Keauhou Resort 116

Hotel Description

So, Keauhou Resort 116 – honestly, when I first pulled up to this place, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. It’s got that solid four-star feel without trying too hard to impress you with marble everything, you know? The Big Island can be tricky with accommodations, but this spot actually gets it right in ways that matter.

What really won me over was how they’ve managed to capture that authentic Kona vibe without feeling touristy. I mean, you’re right there in Keauhou – and if you don’t know the area, it’s this perfect sweet spot about ten minutes south of Kailua-Kona where locals actually hang out. You can walk down to Keauhou Bay in the morning (seriously, do this – the manta rays come in close to shore), and there’s this little coffee stand nearby that the resort staff actually recommended. That’s when you know a place isn’t just phoning it in. The whole area smells like plumeria and ocean salt, especially in the evenings when the trade winds pick up.

Now, I’ll be straight with you – a 7.0 rating isn’t going to blow your mind, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want. The room was clean, comfortable, had decent AC (crucial in Kona heat), and the lanai faced west so you actually get those legendary Hawaiian sunsets everyone talks about. Parking was easy, which honestly surprised me because Big Island resorts can be weird about that. Check-in was smooth, though the front desk gets slammed around 3 PM when everyone’s arriving from mainland flights. The pool area gets busy with families during the day, but by evening it’s pretty chill – perfect for a beer while watching the sun drop into the Pacific. One thing that bugged me slightly was the ice machine on my floor was broken, but maintenance fixed it the next day without me even asking.

Here’s what you need to know though – Keauhou isn’t Waikiki. It’s quieter, more residential, and you’ll need a car if you want to explore (which you absolutely should). But that’s exactly why I’d go back. You’re close enough to all the Kona action – the historic downtown, the coffee farms up in the hills, the snorkeling at Honaunau – but you’re not stuck in the middle of cruise ship crowds. The resort sits in this neighborhood where you’ll see locals jogging in the mornings and kids riding bikes, which gives you that real Hawaii feeling instead of just vacation Hawaii. Plus, if you’re into diving or fishing charters, Keauhou Harbor is right there, and those captains know these waters better than anyone.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with extra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Joshua from Canada (7/10)

  Decent kitchen, great view, has air conditioning and near a strip mall.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities