We’re not sure how to classify this one, so let’s start with what it isn't: a hotel, a hostel, or a bed and breakfast (but you do get breakfast if you stay in their rooms and book direct). Think of this place as a destination retreat locale. It's only about 20...
A quaint, simple Hawai‘i Big Island inn with TVs but no place to secure your valuables. No phones, but they’ll take messages. The Kohala Village Inn rooms are small and basic with A/C and mini fridges, but clean with thin walls. If you need a desk, ask for a room...
This part timeshare resort, located directly across from the Kings’ Shops, went for a modern look they call “contemporary elegance.” The effect isn’t very Hawaiian—more 1950s retro-style with abstract patterns in colors to match the surroundings—but it’s bright,...
This gated Hawai‘i Big Island condo property is located close to the Kings’ Shops with decent golf course views and some pleasant lake views from buildings I–O. Fairway Villas is a combination of condos with two-story townhouses on the end of each building....
Considering the caliber of these Hawai‘i Big Island condos and the fact they're in Kohala, this is a pretty good deal. The Vista Waikoloa rooms are large and nicely furnished, the layout is pleasing, and the grounds are well-groomed at this gated property. Many...
These Hawai‘i Big Island condos are smaller and aren’t as nice as Vista Waikoloa (its neighbor). By the way, despite the name, it’s not at the shore. The furnishings vary a lot, depending on the owner. The Shores at Waikoloa grounds were looking better on our visit...
Where do we start? How about wow! This is the one you’ve probably heard about. This resort spread over 62 acres, is the most elaborate of them all. (By the way, despite its name, it is not located in or next to the town of Waikoloa Village.) Three separate towers...
This gated Hawaii Big Island condo property is very similar to the Fairway Villas, but the buildings seem a bit quieter and less dense than at Fairway. But Fairway is closer to the Kings’ Shops and the ocean. Furnishings vary from unit to unit, but overall are...
This long, narrow, gated condo property has some two-story townhouses. Buildings 13–15 directly face the ocean. (A narrow lava field separates you and the ocean, but you can’t climb over the lava to get to it.) Buildings 10, 11 and 12 have more distant ocean views...