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Summer on Hawai’i Island isn’t like summer anywhere else. There’s no “rainy season” to dodge, no off-season lull to hide from — just longer days, warmer water, and a steady stream of visitors chasing the same golden light you are. The good news? With a little local know-how, you can skip the crowds, dodge the worst of the sun, and actually relax into the slower rhythm this island is famous for. Here’s how to do summer right.

Beat the Heat & Crowds

The Big Island is deceptively large — bigger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined — which means “summer crowds” look different depending on where you stand. Kailua-Kona’s waterfront and the resorts along the Kohala Coast get busy by mid-morning, especially near popular snorkel spots and the main strip of Ali’i Drive.

The fix is simple: go early or go up.

  • Early birds win. Hit the water, the trails, or the farmers markets before 9 a.m. The light is better for photos, the parking lots aren’t full, and the heat hasn’t set in yet.
  • Gain some elevation. Waimea and Volcano sit hundreds to thousands of feet above the coast and run noticeably cooler — often 15-20 degrees — with a fraction of the foot traffic. A day trip inland is a genuine reset button when the coast feels crowded or muggy.
  • Weekday over weekend. Cruise ship days and weekends bring the biggest swells of visitors to spots like Two Step or Hapuna. Shifting your plans a day or two can make a huge difference.

The Sun is Undefeated

Let’s be blunt: this is one of the sunniest, most UV-intense places you’ll ever stand. The island sits close to the equator, and that tropical sun reflects hard off sand, lava rock, and water — meaning you can burn fast even under clouds or while snorkeling.

A few non-negotiables:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen only. Hawai’i state law restricts sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect the coral reefs, so pack (or buy locally) a mineral-based, reef-safe option — and reapply more than you think you need to.
  • Cover up, don’t just lotion up. A UPF sun shirt, wide-brim hat, and sunglasses do more heavy lifting than sunscreen alone, especially for full-day snorkel or hike outings.
  • Hydrate aggressively. The trade winds can mask how much you’re sweating. Carry more water than feels necessary, and add electrolytes if you’re hiking or spending hours in the water.
  • Respect the midday window. Between roughly 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., seek shade, a shaded lava tube, a lunch spot, or a nap. Locals plan around the sun; visitors who fight it usually lose.

Dining & Reservations

Summer is peak season, and Big Island dining reflects it. Popular restaurants in Kona, Waikoloa, and along the Kohala Coast — especially anything with a sunset-facing lanai — fill up fast, sometimes weeks in advance.

  • Book ahead, especially for sunset. Oceanfront dinner tables and luau seats are the hottest commodity on the island in summer. If a sunset view matters to your evening, reserve it before you land, not after.
  • Luaus sell out. The island’s traditional luaus are a bucket-list experience for a reason, and summer dates go quickly. Lock in a date early and treat it as a planned event, not a spontaneous one.
  • Have a backup for walk-ins. Farmers markets, food trucks, and casual plate-lunch spots rarely require reservations and are some of the best (and most authentic) eating on the island anyway.
  • Ask locals, not just apps. Some of the best small kitchens on the island aren’t the top hits on review sites. A quick question to your host, driver, or tour guide often points you somewhere better.

Embrace “Island Time” & Geography

Google Maps will tell you a drive takes 45 minutes. Island time says otherwise — not because anyone’s being careless, but because the Big Island genuinely operates on its own logic. It’s the youngest and largest Hawaiian island, still actively growing from volcanic activity, and its geography changes dramatically as you move across it.

  • One island, many climates. You can leave sunny, dry Kona, drive two hours, and arrive in misty, lush Hilo without ever feeling like you left the island. Pack layers, and check the forecast for your destination, not just where you’re staying.
  • Distances deceive. Roads wind around lava fields, through microclimates, and up in elevation. Build in extra time for any drive longer than 30 minutes, especially if you’re headed toward Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea.
  • Slow down on purpose. “Island time” isn’t a myth to work around — it’s the whole point. Leave gaps in your itinerary. Let a scenic pull-off or a roadside fruit stand derail your plan for twenty minutes. The best summer trips here have room to breathe.

