Where to stay in Kona

Kona

Oceanfront in downtown Kona with a saltwater swimming lagoon. Not luxurious but the location and views are excellent at the price. Walking distance to restaurants and the snorkeling at Snorkel Bob's. Skip the garden-view rooms — only ocean view is worth it.

Kailua-Kona

Built into a lava flow on Keauhou Bay — manta rays feed below the restaurant terrace on most evenings. Oceanside pool over lava. Best resort in Kailua-Kona proper.

Kailua-Kona

Oceanfront condo complex on Aliʻi Drive south of Kailua-Kona with a saltwater pool and a sandy sunbathing area; one-bedroom units 110, 116, 121, 124 and 202 are the ones she books. Her default Kona stay.

Kailua-Kona

The only hotel on a beach in Kailua-Kona town, at the pier where the Ironman starts. Walk to restaurants; parking and resort fee at check-out.

Kailua-Kona

Reliable chain stay above the town with breakfast included and free parking; standard rooms with two queens. The budget-conscious Kona pick.

Keauhou

Condo resort on the Keauhou golf course above the manta-ray bay; one-bedroom villas with kitchens, two pools. Ten minutes to Kailua-Kona.

Captain Cook

Living Big Island history since 1917 — the pork chops at the on-site restaurant are a 75-year institution. Extremely simple rooms. Best choice for budget travelers basing near south Kona snorkeling (Two Step, City of Refuge).