage of on the Island of Hawaii regarding accommodations is the Kona Coast. This area has become the luxury resort hotspot on the island. With its 40 miles of beautifully rugged coastline, it’s easy to see why. This region has many gorgeous beaches, historical sites, and lava fields. Of course, you have to try the famous Kona Coffee!
Volcano
As you can imagine, this is a hot spot for visitors to the Island of Hawaii. The most famous attraction in the area is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You may be wondering if you will see lava on your visit; well, that depends. Most of the lava produced by Kilauea travels to the ocean via completely underground lava tubes. However, occasionally surface flows do happen.
Budget Hotels
Wild Ginger Hotel
Price: $ Average Reviews: 4/5
Nestled in the heart of downtown Hilo, surrounded by ancient trees and caressed by ocean breezes, you will discover the Wild Ginger Hotel. The hotel is close to the Hilo Farmers Market and many of the best restaurants and shopping venues, providing an excellent base for exploring Hilo. For those looking for an authentic Island of Hawaii experience, the Wild Ginger Hotel is a must. Each room features a stunning jungle or ocean view. Enjoy a continental breakfast each morning and stroll the gardens on the grounds to relax in nature.
Hamakua Guesthouse
Price: $ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
The Hamakua Guesthouse is a rustic house located on the beautiful Hamakua Coast just north of Hilo. Accommodations include private rooms on one of the two neighboring properties. One of the properties offers panoramic ocean views, while the other borders the dazzling Kapehu River. This sustainable guesthouse prides itself on getting its electricity from the sun and collecting water from the rain. Akaka Falls State Park is a short 12-minute drive around the corner from the Hamakua Guesthouse.
Arnott's Lodge
Price: $ Average Reviews: 4/5
Known as some of the best budget-friendly accommodations on the Island of Hawaii, Arnott’s Lodge in Hilo has evolved into a facility that offers everything the budget traveler could desire. Whether you want to camp or cozy up in a three-bedroom suite, Arnott’s offers several accommodation choices. Enjoy the natural tropical environment, free bicycle rentals, and being within walking distance of great beaches. Staying at Arnott’s Lodge makes your time on the Island of Hawaii a breeze.
Aaron’s Cottage
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.3/5
Those looking for country-style charm will find it at Aaron’s Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Hilo. The private rooms here are clean, simple, and full of rustic charm and provide a wonderful place to rest after your day of exploring the Island of Hawaii. Rooms feature a kitchenette with a refrigerator and air conditioning for your comfort. It’s an easy walk to beautiful Hawaiian beaches where you can swim, snorkel, and surf. Or venture into Hilo for fantastic shopping, dining, and golf, all within a 10-minute drive from Aaron’s Cottage.
ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP #1 : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE
When going on vacation in the time of Covid, Travel Insurance is a must in our opinion. Most of the current policies cover Covid medical issues as well as vacation delays due to Covid. They typically even cover your hotel if you test positive while on vacation and have to extend your trip a few days until you get a negative test. You can easily compare and choose from the top travel insurance policies here.
Midrange Hotels
Dragonfly Ranch
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
If you are looking for one-of-a-kind accommodation on the Island of Hawaii, you will love the Dragonfly Ranch on the Kona Coast. Eco-tourism at its finest, the Dragonfly offers indoor/outdoor suites with private bathrooms and outdoor showers where the lush Hawaiian jungle will surround you. The ranch also offers an upscale tree-house style B&B and healing center. Enjoy organic breakfasts with Kona Coffee or go snorkeling and diving nearby. Check out the yoga studio and get a massage or sound bath during your stay at Dragonfly Ranch.
Aloha Junction Bed and Breakfast
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.8/5
The Aloha Junction B&B in Volcano is an excellent base for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Guests love the location of Aloha Junction. This bed and breakfast is just 1 mile from the National Park and the best restaurants in town. You can enjoy the 1930s plantation structure with spacious rooms and free parking. Each morning, a complimentary breakfast that includes fresh-ground coffee, Papaya-banana boats, sausages, boiled eggs, and toast or yogurt is available. In addition, you can play 18 holes of golf or relax and sip a glass of local wine at this beautiful bed and breakfast.
Royal Kona Resort
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.⅗/5
The Royal Kona Resort is an oceanfront hotel in the heart of Kona town and overlooks stunning Kailua Bay. You will find that this resort is conveniently located just steps away from restaurants, shopping, historical sites, and activities. The deluxe guest rooms are spacious and designed with modern coastal décor. Enjoy the oceanfront sundeck with relaxing loungers, beach umbrellas, and pool cabanas. The Royal Kona Resort also offers a private sandy beach cove and a sheltered saltwater swimming lagoon perfect for snorkeling. Enjoy a meal at the resort’s restaurant, get a rejuvenating massage, or take a yoga class during your stay.