A Few More Things Worth Knowing

Ocean conditions shift in summer. South-facing shores can pick up bigger surf from Southern Hemisphere swells, so check conditions before snorkeling spots you’ve heard are “calm” — calm isn’t guaranteed year-round. Always check posted beach flags and ask lifeguards when in doubt.

Pack for two climates in one bag. If Mauna Kea’s summit or a sunrise tour is on your list, remember it can be near freezing up there even when it’s 85°F at the beach. A warm layer takes up little space and saves the moment.

Travel with respect (mālama i ka ‘āina). Stick to marked trails, don’t touch or stand on coral, and be mindful that many sites carry deep cultural significance. Traveling with care isn’t just good etiquette — it’s what keeps this island special for the people who live here and the visitors who come after you.

Summer on the Big Island rewards a little planning with a lot of payoff: quieter mornings, better light, easier reservations, and the kind of slow, sun-soaked days this island does better than almost anywhere. Plan around the heat, respect the sun, book your table early, and let the geography set your pace — and you’ll get the island at its best.

Mahalo
– The Big Island Stays Team

Aloha Friends!

With summer in full swing, there’s no better time to experience one of the Big Island’s greatest treasures—its incredible underwater world. July is one of the best months to snorkel, as the ocean is typically at its calmest, especially along the Kona Coast. The combination of warm, crystal-clear water and gentle morning conditions creates ideal visibility, making it easier than ever to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter the amazing marine life that calls Hawaii home.

The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most spectacular snorkeling destinations, each offering its own unforgettable experience. Kealakekua Bay is famous for its crystal-clear water, thriving coral reefs, and incredible variety of tropical fish. Just south of the bay, Two Step is a favorite among locals and visitors alike thanks to its easy ocean access and excellent visibility. Kahaluʻu Beach Park is a fantastic choice for beginners and families, where calm waters make it easy to spot colorful reef fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. For those staying along the Kohala Coast, beaches like Mauna Kea Beach and Beach 69 offer beautiful reefs and excellent snorkeling when ocean conditions are calm.

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your snorkeling adventure safe and enjoyable. Snorkeling is best done the morning hours, when the water is typically calmer and visibility is at its best. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, stay aware of ocean conditions, and always snorkel with a buddy. Don’t stand on or touch the coral, feed marine life, or approach sea turtles and dolphins—they’re protected, and observing them from a respectful distance helps preserve Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystem for everyone.

After a morning in the water, spend the afternoon exploring Kona’s local shops, enjoying fresh island cuisine, or simply relaxing back at your vacation home.

Planning your next island getaway? Book directly with Big Island Stays and enjoy the comfort of a private vacation rental, just minutes from some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling spots. We can’t wait to welcome you to paradise!

Use promo code SNORKEL26 when you book directly through bigislandstyas.com and enjoy 12% off your stay. This exclusive offer is valid for reservations booked between July 10, 2026, and August 12, 2026.

 

Best Wishes

– Big Island Stays Team

Aloha, friends!

Pour yourself a cup of Kona coffee and join us as we explore a few of the Big Island’s best-kept secrets. While the island’s iconic beaches and world-famous attractions are certainly worth visiting, some of its most memorable experiences are found just beyond the well-traveled path. This week, we’re sharing a few of our favorite hidden gems—places that showcase the island’s natural beauty, rich character, and laid-back spirit. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, we hope you’ll be inspired to venture a little farther and discover something new.

 

Hidden Beaches

Mauʻumae Beach (Kawaihae)
Nestled between Spencer Beach Park and the Mauna Kea Resort, Mauʻumae Beach is easy to overlook—and that’s exactly what makes it so special. A short walk from a discreet parking area leads to calm waters, soft sand, and a tranquil shoreline that’s perfect for unwinding.

