Planning adventures across the Big Island, whether it’s stargazing on Mauna Kea, ziplining through Kohala’s forests, hiking volcanic craters, or chasing waterfalls, starts with choosing the right place to stay. From oceanfront resorts in Kailua-Kona to quiet eco-lodges near Volcanoes National Park, the island offers stays for every style of traveler.
To make things easier, we’ve highlighted some of the best Big Island hotels, inns, and B&Bs across the island, along with how close they are to the main meeting points for our tours.
This beachfront hotel offers contemporary rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and tea/coffee makers. Many rooms include private lanais, perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze and coastal views.
This budget-friendly hostel features simple mixed and female-only dorms with bunk beds, shared washrooms, free Wi-Fi, and secure lockers. Private rooms are available for travelers seeking more comfort, with some offering ocean views or en-suite bathrooms.
Set across three oceanfront towers, this laid-back resort offers spacious rooms and sweeping views of Kailua Bay. Guests are within easy reach of shoreline paths, historic sites, and the restaurants of downtown Kona.
A stylish, newly refreshed boutique hotel in the center of Kailua-Kona, designed for independent travelers who want modern rooms, curated island aesthetics, and easy access to local cafés, nightlife, and waterfront strolls.
Tucked within an acre of tropical greenery, this cozy B&B offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by palms and fruit trees, with a warm, homelike feel and attentive hosts.
This luxurious oceanfront resort sits on 32 acres along Pauoa Bay and features landscaped gardens, serene beaches, and elegant rooms, making it a favorite for upscale stays on the Kohala Coast.
Set beside Waikoloa Village Golf Club, this relaxed timeshare-style resort offers spacious villas with kitchenettes and mountain views, ideal for longer stays or families wanting space and convenience.
This coastal resort community combines luxury hotels, beaches, historic fishponds, shopping centers, and scenic walking paths, offering a lively base for exploring the Kohala Coast.
Located in the charming town of Hawi, this historic plantation-style inn offers simple, old-Hawaii hospitality just steps from local boutiques, cafés, and art studios, perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, cultural stay.
Set beside a private waterfall on the Waiau River, this tranquil eco-retreat offers unique rooms with handcrafted accents, serene views, and peaceful surroundings just outside Hilo.
Centrally located in Hilo, this casual hotel sits above two popular eateries and is only steps from the Hilo Farmers Market, top restaurants, museums, and Hilo Bay, offering excellent value and walkability.
Nestled in a rainforest setting just outside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, this historic property features charming cottages and serene gardens, ideal for guests seeking a quiet nature escape.
The best areas to stay on the Big Island depend on what you’re looking to experience. Kailua-Kona is ideal for beaches, tours, and sunny weather, while Hilo offers lush scenery, waterfalls, and proximity to Volcanoes National Park.
Prices vary widely. Budget stays can be under $150/night, mid-range hotels $200–$350, and luxury resorts on the Kohala Coast often exceed $500/night.
Kona is best for tours, beaches, and restaurants; Hilo is best for rainforest scenery and volcano sightseeing. Many travelers split their stay between both sides.
Yes, several hotels, especially in Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa, are within minutes of meeting points for Mauna Kea, ziplining, volcano, and waterfall tours.
Many budget and mid-range accommodations offer free parking. Larger resorts often charge daily parking or resort fees.
For peak season (December–March and June–August), booking 2–4 months in advance is recommended.
Yes, Waikoloa Beach Resort, Kailua-Kona’s oceanfront hotels, and many Kohala Coast luxury resorts offer beach access.
Most stays in Kona, Waikoloa, and Hawi are within short driving distance of meeting points for Mauna Kea, zipline, and waterfall tours.
Big Island: Hakalau Forest Birdwatching Tour
Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour
Big Island: Hidden Craters Hike
Big Island: Kohala Waterfalls Tour
Big Island: Kohala Canopy Zipline Tickets
Big Island: Kohala Waterfalls and Canopy Zip & Dip Tour
