Question 1

What is the best area to stay on the Big Island?

Accepted Answer

The Kohala Coast and Waikoloa Beach Resort area on the dry, sunny west side of the Big Island are consistently rated the best base for a luxury vacation. This leeward coast receives less than 10 inches of rain per year, delivering sunshine most days while the rest of the island experiences tropical showers. KBM properties on the Kohala Coast provide direct access to Anaehoomalu Bay, the Mauna Lani and Fairmont Orchid resorts, world-class snorkeling at the reef, and Pete's golf courses. Hilo and Puna on the east side offer lush rainforest and active lava flows but far more rain. For beach weather, sunsets, and resort amenities, the Kohala Coast is the unambiguous choice. All KBM Big Island stays include a complimentary rental car on 6+ nights.

Question 2

Do Big Island vacation rentals include a rental car?

Accepted Answer

Yes — KBM Resorts includes a complimentary rental car on all Big Island stays of 6 nights or more. The Big Island lives up to its name — at 4,028 square miles, it is larger than all other Hawaiian islands combined, and a car is absolutely essential. Without a car, guests cannot visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the green sand beach at Papakolea, the black sand beach at Punaluu, or the Mauna Kea Summit for stargazing. Even within the Waikoloa resort corridor, distances between beaches, shops, and restaurants make a car necessary. KBM concierge can arrange shorter rental periods for stays under 6 nights at preferred partner rates. The included car is one of the most valuable benefits of booking directly with KBM.

Question 3

When is the best time to visit the Big Island?

Accepted Answer

The Big Island offers exceptional weather year-round, particularly on the Kohala Coast where KBM properties are concentrated. April through June and September through November are considered the best months, combining favorable weather with lower nightly rates and fewer visitors. Winter from December through March is peak season, bringing families and whale watchers. Ocean conditions are calmest from May through September, making this the best window for snorkeling with manta rays and dolphins. The Kohala Coast itself is remarkably consistent — rainfall here is among the lowest in all of Hawaii, meaning your vacation is rarely disrupted by weather. The Big Island is one of the few Hawaiian destinations where visiting year-round is genuinely dependable.

Question 4

What activities are near KBM Big Island properties?

Accepted Answer

The Big Island offers an unmatched range of activities within easy driving distance of KBM properties. Top experiences include night snorkeling or diving with manta rays off the Kona Coast (one of the most unique wildlife encounters in the world), visiting the active lava fields and Kilauea Caldera at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stargazing at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (13,796 feet elevation), snorkeling the pristine reefs at Two-Step and Kahaluu Beach Park, and playing championship golf at the Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea courses. Dolphin-watching boat tours depart daily from Kailua-Kona. The green sand beach at Papakolea and the black sand beach at Punaluu are within a day-trip distance. KBM concierge handles all booking and logistics.

Kohala Vacation Rentals