The Top Rated Places to Stay on the Big Island

Knowing where to stay on Hawaii’s Big Island is the most important part of your vacation.  Twice the size of all the other islands combined, location is everything for a successful Big Island getaway.  Many planning a visit find it difficult to decide on accommodation, but the search for the perfect place doesn’t have to be hard.  Take into consideration proximity to popular attractions, travel time, and crowds.  With all these in mind, here are the best places to stay on the Big Island.  

Most Authentic and Best Overall: The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls

One of the top rated places to stay on the Big Island is The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls.  Whether you seek adventure or calm, The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls will help you find it.  The property stretches 22 verdant acres of lush forest and natural running water.  Several Asian inspired buildings are scattered along the waterfall path.  Rooms range from standard, family suites, detached cottages, and even a guest house complete with a full kitchen.  Request a room with a waterfall view.  For something more immersive, rappel down Kulaniapia Falls with the professional adventure team.  They provide all the training and equipment needed for a safe and thrilling descent.  Kayaks and paddleboards are also available to enjoy at the top waterfall in Hawaii.  

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls runs entirely on hydroelectric power from the waterfalls and solar panels strategically placed around the property.  Sustainability and authenticity are the core philosophy here.  Accommodations have all the perks of modernity (fast WiFi and hot water) while maintaining a connection to nature and staying eco-friendly, while being off grid and in nature.  

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls is a 15 minute drive from Hilo, an hour drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and barely two hours to Kona.  With a perfect location to the most visited parts of the Big Island, you can reach anywhere you want to be from The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls.  

Guests enjoy locally sourced breakfast and the Island’s best coffee while enjoying the cascading view of Kulaniapia Falls.  The experience is private and secluded as only patrons of The Inn and a select number of day pass holders have access to the spacious property.  They also offer farm tours, cooking classes, and chef dinners next to the waterfall view.  

Mauna Lani

Meaning "mountain reaching heaven," Mauna Lani is a sacred location.  Nestled off the Kohala Coast and resting in the center of five great mountains, this resort is a special oasis.  Watch the sunrise from your balcony, enjoy sweeping ocean views from breakfast, or lay poolside with a beverage.  Mauna Lani is a romantic getaway perfect for honeymooners or long time couples celebrating an anniversary.  

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Combine aloha warmth with the esteemed service of the Four Seasons for the ultimate luxury resort experience.  The Kona coast location of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai boasts a 249 room and seven pool destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.  The Resort offers five dining options, including 'ULU Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge.  Each chef works with ingredients from local farms, and over 75% of the food served is from Hawaii Island.  Rooms are luxurious, comfortable, and spacious.  Additional amenities include an ocean adventure team, tennis courts, golf course, spa and salon, and a culture center.

Fairmont Orchid

Located just under ten miles from the Kona International Airport is the Fairmont Orchid.  This luxury resort and space rests on the majestic Kohala Coast, and provides guests with a genuine aloha experience.  Resort amenities include the award-winning Spa without Walls, a 10,000 square foot oceanfront pool, six restaurants, year-round children’s program, and tennis pavilion.  

If you're looking for Nature, Peace, Waterfall Views, and Adventure then Kulaniapia Falls is the best place to stay.

Whatever experience you are looking for, the Big Island is the perfect place to visit.  There’s adventure, retreat, and a perfect balance of both at The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls, one of the top rated places to stay on the Big Island.  Book your room, enjoy the private waterfall, and authentically connect to nature.  It may be a short drive from town, but feels like a world away.

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