What if the most relaxing part of your Hawaiian vacation wasn’t the beach—but the place you stayed?

There’s something unforgettable about an oceanfront vacation rental in Kona. From the moment you arrive, the sound of the Pacific replaces the noise of everyday life, creating an atmosphere that’s peaceful, restorative, and uniquely Hawaiian. Instead of traffic or alarms, you’re surrounded by the steady rhythm of waves rolling onto the shoreline.

Many guests say sleeping to the sound of the ocean is one of their favorite memories of the trip. After a day spent snorkeling, exploring the island, or enjoying Kona’s incredible restaurants and beaches, returning to the coast and listening to the waves is the perfect way to unwind. It’s a simple luxury that helps you slow down and fully embrace island time.

Even better, an oceanfront stay may be more attainable than you think. Kona offers a variety of waterfront vacation rentals that provide incredible value compared to many other coastal destinations. Those breathtaking views and front-row sunsets don’t always come with the premium price tag many travelers expect.

Ready to trade everyday noise for the soothing sound of the Pacific?  Our discounted seasonal rates make now the perfect time to book with. Explore our collection of Kona oceanfront vacation rentals and book directly with Big Island Stays to find your perfect island escape.

Sometimes the best vacation isn’t about checking items off a list—it’s about slowing down, relaxing, and enjoying quality time with the person you love. Hawaii’s Big Island offers the perfect setting to do just that.

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, engagement, or simply enjoying a well-deserved escape together, Hawaii’s Big Island offers endless opportunities for romance. From unforgettable dining experiences and secluded beaches to bucket-list adventures and spectacular sunsets, here are some of our favorite ways to make your time together truly special.

💍 Honeymoon Attractions on the Big Island

• Beach Sunsets Together: There’s something timeless about ending the day with your feet in the sand as the sun melts into the Pacific. Whether it’s Hapuna, Kua Bay, or a quiet stretch along the Kona Coast, beach sunsets here feel unhurried, intimate, and unforgettable.
• Couples’ Spa Day: Treat yourselves to a day of pure relaxation at one of the island’s luxury spas. Couples massages often feature locally inspired treatments like volcanic stone therapy, Kona coffee scrubs, and tropical oils. It’s the perfect reset after a day of exploring.
• Scenic Coastal Drives: The Big Island is made for slow, beautiful drives. Cruise the Kohala Coast for ocean views and resort stops, or head south toward Captain Cook for lush valleys, coffee farms, and dramatic coastline views around every turn. The journey becomes part of the experience.

🍷 Date Nights on the Big Island

• Stargazing on Mauna Kea : To experience an unforgettable date night, head up mount Mauna Kea for a sunset above the clouds, then stay as the sky fills with stars. With some of the clearest night skies in the world, it’s a quiet, awe-inspiring experience best shared together under a blanket of constellations.
• Sail into the Sunset : Set out along the Kona Coast as the sun drops into the Pacific. Catamarans and sailing charters offer a relaxed, romantic setting with golden skies, ocean breezes, and often dolphins or seasonal whales making an appearance along the way.
• Farm Tours with Guided Tastings : Visit family-run farms where you can walk the coffee orchards, learn how Kona coffee is grown, hand-picked, and roasted, then finish with a guided tasting of freshly brewed batches. Each farm has its own unique flavor profile shaped by volcanic soil and ocean air.

🍽️ Unforgettable Dining Experiences

• Beach Tree at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai : Few dining experiences on the Big Island are as romantic as an evening at Beach Tree. Set just steps from the ocean, this open-air restaurant combines fresh island cuisine with breathtaking sunset views. Arrive before sunset, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail, and watch the sky transform as the sun sinks into the Pacific.
• The Coffee Shack : Perched above the coastline in Captain Cook, The Coffee Shack offers one of the most scenic breakfast spots on the island. Enjoy fresh Kona coffee, homemade pastries, and hearty island-style breakfast while taking in sweeping ocean views. It’s a relaxed and memorable way to start a romantic day together.
• Da Poke Shack : Da Poke Shack is a casual lunch spot—nothing fancy or luxurious, but absolutely a must-try while on the Big Island. Known for incredibly fresh poke, it’s a real treat for the taste buds. Grab a bowl to go, find a nearby beach, and enjoy one of the simplest and most satisfying meals you’ll have during your stay.

🌋 Bucket-List Experiences on the Big Island

For couples looking to add a little adventure to their romance, the Big Island delivers unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These are the moments you’ll still be talking about long after your trip ends.

• Ziplining: Soar above lush valleys and tropical canopy on the northern tip of the island. The zipline routes offers sweeping views of waterfalls, forests, and the rugged Kohala coastline—an exhilarating way to see the island from a completely different perspective.
• Night Manta Ray Dive: One of the most magical ocean experiences in the world. Float in calm, illuminated waters off the Kona Coast as giant manta rays glide gracefully below you. It’s peaceful, surreal, and surprisingly intimate for something so adventurous.
• Night Lava Viewing (When Conditions Allow) : If the volcano is active and accessible, witnessing glowing lava flows or volcanic activity after dark is an unforgettable experience. The contrast of fire, earth, and night sky creates a powerful, almost otherworldly moment.
• Cliff Jumping : For the truly adventurous, South Point offers one of the most iconic (and optional) cliff jumping spots in Hawaii. Even if you don’t jump, the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and raw beauty of the southernmost point in the United States make it worth the journey.

