Reflects recent average nightly prices reported by our partners, and may not include estimated taxes or fees. Price at checkout may differ.
Cheaper
Average
Higher
About
4.5
#1 of 4 guest houses in Kailua-Kona
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Old Hawai'i Charm on the Kona Coast.
Nestled in a local Hawaiian neighborhood a short walk from snorkeling, swimming, sunning, and surfing at Kahalu'u Beach Park, Big Island Retreat is a wonderful place to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.
A small property with a style of open-air living that is authentic and unique, Big Island Retreat brings the outdoors in. It’s a place that invites you to breathe, live simply, create your own experience, and live with aloha.
With so much to do in the area, it is hard to find reasons to stay inside, so we have worked hard to make our rooms inviting and comfortable. Our outdoor kitchen gazebo is a space where guests often "talk story" while preparing meals. Beach equipment and limited laundry facilities are available in the atrium of the main house. As a hosted property, staff is available onsite as well as 24/7 by call or text.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
We had a wonderful stay, we were in the Bamboo room which was wonderful! The room was wonderfully decorated with the bamboo theme. It was just a short walk down the driveway to a beautiful beach, where you can swim, surf and snorkel. We will definitely stay here, our next time in Kona!
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Be aware that Big Island Retreat is located in a residential area and their driveway is very...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kona Tiki Manager, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 26 Apr 2024
We look forward to your return! Glad you enjoyed Bamboo Room and the location of Big Island Retreat ... mahalo for your review :)
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Our family loved our stay at the Big Island Retreat. The location is under newer management - Karen and Eddie are super fantastic and very accommodating. We stayed in the Pineapple Room and loved the open air windows, outdoor kitchen, view of the ocean and proximity to a beach. Albeit the beach was not our favorite in the area but we used the hotel location as our central location for Two Step Beach, Magic Sands Beach, Kona downtown shopping, sunset watching, Manta Ray swimming, and grocery food shopping. All within 5-10 minutes walking or driving. It was really nice to have easy access laundry facilities and beach toys available to borrow. Our room was spotless, very comfortable and we loved the overall atmosphere of the building. The biggest downfall of the hotel is that parking is a bit tight so if you are bringing in a big rental car be prepared for tough maneuvering - but that is really a 1st world problem.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Big Island Retreat, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 18 Apr 2021
Aloha! We are so happy you enjoyed your stay at Big Island Retreat. Thank you for your kind review and for adding details that help future guests understand the property and area. It was great to see your smiling faces, and we hope to see you back one day - a hui ho!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I was recently in Kona and any ocean lover and/or surfer will understand this. I found a room - inexpensive and literally minutes barefoot walk to Kahalu'u Bay with amazing surfing and snorkeling beaches. The room was simple, cozy, nice and clean. It had a couch pull out, (not a traditional bed), a futon, refrigerator and all the kitchen supplies necessary. It had a large bathroom with full shower, detached from the room by about five steps. The grounds were beautiful. It was quiet and a joy to be that near the ocean in a comfortable little spot like this.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We just returned from 5 nights at the Big Island Retreat. It met our sleeping needs, but that’s about it. When we arrived the toilet, counter tops, and rug had not been cleaned. The workers quickly cleaned but it made us wonder what else hadn’t been clean. The king size bed was comfy, but there was no fitted sheet (just a mattress protector) and the top sheet was queen size. The rugs and towels had stains or were mismatched, and there were small ants always somewhere inside even with care of stowing food, etc away. Spots on doors and walls could easily be wiped down. For the price we expected more care to detail and updates when something needs to be replaced. The management change seems to make the difference since the time we booked in February ‘19 (based on reviews) to December ‘19. Beautiful building and lots of beach amenities, but next time we will stay somewhere else that pays more attention to the rooms.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2019Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our first impression of Big Island Retreat wasn't the best. After traveling all day and being awake for almost 24 hours (we were visiting from the northeastern US), all we wanted to do was shower and go to sleep... We had no trouble following the unconventional check-in instructions (there's no front desk), but we were dismayed to find the room had not been cleaned between guests! 😱 We immediately sent a text message to the contact number and they called back right away with an apology and instructions on where to wait. Less than 30 mins later, our room was clean and ready for use. Turns out, there was a misunderstanding with the housekeeper but we were just happy that it was resolved so quickly.
It took us a little bit to get used to the lack of air conditioning, but we grew to like it and didn't miss the AC at all. We'd leave the windows open all day with the fans on and it was perfect.
We loved being tucked into a residential area as it made the experience so much more immersive. It was our first time in Kona and we really liked having limited amenities as it forced us to only use the hotel for sleeping and showering. There's no need for a pool when there's a beach across the street! No need for an on-site restaurant when there are tons of locally owned coffee shops a short drive away.
We were in the Honu Room and loved it. We wished we had a lana'i (balcony/patio), but the room was so large, we didn't miss it too much. Having a private outdoor area would have been nice to have so we could get our snorkeling gear dried in the abundant sunshine. We loved that the room was right next to the parking lot which made loading and unloading the car extremely easy.
