Vacation In Kona Hawaii
Kailua-Kona is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Hawaii County on the east side of the Island of Hawaiʻi. The population was 14,440 as of the 2010 census. Kailua-Kona is the largest town in South Kona District of the Island of Hawaiʻi. There are four major resorts in or near Kailua-Kona, Kailua Village, Mauna Kea Resort and Hualalai Resort. Many condominiums and houses surround these four resorts.
Honokohau Harbor is just 7.2 miles southwest of Kona International Airport, on the southern coast of Kailua Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii. Make it your homeport while exploring the natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. It’s perfect for divers, boaters and those who enjoy a relaxed island lifestyle.
One of the Caribbean’s most exotic destinations, the Hawaiian Islands are made up of eight volcanic and four coral islands. Kauai, Oahu and Maui are popular vacation destinations, but the Big Island — nicknamed “The Big Island” because that’s exactly what it is — has a lot to offer that you won’t find anywhere else.
If you love sunrise views and calmer ocean water, visit Kona Island in Hawaii. There’s more to this island than snorkeling. Tropical breezes and a laid back lifestyle await anywhere you roam.
Vacation In Kona Hawaii
Weather you are looking to take a vacation or just want some information on the different hotels. This is the place to visit.
How to Maximize Your Stay From the West to the East of the Big Island
We suggest splitting your stay between Kailua-Kona on the west side and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. This will ease a lot of extra driving and allow you to experience both sides of the island. If you have only allocated a week to visit the island, four nights in Hilo and three in Kailua-Kona will suffice. Use that same ratio for more extended visits. Most visitors spend longer periods in Kailua-Kona since most hotels, upscale resorts, vacation rentals, and Big Island motels are here. The north of Kailua-Kona on the Kohala ‘Gold’ Coast hosts lodging options. Yet, since most of the Big Island’s best attractions & sights are closer to Hilo, visitors should attempt to book accommodations in Hilo for at least half of their stay on the island.
Reasons for Staying Hilo Side
The main reason for staying on the Hilo side, whether in Downtown Hilo or the beautiful Volcano area, is proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is so large that it takes about two days to explore, especially if there is any lava activity you want to see. The rangers at the visitor center can tell you all about what’s happening in the park (you may even want to call ahead so you’ll know in advance). If you plan to drive up to the summit of Mauna Kea, then Hilo is the best side to start your journey along Saddle Road. Additionally, many of the north (Hamakua) sites and Puna attractions are best visited from Hilo.
Reasons for Staying Kona Side
On the Kailua-Kona side, you’ll have more time to explore the sights, beaches, historical and cultural locations, and attractions on that side of the island, including day trips up to Pololu and Waipio Valleys. Depending on your interests, you may want to give yourself more time in Kailua-Kona or Hilo- it’s really up to you. Knowing where to stay and knowing when to visit the Big Island of Hawaii is equally essential.
Visiting the Hilo (East) Side
Hilo side is what we refer to the East side of the island, including downtown Hilo (the second largest town in Hawaii) and the Volcano area. This side of the island is considerably wetter than the west side, but the extra rain also create a lush and verdant paradise, unlike the barren lava fields of the Kona side. You’ll find an abundance of waterfalls here right outside of Hilo. The Hilo airport is located here and, as noted above, can serve as a good place to either fly into or out of the island. One real downside to the east side is the lack of good beaches; they are few and far between here unfortunately. Ultimately, it’s the east side’s proximity to all of the great Big Island attractions that make staying here worth it though.
When visiting the Hilo side, we recommend staying either in a small hotel in town or preferably in one of the lodges/inns near Volcano. We love the Volcano area not only because of its proximity to the park but also because of the lush scenery.
Both Hilo and the Volcano area are lush and green for a reason- as noted above, it rains a good bit in these areas. Be sure to read our Big Island of Hawaii Weather article for more information.
The contrast between this side of the island and the Kailua-Kona side is incredible. Stark and barren lava fields on one side and lush and verdant rainforest on the other.