I think the Kona area might be the most central to see most of the sights??? We really want to see the Volcano park. I am overwhelmed with the choices of condos, b and bs and hotels. We only have 4 nights there and are a family of 5. I think a condo would be the way to go - any suggestions on a great condo in the $200-250 range? What about Volcano village area?

The best thing is to stay a few nights in Kona, then one or two closer to the volcano. It's a long drive from the volcano to Kona, especially at night after a long day of hiking!

I would spend one night in Volcano Village, three nights on the Kona side because of the distance involved. Many condos want to only rent weekly, and will hit you with extra cleaning charges, higher rates for less than that; for the time that you'll be there, I think I'd go for a hotel, maybe the Sheraton Keauhou or Marriott Waikoloa Beach on the Kona side. In the amount of the time that you will have, I wouldn't try to see all the Big Island! I'd see the Park, travel the Northern route from the Hilo side to the Kona side (or vice versa), enjoy some beach time, and save the Southern point for another visit! Have a great trip ...

Here's a site that lsits 50 B&Bs in Hawaii, 20 of which are on the Big Island.

The site also has other info:

http://www.budgettravelonline.com/bt...aii/index.html

This site has a lot of Hawaii hotels and condos. The rates on the site are probably rack rates so you can probably get better rates on these:

www.hawaii-hotels.com

Scroll to the bottom and where it says VISIT, click on either Big Island condos or Big Island hotels.

For other Big Island info:

www.bigisland.org

www.gohawaii.com

www.thisweek.com

www.spotlighthawaii.com

www.alternative-hawaii.com

www.driveguidemagazines.com This site has good maps including many detailed maps. It also has a good restaurant guide.

www.hawaiiweb.com

Look at the Outrigger Keauhou as well.

Definately check out the Outrigger in Keauhou (sp). The condos are very big and reasonably priced.

Thank you all for the info. I think I will try to divide my stays between Kona and Volcano.

One more question - which island would you spend more time on: Oahu or Hawaii?

We stayed for 5 nights last time there. 4 nights in Kona and the last night over in Volcano. Stayed at one of the many B&B's in Volcano and stayed in Hale Kona Kai in Kona. Close to everything and great views. Just go to Google and search on Hale Kona. You'll find lost of hits.

I wouldn't make the volcano area a day trip. If you go, stay the night, otherwise it makes for a real long day.

Have a great trip,
Duane

Forgot to add - I would spend more time on Oahu. Many people will pick the Big Island, but there is just so much to do on Oahu. I tend to stay on the North Shore and only come into town a few days during the trip.

Have fun,
Duane