Kona Mansions D231

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about Kona Mansions D231 – it’s one of those places that grows on you once you figure out what you’re getting into. First impression? Well, it’s not going to wow you with some fancy lobby or doorman, but honestly, that’s kind of the point. This is more like staying in someone’s well-kept condo that happens to be in a pretty decent spot on the Big Island.

The thing about this place is that it actually feels like you’re living somewhere rather than just passing through. I mean, you’ve got a proper kitchen (and I’m talking full-size appliances, not those sad mini-fridges), which becomes pretty crucial when you realize how much you’ll save not eating out for every single meal in Kona. The unit itself has that sort of lived-in comfort – nothing too flashy, but everything works and it’s clean. You know what really surprised me? How quiet it gets at night. I was expecting typical vacation rental chaos, but the building’s solid and most people staying here seem to actually respect the fact that others are trying to sleep.

The location is where things get interesting. You’re not right in the thick of the touristy Kailua-Kona action, which honestly might be a good thing depending on what you’re after. It’s close enough that you can easily get to Ali’i Drive for dinner or coffee, but far enough that you’re not dealing with all the cruise ship crowds every time you step outside. Parking is straightforward – there’s actually space, which anyone who’s tried to park near the pier will appreciate. The real win here is that you’re positioned well for both the beach stuff and if you want to explore upcountry or head over to the volcano. I found myself using it as a proper base camp rather than just a place to crash.

Here’s the thing though – this isn’t a resort experience. There’s no pool guy bringing you towels or concierge to book your snorkel trips. But if you’re the type who likes figuring things out on your own and wants a place that feels more authentic than those big hotel complexes, you’ll probably dig it. The 7.7 rating makes sense to me – it’s doing what it’s supposed to do well, just don’t expect it to be something it’s not. The price point reflects that too. You’re getting solid value for a decent space in a location that actually works for exploring the island, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults, 5 children

Reviews

• Carrie from United States (8/10)

  Wonderful location. There was ease of ammenities for a longer time stay. We grilled by the pool and swam often in the lightly salted pool (which was nice after an ocean day). It was difficult to figure out heating cooling consistency but that was more my challenge being from the main land. great value. I would have loved to have someone come and clean 1/2 way thru our stay since we stayed 11 days. That is a service that was offered and I will take them up on the offer next time.

• Alma from United States (7/10)

  Location! Walking distance to University of the Nations and beach park, be aware the beach is not swimable unless you are local or experienced boogie border. Beach has picnic tables and plenty of shade or sunbathing area. Condo walking distance to aproximatly the 2 mile board walk of shopping area. Partial view of ocean. Beach toys, chairs and beach towels

• Mcauley from Canada (3/10)

• Anonymous from Australia (8/10)

  location was excellent, the balcony view was exactly like the picture and nice in the mornings. It was great to be able to do laundry when travelling as a family. The bed were reasonably comfortable and the bedrooms were of decent size. comfortable sofa bed for my son to sleep on. Lovely pool area.

• Édith from Canada (8/10)

  L’emplacement, les commodités et tout. Proche de la mer et des restaurants, magasins.

• Anonymous from Switzerland (9/10)

  Sehr gute Lage. Gute Ausstattung. Schöner Ausblick.

• Kenneth from United States (7/10)

• Richard from Australia (8/10)

• Michael from United States (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities