Hawaii - Big Hisland

We have traveled without kids on 3 different occasions (2004, 2005 and 2008) to The Big Island in Hawaii.  On 2 of those trips we also went to other islands (once to Kaua'i and once to O'ahu -- see separate posts for where we stayed there).  Our favorite Island is The Big Island and our favorite place to stay is The Hapuna Beach Prince Resort.  See pictures at the bottom of this post of all locations we stayed at. 

Hapuna Beach Prince Resort (Jan 2004, Jan 2005 and Feb 2008):
We LOVE the Hapuna.  It only has regular hotel rooms and suites so not sure how family friendly it is (if you want 2 room suites it may be possible but I am not sure if they have kitcens in any of the rooms or not).  The Hapuna does have a great breakfast but it is a little pricey so if you can get a hotel deal that includes the breakfast it is definitely worth it.  The restaurants on site are great and the pool and beach are wonderful. 

Their sister property, The Mauna Kea, also offers some great features like a Lu'au and Clambake.  We have never done the Lu'au but we have done the Clambake twice and the food is amazing.  Details can be found on their web site.  It is a little pricey but it is right on the water and the food is fresh and amazing.  You can take a hotel bus (compliementary) between the 2 properties or walk.  The Manua Kea was recently remodeled.

Links: 
Hapuna:  http://www.princeresortshawaii.com/hapuna-beach-prince-hotel.php
Mauna Kea:  http://www.princeresortshawaii.com/mauna-kea-beach-hotel/luxury-big-island-hotels.php

Kilauea Lodge (Jan 2004):
Also on The Big Island we stayed at a little Bed and Breakfast near the volcano.  It is called the Kilauea Lodge.  It is an old YMCA Camp and it has nice rooms and a restaurant on site with fabulous dinner and breakfast.  They also served 100% Kona coffee which was delish ... even for me, a non-coffee drinker.  The B&B is close to Volcanoes National Park so it makes for a great spot to explore the volcano.  They also have a hot tub and allow children.

Links:
Kilauea Lodge:  http://www.kilauealodge.com/
Volcanos National Park: http://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm

Holualoa Inn (Jan 2005):
We also stayed at the Holualoa Inn near Kona and it was awesome.  Very peaceful with wonderful rooms and breakfast.  They also offered snacks out by the pool and wonderful 100% Kona coffee.

Links:
Holuloa Inn:  http://www.holualoainn.com/


Hapuna Pictures:

Front sign at the entrance

Lobby area where breakfast is served that looks out over the ocean

Front lobby where you check in and enjoy your complimentary juice and cold towel upon arrival

View from balcony!

View from in the room looking out during sunset!

My husband in our room at the Hapuna

Kilauea Lodge Pictures:

Front Sign of Kilauea Lodge

Front of Lodge and Rooms

At Volcanoes National Park

Holualoa Inn Pictures:

Holualoa Inn front sign

Pool area

Our room (I think the bedding has been updated since we were there -- check out pics on their web site)