Big Island Retreat

The old-school Hawaiian feel is so much fun, and the location is hard to beat. There's an amazing beach right across the street where you can take surfing lessons. The shared library takes it up a notch, with masks, snorkels, shoes, chairs, and boogie boards to borrow. Laundry service, too, and everything is centrally located.

I don't usually write reviews, but Big Island Retreat deserves one. It's one of the most peaceful, relaxing places I've stayed after a lot of travel. From the deck outside my room, I could sip Kona coffee and listen to the surf, with sweeping views all around. There's also a rock and water garden in the atrium. The rooms are pleasant and the hotel is well equipped. The nearby beach is great for paddle boarding, snorkeling, or surfing, and it's one of the best places to learn to surf. Kona is a very short drive away, with plenty of good restaurants.

We had a lovely one-night stay in the Pineapple Room. Self check-in made things easy, and the accommodation is ideally placed for shopping, restaurants, the beach, and highway access. Parking can be a little tricky, especially if you arrive after dark.

After a day out exploring, it was easy to relax in the laid-back atmosphere and well-kept spaces. There are loaner beach items, including snorkels, masks, and fins, plus a separate barbecue house with a kitchen and laundry. The open-air rooms don't have air conditioning, but the ceiling fans and sea breeze kept ours pleasantly cool. The bed was firm but comfortable, and check-in was quick and easy. Big Island Retreat is affordable and comfortable, a great fit for a relaxing island stay. I'd recommend it for the comfort, convenience, and value.