Planning to bring the whole family to the Big Island and wondering what are the best Big Island Resorts for families? Here are our top picks for where to stay on the Big Island with kids!
This list of the best family resorts in Big Island Hawaii was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
I’ve visited Hawaii more than 40 times and recently we’ve been going to the Big Island of Hawaii. That’s where there are some epic outdoor activities like exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
As I’ve been updating this site this year, I realized that I didn’t have a dedicated post on the best places to stay on the Big Island with kids. So, I’m fixing that!
Here are my personal top picks for the best resorts in Big Island Hawaii for families.
What’s the Best Area to Stay on the Big Island Hawaii with Family?
When planning a family trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, picking the best place to stay is super important.
Many families love staying on the Kohala Coast, especially in Waikoloa or Kailua-Kona. These areas on the West Coast are perfect for a fun family vacation.
Waikoloa is known for its awesome resorts, and it’s a place where you can relax and play. Kailua-Kona is also cool, with lots of shops and restaurants to explore.
If you’re thinking about the East side of the Big Island, it’s more about adventure with its rainforests and volcanoes. But for a family-friendly stay with lots of comforts, Waikoloa and Kailua-Kona are the top picks!
Criteria for Selecting Family-Friendly Resorts on the Big Island
When I was looking for the top family resorts on the Big Island, I thought about some key stuff.
First off, I checked if the resorts were near cool things like beaches or trails for hiking. It’s really great when fun adventures are just a short walk or drive away!
Next up, I looked for resorts with fun stuff for kids, like swimming pools and places to play and meet new friends. Plus, it was important to find resorts with rooms big enough for the whole family.
And, of course, I searched for resorts with yummy food that both kids and adults would enjoy. With these points in mind, I’m confident you’ll find an awesome resort for your family’s Big Island adventure!
10 Best Big Island Family Resorts
Fairmont Orchid
If you’re planning a Hawaiian vacation with kids and looking for upscale resorts, the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island is a great choice. Check the latest rates and availability.
Located in Waikoloa along the Kohala Coast, this luxurious resort has everything to make your stay memorable. My family LOVES it. Read our full Fairmont Orchid Resort review.
The Fairmont Orchid offers a range of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy, like yoga classes and tennis courts. It’s also where you’ll find the luxury Hawaii Loa Luau, which features upscale food and entertainment.
Plus, it’s right by some of the best white sand beaches. You’ll have a private beach on the Pacific Ocean all to yourselves, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving.
The rooms and suites here are spacious and come with ocean views, air conditioning, and lots of other cool amenities.
Staying at the Fairmont Orchid means you get to experience the Kohala Coast in style. It’s definitely a top choice for families seeking a luxurious resort experience on the Big Island. Check rates and room types.
Hilton Waikoloa Village
For most visitors planning a dream vacation on the Big Island with kids, the Hilton Waikoloa Village is a top pick. Check the latest rates and availability.
This luxury resort in Waikoloa offers a fantastic beachfront experience with a private beach area. Imagine relaxing on white sand beaches, renting beach cabanas, or even enjoying a beach massage!
The Hilton Waikoloa Village has lots of swimming pools, including a fun children’s pool with a waterslide. It’s a great place for families to enjoy. This is also where you can swim with dolphins! Read our full Hilton Waikoloa Village review.
Plus, the resort is packed with amenities like tennis courts, a golf course, six restaurants, and two poolside bars. There are also fitness classes at the fitness center.
The room choices are varied too, including private suites with spacious rooms and your own outdoor hot tub. It’s perfect for both a romantic getaway and a family trip.
With its private beach and large guest rooms, this side of the island is breathtaking, making your stay at Hilton Waikoloa Village truly memorable. Check rates and room types.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
When looking for luxury resorts on the Big Island for a family vacation, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Waikoloa is a fantastic choice. It’s not just any Hawaii hotel; it’s a luxurious resort that offers amazing accommodation options. Check the latest rates and availability.
Located on the northwest side of the island, close to the ocean and the Kukio Golf and Beach Club, this resort is surrounded by beautiful black lava landscapes and sandy beaches.
It’s definitely one of the best places to stay on the Big Island, not just for families but for couples too, with lots of wedding planning options.
The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is special because it gives you a Hawaiian tradition-inspired experience. It’s in Ka’upulehu, once an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, and the resort respects the land and sea’s value.
There’s even a huge aquarium where you can book snorkeling lessons with a marine biologist! Plus, with 8 swimming pools, a fitness center, gorgeous nearby beaches, and lots of dining choices, your whole family will love staying here. It’s a top spot in Kailua-Kona for sure! Check rates and room types.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island with kids and looking for luxury resorts, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a perfect choice. Check the latest rates and availability.
This historic beach resort by the ocean offers everything your family needs for an amazing vacation.
Located close to Mauna Kea Beach, this resort isn’t just about luxury; it’s also super kid-friendly. It has 18 holes of golf, a convenient grocery store, and a lovely terrace. The beachfront location means you can easily enjoy the sun, with beachfront dining and sun loungers available.
The resort offers Ayurvedic treatments and massages at its spa, and you can eat at any of the five onsite restaurants, serving delicious American cuisine with views of the golf course. For fun, there’s beach volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling, and a 24-hour gym.
The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel makes sure guests have everything they need, including an outdoor pool, bike rentals, and tennis courts. It’s a great place for a family vacation on the Big Island! Check rates and room types.
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
If you’re heading to the Big Island with kids and looking for a great beach resort, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a fantastic choice. Located on the west coast of the Island of Hawaii, it’s one of the best spots for families. Check the latest rates and availability.
This resort is all about luxury and fun. It has stunning ocean views, big rooms, golf courses, a spa, and a fitness center. The best part for kids? The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort has multiple outdoor pools, including a children’s pool with a waterslide. It’s a great place for kids to play and splash around.
You’ll also be close to beautiful beaches and lots of places to eat. Plus, it’s only about 30 minutes from Kona International Airport, making it easy to get to your relaxing vacation spot quickly.
With its beachfront location, beachfront dining, and activities like scuba diving, rowing, and kayaking, this resort is a top choice for families visiting the North Shore of the Big Island. Check rates and room types.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Looking for a luxury resort on the Big Island with kids? Mauna Lani is a top choice for families. This beach resort is on the Northwest Coast of the Island of Hawaii and offers amazing sandy beaches right outside your room. Check the latest rates and availability.
The resort is packed with family-friendly activities. You’ll love the outdoor pools, including a special pool just for kids. If you’re up for some relaxation, check out their full-service spa for a soothing massage.
Mauna Lani also has tons of outdoor stuff to do. You can borrow bikes for free, hike and bike on trails, go canoeing, try surfing, or join yoga classes. It’s a fun and luxurious way to experience Hawaii with your family.
With beachfront dining, scuba diving opportunities, and comfy rooms, Mauna Lani ensures an unforgettable family vacation. It’s definitely one of the best places to stay on the Big Island with kids. Check rates and room types.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Looking for a luxury resort in Hawaii for a family vacation? The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is a fantastic choice, especially if you love white sand beaches. Located in the Mauna Lani Resort area, this beach resort is perfect for families. Check the latest rates and availability.
The resort stretches along a beautiful shoreline, surrounded by lush gardens. It even has four places to eat right on-site. For the adults, there’s the award-winning 18-hole Hapuna Golf Course where you can relax and play golf.
Families will love the beachfront location of the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, with beachfront dining and plenty of sun loungers.
Kids and parents can enjoy the two outdoor pools, and if you’re up for a treat, check out the Hapuna Spa by Mandara for massages and body treatments.
There’s also kayaking, surfing, and snorkeling activities to try out. With comfy rooms and lots of family-friendly amenities, this resort is a top pick for a stay on the Big Island with kids. Check rates and room types.
Kona Coast Resort
Planning a trip to the Big Island on a budget, especially with kids, can be a challenge, but the Kona Coast Resort is a great budget-friendly hotel that makes it easier. Check the latest rates and availability.
