Londonlover

I've never been to Hawaii but want to go this summer. I'm thinking the Big Island because I want to see the volcanoes, but am not dead set on it. I'm mainly looking for a few days at a resort with a beach, maybe a day to scuba/snorkel, and a day to explore the volcanoes and hike to see some lush scenery and waterfalls.

I see the Hapuna Prince coming up as a frequent winning Priceline bid. Is it feasible to stay here without renting a car? I'm thinking six nights. I'm used to traveling to big cities where I don't need a car.

When searching airfares, it looked cheaper to book separate tickets from IAH(houston) to HNL and then from HNL to KOA. Am I doing something wrong?

Any other general Hawaii advice?

Marginal

You really need a car to enjoy a vacation on The Big Island. You would squander all your Priceline savings on taxis going to other restaurants to eat, and having to pay for a tour to the Volcano. I wouldn't stay there if you don't rent a car.

sassy_cat

Really you'd need to rent a car wherever you stayed on the Big Island. If you're going for 6 nights you might not need a car the whole time but I'd recommend one for a minimum of 2 days.
As the island is large many people split their stay to see both sides of the island and reduce the driving.
Maybe stay 5 nights at the Hapuna and rent a car on day 5 to drive to the volcano, stay overnight in Hilo or Volcano Village before flying home the next day.

suze

The only islands I'd consider doing without a car is Oahu, staying in Waikiki.

suze

oops, island (singular)

Big Island, Maui, and Kauai are just not practical without a rental car imho.