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Elena Mathis
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My Reviews

Hawaii (Big Island) Where to Honeymoon on the Kohala Coast

by Elena Mathis last updated on 07/25/2008 Disclaimer

Waipio Lookout in Hawaii (Big Island)

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Hawaii is the biggest island of all the Hawaiian Islands so there are tons of places to explore. I've driven around the island (a "must do" daytrip), so I can personally attest to that fact. However, we stayed along the Kohala Coast, so that is where I will focus this review. First, you have Waikoloa Village, and while it's a lovely place to visit - you may not want to stay there. I don't say that because the accommodations are subpar or because there is anything wrong with the village, in fact, the major benefit to staying at the larger resorts, namely Hilton Waikoloa Village and Waikoloa Beach Marriott, is that they are on or very close to the beach. However, these resorts and the surrounding condos cater mostly to families - which isn't all that fantastic for couples looking for a romantic honeymoon vacation.

Now located very near to Waikoloa Village (still on the Kohala Coast) are 2 more resorts, Kona Village and the Four Seasons Hualalai. I have been to Kona Village and again, it's a lovely resort. In fact, it is the only "inclusive" resort on all of the Hawaiian islands (which means your room rate pays for more than just a room!). Again though, it didn't strike me as that romantic getaway (although I would higly recommend their luau). So my best recommendation (and my past honeymoon clients echo this sentiment) who tell me that the best places to stay on the Kohala Coast are Four Seasons Hualalai and The Fairmont Orchid.

These luxury resorts get the vote due to their service and exclusivity. While the Four Seasons may require a luxury budget, one of the nicest aspects of it is that when you arrive, you can just relax. All of the little details are taken care of and you don't have to worry that your account will be charged $6.00 if you take a sip of the bottled water left in your room. Plus it's located on a one-half mile stretch of beach, and while all the beaches in Hawaii are public, some are inaccessible to the public. This happens to be one of them.

The Fairmont gets rave reviews on service. The Gold Concierge Floor is a prime example of this. Known as a "Hotel within a Hotel", this concierge level is located on the 6th floor and features private check-in; private concierge; exclusive lounge and outdoor lanai; as well as upgraded in-room amenities. Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon pupus are served daily in the Fairmont Gold Lounge. Talk about a "golden" honeymoon! Even if you opt for standard accommodations all guests benefit from a beautiful beachfront, and the award winning "Spa Without Walls".

This review appears on Hawaii (The Big Island) and Hawaii.