Love natural beauty, sun, and sand? Hawaii is calling you out!
Hawaii is an excellent place for a vacation if you are looking for beaches and mountains in the same place. From the scorching heat of the sun to the coolness of the rain, you’ll get to experience everything on a single island.
But where to go in Hawaii? There are multiple Hawaiian islands to explore, and honestly, I can say that it cannot be done in just one trip (if you want to explore the island deeply).
Big Island is one such place which is a tropical paradise for many. It is one of the oldest and largest islands in Hawaii, where you can visit the beaches, see the active volcanoes, and get close to marine life like the Hawaiian green sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales.
Now, if you’ve decided to pay a visit to the Big Island, one thing you must be most worried about is where you should stay. Well, the Big Island doesn’t have a lot of stay options, especially if you’re looking for a premium stay to spend the days comfortably.
However, we’ve done our research and have come up with the four best all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island, which are sure to add to the excitement of your Hawaiian island escape.
What’s an All-Inclusive Resort?
You may have heard of aparthotels, boutique hotels, bed and breakfast (B&B) hotels, and many more. But have you heard about all-inclusive resorts? If not, then you must be wondering what these resorts are.
If we have to define it in simple terms, these resorts include everything from your meal to excursion, stay, and activities in your single resort bill. How cool is that, right?
These vacation resorts include everything you’ll need for a memorable vacation, including drinks, unlimited food, sports, water activities, tours, and much more. They are usually found in warmer and sunny places, and Hawaii is one of them.
Our Top 4 All-Inclusive Resorts Picks in the Big Island of Hawaii
Now that you have an idea about what this resort might be, we have listed our favorites that you’ll enjoy staying in and keep yourself busy with the multiple activities.
#1 – Royal Kona Resort
Address: Royal Kona Resort, 75-5852 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA 96740
About:
If you’re going to Big Island, let me tell you about the Royal Kona Resort in Kailua-Kona. This place is amazing! I’ve seen guests who can’t stop talking about the gorgeous tropical vibes, how clean everything is, and all the fun stuff to do on the property and around there.
This resort is a beautiful vacation getaway situated directly along the breathtaking Kailua Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii. It’s best known for its dramatic oceanfront views, comfort, and relaxation in the Hawaiian spirit.
This resort’s guest rooms feature spacious rooms with private lanais, a serene saltwater lagoon, and a glinting oceanfront swimming pool.
The one activity that makes this resort the talk of the town is its signature Hawaiian Luau experience, which includes authentic Polynesian performances and a traditional Hawaiian feast under the stars.
You can find many dining options at Royal Kona Resort, including fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and island-inspired dishes at the renowned Don the Beachcomber Restaurant and Mai Tai Bar.
Since the resort is located in the prime location of the island, you get easy access to historic Kailua Village and lively local markets.
Looking for some exciting activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural excursions? You get all of that near and on the resort itself.
This spot sounds like paradise, doesn’t it?
Packages:
If you want to take your stay to the next level, check out their optional packages.
- One bundle of airfare and your room (super convenient).
- Another includes car rental and parking.
- There’s a room package with daily breakfast, complimentary self-car parking, and car rentals.
And here’s a tip: sign up for their free Royal Rewards loyalty program to snag even more perks and discounts.
Amenities:
The resort has many amenities, even more than what a guest can think of. While we can’t mention all here, some major amenities have been mentioned here:
- Spacious Rooms and Suites
- Oceanfront Swimming Pool
- Private Saltwater Lagoon
- Tennis Courts
- Don the Beachcomber Restaurant
- Full-Service Spa
- Fitness Center
- Event/ Wedding and Meeting Spaces
- Oceanfront Event Venues
- Conference Rooms
- Concierge Desk
- Shops
- Laundry Services
Experience:
So, let me share something about my experience. For the price I paid, in the very beginning, we were welcomed with a delicious Hawaiian Mai Tai (yes, please!), bottled water upon arrival, an oceanfront pool, and saltwater lagoon access (with free reef-safe sunscreen—love that!).
If you are a fitness freak, you’ll be shown around the fitness center. There’s a yoga center where you can also join yoga classes and enjoy live Hawaiian music.
Plus, cultural activities like ukulele lessons, lei-making, and hula classes are included. Oh, and don’t forget the extras: $20 spa credit and $25 toward a local tour.
Read Jo T.‘s review of Royal Kona Resort on Yelp
#2 – Hilton Waikoloa Village
Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive Waikoloa, Hawaii, USA 96738
About:
Located along Hawaii’s Big Island on the Kohala Coast is Hilton Waikoloa Village, an expansive resort that combines luxury, adventure, and local culture within its gates.
The family-friendly resort sits over 62 acres and has everything to offer, from tropical gardens filled with palms to its lagoon and cascading waterfalls right by an impressive ocean viewpoint.
This oceanfront resort has everything for everybody, from culture to poolside vibes and even a close encounter with marine life.
The rooms are actually mini studio apartments furnished with fancy Kohala Spa bath products, quartz countertops, and dual sinks. You can lounge in comfortable robes and slippers, or you can grab the complimentary beach bag for a day in the sand.
Packages:
The resort has multiple packages to choose from to make your stay even more comfortable:
- Park and Stay package for a safe and sound stay.
- Breakfast included package for all the members of your family.
- Luau package (if booking for 6 nights or more).
- An all-inclusive package with drinks, food, self-parking, and more.
Amenities:
The resort is ideal for families with lots of amenities, a kids’ camp, dedicated activities, and plenty of space to explore.
- Outdoor Pools & Cabanas
- Restaurants and Bars (Lagoon Grill, Nui Italian, Kamuela Provision Company)
- Luxurious Spa Treatments
- Saltwater Dolphin Lagoon
- Legends Of Hawaii Luau
- Championship Golf Courses
- Cultural Activities
- Spa and Wellness
- Event Spaces
Experience:
Overall, we really loved the vibe of the resort. Also, it’s convenient to stay here if you book their inclusive package, as you don’t have to worry about most of the things during the trip. From food to activities and stay, everything is included.
I want to emphasize one thing that you do have to check out while you’re there: the Legends of Hawaii Luau—it’s one of the top-rated luaus in the state.
Happening on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 5 to 8 PM, it’s a full-on journey through Hawaiian legends, complete with an amazing feast and some epic dancing.
Also, regular events are happening inside the resort, so check their website for any exciting events that are scheduled or ask their staff for more information.
When you’re here, don’t miss Kamuela Provision Co., where you can enjoy steak and seafood with a killer sunset view. Sounds like the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, doesn’t it?
Read Kieran M.‘s review of Hilton Waikoloa Village on Yelp
#3 – Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Address: 62-100 Kauna’oa Drive, Kohala Coast, Hawaii, USA, 96743
About:
Perched along the pristine Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers a luxurious oceanfront escape. Set beside the award-winning Hapuna Beach, the resort is celebrated for its serene ambiance, elegant amenities, and breathtaking natural surroundings.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is truly a family’s island retreat: it is right on beautiful Hapuna Beach. Every room and suite features a private balcony with breathtaking ocean and sunset views, giving you that quintessential indoor/outdoor Hawaii feel.
Packages:
Are you looking for a fun vacation to enjoy as a couple or with your entire family? These packages will let you easily experience the beauty of Big Island.
- Renovation Getaway Package with 5th night free and daily buffet breakfast.
- Lovers Lei Luxe Package has an exclusive discount, which is perfect for couples.
- The Westin Hapuna Experience Package gives access to beach rentals and activities.
Amenities:
The resort is filled with many features that you can enjoy during your stay. Some additional amenities are as follows:
- Spacious Scenic Rooms
- Infinity Pool and Family Pool
- Outdoor Pools
- Restaurants and Bar
- Fitness Center
- Spa Services
- Tennis Court
- Bocce Ball Area
- Beautiful Ocean Views
- Hapuna Golf Course
- Hapuna Beach Access
- Hawaiian Culture Programs
- Water Sports
- Helicopter Tours
- Manta Experience
- Stargazing Tour
- Hawaii Forest & Trail
Experience:
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is a great place to stay, as it allows you to be near nature and experience outdoor adventures. I love the fact that there is so much to do here!
