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Hotels Overview

Even among locals, there is an ongoing debate about which side of the Big Island is "better," so don't worry if you're having a tough time deciding where to stay. Our recommendation? Do both. Each side of the island offers a totally different range of accommodations, restaurants, and activities. Consider staying at one of the resorts or in a condo in Kailua-Kona or along the Kohala Coast for half of your trip. Then, shift gears and check into a romantic B&B on the Hamakua Coast or in Hilo. If you've got keiki in tow, opt for a vacation home or one of Hilo's family-friendly hotels. On the west coast, lounge on the pristine beaches and try some of the fine-dining restaurants; on the east, hike through rain forests, frolic in waterfalls, and go for a plate lunch.

Some locals like to say that the east is "more Hawaiian," but we argue that King Kamehameha himself made the west his last resting place, and Hawaiians have always loved the beach. Another reason to try a bit of both: your budget. You can justify splurging on a west coast resort for a few nights because you'll spend the rest of your time paying one-third that rate in the east. And although food at the resorts is very expensive (except for Kona Village, which is all-inclusive), you don't have to eat every meal there. Condos and vacation homes can be ideal for a family trip or for a group of friends looking to save money and live like a local for a week or two. Many of the homes also have private pools and/or hot tubs, lanai, ocean views, and more; you can go as budget or as high-end as you like.