Keʻei Beach (South Kona)
Just south of Kealakekua Bay, Keʻei Beach is a striking blend of white sand and black lava rock. While it’s not the best spot for swimming, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a picnic, watch the waves roll in, or catch a spectacular Kona sunset.

Waialea Bay (Kohala Coast)
Often overshadowed by its larger neighboring beaches, Waialea Bay is a favorite among those seeking a slower pace. A short stroll through a shaded ironwood grove opens to crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling when conditions are right. It’s an inviting spot to spend a relaxing morning or afternoon by the ocean.

 

Local Favorite Restaurants

The Fish & The Hog (Waimea)
If you’re craving barbecue, this Waimea favorite rarely disappoints. The brisket French dip has earned a loyal following, and if you save room for dessert, the banana cream pie is well worth it.

Harbor House (Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor)
Sometimes the best meals come from the simplest places. Overlooking the harbor, Harbor House is known for fresh fish tacos, garlic shrimp, and relaxed island charm. It’s the kind of spot locals return to time and time again.

Moon and Turtle (Hilo)
Small, family-owned, and full of character, Moon and Turtle serves a menu that changes daily based on the freshest local ingredients available. Seating is limited, so reservations are highly recommended—but the experience is well worth planning ahead.

Kaleo’s Bar & Grill (Pāhoa)
A favorite among East Hawaiʻi locals, Kaleo’s pairs island-inspired cuisine with warm hospitality. From fresh seafood and perfectly prepared steaks to handcrafted cocktails and indulgent desserts, every meal feels like a special occasion.

 

Scenic Hikes & Quiet Escapes

Makaula Oʻoma Trail (Kona)
Just above the sunny Kona coast, this figure-eight trail winds through one of the nation’s rare dry tropical cloud forests. It’s a refreshing change of scenery and a welcome escape from the warmer temperatures below.

Kahuku Unit (Kaʻū)
Although it’s part of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the Kahuku Unit remains one of the park’s most overlooked areas. Wander through rolling pastureland, historic ranch roads, native forest, and expansive lava fields while enjoying a quieter side of the island.

Kalopa State Recreation Area (Hāmākua)
Trade the sunny coastline for cool mountain air as you wander beneath towering native trees and lush rainforest. Kalopa’s shaded trails offer an easy, refreshing walk and reveal an entirely different side of the Big Island.

 

Wherever your adventures take you, we encourage you to explore with care. Many of these hidden gems have limited facilities, so be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and pack out everything you bring in. A little mālama (care) helps preserve these special places for future visitors and the local community alike.

Ready to discover the Big Island beyond the guidebooks? Browse our collection of vacation rentals and start planning your next island getaway. You might just find that your favorite memories are waiting in one of these hidden gems.

Aloha Friends,

There’s something truly special about experiencing Hawaii beyond the typical vacation. While a quick 5-night getaway can feel rushed, and often hinges on perfect weather, a mid-stay of 30 days or more, lets you enjoy the islands at a far more relaxed pace.

Instead of cramming everything into a few action packed days, you have time to settle into island life. Walk quiet beaches, snorkel calm bays, explore hiking trails and hidden gems, or sip fresh Kona coffee on the lanai — all without the pressure of a checklist. If the weather shifts for a day or two, it’s a minor detour rather than a ruined vacation.

Many guests naturally fall into routines they wish they could bring home — morning swims, sunset walks, evenings in the island breeze. Some even work remotely, blending productivity with the unhurried lifestyle Hawaii is known for.

There’s also a real financial upside to a mid-stay. Extended-stay rates make a longer trip more affordable than most expect, and full kitchens, in-unit laundry, and spacious living areas trim dining and travel costs over time.

Whether you’re escaping winter, working from paradise, or simply craving a slower pace, a mid-stay gives you the chance to experience what it truly feels like to call Hawaii home.

