Big Island
Looking to celebrate my husbands 50th in November. We’ve been to Maui several times and Kauai twice. We love the Kapalua resort area. Looking for something similar on Big Island. We’re not really resort-y people but would like to stay somewhere nice to celebrate. Suggestions please? Thanks!
For celebrating a milestone like a 50th birthday on the Big Island, especially if you enjoy the feel of Kapalua but prefer something less “resort-y,” there are several areas and properties to consider that combine luxury, privacy, and beautiful surroundings.
Preferred Areas:
- Kona Coast: This area offers a range of luxury villas, boutique resorts, and oceanfront properties with spectacular sunsets. You’ll find more casual elegance here than traditional resort vibes.
- Waikoloa Beach / Kohala Coast: Similar to Kapalua in terms of upscale communities, golf courses, and nice beaches, but slightly more laid-back than Maui’s resort hubs. Villas and vacation homes here often provide privacy and spectacular views.
- Hilo Side: Less resort-focused, more lush and green. Great if you want to mix nature activities with your celebration, such as waterfalls, botanical gardens, and Volcanoes National Park. Hilo itself is more casual and local, with boutique stays rather than sprawling resorts.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury Villas / Boutique Hotels: Consider booking an ocean-view villa on the Kona or Kohala coast. Many have private pools, spacious lanais, and full kitchens, giving you flexibility for a personal celebration.
- Small Upscale Hotels: Properties like the Four Seasons Hualalai offer high-end amenities without feeling overly “resort-y,” with private dining options and access to golf or spa experiences.
- Vacation Rentals: Sites like Vrbo or local property management companies can help you find unique homes overlooking the ocean or nestled in tropical gardens — ideal for a private celebration with family or friends.
Tips for Planning:
- Book early: November is a popular time for celebrations, and the best properties can fill up quickly.
- Consider a mix of relaxation and activity: Combine a few days at a luxury property with a day exploring Volcanoes National Park or Kona coffee farms.
- Private experiences: Many villas and boutique properties can arrange private dinners, spa treatments, or helicopter tours to make the 50th extra special.
Overall, for a non-resort-y yet luxurious feel similar to Kapalua, the Kona or Kohala coast with a villa or boutique hotel stay would be ideal. It balances privacy, celebration-friendly amenities, and easy access to Big Island attractions.
