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The best luxury resorts on the Big Island
If you’re looking for the best luxury resorts on the Big Island, this is the post for you. When most people think of the Big Island, they think of the active Volcano, Kilauea. However, the Big Island is so much more than that!
The Big Island is incredibly diverse and is home to ten of the words fourteen climate zones. The diverse climate means that you’ll be able to see all types of weather no matter what time of the year you visit.
Do I need a rental car on the Big Island?
The Big Island is, well, big, and you’ll definitely need a rental car. Although these resorts are fantastic, you’ll want to venture out and explore all the Big Island has to offer.
I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. You’ll find the best prices on rental cars in Hawaii. If you’re going to splurge on an amazing resort, you might as well get a great deal on your car!
Pro-tip: I recommend getting a Jeep! It’s a lot more fun.
When to visit The Big Island of Hawaii?
The “best” time to visit the Big Island, in my opinion, is during the slower season. It’s never truly “slow” in Hawaii when it comes to tourism, but it is slower in April, May, and late August through October.
The exception to this rule is the week of the Ironman in Kona, which takes place in October. You can read more about when to visit the Big Island in my post “is there a bad time to go to Hawaii?”
The best 5-star resorts on the Big Island
Here are the best 5-star resorts on the Big Island. Listed in no particular order, this list of luxury resorts on the Big Island has the perfect Big Island resort for everyone. By the way, several of the best restaurants on the Big Island are located at these luxury Big Island resorts!
Four Seasons Hualalai
When you want the best of the best, you’ll want to check out the Four Seasons Hualalai. Four Seasons Hualalai is not just one of the best 5-star resorts on the Big Island or one of Hawaii’s best 5-star resorts. It’s one of the top-rated resorts in the world!
The beachfront property is just four miles from Kekaha Kai State Park, my favorite beach on the Big Island.
Sea turtles at Kehaka Kai State Park.
The Four Seasons Hualalai offers 3 restaurants, 7 pools, a golf course, and a fantastic spa. Many types of accommodations are available, from standard rooms to upgraded suites and 1 and 2-bedroom villas. Rates begin around $1000/night.
One of the best parts of the resort is the cultural center, which has activities and classes featuring Hawaiian culture. The Four Seasons Hualalai is also one of my favorite Hawaii honeymoon resorts.
For honeymooners and other adult travelers, the Palm Grove Pool offers a tranquil oasis away from the rest of the resort’s hustle and bustle.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
The simple name might fool you, but Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is most definitely a resort. And, it’s one of the best luxury resorts on the Big Island.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is home to fantastic golf courses and is located on one of the Big Island’s best beaches. This resort also boasts some of the best dining options on the Big Island.
Rates start at around $700 per night. Check the pricing for your dates on Expedia.
If you’re considering a Hawaii destination wedding, Mauna Beach Beach Hotel is the perfect destination. They offer several event spaces and wedding packages.
Fairmont Orchid
The Fairmont Orchid is one of the most popular resorts on the Big Island. Perfect for both couples and families, the resort boasts six restaurants, golf courses, tennis courts, and a spa on 32 oceanfront acres.
The service at the Fairmont Orchid is excellent, as are the dining options. The resort also has a year-round children’s program making it a popular destination for families.
The Fairmont Orchid is one of the few properties on the Big Island that allows pets. However, bringing a dog to Hawaii is not a simple process whatsoever.
Check the pricing at the Fairmont Orchid for your travel dates on Expedia. Rates typically start around $600 per night.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
The Kohala Coast is home to most of the resorts on this list, and Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is no exception. The Kohala Coast is world-renowned for its fantastic shorelines and cultural and archaeological sites.
The Westin Hapuna Beach recently underwent a 46 million dollar renovation and was named a Westin property. The changes have been for the better, and guests are raving about the re-imagined property.
Even if you’re not staying at the Westin Hapuna Beach, you might consider visiting the Mauna Kea Spa by Mandara. It’s one of the best spas on the Big Island.
The stunning Westin Hapuna Beach. Photo is property of Marriott.
Mauna Lani Bay Resort
The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows is home to famous Francis H I’i. Brown golf courses. Mauna Lani Bay Resort went under a massive renovation in 2019.
After a $200 million renovation, the Mauna Lani Bay Resort welcomed guests back in January 2020. Unfortunately, it had to close down shortly after due to travel restrictions but has since re-opened and is practically a brand new property!
The re-imagined Mauna Lani features 30 oceanfront acres and 3 miles of shoreline. Accommodations at Mauna Lani include guest rooms, suites, and even 4,000 square foot residences.
From sunrise paddle boarding to beachfront yoga to cultural experiences, the Mauna Lani Bay resort offers activities for everyone.
The most luxurious resorts on the Big Island
Thanks for checking out this post about the best luxury resorts on the Big Island. Visiting multiple islands? You might want to check out the best luxury resorts on Oahu or the best luxury resorts in Maui too.
For even more options on the Big Island, check out the best Big Island resorts. If these resorts are a bit out of your price range, don’t worry! I am currently working on the best budget resorts on the Big Island and will have that posted very soon.
More Big Island Travel Tips:
- The 10 best tours on the Big Island
- Where to find sea turtles on the Big Island of Hawaii
- The 7 Best Things to do on the Big Island
- The Best Happy Hours in Kona
- 25 best things to do in Kona
- 20 things to do in Hilo
- The best Hawaii sunset locations
For more hotels and resorts, check out pricing on Expedia, where you’ll often find great deals.
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