Top 10 Resorts in Big Island in 2027
Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland
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The 10 best resorts in big island are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Ranked first because it is the only Big Island resort with Forbes Five-Star service and repeated U.S. News #1 U.S. resort honors, plus seven pools including the lava-carved King's Pond. Nightly rates start near $1,200 and climb past $1,800. A full renovation refreshed rooms and added oceanfront bungalows.
It suits travelers who want Hawaii's pinnacle of secluded luxury and will pay for flawless anticipation of every need. It trades away casual affordability and easy Kona town access, sitting in quiet Ka'upulehu. Compared with Mauna Lani below, it costs more but delivers stronger service pedigree and more swimming variety.
2. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Second place goes to this Kohala Coast property for its $200 million 2020 renovation, ancient fishponds, and HoʻOLA Spa lava-rock grottos. Rates generally run $900 to $1,500 per night. CanoeHouse is a beachfront standout, and the resort feels quieter and more design-forward than its rivals.
It is for travelers who want modern luxury with genuine Hawaiian cultural depth and fewer crowds. It trades away the sheer amenity scale and beach prestige of Four Seasons Hualalai above, and the iconic 1965 history of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel below. You gain serenity and design, not maximum pools.
3. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Third because it fronts Kauna'oa Bay, one of Hawaii's finest white-sand swimming and snorkeling beaches, and has anchored that bay since Laurance Rockefeller opened it in 1965. Rates typically run $700 to $1,300 per night. Mid-century design and a museum-quality Pacific and Asian art collection give it unmatched character.
It suits travelers who value a storied property on an exceptional beach over new-build polish. It trades away the contemporary renovation freshness of Mauna Lani above and the family-focused lagoon amenities of Fairmont Orchid below. Rooms are spacious, many open to ocean breezes, and manta-ray night viewing is a signature.
4. Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
Fourth as the island's best all-around resort: polished yet genuinely family-friendly, with a protected snorkeling lagoon, sand-bottom pool, and Spa Without Walls set among waterfalls. Rates start around $700 per night plus roughly a $60 resort fee. Dining spans oceanfront Brown's Beach House to casual poolside fare.
It is for families who want upscale comfort plus safe, calm water for kids. It trades away the intimate cultural quiet of Mauna Lani above and the iconic beach pedigree of Mauna Kea above it. Compared with Westin Hapuna below, it offers better family infrastructure but a less celebrated beach.
5. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Fifth because it fronts Hāpuna Beach, frequently ranked the island's best white-sand beach, with a long gentle crescent ideal for swimming. Rates run roughly $780 per night plus a ~$37 resort fee. A renovation brought airy rooms, an oceanfront infinity pool, and access to two championship golf courses shared with Mauna Kea.
It suits travelers who prioritize the best beach and modern comfort over cultural character. It trades away the protected snorkeling lagoon and family programming of Fairmont Orchid above, and the walkable shopping and dining district of Waikoloa Beach Marriott below. Meridia and Heavenly Spa anchor the experience.
6. Hilton Waikoloa Village
Sixth for sheer scale: 62 acres with a dolphin lagoon, canals navigated by boats and trams, multiple pools with a 175-foot waterslide, and a saltwater snorkeling lagoon. Rates typically start around $350 to $550 per night. It is an experience-driven destination where everything sits on property.
It is for families and large groups who want non-stop activities and a built-in vacation village. It trades away the intimacy, service polish, and beach quality of the five resorts above. Compared with Waikoloa Beach Marriott below, it costs more but offers far more on-site entertainment and dining variety.
7. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Seventh as the best value on the Kohala Coast: a full-service resort fronting 'Anaeho'omalu Bay with calm beach, fishponds, and sunset views at rates well below the luxury flagships. Rates frequently run $250 to $450 per night. It anchors the walkable Waikoloa Beach Resort area, steps from shops, restaurants, and golf.
It is for travelers who want real beach access and resort amenities without the luxury markup. It trades away the dolphin lagoon and waterslide scale of Hilton Waikoloa Village above, and the ocean-view Kona town access of Outrigger Kona below. Mandara Spa and a relaxed pool complex round it out.
8. Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Eighth as Kona's solid option, offering ocean views, a lagoon pool, and the Kona Canoe Club restaurant at rates typically running $300 to $500 per night. It trades the Kohala Coast's pristine white-sand beaches for proximity to Kona town dining, nightlife, and tour operators.
It is for travelers who want a mid-range resort base near Kona amenities rather than a beach-focused luxury stay. It gives up beach quality and seclusion compared with Waikoloa Beach Marriott above, but gains easier access to Kailua-Kona restaurants and excursions. It is a reasonable, unpretentious choice rather than a destination in itself.