The place is so small that we rarely ran into other guests. It felt like we had the place to ourselves which added to immersive experience.
If we ever travel to Kona again, were definitely staying here!
Read more
Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Owners are very responsive, so don't hesitate to contact them if you have an issue.
Sea breezes...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Big Island Retreat, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 27 Jul 2023
Mahalo for such an honest, kind, and detailed review. Your understanding was much appreciated. When we make a mistake our goal is to correct with swift action. While not always on site, we are conveniently available and close by. Love that you were able to get out and enjoy all that Kona has to offer. We look forward to seeing you again, A hui hou
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The property is a "main house" and "guest house" with a variety of rooms. I stayed in the Paradise room, which does not have an ocean view, but is private with screening plants. At night and morning, you hear coqui frogs and birdsong. The numerous windows are screened and open, providing a lovely breeze. It's located just up the hill from Kahaluu, which has great snorkeling. It's a quick bike ride down to Magic Sands. There is a microwave/toaster/fridge in room, and a full kitchen in the covered outdoor BBQ area.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2021
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:ambiance, "island feel", restful
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Big Island Retreat, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 06 Apr 2021
Thank you for staying with us! So glad you enjoyed our convenient and tropical location. Mahalo for your review and a hui ho :)
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I spent a week at Big Island! Great location to many beaches.
Jenny and Britanny were so helpful. The resort has equipment u can borrow- lawn chairs, coolers, surf boards, snorkel gear etc...
Our room had a small fridge and microwave so we did all over our cooking in the community kitchen. Guests leave surplus foods, tinfoils, spices so tigers can share.. keeps cost lower if you do an inventory before going shopping . There is a bbq and large 3 stove .. plates and cutlery are available as well
We would definitely stay there again!! Thanks Jenny and Brittany!! You were great!
Read more
Date of stay: March 2020Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kona Tiki M, Front Desk at Big Island Retreat
Responded 04 Jul 2020
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for staying at the Big Island Retreat. Please come back to visit us soon!!!!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Big island retreat is a beautiful vacation rental where you can relax with family and enjoy the beach which is across the street. There are grocery stores movie theaters and different type restaurants just 3 min away. The manager Jenny and housekeeper Brittany are amazing and help you with everything and anything you need. Jenny answers the phone 24/7 so there is never a worry that my questions won’t get answered they also have great suggestions on where to go hiking, snorkeling, and where to enjoy a nice dinner. Will definitely be returning!!
Read more
Date of stay: January 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kona Tiki M, Manager at Big Island Retreat
Responded 19 Feb 2020
It was very nice meeting you, and glad to hear you enjoyed your stay, looking forward to seeing you again on your next trip to the Big Island
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Exactly what we were looking for! The kitchenette allowed us to make breakfasts and pack lunches for our days out. The available beach gear including an umbrella and boogie boards made for a perfect beach day. Hosts were easy to contact and made check in a breeze.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Big Island Retreat, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 19 Aug 2021
We are so happy that you enjoyed your stay at Big Island Retreat! It sounds like you had a wonderful time taking advantage of Big Island & our amenities. We hope to see you back for more perfect beach days :) Aloha and a hui ho!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have two words for this place "STAY AWAY", this place is a dump and should be sued for false advertising. My son and I checked-in and immediately was stunned. Our so-called room looked like some one's used basement apartment. We called property management and she refused to give us any refund, and we booked for 5 nights. We left anyway. Property Management's excuse was that their pictures on Orbitz were accurate, well they certainly did NOT include a picture of the room they provided us.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Do not make the same mistake I did
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Big Island Retreat, Owner at Big Island Retreat
Responded 18 Jul 2023
Aloha, At Big Island Retreat you book a specific room. You booked the Honu room and were given the Honu room. All websites show you the room pictures. Your complaint to me was that we represented ourselves to be a resort and you have traveled the world mostly staying in Sheraton type establishments. We do not claim to be a resort you were given the same room you booked. Our confirmation email explains to you we are a small private property every reservation counts. Had there been an issue with your accommodation not providing what was promised or some other failure on our part I would have worked with you. You were rude from the minute I answered the phone and we do not respond to threats. For anyone thinking of coming to visit us please feel free to reach out I am always happy to answer any questions and often will take pictures and text them or email them for a potential guest. It is in my nature to show everyone true hospitality. Big Island Retreat is Old Hawai'i Charm on the Kona Coast Nestled in a local Hawaiian neighborhood a short walk from snorkeling, swimming, sunning, and surfing at Kahalu'u Beach Park, Big Island Retreat is a wonderful place to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. The very words used on the front page of our website. Mahalo
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My recollection is that there was one. ....but I'm mostly bald so I never picked the thing up. The hostess was really good at getting back to my emails.
"Be aware that Big Island Retreat is located in a residential area and their driveway is very narrow and windy (which is very typical on the big island)
"
There are more places to choose from in the Kailua-Kona area.
PRICE RANGE
R 3,612 - R 5,463 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
United StatesHawaiiIsland of HawaiiKailua-Kona
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
