The Big Island offers something for everyone, whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest. As Hawaiʻi's largest and most diverse island, it boasts dramatic landscapes, amazing beaches, and lots of adventure and activities to enjoy. When planning your next getaway, a private vacation rental can provide the perfect home base for exploring this truly remarkable island.
With Vacation Hawaiʻi Life's extensive portfolio of legal and permitted Big Island private vacation rentals, you can trust that your stay will be unforgettable and completely compliant with Hawaiʻi’s regulations.
Whether you're searching for luxury, seclusion, or family-friendly options, we have a wide range of Big Island beachfront vacation homes, romantic Big Island getaways, and private villas with hands down, jaw-dropping views. Let's explore the best places to stay and explore on the Big Island!
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is one of the most popular areas on the Big Island, drawing visitors from around the world, especially during peak seasons like Christmas and spring break. This lively oceanfront town offers an excellent mix of activities, from snorkeling and diving in Kailua Bay to exploring historic landmarks such as the Hulihe'e Palace. From December to April, the busy season brings increased visitor traffic, making it a great time for socializing and experiencing local events like the Ironman World Championship in October. With its vibrant shopping scene, eclectic dining, and access to boat tours at Kailua-Kona Pier, there's always something exciting to do.
Featured Properties:
Hualalai: Nestled on the slopes of Hualalai Mountain, this stunning property offers breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from expansive lanais. Located near the charming village of Holualoa, the home features 2.5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. An open beam ceiling with exposed pine and tiger wood floors creates a warm atmosphere. The kitchen includes a gas convection range/oven, granite countertops, and a bar top for extra seating. The open living area leads to an expansive lanai, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. A separate en suite bedroom with its own entrance provides privacy for guests. Available for 31+ day rentals.
Kailua Kona Estate: The Kailua Kona Estate offers a luxurious 9,452 sq ft private mansion set on five manicured acres, just 5 minutes from downtown Kona. This estate provides a serene and sophisticated environment with skylights, mahogany trim, a stacked stone fireplace, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The home includes five bedrooms, with additional flex rooms for larger groups. Enjoy stunning ocean views from the upstairs lanai, relax in the 100 ft infinity pool, or unwind in the eight-person jacuzzi. Situated in a private, gated community, the estate promotes sustainability and tranquility, with strict quiet hours after 9:30pm. Perfect for family getaways.
Kona Palms 304: Kona Palms offers a contemporary retreat with stunning views of Lyman's Bay and its famous surf spot. This spot provides a tranquil escape, recently renovated with fresh paint, modern flooring, chic furniture, and luxurious towels. Enjoy sunsets and ocean sights from your private lanai, sip pau hana drinks while watching surfers, and unwind in the spacious living areas. The stylish kitchen invites culinary creativity; each bedroom offers a restful sanctuary. Located in the heart of Kona, the property provides easy access to local culture, dining, and island adventures. Perfect for surfers and nature lovers, Kona Palms is your Hawaiʻi oasis.
Waikoloa Village & Waikoloa Beach Resort
Waikoloa Village and Waikoloa Beach Resort offer a luxurious vacation experience that attracts visitors year-round, though the peak seasons are winter and summer. Visitors will be treated to world-class resorts, stunning beaches like Anaeho'omalu Bay, and abundant activities such as golfing at renowned courses and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The petroglyphs at Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve offer a glimpse into the island's ancient past, and the area's upscale shopping, dining, and spa options ensure a relaxing experience. The combination of high-end resorts and natural beauty makes this area perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Featured Properties:
Pu'u Nui: This spacious home is ideally located near the best beaches, golf courses, and dining options on the island, with grocery stores and shopping just minutes away. A community park is also nearby. The upstairs features a kitchen and living area with views of the Kohala Mountains and peek-a-boo ocean views, perfect for enjoying a sunset meal. All bedrooms are located downstairs, offering ample space for everyone. The private courtyard adds to the charm of the home. With high-speed internet, digital cable, and good cell service, this home is ideal for families, teams, business travelers, and large groups.
Waikoloa Beach Villas 0-33: Waikoloa Beach Villas O33 is a stylish penthouse condo on the Big Island, offering designer furnishings and all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including beach chairs, a cooler, and a small wagon for easy beach transport. Just steps from 'Anaeho'omalu Bay (A-Bay), a beautiful white-sand beach perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and more. The Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a variety of activities, including helicopter tours, surfing, hiking, and fine dining nearby. The condo features a king bedroom with an en suite bath, a queen bedroom, central air conditioning, and an in-unit washer/dryer. The unit is located on the third floor and has elevator access.
Ainamalu Hale: This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom Ainamalu home offers a perfect getaway for multi-generational or multiple families, comfortably sleeping 10 people. The main house features an open living area, a kitchen with vaulted ceilings, an 82" Samsung 4K UHD TV, and professional-grade appliances. The Primary suite includes a California King bed, a 65" Samsung 4K UHD TV, double sinks, a walk-in shower, and an outdoor garden shower. The second bedroom has two Queen beds and a 65" TV, ideal for adults or kids.
