Kona vs. Hilo: Which Side of the Big Island is Best for Your Trip?

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Hello Beautiful Soul!

So, you’ve decided to visit the Big Island—amazing choice! But now comes the big question that trips up almost every first-time visitor: Should I stay in Kona or Hilo?

Having lived on the Big Island for over a decade, I can tell you this: they are two completely different worlds. Choosing the wrong side for your travel style can make or break your trip. Kona is the sun-drenched, resort-filled side, while Hilo is the lush, rainy, and wild side.

Think of me as your personal island guide, helping you decide where to unpack your bags. Let’s break down the vibe, the weather, and the activities for each side so you can choose the perfect base for your restorative getaway.

Kona (The Sunny, Social Side)

Kona, officially Kailua-Kona, is located on the west side of the island. It’s the side most tourists are familiar with, and for good reason!

The Vibe: Laid-back, sunny, and focused on ocean life. Kona is where you’ll find the majority of the resorts, boutique shopping along Ali‘i Drive, and the best snorkeling and diving spots. It feels more like a classic Hawaiian vacation.

The Weather: Dry, hot, and sunny almost every day. If you need guaranteed sunshine, Kona is your spot.

Best For:

  • Ocean activities (snorkeling, manta ray dives, sunset cruises).
  • Coffee lovers (it’s home to the famous Kona coffee belt).
  • Travelers who prefer easy access to restaurants and nightlife.
  • Those who want to stay in mid-range to luxury hotels.

Where to Stay (Kona Options):

Top Activities (Kona Focus):

Hilo (The Lush, Adventurous Side)

Hilo is located on the east side of the island. It’s the older, more traditional Hawaiian town, surrounded by rainforests and waterfalls.

The Vibe: Authentic, local, and very green. Hilo is less polished than Kona, but it offers incredible access to nature, including the famous Volcanoes National Park. It feels more like an adventure base camp.

The Weather: Wet and cool. Hilo gets significantly more rain than Kona, which is why it’s so lush! Don’t worry, the rain often comes in short bursts.

Best For:

  • Nature lovers and hikers.
  • Travelers prioritizing Volcanoes National Park and waterfalls.
  • Those who prefer charming inns, eco-lodges, or vacation rentals over large resorts.
  • Budget-conscious travelers (Hilo tends to be slightly less expensive).

Where to Stay (Hilo Options):

  • Hilo Options  (These links offer a variety of charming inns and eco-lodges near the action!)

Top Activities (Hilo Focus):

The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

If you have 7 days (like in my itinerary): The best choice is to split your time! Start in Kona for the sun and ocean, then move to Hilo for the volcano and rainforest. This requires a rental car or inter-resort transfer, but it ensures you see the full diversity of the island.

If you only have 3-4 days:

  • Choose Kona if your priority is relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, and enjoying resort amenities.
  • Choose Hilo if your priority is seeing the volcano, chasing waterfalls, and experiencing the island’s raw, natural beauty.

No matter which side you choose, the Big Island is waiting to offer you a truly restorative experience.

Have you been to the Big Island? Which side stole your heart—Kona or Hilo? Share your favorite spots in the comments below!

Stay stylish, stay adventurous, and keep chasing those sunsets.