CASTLE KONA BALI KAI
About the Castle Hotel
Castle Kona Bali Kai, Kailua-Kona - Island Living, Refined
Castle Kona Bali Kai offers a unique lodging experience in the sunniest spot on Hawaii's Big Island, positioning itself on a shore once reserved for Hawaiian royalty. This oceanfront condominium complex, built in 1969, makes it a breeze to feel at home in your Kona vacation rental, presenting a serene alternative to the island's more developed resorts.
Location
Situated on the seafront in Kailua-Kona, Castle Kona Bali Kai commands a prime position directly on Holualoa Bay. The proximity to historic Kailua-Kona Town, a mere five-minute drive away, places guests within easy reach of its casual boutiques, restaurants, and cultural sites like Ahuena Heiau and Hulihee Palace. The resort also offers convenient access to Keauhou Shopping Center for additional dining and retail options. Personally, I find the charm of the quaint villages with their mom-and-pop shops strung along the Kona Coast offers a more authentic glimpse into local life than the larger shopping centers.
Style and Character
Built in 1969, this condominium resort offers a relaxed, enduring appeal rather than overt luxury. The architecture embraces the natural Hawaiian environment, with buildings positioned along the ocean side and mountain side of Alii Drive. The grounds present a striking natural tableau where white sand and black lava rock merge among tide pools, all shaded by swaying palms. Mornings and evenings are often punctuated by the sight of surfers and paddle-boarders entertaining themselves at famous Banyan Beach, located just south of the complex. It's a place that feels lived-in, comfortable, and intrinsically Hawaiian.
Service and Facilities
While not a full-service hotel, Castle Kona Bali Kai provides essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and a sun terrace for relaxation. Barbecue areas are also available, encouraging alfresco dining. Complimentary wireless Internet access is provided, as is tour and ticket assistance, making it easy to arrange island explorations. The resort also features onsite shopping, and while dining options are limited within the complex itself, additional choices are located within a short driving distance.
Rooms
Accommodations at this 3-star condo complex consist of 48 guestrooms, each designed to make guests feel at home. You'll have the entire condo to yourself, whether you opt for a studio furnished with one king bed or one queen bed, or a suite that includes a sofa bed alongside a king or queen bed. All units feature kitchens equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, separate dining areas, and coffee/tea makers, along with cookware and utensils. The large private terraces offer either ocean or mountain views, a delightful way to greet the day or wind down in the evening. Personally, I'd lean towards the ocean view for the endless spectacle of the Pacific.
Food and Drink
Castle Kona Bali Kai does not feature onsite restaurants, leaning into the condo-style experience where guests can prepare their own meals. The kitchens are well-equipped for this purpose, with refrigerators, microwaves, and all necessary cookware and utensils. For those seeking external dining, additional options are located within a short driving distance of the resort. Furthermore, Alii Garden's Marketplace and Keauhou Shopping Center offer further culinary possibilities for discerning palates.
Value for Money
As a condominium resort, Castle Kona Bali Kai offers significant value, particularly for longer stays or for those who appreciate the ability to self-cater. The inclusion of a full kitchen in every unit, coupled with private terraces and access to pool and barbecue facilities, presents a cost-effective and comfortable base for exploring the Big Island. The comparatively lower price point, combined with its desirable oceanfront location, makes it a sensible choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience.
Accessibility
Information regarding specific accessibility features, such as adapted rooms or wheelchair access, is not readily available. Guests with specific needs should contact the property directly to confirm suitability.
Family-Friendly
The condominium format lends itself well to family stays, with suites offering sofa beds and separate sleeping areas, and the presence of full kitchens allowing for easy meal preparation. The swimming pool and proximity to beaches like Banyan Beach provide ample entertainment for younger guests. While there are no dedicated children's facilities, the spacious nature of the condos and the laid-back atmosphere make it a practical choice for families visiting the Kona coast.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- No pets allowed
Guest Parking
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Laundry
Children
- Cots
Spa & Leisure
- Outdoor swimming pool
- BBQ facilities
- Jacuzzi
Self-catering
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils