Best Places to Stay in Waikoloa: An Expert’s Guide to Paradise
☀️ Why Waikoloa is One of the Best Places to Stay in Hawaii
Waikoloa is one of the most beloved destinations on the Big Island of Hawaii—and for good reason. Tucked along the Kohala Coast, this region offers golden beaches, world-class golf, lush lava landscapes, and consistent sunshine year-round.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a big family reunion, or a corporate retreat, Waikoloa delivers the perfect mix of tropical beauty and modern luxury making many of its accommodations the best places to stay in Waikoloa.
🏨 Top Resort Options in Waikoloa
For travelers who prefer traditional accommodations, Waikoloa has several well-known resorts. These include:
1. Hilton Waikoloa Village
A sprawling oceanfront property with pools, waterslides, and restaurants. Great for families, but expect large crowds and resort fees.
2. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Smaller than the Hilton but still packed with amenities. Conveniently located near shopping at Queen’s Marketplace.
3. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection (just north in the Mauna Lani Resort)
Not technically in Waikoloa but just down the road is the Mauna Lani, a more refined luxury experience, with a serene atmosphere, access to private beaches, and a wellness-focused spa.
🏡 Why You Should Consider a Vacation Rental Instead
Resorts are great—but what if you could have all the perks without sharing your pool with 100 strangers or paying $80 per day for parking?
That’s where luxury vacation rentals in Waikoloa shine.
When you book a private villa or estate, you get:
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More space for families or groups
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Full kitchens and a private BBQ (hello, gourmet dinners!)
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Private pools, gyms, and even game rooms
- Fire pits and even tiki torches! (who doesn’t love enjoying a calming fire especially during a perfect Hawaiian sunset)
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No resort fees or hidden charges
- Concierge level services
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The ability to book direct and save
🌺 The Kanini Estate: Our Pick for one of the Best Places to Stay in Waikoloa
If you’re looking for the best of the best, The Kanini Estate is a standout option for big groups, family reunions, and luxury retreats.
🏠 What Makes It Special?
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5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms (with 8 king beds—yes, really!)
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Private pool, hot tub, and fire pit
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Gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances
- Clean BBQ with serving bar for 8
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Private in-home gym with Peloton, treadmill, weights, yoga mats, and more!
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Full game room with billiards, shuffleboard, ping pong, corn hole and more
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Access to private pickleball & tennis courts via the house membership to the exclusive Mauna Lani Sports Club
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Fast Wi-Fi, A/C, ocean views, and beach gear provided
👉 Just a 2-minute walk to the beach path leading to Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay), one of the best kid-friendly beaches on the Big Island.
👪 Perfect For…
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Big families or multigenerational groups
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Corporate retreats and leadership team offsites
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Wellness + fitness retreats
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Pickleball vacations (yup, it’s a thing—and we dominate it)
💬 Real Guests Say It Best
“This house was a dream. We had 14 people, and it never felt crowded. The private court, the sunsets, the kitchen—everything was perfect. The was truly among the best places to stay in Waikoloa. We’ll be back!”
— Jenna, Los Angeles
📍 Nearby Attractions
Due to its proximity to so many attractions in the resort area, we rank The Kanini Estate as one of the best places to stay in Waikoloa. Here are many attractions most within walking distance to the villa.
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Anaehoʻomalu Bay (2-minute walk)
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Queen’s Marketplace & Kings’ Shops (5 min walk)
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Lava Lava Beach Club (sunset drinks and live music, anyone?)
✅ Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Waikoloa?
If you want:
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24/7 room service and poolside mojitos → try the Hilton.
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A relaxing, private, luxury experience with ocean views and all the amenities → The Kanini Estate.
Whether you’re planning a group vacation, milestone birthday, bachelorette party or company retreat, this Big Island vacation rental is one of the best places to stay in Waikoloa.
🌴 Book Direct & Save
Don’t pay extra on Airbnb or VRBO.
👉 Check availability at The Kanini Estate
💬 Contact us to plan your trip
