When it comes to planning the ultimate dream vacation to Hawaii, it’s not always the biggest resorts that are delivering the biggest adventures. Sometimes all a traveler needs is a base of operations with a comfortable bed and maybe a nice pool for post-activity rest and relaxation. But that doesn’t mean this kind of concept can’t have plenty of style and cultural value as well, though.

For example, Pacific 19 Kona recently opened its doors on Hawaii, the Big Island, and this 122-room hotel was conceived to inspire guests to experience the best of this beautiful destination and make the most of their vacations. Sure, everyone will love grabbing coffee or an artisanal tea at Café P19 before heading to the daily yoga classes, but the goal of everyone from the owners to the staff is to get out there and see what makes the Big Island so magical.

“Pacific 19 Kona is a fresh concept for Hawaii Island,” explained James Evans, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Nine Brains. “We want to be our guest’s basecamp, while helping them connect authentically with Hawaii, as if guiding a visiting friend or family member. Not only will that happen through personal connection with the staff at the hotel, but we’re putting a lot of effort into building a curated travel guide and custom itineraries, including being able to book adventures right from the website with hand-picked local outfitters.”

Located on the 19^th parallel, the hotel boasts an overall design that is inspired by the Pacific. Honolulu’s The Vanguard Theory used the surrounding natural beauty for an outside-in theme that begins with the open-air lobby’s giant monkeypod tree and continues into the rooms, where guests will enjoy subtle tones, natural wood furnishings, and local artwork.

But as much as the décor celebrates the world around Pacific 19 Kona, the intention is still to convince guests to get out there and enjoy the real thing. Head down to the Coffee Shack for the best brunch views around before picking the perfect spot on Mahai’ula Beach to get some morning sun. For a truly special adventure, head to Papakōlea and bask in the awesomeness of one of only four green sand beaches in the world.

No matter where guests choose to spend their days, Sushi Sam is just minutes from Pacific 19 Kona, so crossing “Eat the best sushi on the island” off the to-do list will be a breeze.

The post Pacific 19 Kona Debuts on the Big Island appeared first on Islands.

Snorkeling in Maui offers some of the best opportunities for swimming with sea turtles. If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the marine biology of Hawaii, join Ocean Ramsey’s research team in Oahu. Anini Beach on the island of Kauai provides snorkelers with access to the Rhe Honoiki reef, the largest coral reef in Hawaii. And if you want to walk away from your trip with a one-of-a-kind experience, swim at night with reef manta rays on Hawaii’s Big Island.

It doesn’t matter which island you choose. If you’re snorkeling in Hawaii, you are sure to enjoy your underwater adventure. Here are the best places for snorkeling around the Hawaiian Islands, plus the specific sea life you can expect to see below the surface.

Fringing Reef—Molokai

Get here by boat or kayak and prepare to be wowed by the longest fringing reef in Hawaii, which attracts everything from hawksbill turtles to spotted eagle rays. Plan your trip during whale-watching season (December-March) when thousands of whales show up and serenade each other (and you).

Where is it? South coast of Molokai

How to experience it? Let Snorkel Molokai take care of everything, from the boat ride and gear to special tips and instruction, if necessary.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Turtle Town—Maui

On Maui’s southern coastline, a series of underwater lava formations, created by eruptions of submarine volcanoes, makes a cozy home for sea turtles. Just remember: look, but don’t touch; these guys are endangered. Angelfish, moray eels, and octopus are an added bonus.

Where is it? At Maluaka Beach, south of Kihei, near the Makena Beach and Golf Club.

How to experience it? A tour company like Maui Snorkeling will take visitors there for a 5-hour morning adventure. A heck of a way to start a day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park—Big Island

Hawaii’s Big Island offers numerous snorkeling spots. Kayak along the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay while keeping your eyes peeled for Hawaiian spinner dolphins; they like to put on a show. Once you reach the protected shoreline of Ka’awaloa, hop out and snorkel alongside turtles, eels, reef sharks, and rays.

Bring a picnic lunch and sit a spell near the monument of British explorer Captain James Cook; however, if you kayak on your own you are not allowed to dock on shore.

Where is it? 12-miles south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) in south Kona

How to experience it? Sign up for some “Morning Magic” with Kona Boys and enjoy a guided tour of this magical area at the best time of day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Night Manta Snorkel—Big Island

Tour operators set up waterproof spotlights on the ocean floor to attract plankton, a surefire way to bring giant Pacific manta rays galore. Even though they are closely related to sharks, have wingspans up to 20 feet, and can weigh a whopping 3,000 pounds, snorkeling with them is perfectly safe. Their underwater performance has all the theatrics of Cirque du Soleil—back flips and all.

Where is it? Fronting Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay; south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona)

How to experience it? During lobster season, Shoreline Snorkel makes the nighttime tour even more exciting. And sometimes an octopus might even swim by.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Poipu Beach Park—Kauai

Tikes will dig the shallow-water lagoon at Poipu Beach, not to mention the wildlife. Shoreside, you’ll often find lounging monk seals. Offshore, it’s common to see humpbacks during whale season. While snorkeling, look for blue parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and this tongue-twister: humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Hawaii’s state fish.

Where is it? 25 minutes west of Lihue on Kauai’s south shore

How to experience it? Visitors who feel like exploring on their own but didn’t bring the right gear can stop by Boss Frog’s for everything from masks to beach chairs.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

North Shore—Oahu

Oahu’s North Shore is one of the best places for snorkeling in Hawaii. Play marine biologist for the day by hanging out with Ocean Ramsey’s research team. Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, hammerheads, and sometimes even whale sharks roams these parts. If you’re not a fan of the apex predator, this trip could certainly change your perspective. Humans aren’t really on the lunch list.

Where is it? Haleiwa Boat Harbor

How to experience it? Book a private excursion with Hawaii Real Nature Tours to get the most from an experienced guide in this magical location.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Tunnels (Makua) Beach—Kauai

Weird rock formations? Check. Large coral heads? Check. This spot in Kauai will keep you entertained with its caverns, channels, and tunnels. Look for goat fish, hogfish, filefish, green sea turtles, moray eels, trumpet fish, and wrasse. A word to the wise: Avoid winter when the waves can be gnarly.

Where is it? Kauai’s north shore; off Highway 560 about a mile west of Hanalei Colony Resort; near Haena Beach Park

How to experience it? Kauai Sea Tours is one of several companies that showcases the best of the island’s snorkeling with excursions that feature multiple stops. Might as well see it all!

Who is it suitable for? Different areas are good for different levels of experience, but everyone should remember to not step on the coral.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve—Oahu

This volcanic crater on Oahu’s east side is a marine life conservation area sheltered from ocean swells and packed full of fish. Needless to say, it’s wildly popular, so be prepared for crowds. Take a peek at crevices and caves while making friends with damsel fish, squirrel fish, porcupine fish, and trumpet fish.

