3 Best Hotels in North Kona, Big Island

Beautiful views everywhere, polished wood floors, custom furnishings and linens, and fine Hawaiian artwork make this oceanfront resort a peaceful, opulent retreat. Freestanding bungalows are large and luxurious, with spacious travertine and marble bathrooms as well as private outdoor showers. One of the five pools, King's Pond, is replete with thousands of tropical fish and a spotted eagle ray that guests have the opportunity to feed daily. The seashell infinity pool, family-friendly and surrounded by cabanas and palm trees, has a clear view to the ocean beyond. The on-site Hawaiian Cultural Center honors the property's spiritual heritage and sense of place, and the sports club and spa offer top-rate health and fitness options. The resort's on-site restaurants (ULU, Beach Tree) are world-class. Hualalai's golf course has hosted the PGA Tour Champions Tour and the Senior PGA Tournament of Champions. The resort is super kid-friendly, with a great activities and events program for all ages.

Years after being destroyed by a tsunami, one of Kona's most beloved resorts has reopened, completely remodeled, yet retaining much of what made the original so special. The Standard 600-square-foot rooms (called hales, or homes) are all freestanding and feature thatched roofs and luxurious interiors. Suites and oceanfront bungalows (which come with a butler) offer the ultimate private getaway. Serenity abounds here with gardens, pools, and the ever-present sounds of the surf. Sustainability is a mission of the new resort: they have a solar panel field and an on-site farm where they source their own ingredients for their restaurants. The classic Shipwreck Bar is also back in business. There's a spa, yoga, a gym, complimentary bikes, and four pools available on-site.

Three private cottages set on a 10-acre working ranch afford total privacy, with a few more amenities than a vacation house or condo. Owners Mark and Amy drop off a welcome basket with breakfast goodies your first day, and there's a washer and dryer in each unit, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. The ranch is great for animal lovers, as it is replete with sheep, friendly goats, and chickens throughout.