Along this stretch of coastline you'll find everything from coffee and sugar plantations to historic Hawaiian landmarks. It's a popular spot for both families and couples to enjoy calm waters, excellent food, and the exciting culture of Hawaii.
When to Visit Kona, HI
Hawaii has two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season is during the winter from November to March. It rains at least once a day somewhere on the island, but the rain often only lasts for an hour or two. The dry season is during the summer from April to October.
Regardless of the season, it's warm almost every day in Kona, and the temperatures don't fluctuate very much throughout the year. It is relatively hot, with temperatures remaining around 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and falling to about 75 degree Fahrenheit at night.
If you want to see the waterfalls and lush rainforests of Kona and The Big Island, the wet season is the greenest time of year. This also happens to be the high season on the island, so hotel prices are at their peak. Be sure to book your hotel well in advance if you want to take advantage of the affordable hotels or score the best room at one of the luxury estates.
Spring and fall are the quietest seasons in Hawaii. As the wet season comes to an end, you can still enjoy the lush rainforests and waterfalls while also taking advantage of low-season prices and quieter beaches. In autumn, the waterfalls will be at their smallest, but you'll get the best weather and the pick of all of the best hotels at discounted off-season rates.
Summer is not quite as busy as winter, but because winter brings school holidays in much of the world, the beaches and resorts fill up with families. It's a good time of year if you enjoy the hustle and bustle of tourists but still want to take advantage of some low-season prices. Just be sure to book well in advance for this time of year to ensure you get the best rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Kona, HI:
Kona by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Kona, HI. You can use these illustrations to calculate the best dates to book a room in Kona for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Kona, HI
4 Star Average Prices: $196.35
If you want a romantic and luxurious vacation in Kona, look no further than Ohi'a Park Estate. The deluxe suites have four-poster beds and a balcony where you can look out over the ocean. The sunsets from this side of the island are unbeatable. The hotel offers a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, a spa tub, a state of the art fitness center, a billiard room where you can play pool, and a library where you can sit and relax with a cocktail.
Kanaloa at Kona by Castle is a great luxury option for families or friends traveling together. Book one of the two-bedroom apartments to take full advantage of all the great amenities on offer at Kanaloa. There are three outdoor swimming pools, barbecues and a picnic area to enjoy your meals outside, and two tennis courts to practice your game. With 42 guest rooms, the hotel is small enough that you get personalized attention — but big enough that you don't feel like you're the only guest.
A couple of miles north of Kailua-Kona township is the Marriott's Waikoloa Ocean Club, where you'll enjoy a truly indulgent stay. If you're on your honeymoon, be sure to book one of their romance packages. The Marriott has a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the sunset.
Affordable Hotel Options in Kona, HI
3 Star Average Prices: $183.93
Kona has so many excellent affordable options, you're bound to find a hotel that suits your needs. Uncle Billy's Kona Bay is a nice choice. It's located right in the center of Kailua-Kona township and is a short walk away from the Kailua-Kona Wharf. Choose from king or queen rooms with garden or ocean views, or opt for a deluxe room with two king beds if you're coming with the whole family.
Uncle Billy's Kona Bay has excellent amenities for the price you pay. Every room has complimentary Wi-Fi, and each morning you can enjoy a free continental breakfast. There is also an outdoor pool if you want to skip the beach one day.
Kona Islander Vacation Club is an ideal affordable option for families. You can book studio apartments with several beds and kitchens so that you can self-cater. It is located right in the center of town near the beach and a few nice restaurants. Every room has its own small balcony and cable television. You can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a spa tub to relax in after a day of exploring.
If you want an affordable option right on the beach, Castle Kona Bali Kai is a nice choice. The mountainside rooms are a particularly good value. Besides having access directly to the beach, the hotel also has an outdoor pool and a spa tub, as well as free Wi-Fi and on-site shopping. Each room has a refrigerator, microwave, and a private balcony to enjoy coffee in the morning.