Where is it? Oahu’s east side; from Waikiki take the H1 Freeway until it becomes Kalanianaole Highway, continue 10 miles. You’ll find the entrance at the top of the hill.

How to experience it? Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures runs tours every day except Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as most major holidays.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Honolua Bay—Maui

Located on Maui’s northwest shore, Honolua Bay is a marine life conservation area, so your chances are good of tracking down diverse sea critters. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by rocky cliffs that help shelter the area from wind. Keep an eye out for butterflyfish, snapper, puffer fish, unicorn fish, and sea urchins. Afterward, watch the surfers to the right of the boat ramp. This spot happens to be one of the most epic surf breaks in Hawaii.

Where is it? 10 miles north of Lahaina along Hwy 30

How to experience it? Do it in style by boarding the luxury catamaran from PacWhale Eco-Adventures.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Hulopoe Bay—Lanai

On the island’s south shore you’ll find this crescent-shaped bay dotted with shallow tide pools that house hermit crabs, sea stars, and small fish. Below the surface, you’re in for a treat. Spinner dolphins and sea turtles frolic here frequently. Plus, bandit angelfish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and humpbacks (in the winter).

Where is it? Between the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Manele Bay

How to experience it? Book Amstar’s incredible day tour from Maui to Lanai that takes visitors to Hulopoe Bay for exploring by land and sea.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

The post 10 of the Best Snorkeling Experiences in Hawaii appeared first on Islands.

Visit one of the four green-sand beaches in Hawaii, or travel to Iceland to see remnants of basalt lava pose as sand on one of the most exotic black-sand beaches. No matter your favorite color or what region of the world you travel to, there’s sure to be a colorful beach you’ll want to check out. Be careful, though: Not all of these beaches on our list are swimmer-friendly.

Read on for a list of our favorite multicolored beaches.

Black Sand: Paioa Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Located in the Waianapanapa State Park, the black “sand” is made mostly from small black rocks. Waianapanapa means “glistening fresh water” in Hawaiian, and it’s easy to see where the name came from when the black sand is contrasted against the brilliant blue ocean. The aesthetic easily makes this one of the most beautiful black-sand beaches out here.

Thanks to the scenery, this spot is a must-stop along the Road to Hana. Take as many pictures as you’d like, but save your swimsuit: With the strong surf and frequent jellyfish, opt for a more swimmer-friendly beach.

Orange Sand: San Blas Beach—Gozo, Malta

Located at the bottom of a steep hill on Gozo’s northeast coast, San Blas is a small, secluded beach featuring clear water and a marked swimming area. The soft sand—orange due to high iron oxide content—is perfect for lounging the day away in your rented beach chair. A small snack hut and restroom facilities mean you don’t have to wander far.

Pink Sand: Pink Beach—Komodo Island, Indonesia

Also known as Pantai Merah, Pink Beach is located on Komodo Island, one of more than 17,000 islands in the Republic of Indonesia. One of only seven pink-sand beaches in the world, the color is caused by the red coral mixed with white sand. It’s a popular snorkeling spot and suitable for beginners since even the shallows are teeming with marine life. The strand is also located within Komodo National Park, a sanctuary to Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest living lizard.

Green Sand: Papakolea Beach—Hawaii Island, Hawaii

Also known as Mahana Beach, you’ll find this unique, green-sand beach (one of only four in the world) on the southern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled in a bay at the base of the Pu’u Mahana cinder cone, this remote beach requires a windy, five-mile, round-trip hike, or you can hitch a ride from a local for about $15 per person. There are no facilities, and the surf is too strong for swimming. The appeal, however, is the rare green sand, created by olivine crystals, a common silicate deposit of Big Island lava.

Red Sand: Kaihalulu Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Comprised of red and black lava cinders, this red-sand beach in Hana is the perfect spot to snap selfies. Go early to find parking, but you probably shouldn’t bring the little ones: The tricky trail to the beach is narrow and steep (plus, the hard-to-find location makes the spot popular among nudists).

Bring sturdy shoes for the hike and a snorkel mask, as the lava rock wall creates a protected cove for prime snorkeling.

Pink Sand: Horseshoe Bay Beach—Bermuda

Where did this beach, named for its curved shape, get its pink flecks? It’s from Foraminifera, a red microscopic organism with a reddish-pink shell. They grow profusely on the underside of Bermuda’s coral reefs, and their shells mix with the sand. Horseshoe is part of a collection of South Shore beaches and is one of the most popular spots with tourists and locals. Expect all the amenities you could ask for: chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling-gear and boogie-board rentals, bathrooms, and a low-key restaurant.

Black Sand: Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach—Iceland

Just off Ring Road near the southernmost town of Vik, this black-sand beach gets its color from smooth pebbles and stones that are the remnants of basalt lava. Selfie-worthy sights include Gardar, a cliff made of hexagonal-shaped basalt columns that form a step-like pyramid. It’s created as part of columnar jointing, a type of lava-cooling process.

Basalt sea stacks, known as Reynisdrangar, are also worthy of a photo (local legend says there were two Icelandic sea trolls who tried to drag a ship to land, but daylight broke and turned them into these stone formations). Beachgoers beware: This is not a spot for swimming. The currents and waves are strong, and waves can sneak up on you. There have even been a few fatal accidents with unsuspecting people having been swept into the ocean.

Pink Sand: Harbour Island—Bahamas

This three-mile-long beach, located on the east side of Harbour Island, is the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to the reef that provides a large area of calm and relatively shallow water. The sand is made from bits of coral, shells, rocks, and calcium carbonate from marine invertebrates. Just like Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay, this pink-sand beach gets its color from Foraminifera.

Red Sand: Cavendish Beach—Prince Edward Island, Canada

Part of Prince Edward Island National Park, this beach features silky red sand and all the necessary amenities—food, parking, restrooms, and lifeguards—for a perfect family beach day. The distinctive red sand gets its color from eroding sandstone cliffs on PEI’s north shore. For the active set, there are ample hiking and biking trails nearby.

The post 10 Beaches Where the Sand Color is the Main Attraction appeared first on Islands.

With such a diverse landscape, it’s no surprise that Hawaii’s Big Island delivers a variety of beaches, from white-sand postcard-perfect beaches loaded with amenities to black-sand hangouts popular among locals. Kona even has a green beach!

The experiences here vary as much as the sand color, from remote, secluded spots to beaches with lifeguards, facilities and lots of action, including paddleboard rentals. So jump in and discover the magic of the best beaches on Big Island, Hawaii.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

No vacation to the Big Island is complete without a visit to a black-sand beach, and Punalu’u, on the southern coast is one of the most scenic.

