Looking for the best stays in kona? There are many great options and choosing the right place to stay can really shape your experience. From luxury resorts to family-friendly condos and budget options, here are some of the best stays in Kona and nearby areas.
Waikoloa Beach Resort (Hilton Area)
The Hilton Waikoloa Village is a beautiful, expansive resort packed with activities and amenities.
Highlights:
- A massive oceanfront pool that winds through the property, passing under small bridges—including a fun rope bridge
- Poolside food service delivered right to your lounge chair
- A saltwater lagoon (bay fed by the ocean) where you can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, paddle boats, and snorkeling—we even spotted a ray swimming by
- Dolphin Quest, where you can watch dolphins interact with trainers or pay extra for a hands-on experience
- Daily activities like ukulele lessons and cultural classes
- On-site restaurants and a traditional Hawaiian luau (tickets required)
- They offer a day pass for the pool amenities for guests staying elsewhere.
Nearby:
- Queens’ MarketPlace for shopping and dining (including an ABC Store and Tommy Bahama restaurant)
- Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay), a great nearby beach
- Water slides (definitely geared toward kids, but still fun for adults, we definitely still took a turn on the slide).
Check out more info here.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Luxury Option)
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a higher-end stay and part of the Marriott Autograph Collection.
What makes it special:
- Stunning open-air architecture with a grand, airy feel
- Home to the famous Manta Restaurant and manta ray viewing area
Manta Ray Viewing Tips:
- There’s about an 80% chance of seeing manta rays at night (though we didn’t get lucky!)
- Best time to go: between 7–9 PM, especially when it’s not a full moon
- Bright lights in the water attract plankton, which in turn attract manta rays
- You don’t have to be a guest staying at the hotel to see the manta rays
Getting there:
- You’ll pass through a security gate—let them know you’re visiting the manta ray viewing area
- Public parking may be closed at night, so valet is often the only option (free, aside from tipping)
- Walk down the stairs toward the restaurant, then follow signs to the shoreline viewing area
Check out more info here.
Pacific 19 (Mid-Range Option)
PACIFIC 19 Kona is a great mid-range hotel with a modern, boutique feel.
Why stay here:
- Nice pool area
- Convenient location within walking distance to shops and restaurants in Kona
- Free (and popular) morning poolside yoga—just sign up at the front desk
Check out more info here.
Wyndham/WorldMark
The Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort is ideal if you’re traveling with family or want more space. There are several Wyndham properties in Kona. These are some popular stays that offer fun and relaxation.
Features:
- Spacious units, many with pull-out beds
- Full kitchens
- In-unit washer and dryer
- Fun pool area
- Convenient location
WorldMark Kona: not beach front , but conveniently located and fun pool. Check out more info here.
Club Wyndham Kona: Hawaiian vibe and private lanias. Check out more info here.
Booking Tip:
Members have access to 15%-50% off on some bookings, updated weekly, check wyndhams member portal.
Non-members have access to deals up to %20 off, check Wyndham’s website. Hotel rates are also often offered at a discounted price on Hotwire.
Kona’s Best Stays: Airbnb Rentals in Kona
If you’re looking for flexibility, Airbnb is also a great option in Kona. You can often find rentals close to the beach, and it’s a good choice for longer stays, families, or anyone wanting a more local feel.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort experience, a family-friendly stay, or a budget-conscious option, Kona has stays to offer for everyone. Each of these places offers a different vibe—so it really depends on how you want to experience the island.
Check out Best Guide to Kona.