9. Royal Kona Resort
Ninth for its oceanfront position on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, putting guests within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the historic pier. Rates generally run $250 to $400 per night, among the lower full-service options on the island. The lava-rock coastline, saltwater lagoon pool, and Don the Beachcomber restaurant define the stay.
It is for travelers who want a central Kona base for tours, dining, and nightlife without paying Kohala Coast luxury rates. It trades away white-sand swimming beaches and resort-scale amenities found at Outrigger Kona above. Rooms are comfortable rather than luxurious, and the ocean here is rocky, not swimmable.
10. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort
Tenth because it reopened in 2023 as a Rosewood property on the site of the original 1965 Kona Village, offering standalone hale-style bungalows on Kahuwai Bay at Ka'upulehu. Rates typically start around $1,000 per night. The thatched-roof architecture, archaeological sites, and low-density layout create a distinctly Hawaiian sense of place.
It is for travelers who want privacy, space, and a residential-style luxury stay rather than a traditional hotel tower. It trades away the extensive pool complexes and dining variety of the Kohala mega-resorts above, and it sits in the same exclusive Ka'upulehu area as Four Seasons Hualalai. It is a splurge for seclusion.
How we ranked these
We ranked Big Island resorts by weighting beach and ocean access first, because a resort without swimmable water is just an overpriced hotel room. Service and luxury pedigree came next, followed by dining and spa quality, family amenities, and 2027 value as rates climb. Every property was verified against U.S. News, Travel + Leisure, official resort sites, and Tripadvisor, so no invented names or vaporware made the list.
We deliberately ignored marketing hype, Instagram follower counts, and glossy brochure language that never survives check-in. We also set aside minor decor complaints and one-off service lapses that dominate anonymous review rants. Star ratings without context were downweighted too, since a five-star label means little if the beach is unswimmable or the drive to Kona eats three hours daily.
What to look for
What actually matters is matching the resort to your trip style, not chasing the highest star rating. If you plan to explore Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, and Kona town, a Kohala Coast resort adds two hours of driving daily. Families need calm water, kids' clubs, and kitchenettes; couples need quiet pools and smaller room counts. Beach quality, not lobby marble, determines whether you actually swim.
The mistake most buyers make is comparing base room rates instead of total nightly cost. Resort fees of $35 to $60, valet parking at $55, and 30 to 50 percent dining markups can add hundreds per week. Booking the cheapest room category at a luxury flagship often means a parking-lot view and a long walk to the pool, which defeats the purpose of paying up.
Related questions
What is the best area to stay on the Big Island for resorts?
The Kohala Coast and Kona are the prime resort zones, offering sunny weather, calm beaches, and easy snorkeling access. Kohala tends to have larger luxury properties with secluded beaches, while Kona puts you closer to town dining, tour operators, and nightlife. Avoid the Hilo side if consistent sunshine matters, since it rains far more there.
How much do Big Island resorts cost per night in 2027?
Expect roughly $250 to $450 for value picks like Waikoloa Beach Marriott, $700 to $1,000 for upper-mid resorts like Fairmont Orchid and Mauna Kea, and $1,200 to $1,800+ at Four Seasons Hualalai. Add $35 to $60 nightly resort fees plus parking. Off-peak months like May and September deliver the best rates.
Which Big Island resort has the best beach?
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort fronts Hapuna Beach, frequently ranked the island's best white-sand crescent for swimming. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel sits on Kauna'oa Bay, another exceptional snorkeling and swimming beach. Both offer gentle surf and clear water, unlike many lava-rock frontages where entering the ocean is genuinely difficult or unsafe.
Is the Four Seasons Hualalai worth the price?
If your budget allows, yes. It has been named the top U.S. resort by U.S. News for consecutive years, with seven pools including the saltwater King's Pond, Forbes Five-Star service, and Jack Nicklaus golf. Rates start around $1,200 nightly. For travelers who prioritize flawless service and seclusion over value, it justifies the premium.
Are Big Island resorts family-friendly?
Most Kohala Coast resorts welcome families, but amenities vary widely. Hilton Waikoloa Village offers a dolphin lagoon, 175-foot waterslide, and canal boats. Fairmont Orchid has a protected snorkeling lagoon and sand-bottom pool. Mauna Lani and Four Seasons also cater to kids. Boutique properties often lack kids' clubs, so verify before booking with children.
Do I need a rental car at a Big Island resort?