We love this beach not just for the sand, but for another big attraction: Green sea turtles favor this beach for sunning, as well as laying eggs in summer. As a bonus, outdoorsy types will like the fact that overnight camping is allowed with a permit.

Honl’s Beach

Said to the place where boogie boarding was born in 1971, Honl’s Beach—located in Kailua-Kona—offers surfers and other wave riders a consistent break almost year-round, with summer’s southwest swells bringing the best conditions.

Granted, you don’t need a board to play in the waves here, but do be mindful of the rocky bottom. Beyond the waves, this spot offers a wide expanse of sand for sunbathing, reading or watching simply the action.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

Don’t choose Kahalu’u Beach Park for sugar-soft sand—it comes up short—but for the wealth of watersports available at this happening location. Just yards from the beach is Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea, offering rentals and lessons for paddleboarding, surfing and kayaking.

While this beach’s rocky bottom isn’t easy on bare feet, it does bring much greater visibility in the water, which means paddleboarders and kayakers can watch schools of fish, as well as green turtles. Go for the fun on the water, stay for the food trucks and picnic tables.

Makalawena Beach

Maks, as the locals call it, is one of Kona’s most isolated beaches, thanks to the hike required to reach this white-sand outpost. The path is rocky, so, if possible, wear hiking boots or running shoes, not flip-flops. Here, waves lap at the shore, making for gentle, inviting swimming—perfect, as there are no lifeguards (or other facilities).

Find it by driving north of Kailua-Kona for 20 minutes on Route 19. Turn for the sign for Kekaha Kai State Park, then drive to the end of the unpaved road. From here, you’ll walk north for about 1 mile, or roughly 30 minutes.

Waialea Beach

This stretch of latte-colored sand is really two beaches: In winter, surf crashes just offshore and the sandy expanse is much smaller. Come summer, waves quiet down, and the sand returns to the beach.

We love this beach for the massive koa trees with branches extending right to the water’s edge. In other words, beachgoers need not choose between shade or sitting close to the sea.

Papakolea

One of four green-sand beaches in the world, Papakolea, found on the Big Island’s southern tip, offers unique scenery set between the lava cliffs of an eroded cinder cone. The beach owes its hue to the olivine crystals eroded from the surrounding walls. Scoop up a handful of the sand, and, yes, you can see the green in the tiny pieces of crystal.

Because it’s one of Hawaii’s most unusual scenic wonders, it is popular, despite the 2.5-mile hike to the water. The best times to visit are weekday mornings. Find the spot on Highway 11 between mile markers 69 and 70.

Kauna’oa Beach, aka Mauna Kea Beach

This beloved Big Island beach stands out for having some of the smallest waves and most pristine stretches of white sand. The water here is generally gentle, typically flat as glass, making it one of the most relaxing spots for sunbathers and those who like to take it easy in the ocean.

The easiest way to access the beach is via the Mauna Kea Hotel, which designates a limited number of parking spots to non-hotel guests. Note that at night, this hotel turns on underwater floodlights to lure in plankton, which in turn attracts mantas—sometimes up to 15 or more at a time.

Hapuna Beach State Park

Lifeguards and a small-surf break make this half-mile long Big Island beach a favorite among local and visiting families. For these reasons, expect crowds.

The park provides parking for a fee, plus food vendors, picnic areas, restrooms and freshwater showers. However, because this is a state park, alcohol is not allowed. We love that this west-facing hotspot doubles as an idyllic sunset-viewing spot. Always be sure to check the park’s many updates before planning a visit.

Maniniowali Beach, aka Kua Bay Beach

It would be easy to think you’re in the Caribbean when sunning on Maniniowali Beach—if it weren’t for the crags of lava rock at the edges of the beach and found in patches along the white sandy bottom.

This heavenly crescent of beach, part of Kekaha Kai State Park, is easy to reach, just a 20-minute drive north of Kailua-Kona. Those who arrive early enough can park just 100 yards from the beach in the lot, also home to showers and toilets. As a bonus: Sightings of green turtles are fairly common among this beach’s gin-clear water.

Isaac Kepo’okalani Hale Beach Park

This beach resulted from the August 2018 eruption on Kona, reopening in December 2018 to become the newest black-sand beach on the map. Surfers paddle outside the lagoon for the break, and swimmers looking to relax stay inside the lagoon for flatter, calmer water.

There are no vendors at this beach and no running water, but portable restrooms are available. For an added adventure, check out the four volcanically heated hot ponds at the park—but be forewarned that the government advises those with open cuts not to enter due to the risk of bacterial infections.

The post 10 Beaches Everyone Should Visit on a Trip to Hawaii’s Big Island appeared first on Islands.

It’s a long haul to get to Hawaii—especially from the East Coast—so planning to visit more than one island while vacationing here makes sense. More than two? That demands either a serious vacation-day commitment or a crazy schedule that leaves little time for actual enjoyment of each island.

Our solution: the perfect two-island combo for a week in Hawaii matched to your specific lifestyles and interests. From adventure and golf to romance and culinary pursuits, here is our advice on how to pull this off.

Adventure and Ecotourism: Kauai + the Island of Hawaii

Does kayaking alongside coastal cliffs with Instagram-worthy views and star-gazing from the slopes of a 13,803-foot dormant volcano topped with snow sound like the coolest tropical vacation ever? Then plan to spend three nights on Kauai and four nights on the island of Hawaii.

What to do: Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, is famous for its lush, mountainous landscape offering eco-adventure activities, plus coastal enclaves where surfing and other water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding are popular. Hike the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast (be sure to secure a parking pass beforehand) or trek amid inland beauty on trails in Kokee and Waimea Canyon State Parks.

For aerial adventure, book a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters or scream your way across Kauai’s longest zipline (4,000 feet) with Outfitters Kauai. Up for a serious challenge? Outfitters Kauai also offers a 15-mile ocean kayak tour along the Napali Coast.

Eco-adventure is in the DNA of the island of Hawaii, the youngest Hawaiian island, which continues to grow thanks to eruptions from Kilauea volcano. Trek across lava fields in Volcanoes National Park or ride horseback through the rolling hills of Waimea with Hawaiian cowboys and Paniolo Adventures. Better yet, the fun doesn’t end at sunset. Head up Hawaii’s tallest peak for a sunset and stars experience with Hawaii Forest & Trail. You can also slip into the darkened waters of Kona Bay for a night dive with giant manta rays via Jack’s Dive Locker.

Where to stay: Poipu is best for sunny weather and beaches, while the Coconut Coast is convenient for accessing activities on both the North and South shores. In the former, opt for the Sheraton Kauai Resort with its low-rise buildings and swimmable beach; in the latter, the Kauai Marriott Resort in Lihue features lush grounds and a heated, family-friendly pool.