Located near Kahaluu Bay and not too far from the Kona airport, this hotel is perfect for families exploring South Kona.
The Kona Coast Resort offers spacious accommodations, which means there’s plenty of room for everyone. Families will love the two outdoor pools and the playground, great for keeping the kids entertained. There’s also free WiFi in every room, so everyone can stay connected.
For those who like sports, there’s volleyball and basketball available. Plus, you can enjoy 18 holes of golf, relax on the terrace, or wander through the garden. The resort also provides free self-parking, which is super handy for families traveling by car.
Guest reviews often mention how family-friendly this hotel is, thanks to its spacious rooms and great amenities. It’s a top choice for staying on the Big Island with kids without breaking the bank. Check rates and room types.
Royal Kona Resort
If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island with kids and looking for a budget-friendly hotel close to the Kona airport, the Royal Kona Resort in South Kona is a great choice. You can read my full Royal Kona Resort review.
This resort is unique because it’s on one of the amazing black sand beaches! Check the latest rates and availability.
At the Royal Kona Resort, you’ll find spacious rooms that are perfect for families. There’s an outdoor pool where everyone can have fun and relax. Plus, they have a hair salon, beach massages, and yoga classes, adding a touch of luxury to your stay.
Although it might not have every single family amenity, it’s still one of the top resorts on the Big Island. With beachfront dining at Don The Beachcomber restaurant and the Lotus Center Spa, there’s plenty to enjoy.
The Royal Kona Resort offers an outdoor pool with cabanas, tennis courts, and more, making it a fantastic and affordable option for families exploring the Big Island on a budget. Check rates and room types.
Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay
Looking for a budget-friendly hotel on the Big Island with kids? Check out the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in South Kona. Check the latest rates and availability.
It’s a great spot on the west side of the Island of Hawaii, especially if you’re into swimming with Manta Rays!
The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, formerly known as the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa, is near some cool manta ray feeding grounds. Plus, it’s close to Kona Coffee farms, which are fun to visit. The resort has a big, multi-level fantasy pool that’s open all the time, perfect for kids who love to swim.
You can also enjoy manta ray viewings, yoga, lei making, and hula lessons right at the resort. With a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, the resort offers oceanfront services and outdoor treatment rooms.
And don’t forget to check out Rays on the Bay for tasty food and live entertainment.
The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa is a top choice for families visiting the Big Island on a budget. Check rates and room types.
Big Island FAQs
Where should I stay near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, staying in Volcano Village is a good choice. It has cozy lodges and inns close to the park. But my favorite place is Volcano House Hotel because it’s right in the park.
What are the top Big Island vacation rentals?
Top Big Island vacation rentals include beach houses in Kailua-Kona, condos in Waikoloa Village, and private homes in Hilo.
Where should I stay on the Kohala Coast with kids?
On the Kohala Coast with kids, consider staying at resorts like Hilton Waikoloa Village or the Fairmont Orchid, which have lots of fun activities for families.
Are there places to stay on the Hamakua Coast?
Yes, there are places to stay on the Hamakua Coast, like small inns and bed and breakfasts in towns like Honokaa and Waipio.
What are the most popular kid-friendly Big Island tours?
Popular kid-friendly Big Island tours include snorkeling trips, Manta Ray diving, zipline adventures, and guided tours of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
What are the most luxurious resorts on the Big Island?
The most luxurious resorts on the Big Island include the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, and the Fairmont Orchid.
What are some budget friendly hotels on the Island of Hawaii?
Some budget-friendly hotels on the Island of Hawaii include the PACIFIC 19 Kona, Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel, and the SCP Hilo Hotel.
Visiting the Big Island with Kids Wrap-Up
The Big Island is packed with incredible waterfalls, a lush rainforest, charming downtown areas, and active volcanoes.
When it comes to Big Island family vacations, choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. I hope these mini Big Island hotel reviews help you narrow down your choices!
Looking for more Big Island travel resources? Check out 25 Things to do on the Big Island with Kids and What’s the Best Hawaiian Island for Kids?