A highlight of the home is the separate Guest Cottage, featuring a King bed, Queen sofa bed, 65" Samsung 4K UHD TV, and a wet bar with essential amenities. The spacious backyard includes 800 sq. ft. of covered lanai, a 600+ sq. ft. pool, spa, and chaise lounge seating. The garage is stocked with beach gear, and the nearby Anaeho'omalu Bay offers a perfect sunset view. The home is fully stocked with everything needed for a relaxing stay.
Hamakua Coast
For those looking to escape the crowds, the Hamakua Coast offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush, tropical landscapes. While it sees a slight uptick in visitors during the winter months, this region remains relatively quiet compared to more tourist-heavy parts of the island. The coast's serene atmosphere is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace. Visitors can explore Akaka Falls, check out the Waipi'o Valley Lookout, and discover the charming towns of Honokaa and Pa'auilo. The Hamakua Coast is an off-the-beaten-path gem that offers a truly authentic experience in Hawaiʻi.
Featured Properties:
Waipio Heaven: Waipio Heaven is a luxury 4-bedroom estate on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island, offering stunning ocean and Waipio Valley views. This private retreat features upscale amenities, including a gourmet kitchen with Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele appliances and luxurious bedrooms with en-suite baths. The outdoor oasis includes a beach-entry saltwater pool with a waterfall and slide, a hot tub, private cabanas, and a large lanai for whale watching. The estate provides complete privacy and high-end amenities like Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and beach gear, surrounded by lush landscaping and an organic fruit orchard. It is ideal for families or small groups seeking tranquility.
Hale Hamakua: Hale Hamakua is a charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath oceanfront home along the scenic Hamakua Coast, just north of Hilo. This beautifully decorated property offers stunning Pacific Ocean views, especially during the winter when whale watching is in full swing. The spacious kitchen is fully equipped for preparing island meals, while the primary bedroom features a king-size bed, en-suite bath, private lanai, and ocean views. Additional rooms include a TV room, queen, full, and twin bedrooms, with two twin sofa beds in the living room, providing ample space for all guests. Located just 20 minutes from Hilo, Hale Hamakua is perfect for exploring local attractions like Akaka Falls and Waipio Valley. Enjoy comfortable amenities, including Wi-Fi, a BBQ grill, and an ocean-view deck. Note that some friendly geckos and lizards may be present during your stay.
Hamakua Pukana La Hale: Hamakua Pukana La Hale is a newly decorated 3-bedroom, 2-bath vacation home on a private acre along the Hamakua Coast, just north of Hilo. With stunning ocean views, this home sleeps seven guests (max four adults and three children) and offers a peaceful retreat with a meditation space and a 6-foot tall Buddha in the landscaped yard. The open-concept kitchen is fully equipped for preparing island meals, while the primary bedroom features a king bed, en-suite bath, and private screened-in lanai. The property is perfect for exploring Hilo's farmer's markets, Akaka Falls, and nearby beaches. With a short drive to Honokaa and Waipio Valley, it's an ideal base for island adventures.
Hawaiian Paradise Park
Hawaiian Paradise Park provides a serene and residential environment, perfect for a peaceful, nature-filled retreat. Visitors flock to this lush area during winter, particularly those who want to experience East Hawaiʻi's tropical beauty. Located near Hilo, this neighborhood offers hiking, birdwatching, and proximity to the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a must-see attraction. Whether you're looking to explore the natural wonders of the East Coast or relax in your secluded vacation rental, Hawaiian Paradise Park offers the tranquility and privacy many travelers seek.
Featured Properties:
Paradise Ocean View: This oceanfront, cliff-side property in Hawaiian Paradise Park offers breathtaking Pacific views from all living areas. The 2-bedroom, 2-bath home features a fully stocked kitchen, a lounge area with a TV, and an open space perfect for yoga or relaxation. Both bedrooms on the second-floor offer access to a lanai with ocean views. The property extends to the lava rock coastline, ideal for sunbathing or wave-watching. Enjoy nearby beaches, Volcanoes National Park, and Hilo. A queen sleeper sofa, beach towels, and ample amenities ensure comfort. The home provides a truly memorable setting for a getaway with spectacular views.
Hale O Makani: Hale O Makani is a beautifully decorated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in Hawaiian Paradise Park, offering the perfect base for exploring the Big Island's east side. Centrally situated between Kea'au and Pahoa, it is just 20 minutes from Hilo and 45 minutes from Volcanoes National Park. The home features a spacious living room/kitchen area with French doors open to a large backyard, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Sleeping six comfortably, the primary bedroom includes a private bath and access to the backyard. Modern amenities include high-speed internet, a Smart TV, a washer/dryer, and covered parking. Ideal for long-term stays.
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As we’ve learned, the Big Island is a place like no other, with diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're drawn to the lively energy of Kailua-Kona, the luxurious ambiance of Waikoloa, the tranquility of the Hamakua Coast, or the peaceful charm of Hawaiian Paradise Park, there's a perfect vacation rental waiting for you.
At Vacations Hawaiʻi Life, we specialize in offering top Big Island vacation stays, from family-friendly rentals to romantic private villas. Our expert team is here to help you find the perfect property to match your needs, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Contact our vacation rental property management team to learn more about the best places to stay on the Big Island and experience how we can make your dreamy Hawaiʻi vacation a reality.