✨ Tips for Planning Your Romantic Escape

The most memorable Big Island getaways aren’t rushed—they’re thoughtfully lived, one moment at a time. Plan ahead if you’re traveling during peak seasons like winter holidays, summer, or spring break. The best oceanview stays and most popular experiences tend to book early, especially those sunset-facing villas and small group tours.

Make It Extra Special

• Surprise your partner with fresh flower leis upon arrival.
• Book a professional sunset photo session.
• Plan a picnic at the beach.
• Watch the sunset from a new location each evening. 

🌺 Ready to create your perfect romantic retreat? Discover the perfect Big Island vacation rental by exploring our collection of properties at bigislandstays.com. Use code “konalove” to save 8% on your booking. This offer is valid for stays booked within the following dates: 08/01/26 – 08/01/27.

One of the best ways to experience the authentic charm of Hawaiʻi Island is by visiting its incredible farmers markets. Beyond the beaches, resorts, and famous scenic drives, these lively open-air gatherings offer a true taste of island life. Farmers markets on the Big Island are more than just places to shop — they are community meeting places filled with fresh tropical fruit, locally grown vegetables, handmade crafts, island flowers, freshly baked treats, local seafood, Kona coffee, live music, and friendly conversation with the people who call Hawaiʻi home. Whether you are staying along the sunny Kona Coast, exploring the rolling ranch lands of Waimea, or visiting the lush east side near Hilo, every market has its own unique atmosphere and unforgettable local flavor.

In Waimea, visitors can enjoy two beloved Saturday markets that perfectly capture the upcountry spirit of the island. The Waimea Town Market runs Saturdays from 7:30am–12pm in the center of town and is known for locally grown produce, fresh flowers, grass-fed beef, artisan breads, and homemade island treats. Just nearby, the Kamuela Farmers Market also takes place Saturdays from 7:30am–1pm near Parker School, where you’ll find local farmers, handcrafted goods, tropical jams, fresh honey, and beautiful views of Waimea’s cool green hills. Both markets are especially popular with visitors looking to experience a slower, more relaxed side of Hawaiʻi away from the resort areas.

The Keauhou area on the Kona Coast is home to two fantastic markets that showcase the creativity and flavors of West Hawaiʻi. The Keauhou Shopping Center Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 8am–12pm and offers fresh tropical fruit, locally grown coffee, island jams, macadamia nuts, handmade jewelry, and live Hawaiian music in a beautiful open-air setting. Nearby, the Big Island Mkt Hoʻoulu Community Farmers Market & Artisans Fair, operates Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am–2pm. This growing community market focuses on local artisans, handmade crafts, fresh produce, baked goods, and unique island-made gifts — an excellent stop for visitors who want to support local businesses while finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and artwork.

In downtown Kailua-Kona, the Kona Farmers Market is one of the most popular and convenient stops for visitors exploring Aliʻi Drive. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 7am–4pm near the corner of Aliʻi Drive and Hualālai Road, the market overflows with colorful produce stands, fresh smoothies, pineapples, papayas, coconuts, locally roasted Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, handmade soaps, and island snacks. Many visitors stop here before heading to the beach or after a morning spent exploring downtown Kona’s shops and restaurants.

On the lush east side of the island, the Hilo Farmers Market is widely regarded as one of the best farmers markets in all of Hawaiʻi. Located at the corner of Kamehameha Avenue and Mamo Street in downtown Hilo, it operates daily from 7am–3pm, with Wednesdays and Saturdays drawing the largest crowds and hundreds of vendors. Visitors can browse exotic tropical fruits, orchids, fresh fish, handmade Hawaiian jewelry, locally crafted art, and authentic island foods while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere that makes Hilo so special.

For a more local East Hawaiʻi experience, the Makuʻu Farmer’s Market near Pāhoa is held every Sunday from 7:30am–2pm and ranks among the island’s largest and most diverse markets. Expect international food vendors, tropical produce, handmade crafts, clothing, plants, baked goods, live entertainment, and an energetic community vibe that draws locals and visitors alike.

No matter where your island adventures take you, the Big Island’s farmers markets are one of the best ways to connect with Hawaiʻi’s culture, flavors, creativity, and aloha spirit. From fresh pineapple and Kona coffee to handmade artwork and live Hawaiian music, every market visit becomes a memorable part of the island experience.

Navigating Hawaii’s Short-Term Vacation Rental Market in 2026

If you’ve been following real estate news across the Hawaiian Islands, you already know the landscape is shifting. Maui is phasing out thousands of short-term rentals. Oahu has effectively closed the door on new vacation rental investment outside resort zones. The message from most of Hawaii to short-term rental investors is increasingly unfriendly.