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.7/5
You may recognize The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls from Netflix’s “World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals” as the film featured their off grid cabins outside of Hilo. Situated among 22 lush acres and surrounded by Hawaii’s largest privately accessible waterfall, the inn will take your breath away. Whether you come for adventure, relaxation, or both, nothing quite prepares you for the beauty of Kulaniapia Falls. The inn offers several Asian-inspired accommodations ranging from waterfall-view rooms to fully detached cottages and even a Pagoda Guest House with a full kitchen. In addition, those seeking adventure are invited to join the Kulaniapia Adventures team for a guided 120-foot rappel down the namesake waterfall.
SCP Hilo Hotel
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
SCP Hilo Hotel is ideal for culture seekers and adventure travelers visiting the Hilo area. The hotel emphasizes using only locally sourced goods, creating a unique combination of holistic hospitality and authentic Hawaiian spirit. Each room features touches of Hawaii’s natural landscape and a minimalist style. Premium Rooms feature balconies with sweeping views of the hotel’s Koi Pond and Reeds Bay. Staying here includes the bonus of restoring makai (the seaside) by removing 2.2 pounds of trash from local beaches through the Hawaii Wildlife Fund.
Volcano Acres Ranch B&B
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Volcano Acres Ranch is on five secluded acres in the rainforest of Volcano near the entrance of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The ranch has a variety of free-range animals on the property that often interact with guests. All rooms offer private entrances, a kitchenette, and quality mattresses. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast that features local ingredients from farmer’s markets and local artisans in Volcano. In addition, you can take a relaxing stroll on the ranch grounds, watch the koi swim in the pond, or get to know the resident goats.
ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP #2 : USE A VPN
When traveling internationally, we highly recommend using a VPN on your smartphone, tablet and computer to protect your security while using public or hotel Wi-Fi. VPN’s are easily installed App services that protect all your internet use, from emails to web searches. The most secure and easy to use (in our honest opinion) is NordVPN which is inexpensive and top-rated in the industry. You can check it out here.
High-End Hotels
Fairmont Orchid
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
The Fairmont Orchid is a luxury Hawaiian resort on the majestic Kohala Coast. Inspired by culture, well-being, and genuine aloha, the resort offers luxury amenities, including a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront pool and the Hui Holokai Beach Club offering watersports and cultural activities. Read a good book on the Fairmont Orchid’s private beach or take a Pilates class. In addition, you can enjoy the 6 restaurants, year-round children’s program, 18 holes of golf, or grab a cocktail at the beach bar.
The Westin Hapuna Beach
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4.7/5
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast is stretched along its namesake beach and offers a contemporary style. Guests can wander the lush, manicured gardens and marvel at the dazzling ocean. In addition, the resort provides easy access to the cultural and archaeological gems between lava fields. Enjoy tropical ocean breezes from your beautiful balcony or expansive lanai. Amenities include 4 dining experiences, sparkling outdoor pools, and a tranquil spa. Guests can also hit the links at Hapuna Golf Course and tee off at the signature hole at just under 700 feet of elevation.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Experience the dreamy oceanfront tropical setting of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The hotel is located on the Kohala Coast at Kauna’oa Bay. You can choose from a tower or beachfront room, but both offer amazing views. The hotel also offers kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, and more. Additional amenities include a championship golf course, a luxurious spa, and a beautiful outdoor pool. Dine at the 5 incredible restaurants and bars the Mauna Kea offers. Make sure to catch the Mauna Kea Lū‘au, provided at the hotel every Tuesday. The Luau shares Hawaii’s culture through music, food, and family tradition.
Mauna Lani Resort
Price: $$$$$ Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Mauna Lani means “mountain reaching heaven” and you’ll understand why this sacred oasis on the Kohala Coast got its name when you marvel at its grandeur. Voted the #1 resort on the Island of Hawaii in 2022, Mauna Lani rooms offer furnished lanais where you can enjoy stunning ocean views. Suites are spacious and provide the perfect space for those traveling with larger families. Enjoy the 36-hole golf course, get a luxurious spa treatment, or try scuba diving. The resort offers 2 pools, one for children and the other for adults. Make sure to dine at one of 2 restaurants and take advantage of the Surf Shack.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Price: $$$$$ Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Located on the Kona-Kohala coast, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai combines the warm aloha spirit of the Island of Hawaii with luxury at its finest. Each guest room is spacious, comfortable, and housed in an intimate two-story bungalow. Guests can enjoy an award-winning golf course and 7 incredible pools. The resort offers 5 delicious dining options with locally sourced ingredients from over 160 farms. Enjoy the tranquil spa with over 14 treatment rooms and salon services, or take a Hawaiian culture class at the cultural center.
Volcano Rainforest Retreat
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4.9/5
The Volcano Rainforest Retreat is adjacent to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The retreat offers a collection of separate guest cottages created with elegant simplicity in harmony and balance with the surrounding rainforest. Stunningly beautiful, lush paths connect the rainforest lodges through the tropical landscape. This Hawaii Volcano Retreat is a one-of-a-kind accommodation that offers a unique setting for romantics, nature lovers, and world travelers seeking intimate contact with the living volcanic earth.
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