Big Island Kona Ali’i by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first heard “Big Island Kona Ali’i by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations,” I was expecting some generic vacation rental situation. But you know what? This 3-star spot actually surprised me in the best way possible. The name’s a mouthful, sure, but don’t let that throw you off because the 9.0 rating isn’t just inflated review padding – people genuinely love staying here.

What struck me right away is how this place gets the Kona vibe without trying too hard. I mean, you’re staying in actual condos and vacation rentals rather than some cookie-cutter hotel, which honestly makes all the difference when you’re planning to hang out on the Big Island for more than a couple nights. The units I’ve seen have that lived-in feeling that vacation rentals do when they’re managed well – you get real kitchens (not those sad hotel kitchenettes), actual living spaces where you can spread out your snorkel gear, and lanais where you can drink your morning coffee without feeling like you’re performing for other tourists. There’s something refreshing about having space to breathe, especially after you’ve spent the day exploring somewhere like Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau or driving back from a Mauna Kea sunset that ran way later than planned.

The Coldwell Banker management part actually matters more than you’d think – I’ve stayed in Big Island vacation rentals where you’re basically on your own if anything goes wrong, but these folks seem to have their act together. Check-in was straightforward, the units are consistently maintained (no weird smells or broken AC that ruins your whole trip), and when I had a question about the best spot to grab poke that wasn’t totally touristy, the local contact actually knew what they were talking about. The location puts you close enough to Kailua-Kona’s action without being right in the thick of the cruise ship crowds, which – trust me – you’ll appreciate when those massive ships roll into port and suddenly everywhere’s packed. You can still walk to decent restaurants and that little stretch of shops, but you’re not dealing with the chaos right outside your door. Parking’s not a nightmare either, which anyone who’s circled downtown Kona looking for a spot will tell you is worth mentioning. It’s the kind of place where you can actually relax between adventures, cook some of that amazing Big Island produce you picked up at the farmers market, and plan your next day without feeling rushed or cramped.

Rooms

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

Reviews

• Eliza from Australia (8/10)

  The location was great, the condo had everything we needed, and the pool was great.

• Sonia from Australia (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities