By Karen Sprinkles
Kona Seaside Hotel
Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, within walking distance to shops, galleries and restaurants, the Kona Seaside Hotel is just a block from Kailua Pier, where such as attractions as the Body Glove snorkel cruise and Atlantis Submarine await. With 220 rooms, this five-story hotel features two restaurants---Tanti's Oceanfront and Paleo's---both with ocean views. Air-conditioned rooms are tastefully decorated and include lanais. The property also features two outdoor swimming pools, a garden, gift shops and on-site parking.
Wows and Woes
Wows: From the minute you walk out of the hotel, you are right in the heart of the village, which offers water activities such as parasailing and jet skiing, shops, restaurants and historic sites.
Woes: Because the hotel is located at the intersection of two busy streets, traffic noise can be a nuisance.
Insider Tips
If you are an Ironman fan, book this hotel early to get a room overlooking the event. Rooms that face Palani Road offer the best view of the running and bicycling portions of the race.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
During the Ironman World Championships, my friends and I enjoyed drinks and appetizers at the hotel's Paleo's Bar and Grill, where we could view the finish line of the race from our table. We were happy to have one of the best seats in the house.
Bottom Line
For the price, the hotel offers decent accommodations, plenty of on-site amenities such as a store and restaurants, plus a convenient location for taking walks through the Kailua.
About the Author:
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
Photo Credits:
Photo by Karen Anderson