Ready to trade stress for island time? Reach out today to learn about available properties and extended-stay pricing. Your Hawaiian home away from home is waiting.

Warmest Alohas

The Big Island of Hawaii offers a Fourth of July unlike anywhere else on the planet. From the rolling green pastures of upcountry Waimea to the sun-drenched shores of the Kohala Coast, the island pulls out all the stops for Independence Day. Here are three events you won’t want to miss this July 4th:

1. Parker Ranch July 4th Rodeo and Horse Races: Yeehaw, Paniolo Style!
Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, because Parker Ranch proudly presents the 62nd Annual July 4th Rodeo and Horse Races, returning to the Parker Ranch Rodeo Arena in Waimea on Saturday, July 4, 2026 — and it’s a tradition like no other! It’s one of the oldest continuously running July 4th rodeos in the state, and a direct window into a piece of Hawaiʻi most visitors never encounter: the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) tradition, which dates to the 1830s. Gates open at 7:00 a.m., with fast-paced rodeo action beginning shortly after the 9:00 a.m. grand entry and running non-stop until 1:00 p.m. The paniolo will compete in a variety of events including horse races, ranch mugging, team roping, Poʻo Wai U, and more. Those attending can also enjoy a variety of crafts and food from Big Island vendors, as well as keiki activities such as a petting zoo and pony rides. So dust off your cowboy boots, put on your Stetson, and join in the excitement of a true Hawaiian hoedown!

2. Great Waikōloa Rubber Duckie Race: Quack-tastic Fun for All Ages!
Calling all kids, adults, and everyone in between! On July 4th, the Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race will feature 10,000 bright yellow duckies bobbling, waddling, and drifting toward the finish line Lakeside at the Kings’ Shops. The free event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, with thousands of numbered rubber ducks racing along a lakeside course through the resort’s open-air shopping village. But the fun doesn’t stop at the race! The day is packed with a watermelon eating contest, a shave ice eating contest, live performances, duck waddling and duck calling contests, and an awards ceremony. Over $20,000 in prizes — including resort stays, rounds of golf, boat cruises, dolphin experiences, and dining certificates — are generously donated by Big Island businesses and distributed to the top 50 duck racers. Pick your favorite rubber ducky and get ready to make a splash in this beloved Independence Day tradition!

3. Kailua-Kona Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza: Stars, Stripes, and Aloha Skies!
Cap off your July 4th in the most spectacular way imaginable — right in the heart of Historic Kailua Village! The annual celebration begins at 6:00 p.m., starting near Kekuaokalani Gym and traveling from the Kuakini Highway area through Aliʻi Drive and Historic Kailua Village. This year’s celebration holds special significance as the community joins the nation in commemorating the U.S. Semiquincentennial — a once-in-a-generation milestone honoring 250 years of American history — with the parade theme “America The Beautiful.” The parade route’s passage along Aliʻi Drive, Kona’s most atmospheric waterfront corridor, means spectators line up with the ocean directly behind the procession, giving floats and marching groups a Pacific horizon as their backdrop. Then, at 8:00 p.m., the Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza lights up the sky with professional pyrotechnics launched from a barge moored in beautiful Kailua Bay. Grab your beach blanket, stake out your spot, and get ready for a finale that’s nothing short of magical!

Make It a July 4th to Remember — Stay with Big Island Stays!
With so much to see and celebrate, all you need is the perfect place to come home to at the end of the day. That’s where Big Island Stays comes in — your trusted source for vacation rentals across Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast. Whether you’re looking for a breezy oceanfront condo, a spacious family home, or a luxurious private estate with sweeping Pacific views, we have the ideal retreat waiting for you. Our team is here seven days a week to make sure your Independence Day getaway is smooth, stress-free, and absolutely unforgettable. Book your stay today and experience the magic of the Big Island this July 4th!

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


🍷 Date Nights on the Big Island

 

🍽️ Unforgettable Dining Experiences

 

🌋 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.

 

✨ 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

🌺 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.

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