Big Island Keauhou Punahele A103 condo

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about this place? It’s one of those condos where you actually feel like you’re living on the Big Island, not just visiting it. The Keauhou Punahele A103 sits right in this sweet spot where you’re close enough to Kailua-Kona’s action but far enough south that you escape the cruise ship crowds – and honestly, that makes all the difference when you’re trying to decompress.

The condo itself has that lived-in Hawaii vibe that I actually prefer over those sterile resort rooms. Sure, it’s not going to win any design awards, but the lanai faces west toward the ocean, which means you’re getting those incredible Kona sunsets every single night. I mean, we’re talking about that whole sky-on-fire thing that happens around 6:30 PM where even your phone photos somehow look amazing. The kitchen’s properly stocked too – not just the bare minimum you usually get – so you can actually cook the fresh ono you’ll inevitably buy at the Keauhou farmers market on Saturday mornings.

What really sold me on this spot though is the location within Keauhou itself. You’re maybe a five-minute walk from Keauhou Bay, where the manta ray night dives happen (and trust me, even if you just snorkel during the day, it’s incredible). The Sheraton’s right there if you need a fancy dinner or want to use their more dramatic coastline for photos, but you’re not paying Sheraton prices to sleep. Plus – and this is key – you’re positioned perfectly for exploring both directions along Ali’i Drive. Head north and you hit all the Kailua-Kona restaurants and shops, go south and you’ve got access to some of the better snorkeling spots that the tour buses can’t easily reach. The drive to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge) is only about twenty minutes, and that’s where you’ll find some of the clearest water on this side of the island.

Parking’s straightforward, which sounds boring but you’ll appreciate it after dealing with Kailua-Kona’s parking situation. The complex is quiet – mostly other vacation renters who are either out exploring or relaxing on their lanais with a beer, watching the waves. Check-in was smooth, though I’d recommend stopping at the KTA Super Store in Keauhou Shopping Center right after you arrive to stock up on basics. The 9.0 rating makes sense to me – it’s not luxury, but it delivers exactly what you want from a Big Island stay without any of the resort nonsense. You’re here for the ocean, the sunsets, and easy access to the best parts of the Kona coast, and this place handles all of that perfectly.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 1 large double bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• D’asia from United States (9/10)

  How the location was very private and intimate quiet and cozy.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities