Big Island Waiulaula at Mauna Kea by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first heard the name “Big Island Waiulaula at Mauna Kea by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations,” I thought someone was just throwing Hawaiian words together – but it actually makes perfect sense once you’re there. The property sits in this gorgeous spot where you can see Mauna Kea’s massive silhouette dominating the horizon, and “Waiulaula” means “red water,” which you’ll understand if you catch the sunset hitting the coastline just right.

This isn’t your typical resort setup – it’s more like staying in a well-appointed vacation rental that happens to have professional management behind it. The Coldwell Banker folks really know what they’re doing here, and you can tell they’ve figured out all those little details that make or break a Big Island stay. I mean, they actually provide beach gear that isn’t falling apart, and the kitchen comes stocked with basics so you’re not making a Safeway run the moment you arrive (though you’ll probably want to hit the Waimea farmers market anyway – trust me on this one). The 3-star rating might make you think it’s basic, but that 8.0 guest rating tells the real story. It’s not fancy for fancy’s sake, but everything works beautifully, and the setting is absolutely unbeatable.

What really gets me about this place is how it puts you right in the sweet spot of the island – close enough to Waimea’s paniolo country that you can grab dinner at Merriman’s without planning your whole day around it, but far enough from the Kona crowds that you actually feel like you’re experiencing the real Big Island. The mornings are incredible here; you’ll wake up to these crisp, clear views that make you understand why they put all those telescopes up on Mauna Kea. And honestly, the stargazing from the property itself is pretty spectacular – you don’t always need to make the trek up the mountain, especially if you’re dealing with altitude sensitivity. The trade winds keep things comfortable most of the time, though you’ll want a light jacket for evenings. I’d definitely recommend this spot if you’re looking for something that feels authentically Hawaiian without sacrificing comfort – just don’t expect a concierge or daily housekeeping. It’s more about having your own little piece of paradise with the backup of professional property management when you need it.

Many travelers prefer to book apartments in Hawaii through local agencies that offer personalized recommendations and insider knowledge about the best locations for exploring the islands’ pristine beaches and hidden gems.

Rooms

• Three-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 2 single beds for 6 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities