Sitting at the southeastern tip of the Hawaiian archipelago, the Big Island (also known as the Island of Hawaii) is the largest and most historically significant Hawaiian island. It’s also the most ecologically diverse, containing 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, giving rise to stunning, unique landscapes. Beyond its natural beauty, the Big Island also offers a more authentic taste of Hawaiian culture. As a result, Big Island villas are increasingly popular choices for those who want to discover the true, uncompromised beauty of Hawaii.
The history of the Big Island dates back to the ancient Polynesians in 300 AD. The land was divided into rival chiefdoms until King Kamehameha unified the kingdoms in 1810. The island continued to grow until it was annexed by the US in 1898 and became a state in 1959.
Since that time, tourism on the Big Island has steadily grown. But the island makes efforts to balance this growth with conservation of its local customs and traditions. This makes the Big Island the most culturally and geographically dynamic part of Hawaii.
Rental Escapes makes renting a luxury villa on Big Island easy. First, choose your travel dates. Next, select your party size. From there, your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will happily present you with the best available Big Island villas for your group. After, your Concierge customizes your trip, including transportation, chef service, excursions, boat charters, and more.
Capturing the essence of the island, Big Island vacation villas let you enjoy stunning landscapes while celebrating Hawaiian culture. The majority are found along the gorgeous Kohala Coast – the sunniest and most historically important part of Big Island.
Big Island villas can be found all along the Kohala Coast, including in Mauna Lani, with its protected waters and rich history; Mauna Kea, with its beautiful beaches and sacred volcano; Waikoloa Beach, with its walkable, family-friendly atmosphere; and more.
No matter where you stay, expect top-end villas with private pools and seamless indoor-outdoor living. You can also expect 5-star service, including from your Rental Escapes Concierge.
With stays in some of the island’s best resorts, Big Island luxury villas offer uncompromising experiences. They include:
Pauoa Seabreeze Villa: Nearly oceanfront in the Mauna Lani Resort, this stunning designer villa is perfectly located to offer you the best of the Big Island. It features five beautiful suites with outdoor shower gardens, a sophisticated minimalist design, and an expansive pool and hot tub area. This is one of the best stays on the island.
The Kanini Estate: A recent construction, the Kanini Estate is steps from the beach. It overlooks the Waikoloa Anchialine Ponds and the ocean, with panoramic views from the upper level. It also features a full gym and game room, a fire pit, an outdoor bar, and more. This is Big Island living.
Kailua Kona Estate: One of the largest Big Island villas you’ll find, Kailua Kona Estate is just a few minutes from downtown Kona. There’s a 100-foot pool, an 8-person Jacuzzi, wet bars, a theater, and more. It’s the perfect place to entertain or to host an event near Kona.
Combining an exclusive beachfront location with a deep respect for Hawaiian history and ecology, Mauna Lani villas are some of the best ways to experience the Big Island. They include:
Hale Hoaloha: Just steps from the beach, Hale Hoaloha offers unforgettable views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. Surrounded by lush landscaping, it offers a true escape with its 5-star pool area. Inside, you’ll find rich materials, vaulted ceilings, and a thoughtful décor. A superb choice for up to 12 guests.
Mauna Lago: Spread out over 5,000 feet, Mauna Lago focuses on the interplay between the outdoors and the indoors. Outside, you’ll find an infinity edge pool with panoramic ocean views, a serene koi pond, and rejuvenating landscaping. Inside, the open-concept design invites you to relax and feel at home. Inside and out, it’s a truly comforting stay.
Artevilla: With vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, Artevilla evokes a freeing sense of space. The large lanai is a standout, especially as you enjoy the sunsets and the mountain and ocean views. Natural lava walls, intricate landscaping, a wealth of authentic art, and outdoor billiards and foosball are just some of the surprises you’ll discover.
Home to Hawaii’s first five-star resort, Mauna Kea villas maintain the same understated luxury the area’s always been known for. They include:
Kauna’oa 25: Located within the Mauna Kea Resort, Kauna’oa 25 is a contemporary villa that you’ll never forget. It features a large private pool, a fire pit, a lanai, a media room, and more. A great choice for up to 12 guests.
Kauna’oa Oasis: A 2-story townhouse, Kauna’oa Oasis offers a contemporary, open atmosphere. Take a dip in the private pool. Relax in the hot tub. Enjoy a meal al fresco. It’s all on offer here.
Mauna Kea 12: Warm and stylish, Mauna Kea 12 uses natural materials to create an inviting space. It also has a private ocean-facing lanai, complete with a private pool. With two bedrooms, it’s a great choice for couples or a small family.
