With more and more travelers choosing to skip the crowded resort of Oahu and Waikiki beach, the Big Island is now becoming the place where you can find the best Hawaii hotels. Some resorts like the Four Seasons, require reservations for either lunch or a room to let you enter, while other Hawaii resort areas, like the Waikoloa, will let any visitor stop in.

Most of the Hotels in Hawaii, or the Big Island, as it is also known, are on the Gold Coast, or the Kohala Coast, north of Kona. Hilo is the largest city in Hawaii, and, like the varied landscape, this city has some of the most variety of hotels Hawaii has to offer. The Shipman House is an official historic site as well as one of the most unique Hawaii hotels. This is set in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, but it has all the modern conveniences a visitor is going to expect from Hawaii lodging. There are 5 guest bedrooms, each with a full bathroom complete with amenities. On Wednesday, there is a hula class, and every day of the week there is afternoon tea with snacks. A continental breakfast buffet is served every morning at this Hawaii hotel. The owners Barbara and Gary also add touches like fresh flowers and heirloom furniture to each room to make for an authentic bed and breakfast feeling.

In the south, the Volcano House is a great choice for Hawaii lodging if you want to be close to the Volcanoes National Park. This is also another one of the historic Hawaii hotels. The Volcano House overlooks the Caldera of Kilauea, and is inside the national park. You won't find the bustle and crowds of a typical Hawaii resort, so this is one of the best hotels in Hawaii where you can get away and enjoy the beauty of the volcanoes while staying in quiet, clean accommodations. This building has been continually inhabited since 1865, and once you see the views, you will understand why. The simple rooms are kept warm with volcanic steam, but not all of them face the crater. If the hotel is full you may want to pass on the other rooms that don't have the great views but they cost just as much. While the Volcano House certainly has some of the best views of all the hotels Hawaii has to offer, it's not worth the price to have a room without a view if you do choose to stay here.

Big Island Map

The Fairmont Orchid is one of the top hotels Hawaii has on the Kohala coast. Spread out over 32 acres of prime water front real estate, this is considered a top choice of Hawaii lodging for beach lovers. The activities like drum-making and ukulele lesson help you learn about Hawaiian culture while you have fun. The weather on the Kohala coast is perfect year round, and this Hawaii hotel has such confidence in the perpetual sunshine that fine furniture remains outdoors overnight. For dinner, visit Brown's Beach house. You can enjoy a Hawaiian cocktail and watch the sun set from your table. The breakfast buffet is also known for being one of the best in any Hawaii hotel. Whether you're on a romantic honeymoon or a family vacation, this hotel is a great choice.

From quiet volcano lodges to luxurious beachfront resorts, there is no lack of variety in the hotels in Hawaii. A Hawaii resort is what many travelers will choose without thinking, but taking the time to explore your options can help you find the best value and a one of a kind experience.