On the island of Hawaii, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is an affordable, centrally located base for exploration (there’s no beach, but you can see mantas from Rays on the Bay restaurant), while the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kohala Coast is a 62-acre resort ideal for active families.

Food and Entertainment: Oahu + Maui

If your main desire is to dine at award-winning restaurants, try Hawaiian regional cuisine, take cooking lessons, and experience local culture, Oahu and Maui offer plenty to enjoy, especially if you love seafood and fusion cuisine. Plan to spend three nights in Honolulu and four nights on Maui to taste your way through Hawaii and the entire Pacific Rim. Time your trip for mid-to-late October to enjoy events at the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival on both islands.

Must-try activities: Honolulu is home to award-winning restaurants by chefs who almost 30 years ago created Hawaiian Regional Cuisine, like Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s, who blends Hawaiian and Japanese flavors.

Casual local favorites abound, too. Loco Moco (a hamburger and fried egg atop white rice with a veal demi-glaze) at Barefoot Beach Café, a shave ice at Waiola Shave Ice and an Ahi Poke Bowl made with shoyu sauce at Ono Seafood. Head to the North Shore to try taro and haupia, Hawaiian staples served in the combo plate the Waiahole Poi Factory. Culture-wise, learn about Hawaiian music and dance during free shows at Royal Hawaiian Center or sip a cocktail and enjoy slack-key guitar music and hula at House Without A Key at Halekulani.

On Maui, the farm-to-fork aspect of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine is on every plate at Peter Merriman’s oceanfront Merriman’s Kapalua, Beverly Gannon’s Haliimaile General Store in Makawao, and Mark Ellman’s Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina.

Entertainment wise, it’s hard to beat the upscale luau experience and sunset view of the Feast at Lele in Lahaina and the melodic masters of Hawaiian slack key guitar at the Slack Key Show at the Napili Kai Beach Resort. Maui is also known for several culinary festivals, including the Kapalua Food & Wine Festival in June.

Top places to stay: On Oahu, stay in Waikiki to be in the center of action. Check into Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa and you’ll enjoy both historic architecture—it’s Hawaii’s first hotel, opened in 1901—and delicious seafood at Beachhouse. On Maui, the Fairmont Kea Lani is home to award-winning Ko restaurant featuring a fusion menu of Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, and Korean dishes, while the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort focuses on farm-to-table dining.

Golf and Spa: Island of Hawaii + Lanai

If your idea of nirvana consists of teeing off on a gorgeous fairway in the morning and cooling down with a soothing massage and hydrotherapy soak in the afternoon, a combination of the island of Hawaii and Lanai offers complementary golf and spa experiences that capture the lava-strewn wildness of Hawaii’s biggest island and the quiet allure of its smallest island with resorts.

Must-try activities: Between them, the island of Hawaii and Lanai have 21 golf courses—19 of them on Hawaii, but Lanai features a course so spectacular it’s worth checking off your list. Most of the top courses on the island of Hawaii are affiliated with resorts, but are open to the public.

These include the Scottish links-style Waikoloa Kings’ Course; the Mauna Lani Resort South Course, home of the Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000; and the classic Robert Trent Jones, Sr,-designed Mauna Kea Golf Course. The Hualalai Golf Club, on the other hand, can only be played by Hualalai residents and guests of the Four Seasons Resort, as is also the case at Manele Golf Course at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.

As for spa-going, almost any resort spa in Hawaii is well equipped to relax your cares away with native lomilomi massage or a body scrub incorporating botanicals such as coconut, papaya and ginger.

Top places to stay: If your budget allows, book both Four Seasons properties featuring a pair of Jack Nicklaus-designed courses: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the island of Hawaii and Four Seasons Resort Lanai, featuring the Manele Golf Course. Can’t afford such a major splurge? Spend five nights at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the island of Hawaii, home to the Hapuna Course—and adjacent to the Mauna Kea course—and then hop over to Lanai for two nights to experience the Four Seasons.

Romance: Kauai + Maui

This island duo is the perfect setting for an unforgettable honeymoon, destination proposal, or milestone anniversary celebration. Begin with three nights on serene Kauai, where the pace is slow and the scenery is stunning, and then finish with four nights on Maui, an island that has it all when it comes to couples-oriented pampering.

Must-try activities: On Kauai, known as the Garden Island, romance is in the air (and the sea spray) as you enjoy a sunset catamaran dinner cruise along the breathtaking Napali Coast with Holo-Holo Charters, paddle a two-person kayak along to Secret Waterfall, walk hand-in-hand along one of the North Shore’s scenic beaches, or enjoy a couple’s lomilomi massage at your resort’s spa.

On Maui, romance comes naturally, too. Drive amid the lush volcanic slopes of Upcountry, with stops at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, the Surfing Goat Dairy, and the historic cowboy town of Makawao.

Once at the top of 10,023-foot dormant volcano Haleakala, enjoy a scenic hike into the crater or time your visit for sunset (you’ll be above the clouds!). Other magical experiences are driving the 620 twists and turns of the Road to Hana—stay a few nights in this sleepy enclave to truly relax—as well as cocktails on Kaanapali Beach near Black Rock as a lone diver performs his ritual plunge into the sea and a sunset dinner in Lahaina.

Top places to stay: On Kauai, romantic resorts come in different sizes. If you’re seeking a large property with multiple on-site restaurants, a great beach and a relaxing spa, check out the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort in Poipu; for something more intimate, book nearby boutique property Koʻa Kea Resort on Poʻipu Beach.

Some of our favorite Maui resorts for couples are the luxurious Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, worth the splurge for a honeymoon or anniversary; the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa with its mid-century architecture and prime Kaanapali location for sunset; and Hana-Maui Resort, for those legendary seaside bungalows.

The post Hawaii’s Best Two-Island Combos for Every Travel Style appeared first on Islands.

I’ve shaken hands with many a starter on many a first tee box over the years. Most names slide out of my memory quicker than a downhill putt on Augusta National greens, but I’ll be hard-pressed to forget “Brown Bear,” the wide-smiling Native Hawaiian who greets me prior to my round at Hualalai Golf Course, an immaculate Jack Nicklaus layout on the western side of Hawaii Island (commonly called the Big Island). “I’m a big Nicklaus fan,” he tells me. “He’s the Golden Bear, so I said call me Brown Bear and the name just stuck.”

A fixture at Hualalai since its debut in 1996, Brown Bear has been welcoming players to one of Hawaii’s premier golf courses prior to the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai even opening its doors. “I’m like the OG here,” he says, adding that the course, in its current condition, is “the best I’ve ever seen it.” It’s a tall testimony for the annual host course of the PGA Tour Champions’ Mitsubishi Electric Championship in January, and one I’m stoked to test-drive. With my ball officially in play, I swap shaka signs with Brown Bear and bid him mahalo as I cruise up the first fairway.

Piggybacking on his Aloha vibes, I stuff a 60-degree wedge to three feet on Hole 1—a straight forward par 4—one-hopping the flagstick, and brush in my putt for a rare, and auspicious, opening birdie. As an amateur player, any time you’re under par for a round, even if there are 17 holes to go, you bask in that feeling of being better than you are—even more so when you’re playing a championship caliber track in a lush Hawaiian dreamscape.

Scorecard aside, by the time I reach Hole 2, I’m already head over heels for this golf course. Despite minimal ocean frontage, it more than makes up for in spades—and leis—with its rugged routing through a maze of otherworldly black lava, each fairway shaped and framed by the crusty spilloff from Hualalai volcano’s last eruption in 1801. From the right side of the wide second fairway, my view of the green might be completely blocked, but it treats me to one of the most fun approaches I’ve ever had the fortune of playing—a blind shot over a fortress of inky lava, backdropped by swaying palms and Hualalai’s looming shadow.

Save for the backyard infinity pools of this 865-acre development’s surplus of multi-million-dollar vacation homes, at times, the course feels like a cart ride through some kind of a golfing national park. No more apparent is that visual than the eastbound view (to the right) of Hole 12, where a barren and seemingly endless moonscape of weathered lava—the two-century-year-old vestige of what a moody and active volcano can do—stretches as far as the eye can see. The dichotomy of the wild topography is that it twists and turns through and around some of the greenest, most manicured turf you’ll ever play on.

Starting with the driving range and continuing one through 18, Hualalai Golf Course is next-level pristine. While shutdown for eight months during the first year of the pandemic, the resort decided to renovate the course, replacing its Bermuda grass with paspalum, a breed better suited to handle the punishing salty air. Bunkers were refreshed, greens made over, and hazards reshaped during the $5.25 million upgrade. When the pros returned in January of 2021, praise was high—and scores were low.

The shiniest amenity is the Hualalai Golf Hale, a high-tech luxury practice facility adjacent the driving range. If you’re looking to improve your game in Hawaii, this is the place to do it. Matter of fact, this is the place to improve your game anywhere. Hawaiian for “house,” the 3,000-sq. ft. Golf Hale features three indoor hitting bays (which play to the driving range), a putting lab, TrackMan launch monitors, and top-shelf game instruction from PGA professionals. I sure don’t want to see my swing broken down frame by frame, but if that’s your cup of tea, guests can track their progress and have a recording of their swing emailed to them. 

Personally, if not on the course, I’m more inclined to skip the game-improvement, grab a snack and cold refreshment from the fully stocked indoor comfort station, and play a round at St. Andrews or Pebble Beach in the Golf Hale’s Topgolf Swing Suite, which many resort guests do alongside their family and friends.

To play Hualalai Golf Course, you need to stay at the family friendly Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, and trust me, you’ll want to. It, too, underwent a recent renovation ($100 million worth of upgrades, for that matter), highlighted by a string of redesigned villas, a sleek new infinity pool at King’s Pond—Hualalai’s 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium—and boosts to all its suites and guestrooms. 

Whether you’re on your way to a hot-stone massage at the idyllic tropical spa, an enlightening lecture by Uncle Earl Regidor at the Ka’upulehu Cultural Center, or a sunset sushi dinner at the oceanside Ulu Ocean Grill, where a Hawaiian warrior blows a war horn each night while lighting the resort’s torches, every step of the way, you’ll feel as though you’re walking through a lavish botanical garden.

Though I’m far from under par as I make my way through the back nine, it’s always enjoyable when you have three circles on the scorecard. One of the thrills of playing what I dub “lava” golf is the unpredictable bounce you may or may not get following a poor shot. In my case, I snap hook my drive some 35 yards left into the rock on Hole 14, a beautiful par 5, which slingshots me 50 yards right into the heart of the fairway. Out of respect and gratitude, I capitalize on the break, thanking the Hawaiian golf gods with a birdie.

The Pacific Ocean comes into full view at the signature par 3 Hole 17, one of the most jaw-dropping short holes in the world, and the moment I’ve been eagerly awaiting the entire day. While I longed for a look at a “two,” like most bogies, I’m especially unfazed by this one. Wrapped by lava, surf, and sand, I’m playing a game I love inside of a living, breathing, ocean-crashing golf portrait. Not every top-billed course lives up to expectations—for me, Hualalai delivered one of the best times I’ve had on a golf course, gifting that Aloha Spirit from beginning to end.

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When you hear that someone’s home has been named a finalist for HGTV’s Ultimate House Hunt, you know that this is way more than just a home. Scrolling through the properties in the various categories is sure to elicit a long series of oohs and ahhhhs, because this is just straight daydream fuel. But the chance to actually own one? That sure would be something, and someone somewhere is about to make that incredible dream come true.

Known as the Waterfalling Estate because of a neighboring 240-foot, triple-drop waterfall, this sprawling compound could be mistaken for a small resort because of its fabulous outdoor amenities, like a large swimming pool with a second-story waterslide, a tennis and basketball court with stadium seating for up to 450 people, and a nine-hole golf course. But with more than 8,100-sq. ft. of living space across three magnificent levels, it’s no wonder why a mega-star like Justin Bieber chose to vacation here or reality TV producers picked it as a perfect setting for TV romance.

Inside, family members will fight for dibs over the third floor’s pair of matching master suites, which boast a lanai for enjoying those Big Island views. Those rooms are joined by an office and fitness room, so guests won’t have to go far to get work done in either capacity. And, if everyone is in a hurry, there’s convenient access to the helipad. Who hasn’t been in that situation before?

There are five bedrooms and 10 bathrooms total—not to mention a guest house that sleeps three—and the open concept of the living and dining areas and kitchen make it clear why this was Bieber’s choice for a vacation with his entourage and their supermodel friends. Everyone will certainly enjoy the media and game rooms, as well as the whirlpools (yes, plural) and sauna, but it’s still what is outside that will really blow some minds. 

Set on slightly less than 9.5 acres of Big Island’s Hamakua Coast, the Waterfalling Estate is currently listed for $9.95 million, which seems low considering its long list of awesome amenities. It will hit the auction block on August 15 with a reserve of $5.99 million, so it could end up a terrific bargain for one lucky buyer.

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Whether you’re looking to stay in the main town of Kailua-Kona, or out east in Hilo or anywhere in between, deals at these affordable Big Island hotels and resorts can be had for less than $200 a night.

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo by Doubletree, Big Island

The city of Hilo, found on the Big Island’s east coast, is much less touristed than Kailua, delivering great deals and the chance to get closer to Mauna Kea and the Hamakua Coast. A top hotel pick here is the 379-room Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo by Doubletree with room rates as low as $150-199 in summer.

