Royal Kona Resort

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about the Royal Kona Resort – it’s one of those places that grows on you, even if your first impression might be “hmm, this feels a bit dated.” Walking into the lobby, you can tell this isn’t some shiny new property, but honestly? That’s part of its charm. The place has this old-school Hawaii vibe that reminds you of what Kona was like before everything got super polished and touristy.

The location is actually pretty fantastic – you’re right on Ali’i Drive, which means you can literally walk to most of the good stuff in Kailua-Kona without dealing with the nightmare that is parking downtown (trust me on this one). I mean, you’ve got the pier where all the fishing boats come in right there, and if you’re up early enough, you can watch them unload the catch of the day. The sunset views from the oceanfront rooms are legitimately spectacular – like, stop-whatever-you’re-doing-and-grab-your-phone spectacular. And here’s something most people don’t realize: the resort sits on this little rocky outcrop, so even though it’s a 3-star place, you get these dramatic ocean views that feel way more expensive than what you’re paying.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it – some of the rooms could use a refresh, and the Wi-Fi can be spotty (welcome to the Big Island, where Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate with technology). But the staff? They’re genuinely local folks who know the island inside and out. The front desk guy – I think his name was Kawika – gave me better restaurant recommendations than any travel blog ever could. Plus, there’s this little-known spot by the pool where you can actually see green sea turtles hanging out in the rocks below. Most guests rush off to Turtle Beach or whatever, but if you just sit there with a coffee around 7 AM, you’ll spot them. The resort also has this luau that’s way more authentic than the big commercial ones – smaller crowd, actual Hawaiian families performing, and the kalua pig is legit. Sure, it’s not going to win any luxury awards, but there’s something refreshing about a place that feels real instead of like a themed resort trying too hard to be “Hawaiian.” If you want genuine local flavor without the resort fees and pretension, this place delivers.

Rooms

• Lagoon Tower Renovation Rate Ocean View Room with 1 extra-large double bed, or and 2 double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Standard Room, 1 King with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults, 2 children
• Lagoon Tower Renovation Rate Oceanfront Room with 1 extra-large double bed, or and 2 double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Lagoon Tower Renovation Rate Partial Ocean View Room with 1 extra-large double bed, or and 2 double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Lagoon Tower Renovation Rate Standard Room with 1 extra-large double bed, or and 2 double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Standard Room, 2 Doubles with 2 double beds for 4 adults
• Partial Ocean View Room, 1 King with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults
• Corner King Oceanfront with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults
• Partial Ocean View Room, 2 Doubles with 2 double beds for 4 adults
• Oceanfront Room, 2 Doubles with 2 double beds for 4 adults
• Ocean View Room, 2 Doubles with 2 double beds for 4 adults
• Ocean View Room, 1 King with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults
• Oceanfront Room, 1 King with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults

Reviews

• Ke from Canada (8/10)

  love everything about this hotel! the great value and everyone is so nice here!

• Xi from United States (7/10)

• Connie from United States (8/10)

  Great location, loved the luau on-site, comfortable rooms and friendly, responsive staff.

• Influnza from United States (7/10)

  Restaurant on premises, open throughout the holidays with good quality and delicious food and drinks. Live entertainment. Dining next to crushing waves was my favorite part of the trip!
  Convenient and cheap laundromat on premises.
  Very close to a local grocery store and a little mall, good location.
  Walking distance to waterfront, parks, more dining, shopping, etc.
  The tidal lagoon was amazing, but beware of sea urchins! Beautiful sunsets.

• Aurora from United States (9/10)

  Great location, good gym, great staff.

• Marco from United States (9/10)

  Location is great. Free welcome drinks!

• Balaji from India (7/10)

  The location and amenities.

• Roopashree from United States (7/10)

  Location, staff was very helpful, hula dance and other activities within the resort..

• Sallie from United States (9/10)

  Great food

• Travis from United States (7/10)

  Great view from the 7th floor sea view rooms overlooking pool and Luau. Restaurant and bar is excellent.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities