Kona Reef, Big Island

Kona Reef is an oceanfront condo resort in Hawaii, offering a local-style ambiance and a convenient in-town location within walking distance to shopping, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The resort features an oceanfront saltwater pool, jacuzzi, BBQ grills, outdoor dining pavilion, and a well-maintained tropical common area with security patrols. Guests can enjoy the public beach right next door for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, as well as the nearby Honl's Beach, one of the best white sandy beaches on the Kona Coast.

The resort provides ample parking options, including a rooftop parking area, street-level outdoor parking, and two underground levels of a covered parking garage. Kona Reef is not only close to Kona Town's attractions but also just one mile from the Ironman pier and two miles from the best snorkeling in Kona. With its oceanfront amenities, convenient location, and proximity to various activities, Kona Reef is an ideal destination for vacationers seeking a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Hawaii.

Kona Reef Average Rates


As of April 2024, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Reef is $243. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $365. Note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usally much higher), and the averages don't include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax or cleaning and booking fees. Visit the rentals page to see specific unit rates.

Kona Reef's Best Rentals

View All 76 Kona Reef Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An AI Analysis of 1000 Guest Reviews


The following executive summary is based on a comprehensive and impartial AI analysis of guest reviews. Keep in mind that all units are individually owned, and review scores among units can vary considerably.

Guests at the Kona Reef condo resort on Big Island have shared a range of experiences in their reviews, highlighting both positives and areas for improvement. Many guests praised the resort's perfect location, which is within easy walking distance to Kona's main restaurants and shops, and the joy of waking up to the sound of waves. The views from the condos, especially of the ocean, were frequently mentioned as a highlight, with guests enjoying watching surfers, cruise ships, and sunsets from their lanais.

Several reviews mentioned the condos being well-equipped with amenities needed for a comfortable stay, including kitchen supplies, beach gear, and in some cases, air conditioning. The cleanliness of the condos received mixed reviews, with some guests finding their units clean and well-maintained, while others noted issues with cleanliness and maintenance.

Some specific units received praise for recent updates and the provision of extras like welcome baskets, while others were noted as needing updates or repairs, particularly regarding furniture, appliances, and general decor. The resort's pool, hot tub, and BBQ area were generally well-regarded, adding value to guests' stays.

However, there were some criticisms, including issues with parking, noise from nearby construction or the road, and challenges with property management responsiveness in some cases. A few guests also mentioned difficulties with the check-in process or accessing certain amenities.

Overall, while most guests had a positive experience, enjoying the stunning views and convenient location, there were suggestions for improvements in maintenance, updates, and management responsiveness to ensure a consistently high-quality experience for all guests. This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 guest reviews.

Recent Kona Reef Reviews


Our stay at Kona Reef was fantastic. The condo was well-equipped, offering comfort and convenience with its fully stocked kitchen and a cozy bedroom. The attention to detail, like the provided beach gear, cleanliness and organization added to our experience. The location was ideal, combining tranquility with easy access to local attractions. This Kona Reef condo was a perfect blend of luxury and homeliness, making our Hawaiian vacation unforgettable.
Stephen B.
January 2024

Great stay! Wonderful location, pool area was amazing- the condo had everything you need for your Hawaiian vacation! Recommend +++
Jenna B.
January 2024

Excellent location and facilities onsite. Beautiful view. Well stocked with necessities.
Andrew
January 2024

My husband and I greatly enjoyed our stay here. The ocean views and sunsets from the balcony were stunning. The attention to detail in this condo with so many nice touches really enhanced our stay. Excellent hosts with great communication! We look forward to returning in the future.
Janine B.
January 2024

The condo was great! A few things to note: My husband and I rented the condo with our two children- ages 9 and 12. Our kids are avid swimmers and love pools/hot tubs. You aren’t allowed pool toys/flotation devices at all- the condo manager came down on two separate mornings and spoke to us one morning and another family (who had younger kids the next). So that was a bit upsetting. The other major pool thing to note is kids under 12 aren’t allowed to use the hot tub. So our 9 year old was pretty upset about that- again- condo manager made sure he asked the parents how old their kids were who were in the hot tub, even brought down the paper that stated the condo rules to one family! The condo had a bunch of things you’d expect- but I will say the kitchen was well stocked. There is a small cooler and boogie boards, beach chairs etc. There are a whole bunch of items that are old on the deck- broken boogie boards, rusting beach chairs etc that need to be thrown out. The units AC is just in the living room but it does cool down the entire condo if needed at night. We personally didn’t use it at all. Washer and dryer was heaven to have- they gave us about 5 pods to do laundry. The view from the balcony was incredible and I’m going to really miss hearing the ocean! It was overall a good stay, especially for the price. The beach beside Kona Reef is cute as well! Would stay here again!!
Jenna B.
January 2024

FANTASTIC view and sound of waves crashing and so close to downtown, perfect. Everything was in great condition and we were very comfortable the entire time.
Lisa
January 2024

We had a wonderful time at the Kona Reef condo! The condo felt much larger than the listing photos showed and there was plenty of room for 4 adults. The bedrooms and bathrooms were spacious, clean, and very comfortable (beds and temperature). The kitchen was well equipped and we enjoyed many dinners on the patio. Will definitely be back next we visit Kona!!
Caroline C.
January 2024

Great place. Clean. Cozy. Well stocked. Almost every conceivable utensil in the kitchen. Everything works. Nice extras like snorkel equipment and boogie boards. Lanai is very private overlooking beautiful rocky cove. Had breakfast and dinner every day out there. Bruce is a great host that gave us all the info we needed for our stay. I hope to stay there again next trip to the Kona coast.
Ron V.
January 2024

Just as pictured. Great Location. Beach equipment was on property, to use.
Nancy D.
January 2024

We enjoyed our stay, it was close to plenty of restaurants and shopping. It was nice to be able to park, and not have to pay for parking in the Kona area. It was nice to leave the door open and listen to the waves crashing all night. Loved the stay, and we would highly recommend it!
David L.
January 2024

Other than the termite/carpenter ant infestation in the second room, it was a good stay. We had to do the clean up and treatment of the bugs and change the bedding ourselves. It was gross. But the rest of the unit was clean. Very tired, but clean. Except for the carpet; but no amount of cleaning is going to make that better. I've stayed at at least 5 units over the years at Kona Reef and never had an insect problem; this was gross. I almost forgot the hypodermic needle under the kids bed. Not cool. Property manager was responsive via the app but not proactive at all. I had to reach out to him to find out when the pest control was scheduled. Great location but there are so many other units at Kona Reef, you should pick a different one.
Rebecca H.
January 2024

We had a lovely time! Management addressed our inquiries.
Nayree D.
January 2024

We are in this condo for the third time and this year for 5 weeks - as always, it was very nice - it's also nice that the condo has been largely renovated!
Dietmar R.
January 2024

This was such an amazing place to begin our Big Island vacation! We spent three nights and wished it could be more. Clean, stocked, quick responses from management, fantastic location. It's just as wonderful as the pictures make it look and I can't recommend this place highly enough. I still dream of the sunsets on the Lanai.
Ellen B.
January 2024

Owner was great to work with. Location is great and the amenities were nice.
Kylie R.
December 2023

Unit was below average at best. Pro’s: good location, (side) view of ocean, nice condo complex. Con’s: carpet is seriously dirty, stains everywhere, musty smell - really needed replacing. Minimum kitchen supplies (pots pans, plates - etc), one of the plates had been glued back together, drywall coming apart in bathroom, mold in shower, bed had serious crown in center so you felt like you would roll off either side. Stains on walls and mirror in bedroom. We didn’t have a lot of choices as we booked late and it was the holidays. We liked Kona Reef but would not stay in this unit again.
A guest from Shingle springs, CA
December 2023

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Waves crashing, palm trees swaying. What a special place you have! Thank you for sharing your dream home with us, it’s so beautiful & comfortable. We loved exploring the island, especially volcanoes NP crater trail. Blessings to you and your family. Mahalo

December 2023

My wife and I had a wonderful stay over Christmas. The condo was incredibly clean, well stocked, and had an amazing view. The fridge kept everything cold, range/microwave worked well, and all the addition beach gear was really nice to have available. The unit is on an upper level but there is a parking lot that is on the same level so it’s like it’s ground level for parking. The dual ACs both worked really well when they were needed. It was a 5-15 minute walk to restaurants, bars, and shopping on Ali’i, and a short 10 minute drive to Kahlu’u beach for snorkeling and surfing. We didn’t have any issues that needed Rob and Cindy’s attention during our stay but they were always quick to respond. I have no doubt they would’ve been just as quick to fix any issues had they come up. We would absolutely stay again.
Mike W.
December 2023

We spent a wonderful two weeks. The owner has not missed any details in her guidebook. The location is within walking distance to shopping and restaurants so you don't worry about finding a parking place. The condo is well stocked with anything you would need for a day at the beach. Morning coffee on the lanai watching the surf roll in is a great way to start your day. The two air'-conditioning units worked very well. You can not go wrong staying here.
Alice K.
December 2023

This was such an amazing place to begin our Big Island vacation! We spent three nights and wished it could be more. Clean, stocked, quick responses from management, fantastic location. It's just as wonderful as the pictures make it look and I can't recommend this place highly enough. I still dream of the sunsets on the Lanai.
Ellen B.
December 2023

It was clean, well appointed a nice/comfortable furniture. It has a beautiful view and a very convenient location.
Daniel O.
December 2023

This oceanfront condo has beautiful views and is walking distance to downtown Kona. An array of restaurants…Huggo’s is our personal favorite. We had a great time sitting on the lanai every morning watching surfers. Definitely recommend!!!
Melissa S.
December 2023

What a wonderful getaway! Everything was as described. Well appointed, the most comfortable mattress and pillows- better than home! Quiet, yet accessible to everything downtown Kona, love this location. Host was quick in communication, condo was super clean, we had everything we needed! We will be back.
Valerie H.
December 2023

I would 100% stay here again, the property was comfortable with a beautiful view. Loved opening the lanai doors and hearing the ocean. The bed was extremely comfortable and at night it was fairly quiet. There is a little street noice, but I always bring ear plugs. Luckily there was a blow up mattress for my son. He is tall and the pull out sofa bed was not comfortable for his long frame. Overall great experience, thanks!
Barbara W.
December 2023

I would 100% stay here again, the property was comfortable with a beautiful view. Loved opening the lanai doors and hearing the ocean. The bed was extremely comfortable and at night it was fairly quiet. There is a little street noice, but I always bring ear plugs. Luckily there was a blow up mattress for my son. He is tall and the pull out sofa bed was not comfortable for his long frame. Overall great experience, thanks!
Barbara W.
December 2023

Staying at this Kona condo was an absolute delight! The unit was immaculate, cozy, and well-equipped. However, what truly stole the show were the mesmerizing sunsets visible from the balcony. The panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean were breathtaking, painting the sky in vibrant hues every evening. It was the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature's beauty. Conveniently located and offering modern amenities, this condo provided a memorable stay. Highly recommended for a relaxing and picturesque getaway!
Katherine Grace H.
December 2023

Great location and great sunsets from the ocean front deck. Walking distance to town.
Michael R.
December 2023

First time to Kona. Absolutely loved it. Did helicopter tour, manta ray swim and drove the entire island. Beautiful location in the world. The unit is well equipped and is clean. Can't beat the location, right on the ocean, unobstructed views. Definitely recommend it.
Carol D.
December 2023

Everything is as advertised. New flooring and kitchen counters with newer appliances. Within 5 mins walking distance to harbour area of Main Street. On site pool is great and maintenance keeps the 4 on site gas grills very clean.
Rob W.
December 2023

Our stay in December was great. The condo well equipped, updated nicely, and has easy access to the parking. We had everything we needed and had no need to contact the property owner, Sue. She sent us good information to get started and check-in was smooth. This unit is a bit bigger than some in the complex, which was nice. It is within walking distance to downtown restaurants and shops. We walked to dinner three times, which made the stay more relaxing. We used the included beach chairs, towels and umbrella. They worked great. The condo is equipped with a newer washer and dryer that we utilized several times with no issues. We enjoyed the view from the lanai including spotting a pod of spinner dolphins jumping and having fun. Highly recommend to anyone planning a trip to Kailua-Kona!
Steve J.
December 2023

The picture you see of the beach is exactly your view. Its right there! Everything was labeled and by everything I mean the condo has everything you need. Clearly the owners care about your experience and have taken every step to make sure its a great one. You can walk to everything from Kona Reef too. I would for sure use this condo again.
marshall s.
December 2023

Places impressive, impeccable great location, clean very user-friendly. Would highly recommend this place
Gabriel K.
December 2023

Our stay in December was great. The condo well equipped, updated nicely, and has easy access to the parking. We had everything we needed and had no need to contact the property owner, Sue. She sent us good information to get started and check-in was smooth. This unit is a bit bigger than some in the complex, which was nice. It is within walking distance to downtown restaurants and shops. We walked to dinner three times, which made the stay more relaxing. We used the included beach chairs, towels and umbrella. They worked great. The condo is equipped with a newer washer and dryer that we utilized several times with no issues. We enjoyed the view from the lanai including spotting a pod of spinner dolphins jumping and having fun. Highly recommend to anyone planning a trip to Kailua-Kona!
Steve J.
December 2023

We had a wonderful stay. The views can't be beat. The condo had everything we needed and more!
Dawn C.
December 2023

Everything is as advertised. New flooring and kitchen counters with newer appliances. Within 5 mins walking distance to harbour area of Main Street. On site pool is great and maintenance keeps the 4 on site gas grills very clean.
Rob W.
December 2023

We love the Kona Reef. We’ve been coming for many years and find that the complex is perfect for our needs. The views are fantastic, the sound of the surf is divine and we love that the walk into town is so quick and easy. The part of the complex the unit is in is great. The direct ocean front is of course fantastic. We also like the atrium area that’s between the buildings on this side of the complex. The trees help to keep the bedrooms cooler and it’s wonderful to wake up to birds singing. We were impressed with our dealings with Kona Coast. I reported some maintenance issues and they had them addressed incredibly quickly. The bed was comfortable and it was clean which is always important. This was the 7th Kona Reef unit we’ve stayed in. We very much liked that there wasn’t nearly the decorative clutter we’ve encountered in some of the units. However, it is lacking in some of the touches you tend to find in units where the owners stay in there on a regular basis. It meant that the kitchen wasn’t as well stocked as some. Hooks for things like towels & keys at the entrance would have been nice. I’m of average height and had challenges reaching some things and there’s no step ladder. These are pretty minor issues though. I think that the only thing I didn’t like about the unit was the couch. I really didn’t like it at all. However, we spent most of our time on the lanai so it really wasn’t a problem.
Cate J.
December 2023

My husband and I loved staying here. The views were amazing.
Nancy W.
December 2023

We enjoyed the condo. The view was great, the location to town is awesome we walked every night. The ice maker produces a ton of ice which is nice for the beach. The oven wasn’t working, but we used the toaster oven. The beach chairs are starting to show their age and could be replaced but we were thankful to have something to use. Plenty of beach towels and other towels to use which was nice, would be nice to have a cooler, as other places have. All in all we loved the comfy furniture and the condo and would recommend staying to others.
Laurye S.
December 2023

My husband and I loved staying here. The views were amazing.
Nancy W.
December 2023

We stayed here for our 25th anniversary and it was our first time in Hawaii. This location did not disappoint! Views are incredible! Ample space. Beautiful sunsets. Great accommodations. Everything is within walking distance. Plenty to do in this area. Highly recommend and great communication from the staff.
Heather J.
December 2023

Had a great stay, two weeks in paradise. Great location and everything we needed. Clean and comfortable. ready to return.
David A.
December 2023

Had a great stay, two weeks in paradise. Great location and everything we needed. Clean and comfortable. ready to return.
David A.
December 2023

25ft from the ocean, 75ft from the beach, 10ft from the pool, and .03 mile walk to shopping and restaurants. Condo had all the amenities needed. Beautiful sunsets every night!! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Mark L.
December 2023

This place was close to everything
LaDel L.
December 2023

Clean, well maintained modern property within walking distance of Downtown Kona. Only complaint came when I sent a picture of the ocean view. Snarky reply came back, “Can you be any closer to the ocean?”
Jonathan B.
December 2023

We loved it and hope to go back again next year
Greg & Deb F.
December 2023

We loved it and hope to go back again next year
Greg & Deb F.
December 2023

Property was perfect for our family of four and our week stay on the Big Island. Location is perfect right next to Honls Beach. We started each morning with yoga on the beach and listening to the waves crashing while enjoying a cup of coffee on the lanai. Our teens loved being able to make the short walk into town and explore the shops of Kailua Kona. Thanks for an amazing stay and we would definitely come back.
Keith F.
December 2023

We had a wonderful stay for 6 days/nights at this Kona Reef condo. View from this lanai is good - Though you get to see Alii drive, what's also in view are the park and Honl's beach. We visited the Honl's beach frequently; even saw 2 turtles there! In the apartment itself, the pull-out bed is quite uncomfortable to sleep. Also, none of the plug points on one side of the kitchen work. Otherwise, a great place to stay in Kona!
Aparajita D.
December 2023

We have stayed at the Reef before so pretty much understood what we were getting. The condo was nicely decorated which is what drew me to it for booking. The owners have kept things in a mostly neutral palate without the usual Hawaiian kitch.The bed coverlet is white and presents a clean look. There are tasteful pieces of art and accessories throughout. The kitchen is stocked with everything you would need for meals/cooking but the only time we used it was for making coffee. Something we really appreciated was the amount of hangers in the closet which was generous. Lanai furniture was a good quality teak with comfortable cushions, both a high top and 2 shorter armchairs. I am very finicky about the cleanliness of a shower and the tile and grout of this one was in good shape. After the praise, I have 2 quibbles. The floor throughout was so dirty our bare feet were black after our first couple of hours settling in. We asked the management company to send the housekeepers back to re-mop and it was better although still not totally satisfying. The other thing is how cheap the paper products were, toilet tissue, paper towels, Kleenex. It’s false economy when you end up using twice as much. Overall, we would be happy to stay again.
Wren M.
December 2023


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