Looking to book a hotel for your vacation to the Big Island? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re traveling to this tropical destination for a romantic getaway for two or on a vacation with your family, we’ve compiled a list of all the places to stay on the Big Island.
There is a reason why the Big Island is one of the top island getaways in the world. From world-class snorkeling to white sand beaches, active volcanoes, and night swimming with manta rays, there is something to do for everyone.
Don’t have time to read the entire post? Our pick for the best hotel on the Big Island: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai with near-perfect ratings & stunning ocean views!
We recently returned from a Big Island vacation so we have first-hand knowledge of where to stay on the Big Island. We booked hotels in both the west and east coasts so we’ll also cover what to see and do on each part of the island.
From luxurious resorts with private beach access to family-friendly places, here are the best places to stay on Hawaii Big Island!
Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!
15 Best Places To Stay On The Big Island Of Hawaii:
1. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Looking to have a luxurious getaway on the Big Island? The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is one of the best Big Island Hawaii resorts for those who want to pamper themselves with a bit of luxury.
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has the most amazing ocean views, gourmet dining choices, lounges, and incredible swimming pools. This resort is tucked away in a quiet area north of Kailua-Kona so you’ll have plenty of privacy and access to secluded beaches.
The hotel boasts a beautiful outdoor pool including an adults-only area along with a full-service spa. The resort also has its own golf course set next to black lava rocks and lush jungle plants.
The Four Seasons is the perfect place to stay for couples seeking a romantic getaway. It is also only a 30-minute drive from the popular Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area where you can spend the day lounging on a pristine white sand beach.
2. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is situated in Waikoloa, about a 40-minute drive north of Kona. Guests have a variety of rooms to choose from that come with spacious balconies for enjoying the stunning views. The rooms are adorned with modern, Hawaii-inspired décor.
The resort has so many incredible amenities that you might never want to leave! Within the property, you can have a fun time at the outdoor gym, tennis courts, and two golf courses. For a relaxing time, head to the gorgeous outdoor pool or book a massage service at the onsite spa.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection is the perfect place to stay for couples wanting some relaxation in a stunning, tropical setting away from the crowds. Be sure to set aside an evening to enjoy a sunset dinner at the onsite CanoeHouse Restaurant overlooking the ocean.
Check Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection rates & availability!
3. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is situated in a prime location next to one of the most beautiful beach parks on the Big Island. Within a short walk from the hotel, you can reach the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area where you can lounge on the white sand shore, go swimming in the turquoise water, and do a bit of snorkeling.
The Westin Hapuna is one of the best hotels on the Big Island that offers its guests superior customer service, an ideal location next to the beach, and luxurious comforts.
The hotel has been recently renovated in a contemporary, modern style. All rooms feature private porches with ocean views, a fridge, and coffee-making supplies for convenience.
You can start the day by getting a morning workout in at the fitness center that features a CrossFit studio. Then head to the beach, hit the links at the onsite golf course, or take a walk through the lush gardens.
Overall, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is the perfect place to stay for couples and families with kids looking for a relaxed yet upscale stay on the Big Island in Hawaii.
4. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a classic Hawaii hotel just steps from the Kaunaʻoa Bay. At check-in, you will be greeted with a beautiful lei to start the vacation on the right note!
The resort offers many excellent guest amenities including a world-class golf course, tennis courts, spa services, a beauty salon, and yoga classes. Within the hotel grounds, you can also enjoy private beach access, an outdoor pool, and beachside dining choices.
Kaunaʻoa Bay is a popular location for viewing manta rays on the Big Island. The hotel offers private night manta ray snorkel tours that take place on the beach right in front of the property – an experience of a lifetime!
Check Mauna Kea Beach Hotel rates & availability!
5. Fairmont Orchid
Find exceptional service and amenities at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel! This is one of the best resorts on Big Island Hawaii that feels like a tropical paradise.
The Fairmont Orchid is close to many of the top activities on the west coast of the island including Holoholokai Beach Park and Puakō Petroglyph Park. This luxurious family-friendly oasis also has plenty of excellent amenities on-site including 10,000 square-foot pool, tennis courts, a golf course, and oceanfront restaurants.
Within feet of the hotel, you can reach a private lagoon with calm water perfect for swimming and exploring the underwater world. Be sure to keep an eye out for giant sea turtles that you can often spot in the water!
The spacious guest rooms come with private balconies and ocean or garden views. The hotel offers a wonderful breakfast buffet so you can start the day off right!
Check Fairmont Orchid rates & availability!
6. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa offers unforgettable accommodations and some of the best guest services in a prime location near the beach. This resort is situated next to scenic fishponds with easy access to the ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach where you can swim in a calm bay.
Within a short walk from the hotel, you can also reach the Lava Lava Beach Club. This is one of our favorite beachfront restaurants on the Big Island known for delicious food and strong Mai Tais.
The welcoming and friendly staff at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa will ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. The rooms come with tall floor-to-ceiling windows for enjoying the surrounding views of the beach and gardens.
The resort features wonderful amenities including three swimming pools, multiple golf courses, and an on-property spa. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, surf, or go on a serene walk, everything is available just steps from the hotel!
Check Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort rates & availability!
7. Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa
Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa is one of the best places to stay in Kona Hawaii.
This hotel is situated next to Keauhou Bay which is a feeding ground for manta rays on the Big Island. You can try to spot the manta rays from the hotel but we recommend booking a Night Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure that offers a better chance of seeing them up close!
For a fun day exploring the Big Island, head out to the nearby Kahalu’u Beach Park and Magic Sands Beach Park. These are two of the most beautiful beach parks on the Big Island where you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling amongst world-class reefs. Within a 15-minute drive, you can also reach the highly popular Heavenly Hawaiian Farm which offers tours of their Kona coffee plantation.
If you’d rather stay at the hotel, the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa offers plenty of on-property activities including water slides, hula lessons, lei making, and yoga to keep you occupied. All in all, this is an ideal home base for those seeking an adventurous stay on the west side of the Big Island!
Check Outrigger Kona Resort rates & availability!
8. Hilton Waikoloa Village
Hilton Waikoloa Village is a home away from home and the perfect place to stay for families on the Kohala Coast. Located just steps from the beach, this beautiful oceanfront hotel is surrounded by nature, lush trees, and plenty of walking paths.
Hilton Waikoloa Village has two golf courses, a spa, and four large swimming pools with slides to keep the entire family entertained. Within the property, you can also enjoy a luau show, grab craft beers at the Kona Tap Room, and dine at multiple onsite restaurants.
This hotel is also home to the family-friendly Dolphin Quest Hawaii where you can swim with dolphins – a memorable experience of a lifetime!
Check Hilton Waikoloa Village rates & availability!
9. The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is the ideal place to stay for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This is one of the top hotels in Hilo Hawaii that’s situated on a spacious jungle property with its own private waterfall.
In the mornings you can enjoy a delicious breakfast made of locally sourced ingredients. Many of the rooms come with views of the Kulaniapia Falls and the surrounding rainforest. In your free time, you can head down to the river for swimming, kayaking, and guided rappelling tours down the Kulaniapia waterfall.
While the hotel is located on a secluded property away from the crowds, it is just a short drive from Hilo town. Nearby you can also visit the popular Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and Lavaloha which offers tours of their chocolate farm.
Check The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls rates & availability!
10. PACIFIC 19 Kona
PACIFIC 19 Kona is a newer boutique hotel that’s situated at the heart of Kailua-Kona. This hotel caters to younger, ultra-modern travelers seeking an upscale place to stay in Kona.
The hotel is just steps away from the beach, local restaurants, bars, and the Ali‘i Dr which often hosts street markets with local vendors. All hotel guests have access to the stunning outdoor pool where you can jump in for a refreshing swim to cool off on hot summer days.
The guest rooms are recently renovated and feature helpful small touches including a minibar, stocked fridge, and beach items available for purchase. In the mornings you can grab a cup of coffee from the cute coffee stand just outside the hotel doors.
We booked a couple-night stay at this hotel due to its central location. Within a short drive, you can reach the Magic Sands Beach Park, head on a drive along Saddle Road to Hilo, and visit local Kona coffee farms.
Check PACIFIC 19 Kona rates & availability!
11. Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant
Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant is one of the best Big Island Hawaii hotels for those who plan to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This charming historical lodge is situated near the National Park entrance gate and Kīlauea Visitor Center.
The rooms at Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant are very comfortable and feature Hawaii-inspired décor. Guests can enjoy food at the onsite Kilauea Lodge Restaurant which serves three meals a day.
After exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, you can spend the evening relaxing in the outdoor hot tub with views of the surrounding lush rainforest.
Check Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant rates & availability!
12. Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, a DoubleTree by Hilton
If you plan to explore the east coast of the Big Island, the Grand Naniloa Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Hilo Hawaii. We booked a couple of night’s stay here to visit Hilo town, Akaka Falls State Park, and Kaumana Caves.
This contemporary hotel is situated on a scenic black lava coastline with stunning ocean views. Hotel guests have access to the outdoor pool, fitness center that overlooks the ocean, lobby lounge, and the Hula Hula restaurant.
We especially appreciated the little touches like complimentary cookies at check-in, free drink vouchers, and an upgrade to a room with a romantic soaking tub. Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo is a great hotel for those wanting a comfortable place to stay after a day full of outdoor adventures.
