Best Places to Stay on the Big Island Hawaii: 8 Epic Spots for Every Kind of Traveler
So, youâre planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii? Cue the happy dance! Whether youâre chasing thrills with your adventure-loving teens, building sandcastles with your littles at a beach park, or just hoping for a little poolside relaxation in one of the islandâs dreamy resort areas, the Big Island checks all the boxes.
But real talk, figuring out where to stay on the largest of the Hawaiian Islands can get a little overwhelming. Each side of the island offers its own unique vibe, and with everything from lush jungles to moon-like lava fields, thereâs a lot to choose from. Youâve got black sanded beaches created by centuries of volcanic activity, epic hikes around Mauna Loa, and the chance to see real lava flows up close (safely, of course!). Plus, you can explore different climate zones in a single day: snorkel in the morning, visit an active volcano by lunch, and stargaze from the summit of Mauna Kea at night.
Whether your family is all about outdoor adventures or you just want a laid-back escape with plenty of cool things to explore, hereâs your go-to guide to the best places to stay on the island of Hawaii â from our family to yours.
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đ 1. Best Resort Vibes: Fairmont Orchid (Kohala Coast)
Letâs kick things off with the kind of place where you show up and immediately feel like you're living your best life. The Fairmont Orchid is dreamy. Picture swaying palm trees, oceanfront hammocks, and a private snorkeling cove that looks like it was pulled straight from a scene in Moana.
Itâs definitely upscale, but not in a stuffy way. Youâll see couples and honeymooners, but also plenty of happy families splashing in the pool and playing on the beach. Thereâs a fantastic kidsâ program, calm waters perfect for beginner snorkelers, and a peaceful vibe that makes time feel like itâs on island mode.
Why we love it as a family:
Everything you need is right on-site â from restaurants and a world-class spa to paddleboards and beach gear.
The private beach park and calm cove make it easy for kids to explore safely.
Itâs the ultimate âweâre not leaving the resort for three daysâ kind of vacation â and you wonât feel like you're missing a thing.
Whether you're unwinding after exploring lava flows, soaking up some sun after a trip to Mauna Kea, or just craving a laid-back slice of paradise on the island of Hawaii, this place makes it all easy and unforgettable.
đ¨âđŠâđ§âđŚ 2. Best for Families: Hilton Waikoloa Village (Waikoloa)
Okay parents, listen up. If youâve got energetic kids who love water slides, boat rides, and spotting dolphins, then the Hilton Waikoloa Village is an absolute jackpot. Itâs kind of like a cruise ship meets Disneyland meets Hawaii â in the best possible way.
This resort is packed with kid-friendly excitement:
A monorail that shuttles you around the property
A BOAT shuttle (yes, a boat)
A massive saltwater lagoon perfect for kayaking and snorkeling
Endless daily activities, from lei making to cultural shows
Trust us â you wonât hear âIâm boredâ even once (okay... maybe once, but only because someone didnât want to leave the pool).
Pro tip for parents:
This resort is huge. Like, wear-your-sneakers-to-breakfast kind of huge. Bring a stroller for little ones, and if you can, book a room near the lagoon for easier access to all the action without the long walk.
Whether you're heading out to explore black sand beaches, planning a day trip to Mauna Loa, or just staying close to your own private beach park, this is a top pick for families looking for a balance of adventure and all-inclusive ease on the island of Hawaii.
đĄ 3. Best Boutique Stay: Holualoa Inn
Ready for a little peace and quiet? Tucked into the hills above Kona on the island of Hawaii, the Holualoa Inn feels like staying in someoneâs stunning Hawaiian home â if that someone had a private coffee farm, dreamy ocean views, and perfect taste in decor.
This spot is definitely more adult-friendly, but teens or older kids who love nature (and donât need a water slide every day) will love it too. Youâll wake up to homemade breakfasts made with ingredients grown right on the property, surrounded by tropical gardens and misty mornings. Itâs low-key luxury at its finest â and one of the most relaxing places to stay on the side of the island thatâs known for sunshine and serenity.
Why it works for nature-loving families:
Peaceful, uncrowded setting that feels like a true escape
A unique chance to stay on a working coffee estate
Easy access to beach parks, downtown Kona, and some of the best black sand beaches nearby
Bonus: Youâre in the perfect spot to explore multiple climate zones, from sunny coasts to cooler uplands. And if youâre heading toward Mauna Loa or hoping to learn more about the islandâs rich volcanic activity, Holualoa is a peaceful home base close to the action â without being right in the middle of the hustle.
đ 4. Most Luxurious: Four Seasons Hualalai (Kailua-Kona)
Want to go all out? Like, âthis is the trip weâve been dreaming of foreverâ kind of luxury? The Four Seasons HualÄlai is the one. This stunning resort on the sunny Kona-Kohala side of the island is pure magic â think beachfront bungalows, swaying palms, a peaceful adults-only pool (YES), and a team that somehow remembers your name, your favorite drink, and the fact that your toddler is obsessed with mangoes.
Every inch of this place is photo-worthy. From beautifully designed suites to epic sunsets over the Pacific, the vibe is elegant without ever feeling over-the-top. Itâs definitely a splurge, but if you're celebrating a big milestone or just in the mood to treat yourself, you will not regret this one.
Little things that make it big:
Snorkeling in the propertyâs Kingâs Pond, a natural pool filled with tropical fish
Oceanfront massages that redefine relaxation
Activities for both kids and adults, with cultural experiences and ocean adventures built in
Access to world-class golf, pristine beach parks, and some of the best dining on the island of Hawaii
Bonus: Youâre perfectly positioned to explore the islandâs many faces â from its luxe resort areas and dramatic coastlines to day trips out to the black sanded beaches, lava flows, and even volcanic activity zones near Mauna Loaand Mauna Kea.đ¸ 5. Most Affordable: SCP Hilo Hotel (Hilo)
On a tighter budget or just want to spend more on adventures than accommodations? No shame in that game. The SCP Hilo Hotel is a total gem for travelers who want something clean, comfy, and affordable â without sacrificing style or location. Itâs got that minimalist, modern vibe and is perfectly placed for exploring the rugged, wild beauty of the island of Hawaiiâs east side.
Youâre just a short drive from epic waterfalls, the vibrant Hilo farmers market, and even Hawaiâi Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness firsthand the islandâs volcanic activity and maybe even glowing lava flows (depending on conditions!).
Why it works for families and adventure lovers:
Eco-conscious, laid-back atmosphere with free gear to borrow like yoga mats, paddleboards, and beach gear
A great base for exploring black sanded beaches, local beach parks, and the dramatic landscapes shaped by Mauna Loa and active volcanoes
A small pool to cool off and unwind at the end of the day
Family tip: The rooms are simple and clean â perfect for families who plan to spend their days hiking, swimming, and exploring the many climate zones this side of the island has to offer.
đ 6. Best Location: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts (Kohala Coast)
This oneâs for the travelers who want it all â a beautiful beach park, upscale style, unforgettable sunsets, and easy access to both chill time and wild adventures. Mauna Lani checks every single box. Recently renovated, the resort is sleek and modern, but still feels rooted in Hawaii â not some over-the-top Vegas-style spectacle.
It strikes the perfect balance: family-friendly without being chaotic, romantic without being too quiet, and full of thoughtful touches like lei-making classes and traditional Hawaiian storytelling by the fire. Itâs the kind of place where you can sip a cocktail with your toes in the sand while the kids run around happily making shell necklaces.
Why we love it for families and adventurers:
Close to Hapuna Beach, one of the islandâs best white-sand beaches
Incredible snorkeling, paddleboarding, and nearby tide pools
Near charming coastal towns, delicious poke spots, and scenic drives through different climate zones
Location win: Set on the sunny Kona-Kohala coast â one of the Big Islandâs top resort areas â Mauna Lani gives you easy access to everything from black sanded beaches and lava flows to hikes around Mauna Loa and day trips to active volcanoes. Itâs truly one of the best home bases on the island of Hawaii for travelers who want a little of everything.
đż 7. Most Unique: The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls (Hilo)
Want to stay somewhere completely different? Like, âwe woke up next to our own private waterfallâ kind of different? Then Kulaniapia Falls near Hilo is calling your name. This eco-resort sits on 40 lush acres, centered around Hawaiiâs largest privately accessible waterfall â and itâs all about slowing down and soaking up the beauty of the island of Hawaii.
Here, you're immersed in nature â think misty mornings, birdsong, and stars so bright youâll forget streetlights exist. Itâs quiet, green, and totally unforgettable. You can kayak at the base of the falls, take part in bamboo cooking classes, and even stay in a yurt or private cabin for a true off-the-grid feel.
Why this spot is worth the adventure:
Rustic-chic accommodations with unbeatable views
Focus on sustainability and minimal environmental impact
Close to hiking trails, waterfalls, and the incredible volcanic activity around Hawaiâi Volcanoes National Park
A great place to experience the lush, tropical side of the island and explore different climate zones
This place is for you if: You love waterfalls, hiking, and the idea of fully unplugging for a few days. Itâs not about luxury â itâs about connection to the land, local culture, and the natural wonders that make this island so magical.
đ 8. Most Authentic Hawaiian Experience: Kilauea Lodge (Volcano Village)
If your trip revolves around Hawaiâi Volcanoes National Park, then Kilauea Lodge is the ultimate basecamp. Tucked into the rainforest near Volcano Village on the island of Hawaii, this charming lodge feels like stepping into a cozier, quieter version of old Hawaii â complete with wood beams, crackling fireplaces, and misty forest views.
Itâs not a resort, and honestly, thatâs the whole appeal. Youâll dine at the on-site restaurant (a local favorite), pick up snacks from the general store, and if youâre lucky, catch the red glow of the lava lake from nearby lookouts â a breathtaking peek at the islandâs legendary volcanic activity at the mauna kea summit.
Why itâs awesome for families:
Cozy, relaxed vibe that feels like home after a day of exploring
Close to kid-friendly adventures like lava tubes, rainforest hikes, and nature walks through different climate zones
A great place to disconnect, reconnect, and roast marshmallows after a long day outdoors
This side of the island is cooler, greener, and full of contrast from the sunny resort areas â showing just how diverse and dynamic the largest of the Hawaiian Islands really is.
Final Thoughts-Big Island Stay, Your Way
Whether youâre a laid-back beach bum, an adventure-seeking family, or someone who just wants to wake up somewhere totally epic, the Big Island of Hawaii has a stay that fits your vibe. The best part? You really canât go wrong. This island is all about contrast â lava rock meets jungle, resort areas meet rustic hideaways, and black sanded beaches sit just miles from snow-capped peaks and active volcanoes.
So go ahead â find your perfect home base, pack that reef-safe sunscreen, and get ready to fall hard for the magic, mystery, and raw beauty of the island of Hawaii. đ´
Have a favorite spot I missed? Or a question about where to stay with your crew? Drop a comment or shoot me a message â I love helping other families plan unforgettable Big Island adventures.