Best Areas To Stay On The Island Of Hawaii (Big Island)

In this guide, we take a dive into the best areas of The Island Of Hawaii, also known as "The Big Island", for first-time visitors to stay. We will let you know what you can expect from each of these popular areas, and what there is to do in each.

Kailua-Kona – Vibrant and Historic

Kailua-Kona, more commonly known as Kona, is one of the most popular areas on the Big Island, offering a lively mix of history, shopping, dining, and beach activities. This area is known for its sunny weather, making it an ideal base for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Along the waterfront, you'll find historic sites like Hulihe‘e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, alongside an array of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Kona is also famous for its coffee farms, which offer tours and tastings of the region's world-renowned Kona coffee.

This neighborhood is best for first-time visitors, beachgoers, and those who enjoy a lively, convenient location.

Highlights

• Vibe: Vibrant, historic, and convenient.
• Good for: First-time visitors, beach lovers, and those seeking a central base.
• Transport: Accessible by car; a rental car is recommended for exploring the island.
• Accommodation: Resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Magic Sands Beach: 10 minutes by car
• Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park: 15 minutes by car
• Kona Coffee Living History Farm: 20 minutes by car

Hilo – Cultural and Rainforest Haven

Hilo, located on the eastern side of the island, is the cultural and historical heart of the Big Island. Known for its lush, rainforest environment and frequent rainfall, Hilo is home to stunning waterfalls, botanical gardens, and a charming downtown area filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants. The town also hosts the renowned Hilo Farmers Market, offering fresh local produce, flowers, and crafts. Hilo is a great base for exploring the island’s natural wonders, including Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls.

This neighborhood is best for culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a more local, authentic experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Cultural, lush, and local.
• Good for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and budget travelers.
• Transport: Accessible by car; a rental car is recommended for island exploration.
• Accommodation: Budget hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Rainbow Falls: 10 minutes by car
• Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: 45 minutes by car
• Liliuokalani Gardens: Walking distance from downtown

Waikoloa – Resort-Style and Family-Friendly

Waikoloa, located on the Kohala Coast, is known for its resort-style atmosphere, luxury accommodations, and sunny weather. This area boasts some of the island's best beaches, including Anaeho'omalu Bay (A-Bay) and Hapuna Beach, offering excellent conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Waikoloa is also home to world-class golf courses, shopping centers, and dining options, providing a full range of amenities for a comfortable and convenient stay. The resorts in this area offer various activities and services, making it an excellent choice for families and luxury travelers.

This neighborhood is best for luxury travelers, families, and those seeking a resort-style vacation.

Highlights

• Vibe: Luxurious, family-friendly, and sunny.
• Good for: Luxury travelers, families, and beach enthusiasts.
• Transport: Accessible by car; rental car recommended for exploring the island.
• Accommodation: High-end resorts, condos, and vacation rentals.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Anaeho'omalu Bay (A-Bay): Walking distance within Waikoloa
• Hapuna Beach: 15 minutes by car
• Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site: 20 minutes by car

Volcano Village – Remote and Natural

Volcano Village is a charming, remote area located near the entrance of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This neighborhood offers a peaceful, rainforest setting with cool temperatures and a unique atmosphere, thanks to its proximity to the park's volcanic landscape. Staying in Volcano Village provides easy access to the park's hiking trails, lava tubes, and scenic drives. The area is also known for its art galleries, cafes, and the weekly farmers market, which showcases local produce and crafts.

This neighborhood is best for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a unique, remote experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Remote, natural, and tranquil.
• Good for: Nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a unique experience.
• Transport: Accessible by car; essential for exploring the park and surrounding areas.
• Accommodation: B&Bs, vacation rentals, and lodges.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: 5 minutes by car
• Thurston Lava Tube: 10 minutes by car
• Kīlauea Overlook: 15 minutes by car

Kohala Coast – Sunny and Luxurious

The Kohala Coast, also known as the "Gold Coast," is famous for its sunny weather, luxury resorts, and pristine beaches. This area is home to some of the island's most exclusive resorts and villas, offering world-class amenities and services. The coastline features beautiful beaches like Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach, known for their white sand and crystal-clear waters. In addition to its natural beauty, the Kohala Coast offers championship golf courses, upscale shopping, and fine dining.

