The Big Island of Hawaii is full of great places to stay. Hilo is a good place to check out rainforests and waterfalls, and Volcano Village makes for a great home base for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park-based trips. But Kailua-Kona is where we recommend first-time Big Island visitors stay – especially if you’re planning on touring the whole island. Don’t believe us? Here’s a list of what makes Kailua-Kona the best place to stay on the island.
The Beaches
Kailua-Kona is on the Big Island’s west coast. What’s also on the Big Island’s west coast? Some of the best beaches in all of Hawaii! You’ll be able to sunbathe on the white sands of Hāpuna Beach after less than an hour of driving. And even closer to Kailua-Kona are some of the island’s best snorkeling destinations: Kahalu’u Beach and Kealakekua Bay.
Climate
Kailua-Kona and Hilo are the best-known towns on the Big Island. But what makes them distinct from each other is their climate. Hilo is warm and humid. Rain frequents Hilo and gives it its lush greenery and awe-inspiring waterfalls. But chances are, you do not want to encounter rain on your tropical vacation. Kailua-Kona is known for having a drier climate out of the two. You still might encounter rain, but less than you would at Hilo.
Kona Coffee
Coffee-lovers, this is for you. The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its world-famous Kona coffee, which is often grown on its west coast. Staying in Kailua-Kona gives you the perfect opportunity to start your day right with a good cup of coffee. And nearby are coffee farms where you can go on a farm tour.
Big Island of Hawaii
So are you ready for your Big Island vacation? See some of the island’s hottest destinations with Action Tour Guide’s self-guided tour. Using the tour is simple. It downloads straight to your phone and uses GPS technology to trigger its narration. All you have to do is go to the tour’s starting point, listen to the Welcome Stop, and follow where the map and narration guide you. It’s that easy! And since the tour is self-guided, you can choose to skip any of the recommended stops and spend as long as you want at the stops you choose to go to. You’re the one who’s in charge of your island experience.
