The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as the Island of Hawaii, is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands. With its varied landscapes, ranging from sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains, the Big Island offers a wide range of options for travelers looking for a place to stay.
Best Neighborhoods on the Big Island of Hawaii
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is a small town located on the west coast of the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island. It is situated in the North Kona District and is the hub of the West Hawaii region. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and year-round warm weather, making it a popular tourist destination.
One of the most popular attractions in Kailua-Kona is Kailua Beach, a beautiful white sand beach that stretches for several miles along the coast. The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and stand-up paddleboarding. It is also a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy a picnic.
Another popular attraction in Kailua-Kona is the Hulihee Palace, a historic mansion that was once the vacation home of Hawaiian royalty. The palace was built in 1838 and is now a museum that is open to the public. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the history of Hawaii and its royal family.
In addition to its beaches and historical sites, Kailua-Kona is also known for its coffee plantations. The town is located in the heart of the Kona coffee belt, and many local coffee farms offer tours and tastings. Kona coffee is known for its smooth, rich flavor and is considered some of the best coffee in the world.
Kailua-Kona is also home to a number of restaurants and shops, offering a variety of local and international cuisine. The town has a thriving nightlife scene, with a number of bars and clubs that stay open late.
Despite its small size, Kailua-Kona has a number of annual events that draw visitors from around the world. One of the most popular events is the Ironman World Championship, a triathlon that attracts thousands of athletes and spectators each year. The event consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run, and takes place in October.
Overall, Kailua-Kona is a beautiful and vibrant town that offers something for everyone. Its combination of stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious coffee make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the island of Hawaii.
Waikoloa
Waikoloa is located in the District of South Kohala on the island of Hawaii. Waikoloa is known for its luxury resorts and beautiful beaches, making it a popular vacation destination.
The Waikoloa Beach Resort is the main attraction in the area, featuring two championship golf courses, the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course and the Kings’ Course, as well as a variety of shopping and dining options. The resort also includes the Waikoloa Kings’ Shops, a collection of upscale boutiques and restaurants, and the Queens’ Marketplace, a more casual outdoor shopping and dining destination.
In addition to its luxury resorts, Waikoloa is also home to a number of natural attractions. The Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve is a popular destination for hikers and history buffs, featuring ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs carved into the lava rock. The Anaehoomalu Bay, also known as “A-Bay,” is a beautiful sandy beach with clear, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.
The Waikoloa area also has a rich cultural history. The Hula Village Cultural Center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian dance, music, and culture. The center includes a hula studio, a Hawaiian art gallery, and a gift shop.
Waikoloa is also home to the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative, a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the dry forest ecosystem on the island of Hawaii. The organization offers guided hikes and educational programs for visitors interested in learning about the unique flora and fauna of the dry forest.
Overall, Waikoloa is a beautiful and luxurious destination with a rich history and culture. Its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and natural attractions make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the island of Hawaii. So, if you ever visit the Big Island, make sure to add Waikoloa to your list of places to visit.
Hilo
Hilo is the county seat and largest city in the county. The town is located in the eastern part of the island, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Wailuku River to the west.
Hilo is known for its lush, tropical vegetation, with frequent rainfall that helps to support the growth of a wide variety of plants and flowers. The town is home to several parks, including the Liliuokalani Gardens and the Hilo Arboretum, both of which are popular with tourists and locals alike.
One of the main attractions in Hilo is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which is located just north of the town. This beautiful garden is home to more than 2,000 species of plants, including a wide variety of tropical flowers, palms, and fruit trees. The garden also features a number of waterfalls and streams, making it a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the island.
Hilo is also home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, which was founded in 1947 and serves as the main center of higher education on the Big Island. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including business, education, engineering, and liberal arts.
In addition to its natural beauty and educational opportunities, Hilo is also known for its rich cultural history. The town is home to a number of important historical sites, including the Lyman House Memorial Museum, which was built in 1839 and is the oldest wooden frame house in the state of Hawaii. The museum is dedicated to the Lyman family, who were influential in the development of the island, and features exhibits on the history of the family and the history of the island.
Hilo is also home to the Mokupapapa Discovery Center, which is located in Hilo Bay and focuses on the marine life and cultural history of the island. The center features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a number of hands-on activities that help visitors learn about the unique marine environment of Hawaii.
Overall, Hilo is a vibrant and diverse town that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful gardens and parks, to its rich cultural history and educational opportunities, there is always something to see and do in Hilo.
Waimea
Waimea is a small town located on the island of Kauai. It is known for its rich history and cultural significance, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings.
The area was first settled by Polynesian explorers around 300 AD, and later became a hub for Hawaiian royalty and their attendant kahunas (priests). In the early 1800s, Waimea was home to the first Christian mission in Hawaii, and the town became a center for education and westernization.
Today, Waimea is a charming and laid-back community with a population of just over 2,000 people. It is known for its paniolo (cowboy) culture, as the area was once home to large cattle ranches. The Waimea Plantation Cottages, a collection of historic plantation homes that have been converted into vacation rentals, offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
One of the main attractions in Waimea is the Waimea Canyon, a stunning geological feature that has been dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The canyon is over 10 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, and it is known for its dramatic red and orange rock formations. Visitors can take guided tours of the canyon or hike along its many trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to its natural beauty, Waimea is home to several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Waimea Town Celebration is a popular event that celebrates the town’s history and culture, with live music, food, and entertainment. The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival is another popular event, which celebrates the town’s Japanese heritage and the arrival of spring with a parade and cultural demonstrations.
Overall, Waimea is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Hawaii. Its stunning natural surroundings, charming small-town atmosphere, and rich cultural events make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the island of Kauai. So, it is a perfect place for tourists who love nature and want to explore the history and culture of Hawaii.
Best Hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Hilton Waikoloa Village is a luxury resort located in Waikoloa, Hawaii. The resort spans 62 acres and is home to 1,240 guest rooms, suites, and villas. It is situated on the Kohala Coast, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offering stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.
The resort features a number of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including three swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options. The resort also offers access to a private lagoon and beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.
One of the main attractions at Hilton Waikoloa Village is the Dolphin Quest program, which allows guests to interact with dolphins in a natural lagoon setting. The program offers a variety of experiences, including swimming with dolphins, observing dolphins up close, and learning about dolphin behavior and conservation efforts.
The resort also features a number of shopping and dining options, including the Waikoloa Kings’ Shops, a collection of upscale boutiques and restaurants, and the Queens’ Marketplace, a more casual outdoor shopping and dining destination.
In addition to its luxurious amenities and activities, Hilton Waikoloa Village is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The Hula Village Cultural Center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian dance, music, and culture. The center includes a hula studio, a Hawaiian art gallery, and a gift shop.
The resort is also home to the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative, a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the dry forest ecosystem on the island of Hawaii. The organization offers guided hikes and educational programs for visitors interested in learning about the unique flora and fauna of the dry forest.
Overall, Hilton Waikoloa Village is a luxurious and idyllic destination for travelers looking for an upscale vacation experience in Hawaii. Its beautiful setting, top-notch amenities, and cultural attractions make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the island of Hawaii.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a luxury resort located on the island of Hawaii, on the Kohala Coast. The resort is situated on a beautiful white sandy beach and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
The resort features a number of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including two swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options. The resort also offers access to a private beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.
One of the main attractions at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is the Mauna Kea Golf Course, a championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course offers 18 holes of challenging play, with breathtaking ocean views and a variety of hazards. The resort also offers a number of other recreational activities, including tennis, croquet, and beach volleyball.
In addition to its luxurious amenities and activities, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The Hula Village Cultural Center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian dance, music, and culture. The center includes a hula studio, a Hawaiian art gallery, and a gift shop.
The resort is also home to the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative, a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the dry forest ecosystem on the island of Hawaii. The organization offers guided hikes and educational programs for visitors interested in learning about the unique flora and fauna of the dry forest.
Overall, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a luxurious and idyllic destination for travelers looking for an upscale vacation experience in Hawaii. Its beautiful setting, top-notch amenities, and cultural attractions make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the island of Hawaii.
The Fairmont Orchid Hawaii
The Fairmont Orchid Hawaii is a luxury resort located on the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island. Situated on 32 acres of beautiful beachfront property, the resort offers a variety of amenities and activities for travelers to enjoy.
One of the main attractions of the Fairmont Orchid is its location. The resort is situated on the sunny Kohala Coast, offering guests access to beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The resort also offers a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
In addition to its beachfront location, the Fairmont Orchid also offers guests a variety of on-site amenities. The resort boasts six pools, including a children’s pool and a saltwater lagoon. There is also a full-service spa and fitness center, offering a range of treatments and fitness classes. The resort also has several dining options, including a seafood restaurant, a poolside bar, and a breakfast buffet.
The Fairmont Orchid is also home to several championship golf courses, including the Francis H. I’i Brown North and South Courses, both of which have been recognized as some of the best courses in the state. The resort also offers a variety of other recreational activities, including tennis, croquet, and even a petting zoo.
In terms of accommodations, the Fairmont Orchid offers a range of room types to suit different needs and budgets. Guests can choose from standard rooms, suites, and villas, all of which are spacious and tastefully decorated. Many of the rooms also offer breathtaking views of the ocean or the resort’s lush gardens.
Overall, the Fairmont Orchid Hawaii is a luxurious and welcoming resort that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful location and amenities to its wide range of recreational activities, the resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind in style.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is a luxurious oceanfront resort located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Set on the white sands of Hapuna Beach, one of the best beaches in the state, the hotel offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby Mauna Kea mountain.
The hotel features a variety of guest rooms and suites, all of which offer modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and private balconies or lanais. Some rooms also have ocean views, while others have views of the hotel’s tropical gardens.
The hotel’s amenities include two swimming pools, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. Guests can also take part in a range of activities, such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and golfing at the nearby Mauna Kea Golf Course.
The hotel’s dining options include a main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a poolside bar and a lobby lounge. The hotel also offers a range of catering services for special events, such as weddings and corporate meetings.
One of the highlights of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is its location on Hapuna Beach, a two-mile stretch of white sand that is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. The beach is also a great spot for watching the sunset, as the hotel is located on the western coast of the island.
Overall, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is a top-rated luxury resort that offers a relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience. Its beautiful setting, excellent amenities, and range of activities make it a popular choice for travelers to the Big Island of Hawaii.
Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay
The Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is a luxury hotel located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Nestled on the beautiful Keauhou Bay, the resort offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding tropical landscape.
The resort features a wide range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. The resort has its own private lagoon, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. The resort also has a spa, fitness center, and several pools, including a adults-only infinity pool and a family pool with a water slide.
The guest rooms at the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay are spacious and elegantly decorated, with private balconies or patios and panoramic views of the ocean or the surrounding gardens. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, a coffee maker, and a private bathroom with a shower and a tub.
The resort has several dining options, including a poolside bar and grill, a seafood restaurant, and a coffee shop. The resort also has a grocery store and a convenience store on site, so guests can easily pick up snacks and essentials during their stay.
In addition to its many amenities, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is also an ideal location for events and meetings. The resort has a large conference center and several meeting rooms, as well as a wedding chapel. The resort’s dedicated event planners can help with all the details, from catering to AV equipment.
Overall, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is a luxurious and welcoming destination for travelers looking to relax and unwind in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this resort has something for everyone.