Those who love playing golf will love Hapuna Golf Course, a tropical gem loved by locals and visitors alike. In the spa center, you can get deep tissue massages, body wraps, and more.
When you’re hungry, head to the Meridia, Naupaka Beach Grill, or the bar for the best food. Meridia offers award-winning eats made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in stunning ocean-front dining.
For a more laid-back bite to eat, the Naupaka Beach Grill has fresh salads, seafood, a hearty main course menu, and tropical cocktails offered beachside.
It’s everything you’d want in a Hawaiian getaway, with a little something extra to make your stay unforgettable!
Read Kay O.‘s review of The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on Yelp
#4 – Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Address: 72-100 Ka’upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
About:
If you are looking for a sophisticated, elite, yet fun stay, this resort is the best choice. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a five-star luxury resort situated on the beautiful Kona-Kohala coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Combining Hawaiian elegance and modern comfort, this exclusive resort on 875 acres of beachfront property offers its guests an experience that can be matched nowhere else on the island.
It’s a family-friendly getaway location where you can sit on white sand amidst dramatic black-lava landscapes and dig into rich cultural influences in its food and art.
It’s a piece of old Hawaii, yes, but with all the niceties that come with an upscale room—a private pool, balconies with wide ocean views—and that often comes standard with a suite.
Packages:
Consider getting a package booking for a more exclusive and memorable vacation:
- Bed & Breakfast Package, where you begin your day with Four Seasons Resort’s hearty breakfast.
- Get unlimited access to the gold course with complimentary breakfast for two in the Unlimited Golf Package.
Amenities:
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers guests diversified luxury facilities that ensure that every comfort and fun in highly memorable stays. Of these notable amenities are:
- Oceanfront Rooms and Suites
- Outdoor Pools
- Restaurants and Bars (Hualalai Grille, Beach Tree Restaurant, Ulu Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge, Café Hualalai)
- Relaxing Spa Experiences
- Golf Course
- Fun Swim-up Bar
- Private Pool in Villas
- Suite Concierge
- Cultural Center
- Horseback Riding
- Helicopter Tours
- Private Aviation and Airport Lounges
- Marine Life Experiences
- Water Sports
Experience:
Since I believe in sustainability, I loved that the resort is for sustainable development, with significant energies directed towards energy conservation, protecting the environment, and supporting communities at large.
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers an extraordinary combination of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experience through unmatched luxury, incredible service, and a breathtaking location.
There are outdoor pools available, one being purely child-friendly and the other specifically adults-only with a swim-up bar, making for the ultimate combination of luxury, adventure, and that authentic Hawaiian charm- one that creates unforgettable memories with the family!
Read Mary W.‘s review of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Yelp
Final Thoughts
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure combined with luxury in inclusive resorts, making it perfect for an unforgettable getaway. Stunning beaches, options for water activities, some shopping options, and Hawaii hotels will all be catered to for a refreshing oceanfront retreat, an action-packed family holiday, or a romantic vacation.
From ocean views to cultural experiences, from world-class dining to thrilling activities, these resorts promise a vacation full of memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for an island experience like no other!
FAQs
Can I find all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island that cater to families?
Yes! Every resort listed here offers family-friendly amenities and activities. These resorts include children’s programs, family-friendly excursions, and kid-centric dining options, making them ideal for families looking to enjoy the island together.
Do all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island include meals and drinks?
Most all-inclusive packages at resorts on the Big Island include meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at on-site restaurants, and some may offer beverages. However, it’s essential to check with each resort about its specific package inclusions, as some may only offer specific meals, while others may include all drinks, including alcoholic ones.
Do all-inclusive resorts on the Big Island provide airport transfers?
Some all-inclusive resorts provide shuttle services from the airport to the resort, but it’s important to confirm with each resort before booking. In some cases, airport transfers may be included in a package, while others may charge an additional fee.