Royal Kona Resort reviews
5703 TripAdvisor reviews
We enjoyed our stay here
Cajuche (Washington DC, District of Columbia) on Mar 07, 2026
We stayed there in February and generally enjoyed ourselves. Others have written about the condition of the rooms needing remodeling. True, but they were clean and we loved the balcony facing the ocean. Location was ideal for those who want to walk around a lively area with lots of activities and dining establishments to choose from. Restaurant on site was OK at best; try others nearby. Two things that made our stay worthwhile were: 1) a bottle of champaign gifted to us by the hotel for our anniversary, and 2) the concierge who gave us great tips on where to go, where to dine and sites to see (thanks Angela!). Overall, we're glad we stayed here and would return if possible.
Nice experience
Stephen W on Mar 01, 2026
Always a nice experience! Great location.
Dont go for the rooms.
Suzan U on Feb 28, 2026
The resort is in a great location and most of the staff were very sweet and accommodating. The concierge desk attendants were short and hateful on more than one occasion when asked about discounts. The rooms are way past due of being renovated as this renovation process has been going on for some years. They were clean tho and we had a great balcony view of the ocean. It is not a resort feel like the other more expensive places but you get what you pay for in Hawaii and we did get a discount. If they would finish updating the rooms this place could really be nice again.
A very fun, exciting mini trip
OnAir13077265450 on Feb 28, 2026
Parking at night problem,I paid for it. No spots do to events at Royal Kona. No microwave Otherwise, a very fun exciting experience
Unique. Both the good and bad
Gregory G (State College, Pennsylvania) on Feb 22, 2026
We just completed our fourth visit to this hotel. Some people will not accept.... but we accept the shortcomings. This Historic Hotel is in fact the old Kona Hilton. Built in 1968. It was the first Resort Hotel on the west side of the island. It has been renovated several times since then in fact one of the three towers is currently under renovation although to be honest there are times at certain locations on the property where you're feeling your back in 1968 . Some might say the rooms are just too " basic" for a resort. I would call them they adequate. Beds, however, leave a bit to be desired. Also such a hotel should provide a microwave oven. What makes it alluring, is the location. Beautiful views from the saltwater pool as the waves break over the lava rocks. Especially interesting is a lagoon and a small Beach carved out of the lava rock. It's possible, on-site, to swim with fish . And while I'm talking about fish, Don's MiThai restaurant also excels. Good meals, plentiful portions and by Hawaiian standards reasonable prices. Enjoyable entertainment many nights. Historic paintings and photographs adorn the lobby. We've always found employees helpful and friendly. Despite shortcomings and a little tattered around the edges, if we return to the Big Island we will stay at the Royal Kona.