Check Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo rates & availability!
13. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings Land Waikoloa
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings Land Waikoloa is one of the best hotels on Big Island Hawaii for families. This is a wonderful mid-range hotel that offers babysitting services and lots of kid’s activities to make your vacation as comfortable as possible.
The suites come with fully equipped kitchens so you can make your own meals as you wish. Don’t feel like cooking? Then head to the onsite restaurant that serves all-day Hawaiian cuisine.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of golf at the nearby championship golf courses or watch a game at the pool bar which features 60 plasma TVs. The hotel also boasts 4 outdoor swimming pools and a hot tub for the ultimate family getaway!
Check Hilton Grand Vacations Club rates & availability!
14. Royal Kona Resort
Royal Kona Resort is one of the most popular Big Island hotels in Kona. This hotel is situated at the center of the action near popular restaurants, bars, and shops.
Royal Kona Resort is located just a 20-minute drive south of the Kona International Airport. We booked a night’s stay here after arriving on the Big Island so we could rest and reset before exploring the island.
We especially enjoyed the breakfast at the oceanfront restaurant before heading out for the day. Some of the other hotel features include an outdoor pool, wellness center, morning yoga, and Voyagers of the Pacific Luau.
Check Royal Kona Resort rates & availability!
15. SCP Hilo Hotel
SCP Hilo Hotel is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking comfortable accommodations in Hilo. The guest rooms are simple, yet modern and feature beautiful wooden accents.
The property boasts a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by nature, ponds, and serene walkways. Within a short walk, you can also reach the nearby Liliʻuokalani Gardens and Reeds Bay Beach Park.
For activities, the hotel offers cultural experiences including lei making, coconut tasting, and farm tours. Guests can take advantage of the onsite fitness center, or grab complimentary bike rentals and paddle boards for exploring the nearby area.
Check SCP Hilo Hotel rates & availability!
FAQ: Best Places To Stay On The Big Island
Is it better to stay in Hilo or Kona?
On our Big Island vacation, we stayed a few nights in both Hilo and Kona. The Big Island of Hawaii lives up to its name and is actually very big. It can take a long time to travel across the entire island so it’s best to split up your trip and stay in various locations.
Which part of the Big Island is the best?
Most people that visit the Big Island end up staying on the Kona side. The West Coast has more infrastructure, hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops.
The Hilo town on the east coast appeals to adventurous budget travelers who enjoy the outdoors, nature, and rugged landscapes. From Hilo, it is also very easy to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park so many people book a few nights stay in Hilo just for that reason.
Best places to stay on the Big Island for couples
Big Island in Hawaii has many incredible hotels and resorts that cater to couples on a romantic getaway. A few of the places to stay on the Big Island for couples are:
Best place to stay on the Big Island for families
The best place to stay on the Big Island for families is hands down the Fairmont Orchid Resort. This hotel features excellent amenities catering to every family member. The hotel has a 10,000-square-foot pool for the kids, tennis courts, a golf course, and excellent oceanfront dining choices.
Hotels near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you’re looking for the best hotels near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, we recommend booking a stay at the Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant.
Kilauea Lodge is situated in a convenient location near the National Park entrance gate. This hotel also has an onsite restaurant serving three meals a day so you don’t have to worry about where to find food on your vacation.
Places to stay on Hawaii’s Big Island on the beach
If you’re looking for the best Hawaii Big Island hotels on the beach, you’ll want to book a stay on the northern west coast of the island. Some of the top Big Island resorts with beach access are:
How many days on the Big Island is enough?
For a Big Island vacation, we recommend setting aside 5-7 days. Within this time frame, you’ll be able to explore both sides of the island, take a Manta Ray night snorkel tour, visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, tour a Kona coffee plantation, and drive the famous Saddle Road.
Best beaches on the Big Island
The Big Island in Hawaii is known for having world-class beaches that feel like a tropical paradise. Some of the best beaches on the Big Island are:
- Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
- Magic Sands Beach Park
- Kahalu’u Beach Park
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
- Papakōlea Beach
What is the #1 thing to do in Big Island Hawaii?
If you’re planning a short trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and are looking for the #1 thing to do on your vacation, a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must!
This gorgeous National Park is home to unique volcanic features, black lava landscapes, sea arches, and underground lava tunnels.
Looking for more Big Island Hawaii travel inspiration? Be sure to check out some of our other popular posts below:
- 30 Best Hawaii Big Island Things To Do On a Vacation
- Hawaii Big Island Car Rental: What To Know
- 11 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours To Book In Kona
- 15 Best Hotels & Resorts For a Babymoon In Hawaii
- Tips For Taking a Big Island Babymoon In Hawaii
- 7 Best Mauna Kea Tours On The Big Island Of Hawaii
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