Thanks for the reminder! Got back couple of days ago, went for 8 days.
The big island is great. Although, if you are urban, not that big in size. So in hindsight for, say for a 1 week stay:
- Stay mostly HiLo and drive to volcano (40min) and see real volcano stuff at national park total bargain for days of MMM fun. Lava. You can drive north too, easy 1.5 hrs. To drive across the super scenic saddle road across the island is now very easy, not 'banned' by rental companies, and is 2 hrs from Hilo to Kona. Hell, it's as big as Houston, basically.
- go camping in Kailua Kona, self cater and buy at farmers markets or in Hilo. Rental car is essential I'm afraid, but if staying for 2+ weeks I'd be tempted to buy one and resell.
- we used priceline after we arrived and got some great last minute deals at super luxurious resorts. But incidental costs will kill you unless you are a ruthless sneaky self catering mustashian. Take a cheap snorkel kit and an inflatable thingy. Refillable bottles, snacks, booze, you get the drill. But treat the staff well. Great for 1 special night. I'd recommend Hilton resort north of kona. Check in early, hang around late after a late check out. Awesome place. Lagoon, boats, monorail, balcony, dolphins, turtles, pools galore, super luxurious and totally trippy. We got it for 190 a night incl. Taxes. Totally worth it.
- In Hilo, we loved "Hilo Seaside Hotel." 2 star, but free beach 20 m away, great pool, clean rooms with 2 dbl beds and ensuite, and a very good restaurant. Again, rack rate is 129 plus tax, but we bid it for 90 incl. Tax. Billies is another awesome place. Again, 2 star. But friendly, no problem with the self catering, wonderful.
- it is advanced mustashianism, generally. The whole place is set up to milk tourists at every turn. Surprise compulsory resort fees @$30 per day. $20 for 'self parking' , breakfast $30++ , etc etc etc. Use the force, Luke!
We had a blast. And will return.
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