I try to get over to Hawaii annually (the call of the island is unavoidable, lol. “we have to go back!…” ) Generally I stay on Oahu. Although all the islands are exceptional in their own right, it’s my favorite. That being said, my second choice is the Big Island. When I last checked, the last time I was there was 2007?! Therefore, it was high time I returned!
I know that there have been many changes and additions since, so I was excited to see what was new. However, one thing I was hoping stayed the same was The Royal Kona Resort. The last time I stayed, I loved that they had maintained the unique mid-century details.
I’m happy to report that while there have been some updates, overall, the resort has not lost its original charm. A little background, The Royal Kona Resort was originally the Kona Hilton.
“Intended to evoke the slope of Mauna Loa, the sleek, white Royal Kona Resort swoops up seven stories from its oceanfront site on Paakai Point.The Kona Hilton, the first major national hotel chain to open on the island of Hawaii, became the largest hotel on the island with the completion of the first of its two towers in 1969. via Don J Hibbard
I’m not sure exactly when the hotel changed to become the Royal Kona, but I know that much of the original architecture has stayed intact. During Covid, the hotel shut down but not before beginning a multi-million dollar renovation. The renovation was completed in late 2020.
There are two main towers that house all the guest rooms at the hotel. The towers have an open atrium with a koi pond in the middle.
The rooms themselves are minimal but clean and modern.
I booked a high-floor corner room. Waking up each morning to the view was totally worth it.
Overall, I enjoyed my time at the Royal Kona Resort. It’s not as fancy as some of the newer hotels I know that have opened since, but there’s something really special and authentic about staying here. Also, all the food I had there was delicious, and the staff was great and accommodating.
The Big Island is very different from Oahu. It’s much less populated, but you can tell things are growing. Unfortunately, the pandemic forced many businesses to close, so the recovery from that is still in progress. Many of the smaller towns that used to be bustling are now pretty vacant. However, whenever one area declines, a new place always pops up!
I look forward to returning soon!
Learn more at The Royal Kona Resort website.
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