Big Island

Question

Hi, I’m heading to Big Island in January and was recommended to stay in the Kona area and I wanted peoples recommendation on the best hotel/resort on the Big Island?

I have reserved a room in Castle Kanaloa Kona (if any one has heard of it) but more sure if it is good enough.

I was recommended to visit Big Island as I’m an adventure type girl and not a city life. And wanted peoples recommendation or options on the best excursion? I love hiking, mountains, waterfalls, beaches, zip lining, horse riding, rock climbing and much more. And also what is the best way to get around on the BI?

And I had also thought about possibly visit either Maui or Kauai for a few days and wanted peoples opinion on which of the 2 would be the best? Again for the adventure and landscape and scenery and lush green place.

Thank you in advance :)

Answer

Castle Kanaloa Kona is a condominium-style property located near Kailua-Kona. It’s generally well-reviewed for its spacious units and ocean views, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a quieter, more independent stay rather than a full-service resort experience. It’s a solid choice if you enjoy having a kitchen, more space, and a relaxed atmosphere, though it doesn’t offer the full range of resort amenities like large pools, daily activities, or on-site restaurants.

If you’re looking for other highly recommended resorts or hotels on the Big Island, particularly in the Kona area, you might consider:

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – luxury resort with exceptional service, beautiful beaches, pools, and multiple dining options. Great for both relaxation and adventure excursions.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel – classic beachfront resort with a stunning white sand beach, golf course, and scenic ocean views.
Hilton Waikoloa Village – large resort with multiple pools, dolphin encounters, and easy access to activities.
Royal Kona Resort – centrally located in Kona town, good for convenience, moderate budget, and access to local restaurants and shops.

For adventure activities and excursions on the Big Island, there is an abundance to choose from:

Hiking – Pololu Valley, Waipi’o Valley, Mauna Kea summit for sunrise/sunset, and Akaka Falls State Park.
Waterfalls – Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, Umauma Falls.
Beaches – Hapuna Beach for swimming, Makalawena Beach for more secluded options.
Ziplining – courses near Kona, Kohala, and Waikoloa offering thrilling canopy tours.
Horseback riding – ranch tours in Waimea or along the Kohala coast.
Volcano adventures – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, lava tube exploration, and crater hikes.
Snorkeling/diving – Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay.

The best way to get around the Big Island is by renting a car. Public transport is extremely limited, and most adventure spots, beaches, and towns are spread out. Roads are generally good, but some areas like Pololu Valley or Mauna Kea can be more rugged, so check access requirements for 4WD if needed.

If you plan to visit another island for a few days, considering your interests in lush scenery and adventure:

Maui – offers the Road to Hana, Haleakala National Park, snorkeling trips, waterfalls, and a mix of beaches. It’s a great balance of adventure and accessible amenities.
Kauai – extremely lush and green, ideal for hiking, waterfalls, Waimea Canyon, and the Napali Coast. Less developed than Maui, more remote and scenic, great for outdoor adventures.

Between Maui and Kauai, if your priority is dramatic landscapes, hiking, and a more wild, lush environment, Kauai is the best choice. If you want a mix of beaches, adventure, and a bit more infrastructure for easy access, Maui is ideal. Both islands complement a Big Island trip very well depending on whether you prefer a tropical green experience (Kauai) or varied activities with ocean access (Maui).

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