Which areas are best for booking a hotel in Kailua Kona?

For convenience and vibrant nightlife, staying along Alii Drive in the heart of Kailua Kona is highly recommended, as it places you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and historic sites. If you prefer a quieter, resort-style atmosphere with beautiful beaches, the Keauhou area just a few miles south is an excellent alternative.

What are the must-visit attractions in and around Kailua Kona?

Visitors should not miss the historic Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church located right in the town center. For outdoor enthusiasts, snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay and exploring the unique volcanic landscapes at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park offer unforgettable experiences.

When is the best time of year to visit Kailua Kona?

The ideal time to visit Kailua Kona is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November, when the weather is consistently warm and pleasant. Visiting during these months allows you to avoid the peak winter crowds and enjoy a more relaxed island experience.

What is the best way to get around Kailua Kona?

Renting a car is highly recommended for travelers who want to explore the diverse landscapes of the Big Island at their own pace. For those staying strictly within the town center, walking is very convenient, and the Kona Trolley offers an easy way to travel along Alii Drive.

What local dishes should I try while staying in Kailua Kona?

You must try fresh poke made with locally caught ahi tuna, as well as traditional Hawaiian plate lunches featuring kalua pork. Don't miss out on tasting authentic, world-famous Kona coffee directly from the local farms situated on the slopes of Mount Hualalai.

How do I travel from the airport to my hotel in Kailua Kona?

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole is located about 15 minutes north of the main town. Travelers can easily reach their hotels by renting a car at the airport, booking a pre-arranged shuttle service, or using rideshare apps and local taxis available outside the terminals.

Recommended Hotels in Kailua Kona, Hawaii | from $225

Top Kailua Kona Hotels Selected for Your Hawaii Getaway

Traveling to Kailua Kona (Kailua Kona) offers an unforgettable escape where sunny coastal weather meets rich Hawaiian heritage on the vibrant west coast of the Big Island. Once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty, this historic seaside town blends cultural landmarks with incredible ocean adventures, making it a year-round paradise for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The bustling historic village along Alii Drive offers a lively atmosphere with shops and dining, while the surrounding areas transition into scenic coffee country and tranquil coastal stretches. Visitors can spend their days exploring historic Hulihee Palace, sampling world-famous Kona coffee directly from local farms, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kahaluu Beach Park. Tripbtoz enhances your travel planning by offering authentic guest video reviews and curated Btoz Picks to ensure you find a property that matches your exact travel style. When choosing your hotel, staying close to the historic downtown allows you to walk to major sights and waterfront dining easily, while properties slightly to the south offer quieter coastal retreats. Explore our handpicked selection of hotels below to start planning your perfect Hawaiian vacation.

Kailua Kona Recommended Hotels

Royal Kona Resort
4-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Royal Kona Resort is a beachfront resort located in Historic Kailua Village on Hawaii's Big Island, just a 1-minute drive from Hulihee Palace and 6 minutes from Magic Sands Beach. With 436 rooms, this hotel features a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and fitness center, making it ideal for families and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy nearby water activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing, while business facilities are also available for corporate events.
4.2/53023
US$225
from
Total US$225 (Incl. taxes)
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
5-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a 5-star luxury beachfront resort located in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island, offering direct access to the beach and an on-site golf course. With 7 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and 8 tennis courts, it caters to both families and golf enthusiasts. Located approximately 14km from Kona International Airport, this premium resort also welcomes small pets.
4.8/5510
US$1,542
from
Total US$1,542 (Incl. taxes)
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort and Spa
4-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
A 4-star resort located near Keauhou Bay Beach in Kailua-Kona. It features outdoor pools, a waterslide, tennis courts, and a golf driving range, making it ideal for families and leisure. The property is also pet-friendly and offers business facilities.
11
US$320
from
Total US$320 (Incl. taxes)
Aston Kona by the Sea
4-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
A beachfront aparthotel in Kailua-Kona, Big Island Hawaii, just a 3-minute drive from Magic Sands Beach. With 45 rooms featuring full kitchens, an outdoor pool, and hot tub, it's ideal for families and extended stays. Nearby activities include snorkeling, kayaking, and golf, with meeting facilities available for business travelers.
4.4/51299
US$355
from
Total US$355 (Incl. taxes)
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
3.5-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Located on Kona Beach, this Marriott Courtyard hotel is steps away from Kailua Pier and Historic Kailua Village. With 452 rooms, outdoor pool, full-service spa, and tennis courts, it suits both family vacations and business trips. The property features 10 meeting rooms and a conference center, situated approximately 14km from Kona International Airport.
4.2/51005
US$355
from
Total US$355 (Incl. taxes)
Marriott's Waikoloa Ocean Club
4-star· Waikoloa, Hawaii
A Marriott Vacation Club condominium resort located oceanfront in Waikoloa, Big Island Hawaii. Kings Shops and Queens' Marketplace are within walking distance, and Mauna Lani Resort Golf Course is a 15-minute drive away. Features 3 outdoor pools, waterslide, full-service spa, and 24-hour fitness center, ideal for family vacations and golf travelers.
4.4/5128
US$609
from
Total US$609 (Incl. taxes)
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
4.5-star· Waikoloa, Hawaii
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a 4-star beach resort located in Waikoloa, Hawaii Big Island, within walking distance to Kings Shops and Anaehoomalu Beach. Adjacent to golf courses, the resort features 3 outdoor pools, a waterslide, and spa facilities, making it ideal for families and golf enthusiasts. With 10 meeting rooms and extensive conference space, it also accommodates business events.
4.3/51001
US$442
from
Total US$442 (Incl. taxes)
Kona Coast Resort
3.5-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Kona Coast Resort is a 3.5-star golf resort located in the Keauhou area of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Big Island. It is within a 15-minute drive to Magic Sands Beach and adjacent to Keauhou Shopping Center. The resort features 2 outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center, with kitchen-equipped rooms and private lanais ideal for family stays.
4.6/514651
Check price available
Holua Resort
3.5-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Holua Resort is a 3.5-star golf resort located in the Keauhou area of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Big Island, adjacent to Kona Country Club. The property features 6 outdoor pools, 6 hot tubs, and 10 tennis courts for recreational activities, with Kahalu'u Beach Park just a 4-minute drive away for snorkeling and water sports. All 73 rooms include full kitchens, making it convenient for extended stays and family travelers.
4.6/51001
Check price available
Kona Seaside Hotel
2-star· Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Kona Seaside Hotel is a 2-star budget-friendly hotel located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Big Island. With 25 rooms across 2 floors, it offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for travelers seeking affordable accommodation. Its location near the Kona coast provides convenient access to beaches and natural scenery.
Check price available