For the Big Island of Hawaii, you have two main airport choices—and the “best” one depends on where you’re staying on the island: 🌴 West Side (Most Popular for Resorts & Beaches) Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) Best for: Kona, Waikoloa, Kohala Coast resorts Closer to beaches, sunshine, and most luxury hotels More direct flights from the mainland 👉 This is the most common and convenient choice for visitors 🌋 East Side (Lush, Rainforest, Volcanoes) Hilo International Airport (ITO) Best for: Hilo town, waterfalls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Rainier, greener, more local feel Fewer direct flights (often requires a connection)
🚗 Best Overall: Rent a Car (Highly Recommended) Most flexible and realistic option Lets you explore everything from beaches to volcanoes at your own pace Essential for reaching places like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, and remote spots Why it’s the best: No reliable island-wide public transportation Attractions are far apart (often 1–2+ hours driving) Tours and Ubers don’t cover everything 👉 Tip: Book early—cars can sell out Consider a Jeep or SUV if you want to explore more rugged areas 🚙 Alternative Options (When They Work) 🚐 Guided Tours Great if you don’t want to drive Good for specific experiences (volcano tours, stargazing at Mauna Kea) But limited flexibility and can be pricey 🚕 Uber / Lyft Available mainly around Kona and Hilo Not reliable for long distances or late-night rides Can get expensive quickly 🚌 Public Bus (Hele-On) Budget-friendly option Covers major towns But: very slow, limited schedules, not tourist-friendly
No, we will not be securing a large room block for guests. We recommend exploring nearby accommodations through Airbnb or selecting from the local hotels featured on our “Travel” page.
We are so excited and honored to have our closest friends and family join us for our wedding. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to relax and enjoy their time in Hawaii at their own pace, we will not be hosting additional group activities during the week. We encourage you to plan your itinerary in a way that feels most enjoyable for you.