Help with itinerary- both sides of island?

Question

We are coming March 12-19, flying into Kona. Looking at staying at an Airbnb in Puna Wed - Sat, then heading to maybe Mauna Lani area for rest of our time, probably in Airbnb again but maybe hotel if we can find a nice one. Wife,myself and 12 yr old daughter. Any recommendations accepted.

Answer

It sounds like you have a great plan for your trip to the Big Island! The itinerary of splitting your time between Puna and Mauna Lani is a fantastic way to experience both the lush, more remote side of the island and the beautiful, upscale resorts on the Kohala Coast. Below are some recommendations for both parts of your trip:

Wednesday - Saturday (Puna Area): Puna is a more secluded, adventurous part of the island, and it offers a great opportunity to explore some of Hawaii's natural wonders. Some must-see spots in this area include:

Kaimu Black Sand Beach: This beautiful black sand beach is the result of lava flows and is a great spot for taking photos and exploring. Note that the waters can be rough here, so be cautious if swimming.
Volcanoes National Park: A highlight of the island, this park offers trails, lava tubes, steam vents, and volcanic craters. You can explore the Kilauea Volcano and the famous Thurston Lava Tube. It’s best to plan a full day here.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach: Another stunning black sand beach, known for its turtle sightings. It's perfect for a relaxing day or a picnic. You can also spot Hawaiian green sea turtles sunbathing on the beach.
Ahalanui Warm Pond: A natural thermal pond that’s fed by volcanic hot springs. It’s a unique place to swim, with warmer water temperatures and a calm setting.

Saturday - Wednesday (Mauna Lani Area): Mauna Lani is located on the sunny, dry side of the island and offers world-class resorts, beaches, and golf courses. Here are some recommendations for your time on this side of the island:

Mauna Lani Beach: A beautiful, peaceful beach where you can snorkel, swim, and relax. The waters are generally calm, and the area is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant fish and marine life.
Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve: A great historical site near Mauna Lani, where you can walk along a boardwalk and see hundreds of ancient petroglyphs carved into the lava rock.
Waialea Bay (Beach 69): A great spot for swimming and snorkeling, with clear water and a sandy beach. It’s more tranquil and less crowded than some of the larger beaches on the Kohala Coast.
Hapuna Beach State Park: One of the best beaches on the island for swimming and relaxing. The waters here are calm, and it’s perfect for families. There are also picnic areas and restrooms for convenience.
Mauna Kea Summit: If you're up for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider making a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea for sunset and stargazing. It's a bit of a drive and involves high-altitude, so make sure to check the weather and altitude warnings beforehand.

Accommodation Suggestions:

If you decide to stay in a hotel in the Mauna Lani area, some options include:
- Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows: A beachfront resort with excellent amenities and activities for families.
- The Fairmont Orchid: A beautiful luxury resort with a great location and excellent amenities, including a fantastic spa and beachfront access.
If you prefer an Airbnb in the Mauna Lani area, there are several great options near the beaches and resorts, including private homes and condo rentals.

Since you mentioned that you're traveling with your 12-year-old daughter, you’ll also want to make sure to check out some of the more family-friendly activities like the Kona Coffee Farm tours, the nearby beaches, or even take a trip to the Hawaiian Cultural Center in Waimea for some local history.

It sounds like you’re in for an amazing trip, and these recommendations should help make your time on both sides of the island unforgettable. Enjoy your stay on the Big Island!