Where is the best part of the island to stay?

Give more info about the types of things you enjoy and you'll get more advice. We stayed in Kailua-Kona on our first visit. Toured all parts of the island and decided that the Kohala area was where we wanted to stay on future trips. It has the best beaches, and is convenient driving distance to places we enjoyed visiting such as the Hamakua Coast, Hilo, and Waimea/ranchlands district.

Barbara-where did you stay in Kailua? I assume if you stay in the Kohala area you have to have a car for the whole time? We're thinking of a longer term stay and would like to just rent a car when we feel like touring. Otherwise want to just stay put. Did you see anyplace in Kohala area that appealed to you?

We stayed in Kailua-Kona and had family members that stayed in Kohala. We preferred Kona to Kohala.

It's a matter of personal preference and what you like to do. We felt there was more to do in Kona, and it was closer to good snorkeling. However, the beaches in Kohala are nicer than those around Kona.

I'm helping my family figure out the same question...

We all enjoyed Lahaina on Maui because we were able to walk around to shops, split up into groups or go solo, not have to rely on the car. Can someone recommend a situation on Big Island that would be similar to this for our hotel location? Would Kona be best?

p.s. Thanks to Julie for letting me tag along.

"Best part of the island to stay" is an ambiguous question. What is it that you want to do, and we can come up with an appropriate answer. The best resorts are all in the Kohala area.

Suze, if you enjoyed Lahaina, you'll probably enjoy Kona. Kona is to Kohala what Lahaina is to Wailea.

bluefan,
I like your analogy! I have been to Maui and am going to the BI for the first time in a few weeks so that analogy was helpful! Thanks!