Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa sits along the western coast of the Island of Hawaii, attracting both couples and families – many Marriott rewards members. The property completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in the summer of 2017, leaving the resort with a modern, streamlined style that’s attractive but lacking in local flair. Ocean-inspired elements such as blue accents, plant-motif throw pillows, and paintings of the Big Island do add some character. Grounds, meanwhile, are unique and lovely, with a big fish pond and lots of black lava rock separating the beach and resort.
The pool complex is pleasant but small for the size of the hotel, and couples may find the many kids and loud atmosphere not conducive for a romantic getaway. The Sunset Luaus here, however, are well-regarded, providing Hawaiian food, music, and dancing. Overall, this is a decent pick for the price, though more family-friendly (think Hilton Waikoloa Village) and luxurious (Four Seasons Resort Hualalai) options are available on the island.

The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa rests on Anaehoomalu Bay, which has a beautiful beach that is, typically, not very busy. It's part of the Big Island's northwestern Kohala coast, where ancient sites coexist with luxury resorts and renowned golf courses. This area is also known for its snorkeling, sunsets, fish ponds, and of course lava rock.
The Big Island is packed with natural wonders, including active and dormant volcanoes, where visitors can still see lava flows, white-sand, black-sand, and even green-sand beaches, cascading waterfalls, and rainforests. It's by far the largest of the Hawaiian islands, so visitors should be prepared to drive to experience some of the top attractions.

• 30-minute drive from Kona International Airport
• 2-hour drive from Hilo International Airport
• Five-minute walk to restaurants, including Lava Lava Beach Club, as well as Queens' Marketplace for shops and chain eateries
• 8-minute walk to the Waikiloa Petroglyph Reserve, where there are ancient Hawaiian rock carvings
• 11-minute walk to Waikoloa Golf Course Beach Course
• 13-minute walk to Hilton Waikoloa Village golf course
• 15-minute drive to Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, one of the island's top beaches
• 18-minute drive to the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
• 33-minute drive to Waimea
• 36-minute drive to Kailua-Kona
• 1-hour-40-minute drive to Akaka Falls State Park, home to the 442-foot Akaka Falls and the 100-foot Kahuna Falls
• 2-hour drive to Mauna Kea Observatories (at the summit)
• 3-hour-50-minute drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the island's most popular volcanoes

Renovations that were completed in 2017 brought a modern, attractive style to the 290 rooms and seven suites. They’re a bit generic, but some ocean-inspired elements such as paintings of the Big Island and blue-and-white carpeting add character. Rooms are well-sized, with most measuring 410 square feet. All units have furnished balconies or patios, and some rooms overlook the ocean. Bathrooms are somewhat small, either equipped with showers or shower/tub combos. Standard amenities include desks, sitting areas, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with Netflix capability, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers. Closets come with laptop-sized safes. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided.
Suites have separate living spaces with sofa beds.

The standout features here are the wide stretch of beach and pool complex. The beach offers loungers, umbrellas, and water sports such as snorkeling, and sea turtles are often found here. The pool complex consists of three small pools, one of which is a heated infinity pool and one that has a waterslide. While they’re pleasant spots and surrounded by loungers, the pools are small for a resort of this size. Additionally, the presence of lots of kids (and adult groups) and loud atmosphere may be a downside for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. Drink service is available here.
For a more relaxing setting, the Mandara Spa offers a full menu of body and beauty treatments, such as massages, mani/pedis, and body scrubs. A well-equipped fitness center has a variety of cardio and strength-training machines.
Meeting and event spaces are on-site, and wedding packages and planners are available.

The main eatery is Hawaii Calls Restaurant, a casual spot serving buffet breakfasts and a la carte fare for lunch and dinner. The menu consists of local and American cuisine, with options such as fresh-caught fish, sandwiches, and chicken katsu loco. A full list of alcoholic beverages and smoothies are available. Food is largely average, particularly for the price.
The other dining option is Aka`ula Lanai, which is situated near the lobby and has a beautiful view of the pool and ocean in the distance. Grab-and-go breakfast, coffee, and poke nachos are some of the items on offer.
Sunset Luaus take place every Monday and Wednesday evenings, and they’re well-regarded among guests for their tasty Hawaiian food, live music, and dancing.
A shave ice stand is on the beach, and room service is available 24/7.