Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first pulled up to the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, I wasn’t sure what to expect – the name alone is quite a mouthful. But you know what? This place actually surprised me in the best way possible. It sits right on Kailua Bay, and I mean right on it, so you’re basically stepping from the lobby onto one of the few sandy beaches in downtown Kona. The hotel itself feels like it’s been part of the Big Island landscape forever, which makes sense since it’s built around the original King Kamehameha hotel that’s been welcoming visitors since the 1970s.

What really sold me on this place was how it balances that authentic Hawaiian vibe with modern comfort – something a lot of hotels struggle with, honestly. The rooms are clean and updated (thank goodness for good air conditioning when those trade winds die down), but they haven’t stripped away all the character in the name of renovation. You’ll find yourself spending most of your time on the lanai anyway, watching the sunset paint Kailua Bay in those impossible orange and pink colors that somehow look even better in person than in all those Instagram photos. The pool area is where things get interesting – it’s not huge or flashy, but it’s positioned perfectly so you can float around while still being part of the beach scene. I actually saw people transition seamlessly from pool to ocean and back again, which felt very… I don’t know, very Kona.

The location is what makes this hotel work, really. You’re walking distance from all the action on Alii Drive – the shops, restaurants, that whole tourist strip – but you’re also right where locals come to hang out on weekends. I’d wake up early (jet lag, you know how it is) and watch outrigger canoe teams practicing in the bay, then later see families setting up for beach days right outside my window. Sure, it’s a 3-star property and sometimes it shows – the wifi can be spotty, and don’t expect lightning-fast room service – but honestly, when you’re in a place this beautiful, those minor inconveniences fade pretty quickly. The staff genuinely seems to love living here, which always makes a difference in how they treat guests. If you’re looking for that perfect balance of convenience, authenticity, and actually being on a real beach in Kona (not just near one), this place delivers. Just don’t expect it to be the fanciest hotel you’ve ever stayed in – expect it to be one of the most memorable.

Rooms

• Queen Room with Balcony with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• King Room with Sofa Bed with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• King Room with Oceanfront View with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and Oceanfront View with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• King Room with Ocean View with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Queen Room with Ocean View with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Guest room, Resort view with 2 large double beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Guest room, 2 Queen, Resort view, Balcony with 2 large double beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Queen Room with Two Queen Beds with Mountain view with 2 large double beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• King Room with Mountain View and Sofa Bed with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Michal from United Kingdom (8/10)

  We upgraded to Oceanfront View room, so the view from the balcony was outstanding!!! I think any other room could "slightly" change our rating.

• Nancy from United States (6/10)

  Beautiful view of the sea! Interesting series of historical paintings in the lobby.

• Fiona from United States (6/10)

  Location, facilities, staff were friendly.

• David from United States (8/10)

  Location

• Diane from United States (8/10)

  Close to shopping good amenities

• Mc from United States (7/10)

  the beach and pool were nice. The food at the restaurants was very good.

• Phillip from United States (9/10)

  Location and staff were excellent.

• M from Switzerland (8/10)

  very conveniently located surrounded by many shops and restaurants. Also the hotel is one of the main pickup points for many tour organizers. quick access to the beach and about 15min ride to the Kona airport. Staff was nice and kind. The hotel has a beautiful hall showing various historical heritage.

• Neil from United Kingdom (6/10)

  Location

• Stacie from United States (8/10)

  Daughter got married on property

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities