This 82-acre beachfront resort doesn’t have standard hotel rooms. Rather, its guests get comfy in 125 individual hales, or bungalows with thatched roofs. And although none of the hales has air conditioning, telephones, or televisions, don’t be mistaken: this resort, designed to resemble a Polynesian village, is all about luxury, albeit with a minimalist touch. Consequently, it’s a great place to escape in style and get away from the technology-driven world. For that reason, it’s popular for family reunions and romantic getaways. The Kona Village is not cheap, but the room rate includes all meals at the resort’s oceanfront restaurants and tickets to a luau that many consider the best on the island. Given that, there’s no reason to leave the village, especially since there are so many activities available on-site, including snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, working out in the well-equipped fitness room, swimming at the beach or in two freshwater pools, jogging on the resort’s trails, playing tennis, and touring a historic petroglyph field. An extensive children’s program keeps kids busy taking hula classes, painting coconuts, competing in fishing contests, creating Hawaiian crafts, and more.

Kona Village Resort Amenities:

• 125 rooms. Closed one week following Thanksgiving. Complimentary full breakfast. Check-in 3 pm, check-out noon. Two restaurants, three bars. Children's activity center. Fitness room, fitness classes available. Beach. Outdoor pool, whirlpool. Tennis. Airport transportation available. Business center.