Those rates get you into a sleek, modern room with coffee and a microwave, plus free breakfast. The coastline here isn’t sand, but rather smooth black lava rock—the upside of which is that green sea turtles love sunbathing on this stretch. The Doubletree does charge a hotel fee, but that covers the onsite golf course, along with watersports and bike rentals.

Hawaiian Sanctuary Eco-Retreat

Set on 44 acres amid the forests of the inland Pahoa area on the eastern tip of the island — a hub for hippies and other nature-lovers — Hawaiian Sanctuary is an 11-room, rustic eco-retreat specializing in wellness and healthy living.

Onsite, you’ll fine a sauna and hot tub, as well as daily yoga classes. Room rates start at $160 a night to stay in the main lodge, with stand-alone cabins also available. A breakfast bounty of granola, fresh fruit, and coffee and tea is included in the stay. Those who want to spend time lounging on a Big Island beach should note that Isaac Hale Park is the closest ocean access point, located 30 minutes away.

Ka’awa Loa Plantation Bed-and-Breakfast

Ka’awa Loa Plantation Bed-and-Breakfast gives island-lovers all the best of Kailua-Kona without the crowds. This lush property sits 8 miles south of Kailua-Kona, and 1,200 feet above Kealakekua Bay in the Captain Cook area. The result is a quiet garden sanctuary where the bed-and-breakfast owners grow the fruit that’s served at daily breakfasts alongside homemade goodies such as pineapple-macadamia-nut cornbread.

As one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island, the main lodge offers four rooms that rent for around $139 a night, with another stand-alone cottage. We love this site not only for the gardens where guests can pick avocados and passionfruit, and also for the Jacuzzi with ocean views, perfect come sunset at this west-facing property.

Hilton Waikoloa Village, Big Island

Water lovers couldn’t ask for more at Hilton Waikoloa Village, a 40-minute drive north of Kailua. This expansive, 649-room property offers a private black-sand beach, a flat-water protected lagoon and three outdoor pools with slides and a lazy river, as well as an adults-only pool. The protected lagoon is a hit with kids thanks to its white-sand beach and always-flat waters that create a safe, friendly experience for paddle boarding and other water sports, or just playing.

Beyond the water, this resort delivers plenty of entertainment, including tennis, luau shows and bicycle rentals. Rooms are extremely comfortable, but with décor that could be at any Hilton. Granted, the brand delivers a high standard for cleanliness and service, making the nightly rates starting at $225 a screaming deal.

Kona Islander Inn Hotel

The Kona Islander Inn Hotel offers visitors one of Hawaii’s best deals for a private room: Rates start at just $89, making this one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island. Best of all, book at this 142-room hotel and you can hoof it to most sights in Kailua if you’re reasonably fit. The property is built in a Hawaiian plantation style, with rooms that have been updated with fun, trendy décor — much nicer than their website suggests.

Maureen’s Bed-and-Breakfast

In Hilo on the east coast of the Big Island lies Maureen’s Bed-and-Breakfast, which travelers who tread off the beaten path will treasure. The five rooms feature a Hawaii-meets-country décor, with quilts patterned with tropical taro leaves and other designs.

A breakfast spread of waffles, fruit, local coffee and more is included. Have your fill, then take on the 10-minute walk to Wai’olena Beach Park, which offers some of the clearest water on island (perfect for snorkeling), but no food vendors. Rates at Maureen’s start at $150 per night.

The Palms Cliff House Inn

The Palms Cliff House Inn, an eight-room bed-and-breakfast in the town of Honomu, north of Hilo, stands out for its quiet grandeur. This sweeping estate, spread across 3.5 acres, occupies a cliff overlooking the ocean, creating a dramatic stage for weddings or just mornings spent savoring coffee or tea. The inn will also arrange high tea for your party for an add-on charge. Tropical flowers, exotic fruits or massage treatments can also be prearranged. Rooms feature a traditional, plantation-style décor, and start at $199 per night, making this one of the most affordable hotels on the Big Island.

Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel

Located on the edge of Kailua Kona, Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel puts guests within walking distance of much of the city, and yet, sits right on its own quiet, natural beach, creating a relaxing retreat to come home to each night.

The property has on Old Hawaii feel, and the 436 rooms are a bit vanilla, but for rates around $130 a night, you won’t mind. Onsite, there’s not much by way of amenities — although there is a pool and coin-operated laundry — but this also means you save further as the hotel explicitly does not charge resort fees.

Royal Kona Resort

The Royal Kona Resort is easily the sweetest deal to be had in Kailua-Kona, located right on the water with room rates starting at $150 a night. We love the sunset views from this west-facing hotel, where 436 rooms are spread between towers of nine and 10 stories — elevated enough to create an epic viewing experience.

The property offers four onsite dining options, including the open-air, waterfront Don’s Mai Tai Bar, specializing in the state’s most beloved cocktail. Lastly, we love that seeing green sea turtles is a given right on property: The hotel’s coastline is smooth black lava rock where these protected reptiles catch sun almost daily.

Kona Seaside Hotel

The Kona Seaside Hotel, a gem located in the northern part of Kailua, is situated just a minute’s walk from the beach. The 225-room property merges clean lines with a Polynesian vibe — with rooms feeling fresh thanks to extreme attention paid to upkeep.

The hotel offers four categories of rooms, starting with their best rate of $149, which does not include breakfast. The deluxe room includes an ocean view, a small balcony as well as breakfast. Note: This property also charges no resort fee.

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Beyond the mega-resorts, Hawaii’s Big Island also offers you and your crew condo hotels, lodges and more — letting you choose just the right fit for your family vacation to Hawaii. Here are the ten best Big Island hotels and resorts for families.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

The Hilton Waikoloa Village impresses from the moment of arrival at the grand, open-air lobby. Set on the Kohala Coast 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, this resort sprawls across 62 acres, including its own private beach. We love that this Hilton caters to water lovers, with a shallow, protected 4-acre lagoon that makes for easier swimming and paddle boarding when the ocean is rough. And, yes, water sports are included.

Onsite, you’ll also find three pools and a 175-foot waterslide. Kids ages 5 to 12 can take part in Club Keiki, which includes games as well as exploring the island’s ecosystems. Children will get a kick out of taking the tram and canal boats around the property, and seeing the dolphins at the onsite sanctuary — even if you don’t spring for the experience of feeding or swimming with them, you can still watch.

Moreover, this Hilton knows how to add value, giving families the option of discounted packages that let you add breakfast for four each morning, or get credits for extra entertainment, such as a luau night.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is exactly what you picture when you imagine a tropical Hawaii getaway. The main hotel opens to two winding pools with ample seating, leading to a wide, white-sand beach.

For families who crave beach and pool time, this is heaven — you’ll stop only to refuel poolside at the Naupaka Beach Grill. The resort also offers half- and full-day kids’ club programming for younger guests ages 5 to 12, allowing parents to take advantage of the Arnold-Palmer-designed Hapuna Golf Course as well as the Hapuna Spa.

