Hilton Waikoloa Village
Located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii Island (The Big Island), Hilton Waikoloa Village spans 62 oceanfront acres and is the kind of resort where guests can build an entire itinerary without even renting a car.
The property is organized around a four-acre, ocean-fed saltwater lagoon, where guests can swim and snorkel in protected water. The broader resort includes four pools, waterslides, a full-service spa, shopping, water sports and access to nearby golf. A tram even transports guests across the expansive grounds, making the scale of the property part of the experience rather than an inconvenience.
Rooms and suites are available in the Palace Tower, while travelers looking for an upgraded stay can book the premium MAKAI experience. Accommodations combine contemporary interiors with tropical views, and many include private lanais that overlook the ocean, lagoon or landscaped grounds.
There are also enough on-site dining options to keep guests from falling into a repetitive resort-food routine. Restaurants and casual counters are located throughout the property, including lagoon-side and poolside spots suited to everything from a quick lunch in a swimsuit to a more leisurely dinner.
The resort’s full-service setup is particularly valuable on the Big Island, where attractions can be spread far apart. Guests can spend one day exploring volcanoes, waterfalls or the Kona Coast, then dedicate the next entirely to the pools, lagoon and spa.
Best for: Families, couples and resort loyalists who want room to spread out on the Big Island.
