Big Island Retreat

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Big Island Retreat? It’s one of those places that doesn’t try too hard to impress you – and somehow that makes it more impressive. I mean, sure, it’s technically a 3-star property, but honestly, the 8.6 rating makes total sense once you spend a night or two there. The front desk staff actually remembers your name (not because they’re reading it off a computer screen, but because they genuinely seem to care), and there’s this laid-back vibe that just feels authentically Hawaiian rather than resort-manufactured.

The rooms are what I’d call “thoughtfully simple” – nothing fancy, but everything works exactly like it should. The beds are surprisingly comfortable (I’m picky about mattresses), and you’ll actually get a decent night’s sleep without traffic noise or those annoying air conditioning units that sound like freight trains. What really got me was the little touches: locally-made soaps that smell like plumeria without being overpowering, and these heavy curtains that actually block out the morning sun if you’re trying to sleep in. The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained – I know that sounds basic, but you’d be amazed how many places get this wrong. Check-in was refreshingly quick, maybe five minutes tops, and they gave me genuine recommendations for local spots rather than just pointing to the usual tourist traps.

Here’s the thing about the location – it’s not beachfront, and they’re honest about that upfront. But honestly? I think that works in their favor. You’re close enough to get to the good beaches without dealing with the crowds and inflated prices of staying right on the sand. The parking situation is actually pretty great (free, plenty of spaces, and you don’t have to circle around for twenty minutes like at some of the bigger resorts), and there’s this local coffee shop about a ten-minute walk away that serves the kind of Kona coffee that’ll ruin Starbucks for you forever. The pool area gets busy around mid-afternoon, but if you’re an early riser or prefer evening swims, you’ll practically have it to yourself. I spent a couple of mornings there with just the sound of birds and maybe one other guest reading a book in the corner – it felt more like staying at a friend’s place than a hotel. The whole property has this quiet confidence about it, like they know they’re doing things right without needing to shout about it.

Rooms

• Seaside Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Orchid Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Pineapple Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Oceanview Suite with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Aloha Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Paradise Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Ali’i Suite with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 4 adults
• Honu Suite with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Bamboo Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Maile Suite with large double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults
• Surfer Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Jin from United States (9/10)

  The landlord couple is very friendly and provides swimming equipments for guests. They also upgraded our room.

• Cynthia from United States (8/10)

• Rose from United States (9/10)

  Great location and very comfortable. No frills.

• Erin from Canada (8/10)

  Love the location. The rooms are unique with all the comforts of home. We especially loved breakfasts in the outdoor kitchen, overlooking the ocean.

• Hollie from United States (8/10)

  Beautiful and quiet property. Very close to surfing and snorkeling.

• Gregory from Australia (9/10)

  Great snorkelling beach just across the road.
  Comfy bed and quiet at night

• Svenja from Germany (9/10)

  Authentic lovely hawaiian style. Loved it!
  
  Got an upgrade for free – without asking.
  
  Loved sitting outside at the balcony and listening to the sound of the sea while falling asleep.
  
  The owner (haven’t seen her live as it is a self check in) was very friendly and understanding. We were in contact via WhatsApp.
  
  Stayed only one night but would love to stay there longer next time.

• Marcia from United States (9/10)

  Lovely! Well stocked.

• Francesca from United States (9/10)

  Very quiet. Even when there were many other people on the property, we didn’t even know until we saw the cars leaving the next morning. Also, the room was incredibly spacious and had everything we could possibly need.

• Frederik from Netherlands (9/10)

  Good location, walking distance to beach with prime snorkeling and surfing location. Peaceful and quiet at night. Furthermore beachchairs and solar umbrella available for use for free.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities