Kona Reef Resort by Latour Group

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much from Kona Reef Resort when I first pulled up – it’s got that sort of unassuming three-star vibe that could go either way. But honestly, this place surprised me in the best possible way. The lobby has this laid-back Hawaiian feel without trying too hard, and the staff actually seemed happy to be there (which, let’s be real, isn’t always a given at resort properties).

What really won me over was how the place sits right on the water – I mean, you’re literally watching the waves roll in from your lanai if you snag an oceanfront unit. The sound of the surf becomes your soundtrack, which beats the usual hotel hallway noise any day. The units themselves are pretty spacious for a condo-style setup, and while the decor isn’t going to win any design awards, everything feels clean and functional. The kitchen setup is actually useful too – not just some sad mini-fridge situation. I ended up grabbing fresh fish from the local market and cooking a few meals, which saved a ton of money and felt way more authentic than another resort restaurant dinner.

Here’s the thing though – this isn’t one of those massive resort complexes where you feel like cattle. Kona Reef has maybe 130 units, so it feels more intimate, almost residential. The pool area gets busy during peak season (winter months when everyone’s escaping the mainland cold), but I found if you hit it before 9 AM or after 4 PM, you pretty much have it to yourself. The snorkeling right off the property is decent – not world-class, but you’ll see some colorful fish without having to drive anywhere. Parking is actually included, which might not sound like a big deal until you start seeing those $25-a-night parking fees at other places around town. The location puts you close enough to Kailua-Kona’s main strip that you can walk to dinner, but far enough out that you’re not dealing with the cruise ship crowds every single day. I’d definitely stay here again – it’s one of those places that just gets the balance right between comfort and authenticity without breaking the bank.

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

• One-Bedroom Suite with large double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• One-Bedroom Suite with Ocean View with 2 × 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• Two-Bedroom Suite with Ocean View with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 6 adults, 2 children
• One Bedroom Suite with Ocean Front View with 2 × 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 2 children

Reviews

• Marina from Australia (9/10)

  Large self contained apartment, with balcony, right on the beach. Close to shops and restaurants. Free parking and great pool area with BBQ’s.

• Michael from United States (8/10)

  The space and amenities were great and the location was perfect.

• Leo from Canada (7/10)

  Location is great, only a short stroll to the village

• Joyce from Singapore (7/10)

  Good location. Fully equipped with washer and dryer. Full kitchen with dishwasher, tablets and dishwashing liquid!

• Stephen from Canada (8/10)

  Close proximity to town, very competent and friendly staff.

• Samuel from United States (7/10)

  Good location and clean

• Timothy from United States (9/10)

  No breakfast.

• Victoria from United States (8/10)

  Nice view. Comfortable room. Generally clean. Close to many things. Good parking. Everything needed in kitchen. We were in B 35 and that was good room. Sofa bed was pretty comfortable. AC was good.

• Denise from United States (8/10)

  The location is perfect! Only 1 mile walk into town. Very convenient to restaurants and stores.

• Marcia from United States (8/10)

  Great location

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities