14 Top-Rated Resorts on the Big Island of Hawaii

byCassandra Angelie
Whether it's for your honeymoon or your multigenerational family vacation, Hawaii's Big Island is home to a bountiful number of resorts for all budgets and types of travelers.

The majority of resorts are located on the sunny Kohala Coast, which runs along the Big Island's northwest coastline beginning north of the Kona International Airport.

Most of the resorts listed here are scattered across this area, which is also known as the "resort coast." That said, there are also some great lodging choices around the town of Kailua-Kona, especially to its south, where you'll find the Big Island's top luxury property: the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Choose the perfect tropical hideaway from our list of the best resorts on the Big Island.

1. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Photo Source: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai


The most luxurious resort on the Big Island, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is in a great west coast location, just to the south of Kailua-Kona town. Right on the ocean, it features stunning coastline views.

The decor is elegant Hawaiian contemporary, and the 243 rooms, suites, and villas, most of which have ocean views off balconies, are located in low-rise bungalows that mesh well with the environs.

Away from the rooms are multiple swimming pools filled with either saltwater or freshwater, three restaurants, fashion shops, and an open-air spa in a beautiful, natural locale. A Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, open only to guests, and a gym featuring daily yoga and other workout classes complete the picture.

Address: 72-100 Ka'upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

2. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Photo Source: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection


Also on the Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is in a gorgeous setting with walking trails crisscrossing its grounds and passing by a saltwater stream where reef fish swim.

The rooms and suites are stylish and modern with neutral color tones, comfortable beds, and flatscreen TVs, along with private balconies.

Couples looking for privacy or families looking for space will want to book one of the bungalows, which come with private plunge pools, gardens, and plenty of room to spread out.

Also on-site is a farm-to-table style restaurant and a wild outdoor spa with volcanic-rock saunas and water therapy treatments in a lava tube. Active amenities include two golf courses, multiple swimming pools, and a gym.

Address: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Puako, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

3. Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

Photo Source: Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii


The Fairmont Orchid overlooks Pauoa Bay from a beautifully landscaped 32-acre property on the Kohala Coast. The resort caters to honeymooners, as well as families, and has a dedicated on-site kids' program for children between the ages of five and 12 years, as well as babysitting services for a fee.

Rooms and suites here are contemporary and luxe, and all feature private balconies (most with ocean views) along with marble baths and flat-screen TVs. There is also a lovely open-air spa, several restaurants, and a giant pool with ocean views.

Address: 1 North Kaniku Drive, Puako, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

4. Holualoa Inn

Photo Source: Holualoa Inn

Accommodation: Holualoa Inn

Escape the big resorts with a stay at the Holualoa Inn, which is located just five miles from Kailua-Kona town and offers bed and breakfast accommodations on a 30-acre coffee plantation.

Done up in luxurious Polynesian style, the rooms and suites offer either ocean or garden views and come with sitting areas and original artwork. Some also feature hot tubs or private balconies.

There is also a private, one-bedroom cottage in a separate building that features a wraparound porch and living room. The included breakfast is delicious, and there are complimentary refreshments served in the afternoons. Also on-site is a swimming pool with sea views, a rooftop gazebo, and a telescope for guests to use.

Address: 76-5932 Mamalahoa Hwy PO Box 222, Holualoa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

5. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

Photo Source: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection


Located on the Kohala Coast on Mauna Kea beach, one of the best beaches on the Big Island, the upscale Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection was the first hotel development built in this area back in 1965. Today, it is run by Marriott and offers 252 spacious rooms and suites with modern island décor and comfortable beds.

Beyond the rooms, you'll find a Robert Trent Jones, Sr. golf course, a full-service spa, and tennis courts with sea views. There are also several dining options on-site, serving up island-inspired cuisine. It is a good choice for families, groups, and couples alike.

Address: 76-5932 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

6. Kohala Suites by Hilton Grand Vacations

Photo Source: Kohala Suites by Hilton Grand Vacations


Just a mile from Waiulua Bay on the Kohala Coast, this property features family-friendly accommodation in two-bedroom suites that are spacious and modern in decor. All come with living rooms with pullout sofa beds, as well as full kitchens and whirlpool tubs in the bathrooms. Kids will like the PlayStations that come with each room.

Away from the rooms, there is an outdoor pool, fitness space, tennis courts, barbecue grills, and even a putting green and playground for the little ones.

Although there isn't a restaurant on-site, a free shuttle will take you directly to the nearby sister property Hilton Waikoloa Village, which boasts multiple restaurants and two golf courses.

Address: 69-550 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

7. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

Photo Source: The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort


At Hapuna Beach on the Kohala Coast, the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort recently underwent renovations. The four-star resort features beautifully manicured tropical gardens and modern style.

The rooms and suites are colorful, and many have ocean views. The suites are a good choice if you are traveling with the kids, as these come with pullout sofas. Children 16 and under also stay free.

Grab a bite at their signature restaurant Meridia, which serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients. It is one of three restaurants on-site. There is also an 18-hole golf course, infinity swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, beach access with sun loungers and umbrellas, and a spa.

Address: 62-100 Kauna'oa Drive, Puako, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

8. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa

Photo Source: Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa


On Anaehoomalu Bay on the Kohala Coast, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa is a large mid-range property on lush tranquil grounds, where you'll find walking paths, ponds filled with fish, and two swimming pools. The resort also has direct beach access.

The 533 rooms and suites are clean and comfortable, and staff members are friendly and helpful. There is an on-site restaurant, but if it doesn't fit your taste, this property is within walking distance to many other restaurants and shops. It's also next to two championship golf courses.

Address: 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

9. Hilton Waikoloa Village

Photo Source: Hilton Waikoloa Village


One of the top family choices on the Kohala Coast, with plenty of kid-focused amenities, the Hilton Waikoloa Village sits on 62 acres right near the water — although there is no proper beach, there is a man-made lagoon with its own sand strip.

The property is huge, so big in fact that it runs a tram and ferry boats to get you from one section to another. It also includes some lovely gardens, waterfalls, and a dolphin pool that kids will love.

There are 1,200 rooms and suites in three separate towers, and each has a slightly different decor. Beyond the rooms, amenities include multiple restaurants and three large pool areas, including one that is adults-only, along with boutique shops and a spa with separate male and female saunas and hot tubs.

Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

10. Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa

Photo Source: Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa


South of the Kohala Coast and downtown Kailua-Kona, the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa offers a range of modern rooms and suites featuring full or partial ocean views from their private balconies. All are spacious and airy with comfortable beds and linens. For families, the suites add kitchenettes and living space.

Beyond the rooms is a restaurant that cooks up Hawaiian-focused fare and an outdoor pool with waterslides that children will love. There's also a spa and fitness center, and morning yoga classes are included in the resort fee.

Address: 78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

11. Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort

Photo Source: Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort


In the Kailua-Kona area, the ClubWyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort is a perfect family pick for its spacious, two-bedroom condos that can accommodate up to six people. These come with amenities like full kitchens and washer/dryers that make parents' lives easier.

The resort has a yesteryear Hawaii vibe that harkens back to the 1930s. There is no on-site restaurant, but there are plenty of choices nearby. There are two swimming pools and Jacuzzi hot tubs, however.

The Wyndham is not located directly on the beach, but there is one just a few minutes' walk away, and the property features lovely views across Kahalu'u Bay.

Address: 75-5961 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

12. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa

Photo Source: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa


Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa is a three-star golf resort in Waikoloa. Set between championship golf courses in lush tropical surroundings, the property features one- and two-bedroom suites that are perfect for family vacations.

All the suites come with full kitchens, as well as separate living and dining spaces and washer/dryers. They also feature private lanais with comfy furnishings.

Amenities here are plentiful. They include five outdoor swimming pools with waterslides and waterfalls. There are also organized activities for kids, a room with arcade games, and a gym. If you don't want to cook in your suite, there is a bistro restaurant on-site as well.

Address: 69-699 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

13. Royal Kona Resort

Photo Source: Royal Kona Resort

Accommodation: Royal Kona Resort

In Kailua-Kona and within walking distance from a number of excellent restaurants, Royal Kona Resort is a top 3-star pick, especially for families. Choose from rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options. Abodes are clean and comfortable. The best rooms have ocean views. All have furnished balconies and refrigerators to keep beverages cold.

Guests have direct beach access, although the beach here is rocky, and the water itself is accessed via steps into the sea. The resort has a sunbathing area next to these with thatched reef umbrellas and sun loungers. There is also a cool circular swimming pool facing the ocean that is surrounded by chairs.

Other amenities include a restaurant serving three meals a day. There is a spa on-site that offers a full range of treatments, from massages to facials. Head to the concierge to arrange activities, including diving and snorkeling.

Address: 75-5852 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

14. SCP Hilo Hotel

Photo Source: SCP Hilo Hotel

Accommodation: SCP Hilo Hotel

An eco-friendly, mid-range resort, SCP Hilo Hotel was formerly the Hilo Seaside Hotel. It relaunched in its current incarnation — the SCP stands for Soul Community Planet — in June 2021.

Located close to Hilo Bay and downtown Hilo, it offers easy access to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens, and Mount Mauna Kea. SCP takes its commitment to the environment seriously. It runs sustainable farm tours, and part of the profits from your stay go towards helping clean trash off island beaches.

Rooms are not super-luxe, but they are clean, comfy, and good value for the money. They also come in a few different setups. Premium rooms are well-appointed and have private lanais, while the standard rooms are a top choice for those looking for the most cost-efficient stay. All rooms have mindful, minimalist décor and make use of regionally sourced materials.

The resort also has a strong wellness focus. If you want to completely unwind, book one of the peaceful rooms that have no digital distractors. The fitness center here is equipped with Peloton bikes, yoga mats, and weights. Guests can also use SUP boards and bikes for free to explore outside.

The on-site restaurant focuses on plant-driven, healthy fare. If this doesn't appeal to you, the resort's location near downtown Hilo and Banyan Drive means you are not far from numerous dining options.

Map of Resorts on the Big Island of Hawaii


Tags

Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post
Share to other apps
Copy Post link

Contact Form