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The Hawaiian Islands are some of my favotire places to visit in the world. The Big Island of Hawaii is no exception. This island is a must visit destination and a big contrast to the more popular islands of O'ahu and Maui. If you are looking for a slower and more relaxed vacation, the Big Island of Hawaii is your destination. Sitting along Hawaii's stunning North West coastline, the Hilton Waikoloa Village offers 62 acres of tropical paradise. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, this sprawling resort has something for everyone. Here is a full hotel review and everything you need to know before planning your trip.
Check out my Big Island Travel Guide for more tips on exploring the island and discovering other hotel options!
Booking
The best way to book a Hilton property is to be a Hilton Honors member and book direct from their website. As a member, you'll earn valuable points and build loyalty status for exciting perks on all future stays.
To further enhance your stay at any Hilton Property I always recommend booking with the Hilton Aspire Credit Card, a co-branded card filled with tons of amazing perks! With this card, you'll enjoy instant Diamond Status, unlocking: Bonus points for every stay, room upgrades (based on availability), and more. The card also comes with an annual $400 in Hotel Credits, $200 in Air Travel Credits and a free night certificate which easily offset the Annual Fee. Meeting spending requirements can also get you a 2nd and 3rd night free each year in addition to the points you will earn from everyday spending!
Use this referral link to apply for the Hilton Aspire Credit Card and start redeeming your benefits for your next adventure or relaxing vacation.
Location
The Big Island of Hawaii is the biggest but quietest of the major Hawaiian Islands. The property is located near Kona on the NW side of the Island. Hilton Waikoloa Village is a quick 20-minute drive North from Kona International Airport (KOA) and located in the Waikoloa Beach community where you will find shops, homes, and other hotels.
If you plan to adventure off the island then you will absolutely want to rent a vehicle. The resort does charge for general and valet parking so consider renting a car for the day from the resort which will help save you money.
The Property
The Hilton Waikoloa Village is a stunning property, but its size can feel overwhelming, especially for those staying in towers farther from the main areas. Expect plenty of walking, which can be tiring if you need frequent trips off-property.
To navigate the expansive grounds, the resort offers two transportation options: a scenic boat ride along the canals and a quicker tram. Both are fun to try but can be slow, requiring some patience.
The resort’s beautifully landscaped grounds feature lush greenery, waterfalls, koi ponds, and incredible ocean views. While the black lava rock makes nearby beaches unswimmable, the man-made lagoon provides sandy access, hammocks, and lounge chairs for relaxation.
The resort’s pools are a major highlight, offering options for everyone—from family-friendly areas with waterslides to tranquil adults-only spots.
Rooms and Accommodations
Hilton Waikoloa Village boasts multiple types of accommodations. The property consists of traditional Hotel Guest Rooms as well as Timeshares from the Hilton Grand Vacation Club. I have visited both types of rooms with each having benefits over the other.
Hilton Hotel Room Options
Makai at Lagoon Tower is the upgraded, premium experience with exclusive amenities, private check-in, and enhanced in-room features. This tower is closest to all of the action making it the best location to book.
Palace Tower Rooms are in the center of the resort and ideal for families. These rooms feature garden views and they are currently rennovating new rooms to be offered in 2025.
Hilton Grand Vacation Club Timeshare
Ocean Tower is part of the Hilton Grand Vacation Club timeshare program. This tower has its own pool and facilities but also has access to the rest of the resort just like the Hotel Guests. These rooms are larger and have a kitchenette which is a great way to save money. Pro Tip - head to the Costco by the Airport when you land. Pick up food, drinks, and snacks and the valet staff will take your groceries and luggage straight to your room at check-in.
Timeshares aren't for everyone but you can score a pretty good deal if you are willing to sit through the 90 minute tour and presentation. You can save a lot of money by doing this even if you aren't interested as I booked a 5 night trip for $500 with this offer.
Dining Options
There are tons of food options on preoprty from casual meals to fine dining.
Kamuela Provision Company (KPC): A fine dining experience offering fresh, locally sourced seafood and stunning sunset views.
Lagoon Grill: A casual spot perfect for burgers and tropical cocktails overlooking the dolphin lagoon.
Nui Italian: A family-friendly restaurant serving classic Italian dishes with a Hawaiian twist.
Big Island Breakfast at Water’s Edge: Start your day with a delicious buffet featuring fresh island fruits, Kona coffee, and made-to-order omelets.
There are a lof of great nearby restaraunts as well as well as a great supermarket in the community which has tons of fresh meals prepared (I love their sushi and poke).
Activities and Amenities
There is so much to do on property at the Hilton Waikloa Village. It almost feels like a Disney amusement park with the trams and boats.
The Pools & Lagoon
The resort’s has great pools and water slides available for all teh guests. Additioanlly, there is a four-acre saltwater lagoon perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming with tropical fish. I have seen a lot of turtles come in there! I even did morning Yoga on the paddle boards. There are seats and hammocks around the beach lagoon as well which is my fabroite place to relax.
Spa and Fitness
Start your morning with a workout in their big gym, take a yoga class, jump on the tennis courts, or just walk around the property. Treat yourself to a spa treament as well for the ultimate way to relax. They even have treatment rooms outdoors where you can enjoy the beautiful weather and sound of waves crashing as you enjoy your massage. Pro Tip - spa treaments are a great way to use that $200 Hilton Amex credit!
Golf
Golfers will appreciate access to two championship courses: the Waikoloa Beach Course and the Waikoloa Kings’ Course. The course and views are stunning.
Cultural Experiences
Embrace and learn about the Hawaiian culture with lei-making classes, hula lessons, or head to the Luau.
Evening Luaus
I have been to a lot of Luaus in Hawaii and this is one of the better ones. They have a beautiful separate area for the show and offer great entertainment and food. This is a must do if you've never been to one before.
Overall
If you are a Hilton loyalist or looking for a family fun vacation then this is your spot on the Big Island of Hawaii. You can easily enjoy never leaving the property but there is so much to do and I encourage you to explore the Island.
Check my complete Big Island Travel Guide for all the things to do and see and other hotel options.
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