The Big Island is a different story — and the window of opportunity is open right now.

The Kona Coast: Hawaii’s Premier STR Investment Market

While other islands retreat from vacation rental investment, the Kona Coast remains one of the most viable and rewarding short-term rental markets in the state. Demand is consistent, the climate is ideal, and legally permitted properties in the right zones continue to generate strong occupancy and nightly rates.

That said, the regulatory environment is evolving. Hawaii County’s new Bill 47 takes effect July 1, 2026, introducing mandatory registration for all short-term rentals, with fines for non-compliance reaching $10,000 per violation. Zoning matters. Permits matter. Getting the details wrong is an expensive mistake — which is precisely why having the right team in your corner is essential.

From Purchase to Profit — Under One Roof

At The Hawaii Team, we don’t just help clients find properties. We help them find the right properties — legally positioned, market-ready, and built to perform. Through Big Island Stays, our dedicated vacation rental management company, we handle everything from pricing strategy and guest experience to compliance and operations. Our AI-driven analytics model projected nightly rates and ROI before you buy, so you enter every investment with clear, data-backed confidence.

If you’re considering a short-term vacation rental on the Big Island, a great place to start is right here. Browse our featured properties below — each one a potential gateway to owning a piece of paradise that pays for itself.

The Kona Coast is open for business. Let’s find your property.

The Hawaii Team | Big Island Stays | Kona Coast Specialists

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi has quietly earned its place among the country’s most coveted golf destinations, offering championship-caliber courses, year-round sunshine, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and sweeping ocean views that are hard to find anywhere else in the world. Along the island’s western shoreline, the Kohala Coast serves as the epicenter of Big Island golf — drawing visitors in search of luxury resort experiences and some of the most scenic fairways in the Pacific.

Stretching north through Waikoloa and into the Kohala resort corridor, the region accommodates a wide range of players, from beginners and casual vacationers to competitive golfers chasing a bucket-list round. The weather alone is reason enough to visit. As one of the driest and sunniest stretches of Hawaiʻi, the coast delivers near-perfect conditions virtually every day — warm temperatures, cooling trade winds, and minimal rainfall that make both morning tee times and sunset rounds a genuine pleasure.

Several world-renowned golf courses are located along the Kohala Coast, each offering a completely different style of play and scenery. Mauna Lani Golf Resort is widely considered one of the most iconic, sought after golf destinations on Island. It is known for its dramatic seaside scapes, elevated tee boxes, and unforgettable oceanfront signature hole overlooking the Pacific. Nearby, the Hapuna and Mauna Kea golf courses, deliver sweeping coastline views, rolling elevation changes, and a more challenging resort-style layout designed to blend naturally into the rugged Kohala landscape. Golfers staying near Waikoloa Beach resort often enjoy the 27 hole layout offered by Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf Club. Here wide fairways, lava rock features, and scenic ocean vistas create an approachable yet memorable golf experience. Further south near, offers a cooler upcountry atmosphere surrounded by dense tropical forest, native birds, and mist-covered mountain terrain. Another favorite along the Kohala Coast is Hualalai Golf Course. The Semi Private facility allows golfers to play through ancient lava fields beside fishponds, black lava rock formations, and stunning oceanfront holes that showcase the natural beauty of the Big Island.

The reputation of Kohala Coast golf has also been shaped by some of the most respected golf course architects in the world. Legendary designer Robert Trent Jones Sr. created the original layout at Mauna Kea Golf Course, helping establish Hawaiʻi as a luxury golf destination decades ago. Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay brought dramatic elevation and resort-style strategy to Hapuna Golf Course, while Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Tom Weiskopf helped design portions of the Waikoloa Golf courses that remain favorites among visiting golfers today. Their course designs take full advantage of the Big Island’s unique terrain, incorporating lava rock landscapes, ocean breezes, natural elevation changes, and panoramic Pacific views into nearly every round. While these courses are among the most recognized on the island, many more exceptional golf experiences exist throughout the Big Island, giving golfers endless opportunities to discover new fairways and unforgettable Hawaiian scenery.

Travelers looking to stretch their golf budget will find that booking through platforms like GolfNow is one of the smartest moves they can make. The GolfNow platform regularly features discounted tee times, last-minute openings, and reduced twilight rates across courses throughout Waikoloa, Kona, and the broader Kohala Coast. Flexible golfers willing to adjust their schedule can often save substantially compared to booking directly through resort websites.

The golf here is only part of the draw. Mornings on championship fairways give way to afternoons snorkeling crystal-clear bays, lounging on white-sand beaches, touring Kona coffee farms, or dining at oceanfront restaurants as the sun drops into the Pacific. Luxury vacation rentals and resort communities throughout the region make it effortless to blend relaxation, adventure, and world-class golf into a single unforgettable trip.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf getaway, a couples retreat, or a family escape to the tropics, the Big Island and Kohala Coast remain one of the most breathtaking places to play the game.