Best Luxury Hotels in Kailua-Kona

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, offers 150 free-standing hales and villas along the lava-lined shores of Kahuwai Bay on the western edge of Hawaii’s Big Island. Once a famed barefoot escape in the 1960s, the property has been thoughtfully restored under Rosewood’s stewardship, blending its storied past with contemporary refinement. The setting feels remote and elemental, with volcanic rock, ocean views and swaying palms defining the landscape, while the architecture and design celebrate traditional Hawaiian construction, tactile materials and open-air flow.

The atmosphere is understated and culturally rooted, appealing to families and couples looking for space, authenticity and barefoot sophistication. Each accommodation is an individual structure, with outdoor showers, local artwork, sustainable finishes and indoor-outdoor living as standard. Dining is a highlight, with venues that honour Hawaiian flavours, seafood and regional produce, including signature restaurant Moana and the more relaxed Kahuwai Cookhouse and Market.

Wellness is anchored by Asaya Spa, surrounded by lava and tropical foliage, with treatments guided by Hawaiian healing traditions. Guests can also make use of the yoga pavilion, modern fitness centre and two serene outdoor pools. A robust cultural programme, ocean adventures, and direct access to a private beach complete the experience. Children are welcomed with a nature-forward kids club, and nearby attractions include coffee plantations, historic Hawaiian sites and the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Big Island.