Kona Reef Resort

When planning a Hawaii getaway, it’s all about location. Perched on a bluff on the leeward shore of the Big Island (aka the Western shore for you mainlanders) overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the Kahalui Bay, Kona Reef Resort is in the perfect spot to explore all that Kailua-Kona (often just called Kona) has to offer. Not only is the resort right on the beach, it’s walking distance to Downtown Kona. Alternate your days between browsing boutiques and restaurants downtown and lounging in the sun and building sandcastles at the beach. Honl’s Beach is a bit choppy for leisurely swims, but this quaint little beach is the birthplace of boogie boarding! Feel like a refreshing dip? While the seasoned swimmers boogie board and body surf to their hearts’ content, head to the pool deck. Hot tubs, loungers, and communal barbecue grills all have ocean views, with the outdoor pool as the epicenter of the resort. Rendezvous with the crew to discuss dinner options - you can always go out to one of the many nearby eateries, but oceanside family cookout will really get you into the aloha spirit. Grab fresh veggies and the catch of the day from your suite (good thing you stocked up at the Kona Farmer’s Market) and enlist your crew’s self proclaimed grillmaster to tend to the seafood while you set up sides. Cap the evening with a sunset soak in the hot tub overlooking the Pacific and congratulate yourself on your vacation-planning skills.

One- and two-bedroom condo suites are individually decorated with some personal style and island flair, and always well appointed with everything you need to feel right at home. A fully equipped kitchen makes home-cooking a breeze, while a private lanai adds island charm. With ample seating - including a sleeper sofa - and TV the living room provides an inviting space for downtime with crew. So pack a few favorite DVDs, pick up some microwave popcorn and get ready for for family movie night.

Snorkeling, diving, surfing, boogie boarding - oceanic adventures abound on the Big Island, but one of Kona Reef’s biggest draws is that it’s the closest resort to Downtown Kona. A short walk will take you to a plethora of fun shops and top notch eateries. For a great cup of Kona coffee (duh) and breakfast with an ocean view hit up Island Lava Java. Surprise your crew’s carnivores with lunch at TJ’s BBQ by the Beach for their world-famous ribs (pro tip: call in to preorder, they sell out every afternoon!). Planning a fancy dinner date? Splurge with a reservation at Ulu Ocean Grill to dine on the best sushi on the island.