Hawai’i… THE travel destination for so many. When people think of Hawai’i, they normally think of Maui, Honolulu, Waikiki. As a Native Hawaiian (who unfortunately doesn’t live in the islands anymore), going back gives me so many warm and fuzzy feelings that you only get when your in a place that truly feels like home.
The Big Island is one of Hawai’i’s hidden gems. With such a large landscape to explore, you can visit the rainy side of Hilo, to the dry side of Kona, to the volcano national park. I also think that visiting this island is a lot more affordable when done right (this list includes a mix of high end and more affordable choices). So, read on for my brief summary of a few of the best hotels (in my opinion) on the big island. P.S. I’ll also fill you in on the gem we go back to, year after year. Link to my YouTube hotel tours & to TripAdvisor will be below!
Top 5 (links and brief highlights below)
- SCP Hilo Hotel
- Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts
- Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
- Hilton Waikaloa Village
- Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikaloa
Photo by Nitin Karolla on Unsplash
1. SCP Hilo Hotel
There are a small handful of hotels in Hilo, and this one is a pretty affordable gem in my opinion. Because the Big Island is well… so big, it’s sometimes great to spend a night or two here, and then most of your stays on the Kona side. Hilo is definitely a place to visit – with it’s farmers markets, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
- Great location with easy access to nearby Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens, Hilo Farmers Market, Rainbow Falls, Nani Mau Gardens, and more
- Holistic Hospitality – the brand actively fosters wellness, kindness and sustainability (think sustainable products, community spaces)
- Free Bikes & paddleboards for guests
- Excellent hospitality & customer service
- *Note: the rooms can be small and a bit bland compared to the bigger resorts on the island, but their location and price is some of the big draw (although some rooms do overlook the bay and their koi pond)
- Rates: Anywhere from $150+ per night, depending on dates
Photo by Josh Withers on Unsplash
2. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts
This is a pricey one (and Travel + Leisure’s top hotel on the island), but a fantastic resort nonetheless. If you’re looking to stay in an exclusive location, and feel like a star – check this one out. It’s also a great stay for honeymoons, or romantic getaways.
- You can’t beat the views and location – the Kohala Coast is stunning. If you are exploring the rest of the island, it can feel a bit far though.
- Private, relaxing – it’s a top resort for honeymoons and couples
- Incredibly clean, modern, and a stunningly designed resort with impeccable hotel rooms
- Family friendly & incredible customer service
- *Note: The food here can be expensive, and you’re a bit isolated if you’re looking to eat at other local restaurants, etc.
- Rates: Anywhere from $600+ per night, depending on the dates
Photo by Ingrid Martinussen on Unsplash
For a much more “central” hotel that’s closer to most of the local restaurants than if you were staying out on the Kohala coast, checkout a stay in Kona. This hotel is a bit more affordable, and is in a great location steps from Keauhou Bay. At the Outrigger Kona, you’ll also find live music amidst a scenic locale perfect for snorkeling adventures. Oh, and did I mention most nights you can see manta rays from the viewing deck?
- Location is one of the best – beachfront, killer views, and a great pool selection. The big draw for me was the Manta Ray viewing!
- Cultural tours and activities, tons of family friendly events, and oceanfront pools + 200 foot waterslide, there’s something for everyone
- Decent food selection – but you’re also not far from regular stores, and other local eateries
- *Note: Outrigger Kona is in the middle of a massive renovation – but once that is done, the rooms look amazing. The first batch of renovated rooms look beautifully designed.
- Rates: Anywhere $250+ a night, depending on dates
3. Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
4. Hilton Waikaloa Village
This one is very near and dear to my heart. A close second favorite, my husband and I spent some of our 1st trips to the Big Island at this resort. And now that we have a little one, we still come back to visit – in fact we are planning our vow renewal here!
- Views and location are great – it’s in the heart of Waikaloa Village – steps away from the King and Queen’s Marketplace where you can find shops, restaurants, and a grocery store
- Nestled on 62 acres, this is a true all in one resort stay – the Hilton Waikaloa Village gives you zero reason to want to leave. With an amazing spa, multiple pools (including their own natural, ocean fed lagoon with green sea turtles), dolphins and a dolphin experience, multiple eateries, tons of places to just sit, relax and hangout poolside and on the grass, this is a hard one to beat
- Probably the most kid friendly resort of all on the Big Island – there are so many things to do (Hawaiian cultural activity center, luau, multiple pools, on site lagoon snorkeling)
- There’s no dedicated beach access at this resort – although you can walk a ways down to the Marriott/beach park in the Waikaloa area
- Rates: $350+ per night, depending on dates – I have seen prices jump all over for this property, so try to book in advance, and don’t be afraid to rebook if the price drops
5. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikaloa
Surprise! This is our TOP favorite place to stay, so much so – we come back 1-2 times a YEAR. This place is the best for families, and I feel you get some good bang for your buck. For the price of a regular room at one of the resorts, you get a fully appointed condo, full kitchen, free parking, and SO much more.
- Perfect for larger families – each room comes with a balcony, fully appointed dining rooms, kitchens, and living rooms. Food on Hawai’i can be expensive – and the fact that you get a full fridge and full kitchen is a godsend
- While they have multiple pools, a clubhouse, and a gym (and golfing) right at your fingertips, you can go down to the Hilton Waikaloa and use all of their pools and amenities for free!
- Super family friendly – gorgeously designed property and rooms
- Parking is free – and there are free shuttles to the Hilton Waikaloa down the road and to the King and Queen’s shops/restaurants
- Rates: $250+ depending on the dates
I’ll do a more detailed post in the future – but checkout my Youtube video here for a property and room tour (I also have other Hawai’i videos!)
If you’re looking for a more in depth review of specific hotels in Hawai’i (or other travel destinations!) bookmark our site, drop an email – we’ll be coming out with specific guides.
I’d love to hear from you all! Have a favorite recommendation I should visit next? Did any of your personal faves make this list?
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