Keauhou Punahele B301

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much from Keauhou Punahele B301 when I first pulled up – honestly, the name’s a bit of a mouthful and it looks pretty unassuming from the outside. But this little three-star spot in Keauhou really surprised me, and I mean that in the best way possible.

The thing about staying here is that you’re right in the heart of where locals actually hang out, not stuck in some touristy bubble. I’d wake up to the sound of mynah birds chattering in the palm trees (way better than traffic noise, trust me), and you can actually walk to some decent local spots without needing to drive everywhere. The unit itself – B301 – has this lived-in feel that’s comfortable rather than sterile. Sure, the furnishings aren’t going to win any design awards, but everything works and it’s clean, which honestly matters more when you’re spending your days exploring the Big Island anyway. The lanai becomes your morning coffee spot pretty quickly, and if you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll catch those trade winds that make even the humid days bearable.

What really sold me on this place was how it feels like you’re staying in someone’s actual home rather than a hotel room. The kitchen’s got everything you need if you want to hit up the local farmers market – and you should, because the produce here is incredible. I found myself cooking breakfast most mornings just because I could, something I never do at regular hotels. The neighbors are a mix of locals and other travelers, but it’s quiet enough that you’re not dealing with party noise or slamming doors at all hours. Parking’s straightforward too, which might sound boring but you’ll appreciate it after dealing with some of the cramped lots at other places around the island. The 8.0 rating makes sense once you’ve been there a few days – it’s not luxury, but it delivers on what matters: a comfortable base that doesn’t feel like every other generic accommodation. I actually found myself looking forward to coming back each evening, especially after long days hiking or beach-hopping, because it just felt… well, sort of like home, I guess. If you’re the type who wants to experience Hawaii more like a temporary resident than a tourist passing through, this spot gets it right.

Rooms

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

Reviews

• Karo from United States (7/10)

  I liked the location and that all the supplies were there.

• Mayir from France (8/10)

  Great location with a shared swimming pool

• Christopher from Japan (8/10)

  We loved how spacious the condo is. There was plenty of room for our family. The views are quite nice and offer excellent sunsets. It’s a very comfortable place. Location is nice, especially for access to south Kona places like Kahalu`u, Captain Cook, etc. There is a grocery store nearby. We enjoyed the pool and hot tub area.

• Berdolt from France (7/10)

  Appartement sur belle propriété bien entretenue. Terrasse magnifique avec vue sur l’Océan. L’appartemment est grand et bien équipé avec de l’Electroménager de qualité et tout le nécessaire. De nombreux articles cependant à changer (couteaux rouillés, poeles et casseroles en fin de vie, le porte shampoing dans la douche complètement rouillé, le balai brosse que nous regrettons encore d’avoir soulevé..)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities