# Where to stay on the Big Island?
Key Takeaway
- When deciding where to stay on the Big Island of Hawaii, it is important to consider your priorities, budget, and interests.
- Dividing your time between the west and east sides of the island can offer a well-rounded experience, with the Kohala Coast region being a popular destination on the west side.
- Kailua-Kona and surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodation options, with the Kona side being a good choice for those seeking more nightlife and entertainment.
- The east side of the island features Hilo Town and Volcano Town, which are good options for those interested in natural attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Hilo Farmers Market.
Essential Considerations
Travelers to the Big Island must consider crucial factors when choosing accommodation. Location preferences, budget, and amenities are significant factors in determining where to stay on the Big Island. Consider oceanfront properties with snorkeling or inland rentals for cost-effectiveness. Research stays in village or city areas for various accommodation choices.
Dividing Your Time: West and East Sides
When it comes to exploring the Big Island, it's essential to carve out enough time to experience both the west and east sides of the island. One area to consider staying in is the Kohala Coast Region, which not only offers beautiful resorts but also access to some of the island's most iconic beaches.
Pros and Cons of the Kohala Coast Region
The Kohala Coast offers both advantages and disadvantages as a place to stay on the Big Island. The area provides luxurious resorts with stunning beaches, fantastic restaurants and shopping venues. Yet, it is mostly a tourist hub for mass appeal and may not reflect the traditional Hawaiian lifestyle.
Pros: * High-end accommodation with top-notch facilities * Peaceful beaches and lush green golf courses * Numerous dining options from sophisticated restaurants to family-friendly food outlets * Significantly less rainy than neighboring towns in Hilo and Volcano
Cons: * Doesn't depict authentic Hawaiian culture * Primarily commercial/tourist-focused hub * Limited choices for outdoor activities and sightseeing
Accommodation on the West Side: Kailua-Kona
The Kona side of the Big Island offers an array of reasons why one should stay on this side. The immediate access to several beaches, popular tourist spots and restaurants, make Kailua-Kona appealing for travelers.
This region of the Big Island is known for its sunny weather. It also gives you a chance to experience the volcanic terrain by visiting nearby landmarks like Mauna Loa and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Additionally, Kailua-Kona has an excellent selection of vacation rentals and resorts suitable for all budgets. Choosing from hotels located in prime locations or Airbnb accommodations nestled within the neighborhoods surrounding downtown is an added advantage.
Why Stay on the Kona Side
- Immediate access to several beaches and popular tourist spots
- Sunny weather throughout the year
- Opportunity to experience volcanic terrain
- Excellent selection of vacation rentals and resorts
- Easy access to snorkeling and scuba diving around Kealakekua Bay Marine Reserve
- Can explore nearby Waimea town and Kohala Coast region
- Access to coffee plantations and scenic views
Accommodation on the East Side: Hilo and Volcano Town
Staying on the Hilo side of the Big Island has its own distinct advantages. The area is known for lush vegetation, waterfalls, and botanical gardens, which makes it a perfect vacation spot for those who are into nature and tranquility. Additionally, Hilo is less crowded compared to some other tourist destinations, making it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Why Stay on the Hilo Side
- Close proximity to Volcanoes National Park
- Lush vegetation, waterfalls, and botanical gardens
- Less crowded than other tourist destinations
- Historic architecture and old-timey shops
- Access to local beaches great for fishing and beachcombing
- Wide range of accommodation options from bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels
Visiting the Hilo Side
When visiting the Hilo (east) side of the Big Island, tourists can expect to explore unique attractions such as Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, and Rainbow Falls. Hilo offers a laid-back atmosphere with an array of small-town boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores.
Recommended accommodations on the Hilo side include: * Grand Naniloa Hotel * Hilo Hawaiian Hotel * Cottages in nearby botanical gardens
Visiting the Kona Side
The Kona (West) Side of the Big Island is an ideal location to stay for visitors seeking clear skies, white-sand beaches, and readily accessible amenities. With a plethora of options ranging from intimate bed and breakfasts to luxe resorts, this region caters to travelers of all types.
Visitors can explore numerous water activities, world-renowned coffee plantations, fascinating historical sites, and indulge in local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails through lush landscapes, snorkeling with colorful marine life or lounging on well-known beaches like Kua Bay and Hapuna.
Weather Comparison
The weather on the east and west sides of the Big Island of Hawaii is vastly different:
- **East Side (Hilo)**: Considerably wetter with lush vegetation. Creates a verdant paradise unlike the barren lava fields.
- **West Side (Kona)**: Dry and barren, with lava fields stretching as far as you can see. However, the weather is drier and the beaches are superior.
Conclusion
The Big Island requires more time to see all attractions compared to smaller islands. The island is best divided between the West Side and the East Side, with visitors spending time in Kailua-Kona and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side. Most visitors spend longer in Kailua-Kona since most hotels and resorts are located here. However, visitors should attempt to book accommodations in Hilo for at least half of their stay to be closer to the Big Island's best attractions and sights.