Most travelers to the Kohala Coast will fly into the Kona International Airport. It has direct flights from both the US mainland and international destinations. From there, destinations like Waikoloa Beach, Mauna Lani, and Mauna Kea are 20-35 minutes away. There are no ferries from other Hawaiian islands, but for a truly luxurious option, you can take a private helicopter. Your Rental Escapes Concierge can assist with airport transfers, rental cars, helicopter charters, and more.
The best way to get around the Big Island is by rental car. Taxis and rideshares on the Big Island can be scarce, and there are so many great sights to see. A rental car will let you explore the landscapes at your own pace. If you want to explore more off-the-beaten track locations, then a 4x4 is recommended. Private transfers and private drivers are also available, especially to travel to Mauna Kea and Mauna Lani. If you wish to travel between the Kohala Coast, Hilo, and Volcanoes National Park, then a helicopter transfer is a great option that you’ll never forget. Boat charters will also let you get around while taking in the beautiful coastline. Your Concierge can help with rental cars, helicopter rides, boat charters, and more.
Peak season on the Big Island is from mid-December to March, and again from June to August. The weather during the winter is dry and sunny, and it’s humpback whale season. During the summer, the weather is even drier, and the snorkeling, diving, and hiking are at their peak.
Shoulder season is from April to May and September to mid-December. This is when you’ll see fewer crowds while still enjoying great weather. Spring is a particularly great time for lava viewing, while fall sees great deals.
Low season is from September to October. This is the wettest time of the year, though Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani, and Waikoloa remain relatively dry. The atmosphere at this time is also very relaxed.
Yes, the Big Island is considered very safe. It has a very low crime rate and a strong community feel. That said, watch out for currents whole swimming, stick to beaches with lifeguards, and check trail conditions if you’re hiking.
Go snorkeling: The Kohala Coast is home to some of Hawaii’s clearest waters and best reefs. Plus, you can night snorkel with manta rays – an experience only possible in a few places in the world.
Take a helicopter tour: Discover the Big Island’s untamed side with a helicopter tour over volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush valleys. You can even see active lava flows when there’s an eruption.
Charter a boat: Whether it’s whale watching during the season or dolphin spotting all year round, a boat charter will let you appreciate the Kohala Coast in a new way.
The food scene on the Big Island is diverse. There’s a big focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients, as well as farm-to-table experiences. Hawaiian influences are common, and you’ll often find traditional dishes like poke, laulau, kalua pork, and loco moco. You can also expect lots of fusion cuisine, including a mix of Hawaiian, Japanese, and international influences. Your Rental Escapes Concierge can also arrange private chef service and villa pre-stocking for our Big Island villas.
The weather on the Big Island varies depending on where you are. The Kohala Coast, where most Big Island villas can be found, benefits from an almost desert-like climate, giving it the most predictable weather out of all Hawaiian destinations.
Spring on the Big Island is warm and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 65–85°F (18–29°C), and rainfall varies by region: 2–4 inches (50–100mm) on the dry Kohala Coast and 8–10 inches (200–250mm) in Hilo. The ocean is calm, making it great for snorkeling and whale watching (which peaks in March).
Summer is the hottest and driest season, especially on the Kohala Coast. Temperatures range from 70–88°F (21–31°C), with 1–2 inches (25–50mm) of rain in dry areas and 6–8 inches (150–200mm) in Hilo. Trade winds keep things comfortable, and the ocean is at its warmest, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Fall is warm and comfortable. Temperatures stay between 68–86°F (20–30°C), and rainfall begins to increase slightly, with 2–5 inches (50–125mm) in dry areas and 9–12 inches (225–300mm) in wetter regions. The ocean remains warm, and October and November bring excellent conditions for snorkeling and manta ray dives.
Winter is mild on the coast but cooler in higher elevations, with more rain in certain areas. Coastal temperatures range from 63–82°F (17–28°C), while Mauna Kea’s summit can drop below freezing. Rainfall varies, with 3–6 inches (75–150mm) on the dry coast and 10–15 inches (250–380mm) in Hilo. Big waves arrive on the island’s north shores, attracting surfers, and it’s peak season for whale watching.
If you’re hoping to visit this beautiful part of Hawaii, Rental Escapes can elevate your Big Island villa rental into a true luxury experience.
Our portfolio includes the finest Big Island villas, including Mauna Kea villas, Mauna Lani villas, Kona villas, and more.
Your Rental Escapes Reservations Expert can find the best luxury villa for your group, and your Concierge personalizes your trip to create the ultimate Big Island villa experience.
Contact us today to book your next dream holiday!
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