Fairmont Orchid

The Fairmont Orchid expertly blends the resort experience while the culture of Hawaii. The 540-room beach resort is set on 32 acres fronting Pauoa Bay. Six restaurants, a spa, and 24-hour fitness center are all found onsite.

As one of the best Big Island hotels for families, the Fairmont offers a kids program — the Keiki Aloha Adventure — offered by the half and full day for youths ages 5 to 12. Children of all ages will enjoy the resort’s hula and ukulele lessons, hikes to local petroglyphs and turtle talks, offered at no additional charge. Plus, a complimentary photo session with Pacific Dream Photography means you can take home a new family portrait as a souvenir.

Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay

Guests who choose the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay, 20 minutes south of Kailua, prefer it for its more authentic-Hawaii vibe. This 508-room property is still one of the most affordable for families, in large part because the Sheraton isn’t trying to compete with mega-resorts. The hotel pool faces the ocean, and offers a waterslide and kids’ zone with a splash deck. Best of all, we love that the pool is open 24 hours a day — a nice option for jet-lagged kiddos (and parents) waking up at 4 a.m.

Steps from the pool you’ll find ocean swimming, but with a lava-rock entry. The Sheraton also offers Club Le’ale’a, a zone for younger kids with games and activities; however, parent supervision is required. Adults aren’t required at the Keiki Cave, a hangout for tweens and teens with foosball, ping-pong, air hockey, shuffleboard and Nintendo Wii. And although the property sits 20 minutes south of the town of Kailua, but the hotel offers free shuttles to connect you with the action.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

One of the most upscale properties on the Big Island, the Four Seasons Hualalai delivers the service, privacy and five-star experience you’d expect from the only AAA Five Diamond-rated property in all of Hawaii. We love that the resort offers seven pools, with more than enough seating and shaded canopy tents for all families staying at the hotel.

The white-sand beach is the stuff of postcards. Snorkeling and tide-pool experiences are found on site, giving you more entertainment options without leaving the property. Should you want it, the property offers a Kids for All Seasons program, with games and experiences planned all day for kids ages 5 to 12; programs for tweens are also available.

As for dining, choose from five restaurants, including ‘Ulu Ocean Grill, ranked as the best on the island for its fresh, fusion fare, such as lemongrass barbecue chicken and the roasted mahi-mahi with brown butter kabayaki, sourced with local ingredients.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is one of the best deals in Kailua-Kona. This 452-room property is located in the heart of town, just next to the Kailua Pier. If you’ve planned on any things to do out on the water, including parasailing, snorkeling day trips, glass-bottom boat tours or a trip inside the Atlantis Submarine, then this location couldn’t be more convenient.

The hotel itself is right on the water, but note that the caramel-color sand beach is on the small side. Snorkeling, kayaking and luau shows three nights a week are all available at an added charge. What is free is the massive collection of games, including ping-pong, bocce ball, giant Jenga, shuffleboard and corn hole.

Note that overall, this property is better suited to older children or families not needing daycare as there is no kids club available or babysitting available through the hotel.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Not only is Mauna Kea Beach Hotel one of the best Big Island hotels for families, but the property’s beachfront location is hard to beat. Found 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, the resort sits on one of the best beaches on the Big Island, opening to flat, turquoise water. Families will appreciate the soft-sand entry and the width of the beach, which allows groups to spread out with ample space.

Daily activities on the beach, including shell art, lei-making and hula, are all included. Mauna Kea Keiki Club is also available, with half- and full-day programs available for kids ages 5 to 12. Onsite, you’ll also find tennis, golf, a spa, plus watersports such as paddle boarding and sailing. As a bonus, we love that room service is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner for those times when rounding up the troops for a sit-down is too much.

Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel

For families looking for a base in Hilo, the Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel offers great value. This 286-room, eight-story hotel is sandwiched between the ocean and the Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens, a 24-acre grounds with Japanese gardens, fishponds and a teahouse.

The hotel is on the water, but its location is a rocky stretch of coast — which makes for a tougher entry for small children, but offers a much more enjoyable snorkeling experience. Overall, we like this property for its quiet feel, as well as its quick access to waterfalls and other natural attractions.

Aston Kona by the Sea

We chose Aston Kona by the Sea as one of the best Big Island resorts for families for its one- and two-bedroom condos. In addition to the extra room to spread out (and have some privacy), families can save money by staying in and cooking a dinner or two — or every night of the trip. The resort also offers barbecue grills for dining alfresco near the pool that overlooks the ocean.

This resort sits oceanside on a rocky beach, but the property has added a man-made sand beach held in place with a retaining wall. While the Aston does not have an onsite restaurant or a kids club, it is located on a cove that’s ideal for snorkeling and surfing — so some entertainment is included.

Kilauea Lodge

Kilauea Lodge, located in Volcano Village near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, packs a ton of charm thanks to its former life as a YMCA camp. The whole property has been overhauled since then, with the 12 rooms and four cottages entirely revamps and updated. (All the fireplaces, wood walls and personality remain.)

We like this property for families as the grounds allow for ample exploration, and the rooms are spacious, with couches that pull out into beds. Onsite, you’ll also find a restaurant, where breakfast is included, as well as a hot tub.

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They offer low-key relaxation with access to the adrenaline-fueled adventure activities for which Hawaii’s largest and youngest island is known. Here are the 10 best beach resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

If enjoying soft sand and warm surf is your top priority, it’s hard to top the postcard perfection of Hapuna Beach. Here, in the serene setting of the Kohala Coast, you can check in to the 249-room, 17-suite The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort to enjoy newly renovated guestrooms with contemporary décor, The Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds and partial or full ocean views.

The property (formerly the Hapuna Prince and celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2019) also features the Arnold Palmer-designed Hapuna Golf Course, two pools (one an adults-only infinity pool and the other a 6,800-square-foot freeform pool designed for families), four restaurants featuring Mediterranean and Hawaii-inspired cuisine, and a Mandara Spa. It’s also one of the best hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island for couples.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

There’s plenty to keep every member of the family—from toddlers who love to splash to grandparents looking to hit the links—happy at this expansive and affordable 62-acre complex on the Kohala Coast. In fact, it’s two parts resort, one part aquatic park and one part shopping mall. The 1,172 rooms and suites at one of the best hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island, Hilton Waikoloa Village, are located in three low-rise towers connected by canals that are serviced by mahogany boats.

The Makai at Lagoon Tower, located near the Kona Pool (which has a 175-foot water slide), is the most upscale and offers guests special amenities (such as complimentary spa access and priority reservations at restaurants). The Palace Tower has the most contemporary décor (plus fast Wi-Fi) and features rooms with mountain and bay views, and the Ocean Tower is located near the adults-only pool and the kid-friendly Kohala River Pool featuring junior waterslides. Guests also enjoy 14 restaurants, a saltwater snorkeling lagoon set on a white-sand beach, a Dolphin Quest program and two golf courses.

Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay

If you don’t take the term “beach resort” literally, you’ll discover great value at this 508-room resort perched on the black-lava cliffs of Keauhou Bay. Overlooking clear aqua water where giant manta rays can be spotted gliding and feeding, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is optimally located for enjoying the many watersports (diving, stand-up paddle boarding and more), bars and dining in lively Kailua-Kona. When its time to explore other things to do on the Big Island, the resort’s location is also prime for seeing sights along the coast (including Kealakekua Bay, known for its great snorkeling) on the way to Volcanoes National Park.

That said, the property’s large freeform pool, set in an ocean-facing courtyard, can be quite boisterous. But there’s lots to love about the lush green lawns and gardens that house a charming wedding chapel and the Asian-fusion menu at Rays on the Bay—where dining is often accompanied by manta ray sightings.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

White sand and black lava create a striking visual against the lushness of this 243-room resort located on the Big Island’s legendary Kona Coast. Golden sunsets, challenging greens on the Jack Nicklaus-designed Hualalai Golf Course and bursts of tropical florals from the lobby to the guestrooms paint the Four Season Resort Hualalai in a palette that inspires renewal.

Accommodations range from 635-square-foot Oceanview Rooms to villas sized from 2,600 to 5,518 square feet. The resort is set on a ½ mile of beach and features seven pools, including one that’s adults only, plus there’s a unique salt-water King’s Pond for family-friendly snorkeling alongside thousands of tropical fish. Honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) also swim right offshore and often scramble onto the sand.

Dining is equally memorable, from the barefoot casual vibe of Beach Tree to the regional, seasonal, artisanal menu at ‘Ulu Ocean Grill. And the view at sunset from the Beach Tree Bar and Lounge will make you wish you could be there every night.

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Easy on the budget and well located for exploring the island’s scenic interior, this recently redesigned resort sprawls along the coast overlooking Anaeho’omalu Bay and has a long stretch of golden-sand beach lapped by calm waters. The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa features a large open-air lobby leading to an expansive central pool area with a kid-friendly waterslide that’s flanked by hotel wings housing 295 rooms offering a range of pool and ocean views.

The contemporary décor is ocean-and-beach-inspired—airy white, soft sandy beige and soothing blue—and the most luxurious are the Na Hale Oceanfront category. The property, one of the best beach resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island, is also known for its two championship golf courses and historic Hawaiian fishponds, while dining is centered in the Hawaii Calls restaurant, serving a blend of American and Pacific Rim cuisine, and the spa is managed by Mandara.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Only one resort can claim to be the Big Island’s first and that title belongs to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on Kauna’oa Bay. It dates to 1965 and was developed by conservationist/hotelier Laurance S. Rockefeller. Now part of the Autograph Collection, this 252-room property features one of the finest crescent beaches on the Kohala Coast, the equally lauded Mauna Kea Golf Course (also the island’s first) and Rockefeller’s art collection comprised of hundreds of museum-caliber pieces.

Recent renovations have added a sleeker, more contemporary edge to décor in spacious rooms and suites. Better still, many accommodations have ocean views. Activities include golf, tennis, watersports, snorkeling, yoga and even bocce ball. Manta is the property’s signature restaurant, serving Pacific Rim cuisine, and the Copper Bar offers a timeless setting for creative tapas, locally sourced entrees and craft cocktails. There’s also an on-property luau and romantic private dining in several tiki-torch-lit locales.

Grand Naniloa Resort, A Doubletree by Hilton

Again, it’s lava, beautiful lava at this 320-room waterfront property set on a peninsula in lush, green Hilo and offering access to waterfalls, zip-lines and water activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling. The Grand Naniloa Resort, A Doubletree by Hilton features clean, contemporary décor, along with a collection of Kim Taylor Reece fine art photos of hula dancers, and offers fantastic views of Hilo Bay from its lobby and from many rooms and suites (all updated in 2016).

For relaxation, there’s a small oceanfront pool surrounded by green lawns and golfers can play Hilo’s only 9-hole course, located adjacent to the hotel; two rounds per guest daily are included in the nightly resort fee, as is basic Wi-Fi, snorkel rentals and complimentary Big Island Breeze cocktails in the lobby bar.

Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger

There’s no white-sand beach here, but travelers who love the ease of a condo rental can opt to book a spacious studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom unit with a full kitchen and washer/dryer at the oceanfront Royal Sea Cliff Kona by Outrigger.

Conveniently located just five minutes’ drive from Kailua-Kona—where there are bars, restaurants and outfitters for snorkeling, diving and adventure tours—this property sits atop black-lava cliffs and features two pools, a whirlpool, tennis courts and a barbecue area. If relaxing on your private lanai listening to the sound of surf crashing against the rugged shoreline while nibbling and sipping fresh treats from your fridge isn’t Big Island nirvana, what is?

Read Next: Most Romantic Hotels on the Big Island

Fairmont Orchid

Orchids are one of Hawaii’s most beautiful botanicals and this 540-room resort, known for its elegant setting on 32 garden-like acres of Kohala Coast shoreline and its Hawaiian-centric spa, lives up to its name. While its grounds are studded with black-lava outcroppings, the Fairmont Orchid boasts plenty of appealing places to soak up the sun: a serene stretch of sandy beach, a calm lagoon and a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront swimming pool.

Activities include golf, tennis, snorkeling, outrigger canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. Relaxation is the specialty at the Spa Without Walls, where guests can opt for an al fresco (but totally private) treatment with ingredients sourced on island. Nine restaurants and bars also focus on native Hawaiian specialties and seafood, from flavorful Hawaiian Regional Cuisine at award-winning Brown’s Beach House to the new modern Japanese menu at Binchotan Bar and Grill.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Re-opening in January 2020 after a $200 million refurbishment by its new owners, Auberge Resorts, this iconic Big Island property (it opened in 1983) occupies 30 acres on the sunny Kohala Coast. The new Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection—set on 3 miles of coastline with two stellar white-sand beaches—will offer 333 guestrooms, 38 luxury suites and five villas with 5,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor space as well as private pools.

Interiors will feature a neutral palette of natural materials such as rich hardwoods and gorgeously patterned stone. The property’s signature CanoeHouse restaurant, know for its open-air setting and sublime sunset views, will remain, although with updated décor and menus. Three pools (one adults-only and a redesigned Family Pool), an Auberge Spa, tennis courts, the Mauna Lani Golf Club (offering 36 manicured holes on two courses) and historic royal fish ponds will make this one of the island’s most coveted escapes.

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