Hotels in Puako

Puako: Where Seaside Serenity Meets Island Dreams

Nestled on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Puako, Hawaii, is a hidden gem that enchants with its pristine beaches and tranquil ambiance. This idyllic seaside community boasts the stunning Puako Beach, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing. Explore the lush coastal trails or witness mesmerizing sunsets over Puako Bay. Rich in history and local culture, the area invites you to discover ancient petroglyphs and enjoy intimate dining experiences with ocean views. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Puako offers a serene escape that captures the essence of Hawaii's natural beauty.

Discover great hotels in Puako

Puako offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts with stunning ocean views to cozy boutique hotels. Visitors can enjoy beautiful rooms, serene pools, and exquisite dining options, all set against the backdrop of Hawaii's natural beauty, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Puako:

1. The Westin Hapuna Beach ResortOpens in a new window: This elegant 4.0-star resort is designed for leisure travelers seeking a beach and adventure experience. With direct access to the beach, it offers a variety of adventure sports, including onsite surfing and nearby sailing and fishing. The property features a business center and meeting rooms, ensuring a seamless experience for those combining work with pleasure. Guests appreciate the engaging recreational activities and the picturesque surroundings, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a blend of relaxation and excitement.
2. Mauna Kea Beach HotelOpens in a new window: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a stunning 4.5-star resort that beautifully merges history with adventure, perfect for travelers who value unique experiences. Situated in a national historic building, this property offers direct beach access and exciting activities such as onsite surfing and parasailing. The charming architecture and rich heritage elevate the stay, while the variety of nearby adventure sports, including Segway and scooter rentals, provide plenty of options for exploration. Visitors consistently rave about the distinctive ambiance and engaging activities available, ensuring an unforgettable getaway.
3. Fairmont OrchidOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4.5-star resort caters to travelers seeking a refined beach and adventure experience. With direct access to the beach and a host of adventure sports activities, including nearby hiking and parasailing, the property is perfect for those who enjoy both relaxation and exploration. Its well-equipped business center and multiple meeting rooms enhance convenience for professionals, while the upscale amenities and stunning beachfront views offer a serene escape. Guests frequently highlight the quality of their stay, making it a top choice for high-end adventure seekers.

Top locations to stay in Puako

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Puako are Waikoloa, Kamuela, and Waikoloa Village. Waikoloa offers stunning beaches and snorkeling opportunities, while Kamuela is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Waikoloa Village features local charm and convenient amenities. For first-time visitors, Waikoloa is the top choice for its beach access and recreational options.

1. WaikoloaOpens in a new window: Waikoloa is a fantastic choice for travelers who love the ocean and outdoor activities. This area is known for its stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling spots, where you can explore vibrant marine life. The nearby Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a range of amenities, including golf courses and cultural attractions, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. With picturesque views and easy access to water sports, Waikoloa is ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind by the sea.
2. KamuelaOpens in a new window: Kamuela, also known as Waimea, is a charming town nestled in the lush mountains of Hawaii Island. It's an excellent base for exploring the Big Island's diverse landscapes, from stunning ranches to nearby waterfalls. The area boasts unique cultural attractions, including local farmers' markets where you can sample fresh produce and crafts. For those looking to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture and history, Kamuela offers a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to connect with the local community.
3. Waikoloa VillageOpens in a new window: Waikoloa Village provides a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Known for its friendly community vibe, it’s a great place for families and those looking for a quieter stay. The village features well-maintained parks and walking paths, perfect for leisurely strolls. While being a bit more inland, it’s just a short drive from the coast and offers access to local shops and eateries. It’s a great spot for visitors who want to experience the authentic charm of Hawaii without the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

Things to do in Puako

Puako is a stunning coastal gem where golden beaches meet crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and boating. With vibrant marine life and breathtaking sunsets, it invites travelers to unwind while exploring nearby forests and hills. Dive into adventure or simply relax and soak in the serene beauty of this idyllic paradise.

• Anaehoomalu BeachOpens in a new window – Spend your day lounging on the golden sands of Anaehoomalu Beach, where the gentle waves invite you to take a refreshing dip. Explore the nearby tide pools and enjoy a beachfront picnic as you soak up the sun.
• Mauna Kea BeachOpens in a new window – Known for its stunning beauty, Mauna Kea Beach offers pristine waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don't miss the chance to catch breathtaking sunsets, painting the sky in vibrant hues as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Hāpuna Beach State Recreation AreaOpens in a new window – This expansive beach area boasts soft white sand and clear blue waters, ideal for sunbathing or beach games. With facilities like picnic areas and restrooms, it’s a convenient spot for families to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
• Mauna Lani BeachOpens in a new window – At Mauna Lani Beach, you can explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or simply relax under the swaying palm trees. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature.
• KohalaOpens in a new window – Climb up Kohala Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trails offer a chance to appreciate the lush greenery and unique geological features, making it an exciting outing for hikers and nature lovers alike.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Puako

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Puako is during May, September, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. To fully appreciate the area's stunning landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture, staying for at least 4 to 5 days is recommended. This duration allows you to explore beautiful beaches, enjoy romantic sunsets, and engage in family-friendly activities like snorkeling and boating. Puako also offers scenic views and is known for being LGBTQ-friendly, making it a great value-for-money destination for all travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for hotels in Puako, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping ensure you don’t miss any opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or prices drop, you’ll be the first to know about your options for a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel’s location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a Puako hotel. If you're searching for a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, so you might find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with higher prices. For more budget-friendly options, you might look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, which usually tend to be cheaper while still offering reasonable access to the sights you want to see. Exploring independent hotels a bit further out can also lead to a more authentic and affordable experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and unlock incredible savings on your next stay in Puako! Enjoy exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As a valued member, you can easily advance through our tiers, gaining access to fantastic perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Start your journey to a more rewarding travel experience today!

Best time to go to Puako

Puako experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 69.8°F (21.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.2°F (24.0°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Puako, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, with moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.