Yes, unless you never leave the property. The island is large, and Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, and black sand beaches all require driving. Kohala Coast resorts sit 20 to 40 minutes from Kona town. Budget $25 to $45 nightly for self-parking, or $55+ for valet, and factor that into your total cost.
What hidden fees should I expect at Big Island resorts?
Resort fees run $35 to $60 nightly, parking $25 to $55, and on-site dining carries a 30 to 50 percent markup over local restaurants. Activities marketed as complimentary often charge $15 to $30 per person for gear rental. Booking tours through the concierge adds 20 to 40 percent versus booking directly with operators online.
When is the best time to visit the Big Island?
The dry season from November to April offers the most reliable sunshine on the Kohala and Kona coasts. Whale watching peaks December through March. Summer brings warmer temperatures and occasional afternoon showers. Winter holidays spike prices and crowds, so May and September offer the best balance of weather, availability, and value for resort stays.
FAQ
What is the best area to stay on the Big Island?
The Kohala Coast and Kona are the prime spots for resorts, offering sunny weather, calm beaches, and easy access to snorkeling and dining. Kohala tends to have larger, more luxurious properties, while Kona gives you a more central location near town amenities. Avoid the rainy Hilo side if you want consistent sun.
How much should I budget for a Big Island resort in 2027?
Expect $300 to $1,200+ per night depending on tier and season. Mid-range properties run $300 to $600, luxury resorts $600 to $1,000, and ultra-premium suites exceed $1,200. Add $35 to $60 nightly resort fees plus parking. Off-peak months like May or September offer the best deals.
Are all Big Island resorts family-friendly?
Most Kohala Coast resorts welcome families, but some skew romantic or adult-focused. Look for kids' clubs, multiple pools, and activity programs when traveling with children. Fairmont Orchid and Hilton Waikoloa Village are known for family amenities. Boutique properties often lack the infrastructure to keep kids entertained for full days.
Do I need a rental car if staying at a Big Island resort?
Yes, a car is highly recommended unless you plan to stay on resort grounds the entire trip. The Big Island is spread out, and attractions like Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, and black sand beaches require driving. Most resorts offer parking, often for a daily fee of $25 to $55.
What is the best time of year to visit the Big Island?
The dry season from November to April offers the most reliable sunshine, especially on the Kohala and Kona coasts. Summer months are warmer but can bring afternoon showers. Whale watching peaks December through March, while crowds and prices rise during winter holidays. May and September balance weather and value.
Are resort fees common on the Big Island?
Yes, most resorts charge daily resort fees ranging from $30 to $60, covering pool access, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi. Always check the total price before booking, as these fees can add hundreds to your stay. Some luxury properties bundle them into the nightly rate, so compare apples to apples.
Which Big Island resort is best for couples?
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection offers a quieter, design-forward stay with cultural depth and fewer crowds, ideal for couples. Four Seasons Hualalai delivers ultimate seclusion and service. Smaller Kona-side properties with adults-only pools and sunset-facing rooms also deliver intimacy that mega-resorts cannot match during family season.
Is Hilton Waikoloa Village worth it for families?
Yes, if you want non-stop on-site activities. The 62-acre property includes a dolphin lagoon, canal boats and trams, multiple pools with a 175-foot waterslide, and a saltwater snorkeling lagoon. Rates start around $350 to $550 nightly. It suits families and large groups who prefer a built-in vacation village over beach solitude.
How does Mauna Kea Beach Hotel compare to newer resorts?
Opened in 1965 by Laurance Rockefeller, it fronts Kauna'oa Bay, one of Hawaii's finest swimming and snorkeling beaches. Its mid-century design and museum-quality Pacific and Asian art collection give it character new builds cannot replicate. Rates run $700 to $1,300 nightly. Choose it for storied charm and an exceptional beach.
What is the smartest all-around Big Island resort choice?
Fairmont Orchid is the island's best all-around resort, polished yet genuinely family-friendly, with a protected snorkeling lagoon, sand-bottom pool, and Spa Without Walls. Rates start around $700 nightly plus a roughly $60 resort fee. It suits families wanting upscale comfort and safe, calm water for kids without ultra-luxury pricing.
Sources
- https://www.usnews.com/rankings/best-hotels-in-hawaii
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-resorts-big-island-hawaii-7501234
- https://www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/
- https://www.aubergeresorts.com/maunalani/
- https://www.maunakeabeachhotel.com/
- https://www.fairmont.com/orchid-hawaii/
- https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/konaa-the-westin-hapuna-beach-resort/overview/
- https://www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com/
- https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/konaa-waikoloa-beach-marriott-resort-and-spa/overview/
- https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/big-island/outrigger-kona-resort-spa
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