This neighborhood is best for luxury travelers, beach lovers, and those seeking a sunny, resort-style experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Sunny, luxurious, and exclusive.
• Good for: Luxury travelers, beach enthusiasts, and couples.
• Transport: Accessible by car; rental car recommended for exploring the coast.
• Accommodation: Luxury resorts, villas, and high-end vacation rentals.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Hapuna Beach: Walking distance or short drive within the area
• Mauna Kea Beach: 10 minutes by car
• Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site: 15 minutes by car

Puna District – Off-the-Beaten-Path and Eclectic

The Puna District is located on the southeastern side of the Big Island and offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. This area is known for its rugged lava landscapes, natural hot springs, and black sand beaches. Puna is a place where you can explore volcanic craters, and visit quirky towns like Pāhoa, known for its eclectic shops and cafes located near Kilauea volcano . The district offers a more alternative, laid-back vibe, perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Hawaii.

This neighborhood is best for adventurers, free spirits, and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Rugged, eclectic, and natural.
• Good for: Adventurers, free spirits, and those looking for an unconventional experience.
• Transport: Accessible by car; rental car is essential for exploring the area.
• Accommodation: Vacation rentals, eco-lodges, and B&Bs.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Ahalanui Hot Pond: 30 minutes by car
• Kehena Black Sand Beach: 35 minutes by car
• Lava Tree State Monument: 20 minutes by car

Kohala Mountain Road – Scenic and Upcountry

The Kohala Mountain Road area, also known as the upcountry region of the Big Island, offers a different perspective of the island with its rolling hills, lush pastures, and panoramic ocean views. This area is ideal for those who want to escape the heat of the coast and experience a cooler, more temperate climate. The small towns of Waimea and Hawi provide a charming, country vibe with their farmers markets, art galleries, and local eateries. The area is also rich in history, with ancient Hawaiian temples and cultural sites to explore.

This neighborhood is best for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a more rural, scenic experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Scenic, rural, and historic.
• Good for: Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for an upcountry experience.
• Transport: Accessible by car; rental car recommended for exploring the upcountry and coast.
• Accommodation: B&Bs, ranch-style inns, and vacation rentals.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Waipi‘o Valley Lookout: 45 minutes by car
• Pololū Valley Lookout: 30 minutes by car
• Parker Ranch (Waimea): 15 minutes by car

South Kona – Serene and Authentic

South Kona is a serene and less-developed area known for its coffee farms, historic sites, and peaceful beaches. This region offers a more authentic, local experience, with opportunities to explore ancient Hawaiian ruins, snorkel in the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, and visit the famous Painted Church. The area is also home to the Captain Cook Monument and Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, providing insight into Hawaii's rich cultural heritage. South Kona's remote and laid-back atmosphere makes it a great choice for those looking to unwind and experience the natural beauty of the Big Island.

This neighborhood is best for history buffs, snorkelers, and those seeking a tranquil, authentic experience.

Highlights

• Vibe: Serene, historic, and authentic.
• Good for: History buffs, snorkelers, and travelers seeking a quieter stay.
• Transport: Accessible by car; rental car recommended for exploring the area.
• Accommodation: Small inns, vacation rentals, and B&Bs.

Distance to Popular Attractions:

• Kealakekua Bay: 15 minutes by car
• Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: 20 minutes by car
• The Painted Church: 10 minutes by car

The Island of Hawaii, or the Big Island, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and attractions. From the lively and historic streets of Kailua-Kona to the lush rainforests of Hilo, and the luxurious resorts of the Kohala Coast, there's an area to suit every type of traveler.

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