Help with travel plans

Question

Hello! We have a condo reserved at Halili Kai Condos from January 3rd to January 11th (our original plan), but we've now decided to arrive on the Big Island on December 31st and stay until January 14th. Our flight arrives at 3 PM on the 31st after an 11-hour journey.

For the first three nights, we've booked Pacific 19, but our plans are still flexible. Other options, like the Outrigger, were a bit too expensive for those nights, so we opted for Pacific 19.

Do you think we should stay on the west side for those first three nights, or would it be better to head over to the east side? We also need to consider those last three nights. Any recommendations on how to navigate the island and suggestions for accommodations?

Our goal is to have a relaxing vacation, visit the National Park, do some hiking, and enjoy sightseeing. We’re open to either a hotel or rental.

Thanks, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts!

Answer

It sounds like you have a fantastic trip ahead on the Big Island! I understand you're looking for a relaxing vacation, with time for hiking, sightseeing, and a visit to the National Park. I'll address your questions regarding accommodations and navigating the island.

First Three Nights: West Side vs. East Side

The Big Island offers different experiences depending on where you stay, so both the west and east sides have their unique appeal. Since you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, I'll help you consider both options:

West Side (Kona/Kailua-Kona): The west side of the island is known for its sunny weather and relaxed beach vibe, making it a great place to unwind. It’s also home to many resorts, restaurants, and amenities. Since you’re arriving after a long flight, staying in Kona for the first few nights could be a good choice. You'll be able to adjust to the time zone, relax by the beach or pool, and enjoy easy access to local restaurants and shops. You’re also close to the Kona coffee region, which is worth exploring if you’re interested.
East Side (Hilo): The east side, particularly around Hilo, is lush, with a more tropical rainforest feel. Hilo has a charming, laid-back vibe, with waterfalls, gardens, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park nearby. If you’re interested in visiting the National Park early in your trip, staying in Hilo for the first few nights could be a good choice. However, keep in mind that the weather tends to be rainier on this side, which could impact outdoor activities. If you’re looking for more relaxation and time by the ocean, the west side would be more suitable.

Since your trip will be relaxing, I’d recommend staying on the west side for the first three nights. This will give you a more laid-back atmosphere to settle in and enjoy the beaches, and you’ll have easy access to the airport as well. Afterward, you can consider moving to the east side to explore the National Park and the lush surroundings.

Last Three Nights: Where to Stay

For the last few nights of your trip, it would make sense to stay closer to the Volcanoes National Park, especially if you want to explore the park. However, if you want to experience the best of both worlds (relaxation + hiking), I suggest splitting your last three nights between the west and east sides.

Stay in Volcano or Hilo (East Side): Volcano Village or Hilo would be ideal for your last nights, as you'll be near the National Park and can easily do a few morning hikes or visits to the park’s volcanic craters. You can stay in a charming rental home or hotel in Volcano Village, which is a short drive from the park entrance. For a more local feel, you might want to check out small hotels or vacation rentals in Hilo, which is about 30 minutes from the park.
Stay in Waikoloa (West Side): If you prefer to spend more time by the beach before your departure, you could stay in the Waikoloa area for the last few nights. Waikoloa has several resorts that offer pools, golf, and beaches. It's also a bit closer to the airport, which could be convenient for your departure. If you stay in Waikoloa, you could still visit the National Park during the day while enjoying a more resort-like atmosphere at night.

Transportation and Navigating the Island

The Big Island is quite large, so having a rental car is a great idea for getting around. You’ll need it to explore the various regions of the island, including the National Park, beaches, and coffee farms. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to drive between locations as some areas can take longer to reach due to the island’s size. For example, a drive from Kona to Volcanoes National Park can take around 2 hours, so plan accordingly for day trips.

Recommendations for Accommodations

For Relaxation & Family-Friendly Stay: Since you’re looking for a relaxing experience, consider checking out some vacation rentals or condo complexes like Halii Kai where you’ll have access to amenities like a pool, kitchen facilities, and proximity to the ocean.
For Nature & Volcano Exploration: Look into staying in Volcano Village or near Hilo for the last three nights. Small inns or vacation rentals offer a cozy atmosphere and close proximity to the Volcanoes National Park.
For Beach & Resort Vibes: If you prefer a beach resort stay for your final days, you might want to book at one of the resorts in Waikoloa, such as the Hilton Waikoloa Village, which is known for its beautiful grounds, pools, and nearby beaches.

Conclusion

My suggestion is to stay on the west side (Kona area) for your first few nights to relax and explore, and then consider moving to the east side (Hilo or Volcano) for the last few nights to experience the National Park. Be sure to balance beach time with outdoor activities like hiking, which will allow you to experience both the beauty of the island and its volcanic landscape. Having a rental car will be essential for getting around and exploring the island at your own pace.

Enjoy your trip to the Big Island—it’s an amazing destination with something for everyone!