So, I’ve stayed at Royal Kona many times. I have an upcoming trip where I can stay at King Kamehameha for a bit more money. For those of you that are familiar with both - is there a big difference? Total cost for me will be about $300 more for the King K (total over 4 days). The location of both hotels are fine for me. Royal Kona rooms are generally spacious and clean, even if a little “dated”. I have no idea about King K though, other than walking through the common areas.
Never stayed at Royal Kona, but been to King K a couple times. Conveniently located but somewhat dated (although i think they’ve done some renovations). If you have an ocean view room (and why stay there if not?) it can get loud at the pier
It’s very busy and congested there, but incredibly convenient. Royal Kona is a pretty long walk, though only 1 mile, so not that far to the pier, 1/2 miles Island Lava Java and the center of downtown.
Royal Kona looks nicer overall and might be better for spectators and family overall. You could watch the whole swim from an oceanside hotel room.
Is this for race week or just a trip? If for the race, I’d definitely stay at the King Kam. The convenience is great and the rooms are fine. For a vacation, I’d be at the Royal Kona, or even better, at one of the resorts in Waikoloa or Kohala.
I’ve stayed at both, and I wouldn’t pay extra on just a regular trip to stay at the King K. Both hotels (like all hotels in Kona town, frankly) are sort of dated, and there isn’t much to separate the two of them other than location.
No it’s not race week. We’ll be spending some time in Hilo and Waikoloa, but then also a few days downtown
Cool thanks for the advice
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Cool thanks for the advice
If you have time for a diversion, head up to the volcano for a couple nights and stay at the cabins in the campground, cheap and a very cool alternative to Kailua-Kona