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 Quick Facts:


  • Address: 75-5888 Ali‘i Dr,Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
  • Property Size: ~3.1 acres (130 units)
  • Reviews: 4.76 / 5.0 (from 4034 reviews)
  • Average Price: $386/night for 1 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Kona Reef Vacation Rentals

The Top 8 Highest Rated Rentals at Kona Reef

Kona Reef Average Rates


As of August 2026, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Reef is $386. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $567. These averages include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax as well as the cleaning and booking fees rentals charge. Also note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usually higher). Visit the Kona Reef Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

What Do Guests Think? An Analysis of 1000 Guest Reviews


Reviewer Portrait

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.

Travelers rave about Kona Reef’s oceanfront setting and walk-to-everything location. Most describe spending sunrise to sunset on the lanai watching surfers, boogie boarders, outriggers, dolphins and seasonal whales, with the sound of waves as a constant backdrop and postcard sunsets each night. The pool, hot tub and BBQs sit right by the water, there’s a grassy oceanfront lawn with loungers, and Honl’s Beach next door adds a lively, local vibe. Being a short stroll from Kailua-Kona’s restaurants, shops, and the pier is a major plus and makes this a convenient home base for exploring the Big Island.

Units are individually owned, but many guests find them clean, comfortable and impressively well stocked—full kitchens, in‑unit washer/dryers, beach gear (chairs, umbrellas, coolers, snorkel sets), and thoughtful extras. Quite a few condos have been nicely remodeled, beds are often noted as comfy, and hosts are frequently praised for fast, friendly communication. Parking is included and generally easy, though spaces can be tight or fill late. Overall, repeat stays and “would book again” comments are common.

Themes to know: this is an older, well-kept complex with variability between units. Some condos are modern; others feel dated or need a deeper clean, and occasional maintenance hiccups (sticky sliders, appliance issues) crop up but are usually addressed quickly. Air conditioning differs by unit—some have split AC in living room and bedroom, others only in the living room, and a few rely on ocean breezes and fans—so confirm if cooling is important, especially in warmer months. Honl’s Beach is small and often rocky (great for surfing and people-watching, less for casual swimming), and a handful of reviewers noted road noise or the presence of unhoused individuals near the adjacent park, typically not disruptive. If you pick an updated, oceanfront unit that matches your AC and location preferences, Kona Reef delivers the classic Kona experience: easy days by the water, spectacular sunsets, and effortless access to town.

This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 reviews

Recent Kona Reef Reviews


Traveling to Hawaii and found out on the day OF our reservation that due to construction, the Lanai and pool were off limits. VERY disappointing. While the host left me a message in a VRBO message, I was unaware until it was too late. He had my phone number and could have - should have texted regarding earlier. While that created a major hassle, I give Kudo's to VRBO for stepping up and solving the issue. We found a VERY nice place and were not charged for anything extra.
Shelley B.
May 2026

Wonderful location! Easy walk to restaurants, unobstructed ocean views, beautiful sunsets. A/C if you want it and well-appointed kitchen. Beach chairs and umbrella. Complex has well-maintained areas with sparkling clean pool. Great unit and great owners that keep in touch should you need anything.
Phil H.
May 2026

We really enjoyed staying at Kona Reef. It’s a great location. The outdoor setting was beautiful. The residents are very friendly to guests. The owners and management were very helpful and accommodating. The condo matched the description and met our needs perfectly. We’d love to stay here again.
Margaret G.
May 2026

Wonderful location! Within walking distance to the Village. Very quiet, parking was not an issue. I would highly recommend this condo.
Dave B.
May 2026

We had a great stay! The condo was clean and comfortable, great view, and perfect location!
Evan B.
May 2026

Great location near downtown Kailua yet quite quiet and very easy walking distance to beach. It and lanai are perfect for relaxation. Comfortable pool and hot tub. Unit was spotless, kitchen very well equipped and variety of gear for beach and ocean adventures. Highly recommend.
Tim G.
May 2026

Very nice out of the busy Hilo. Quiet except for the sounds of the ocean right outside the patio. Very clean and comfortable.
Norm S.
May 2026

Condo was clean, it shows it age a little bit, especially in the bathroom, but the view is incredible. Parking was OK. There’s a lot of construction going on in the building so most of the outside parking had construction material and so forth I would definitely rent this unit again, the ease of renting is great and the view can’t be
jerry w.
May 2026

Perfect location close to all things Kona. The beach is right next to the condo and there is a good supply of beach items, chairs, umbrella, and cooler. The condo is spotless, the bed is comfortable, and the sunsets are perfect.
Connie M.
May 2026

Great place, good views and relaxing place and close to all shopping areas and beaches, enjoyed staying there, will go again someday!
Jeremy V.
May 2026

The location is excellent!! Lanai overlooks the ocean which is wonderful! There are palm trees blocking the sunset so to see it we had to walk down to the grounds. This wasn’t such a bad thing though because it seems that there is always a sunset celebration there. We didn’t choose this property. We were placed here by the Kona coast vacations booking agent because the one that we chose was still under repair. When booking we had been assured that the one we chose would be completed and ready for guests but that wasn’t the case. This was a little disappointing. They did however give a minor discount due to the change and we were placed in a similar room minus the sunset in the same complex but different building. This is the second year that we have stayed in Kona Reef and choose it because of the location. It is easy to walk to Honli beach, enter the ocean and walk to the waterfront area of Kailua Village. This room was clean upon arrival but had a ‘closed up’ smell. The first impression would have been much better had it been freshened up the day we arrived. The kitchen has absolutely everything we needed except food and a water filter pitcher. We didn’t except either of those. Loved the fact that there was everything we needed for a day at the beach as well as laundry soap for doing our laundry.
Kathy G.
May 2026

Great location with a great view! Really appreciate the cooler, beach towels, beach chairs and umbrellas. A/C worked well but the A/C in the bedroom is VERY LOUD periodically through the night. Starter supply kit was plentiful. We loved having island coffee as part of the starter kit. Would definitely stay here again.
Nancy S.
May 2026

We loved our 3 night stay at this condo unit and complex. The view was amazing from our lanai, and the location was perfect. We easily walked to downtown Kona for dinner, shopping and going to the ABC store for those little things we needed. The unit was comfortable also, especially with the air conditioning unit. Stayed at a different unit/complex last year and didn't sleep because I was too hot. The resort pool was also great, and we spent each afternoon and evening swimming and watching the sunset. We can't wait to come back next year! And we will stay at this unit again.
Colleen P.
May 2026

Two days before we were leaving for Kona reef condos the owner messaged us saying the balcony was unusable and would not be able to enjoy it. The balcony was one of the biggest reasons why we rented the condo, it faced the ocean and beach, however he offered to give us a full refund that did nothing for us less than two day of a seven day stay! There was no way we could find a spot that close to the ocean/beach that was the reason we chose this condo! We had done our research and made sure it had everything we wanted. We decided to move forward with our plans and vacation with the condo. We checked it that was super easy so off to a good start. As we entered notice the condo needed some love the curtains were hanging off the hooks covered in grime! The kitchen light had a lot of dead bugs inside, over where you do all your cooking! The dishwasher soap holder was broken and would not wash dishes, so I had to wash all the dishes by hand right off the back because the dishes had been dirty, that makes sense if they trusted the dishwasher! The air conditioner was in the living room with instructions to force the one unit through the whole back bedrooms and bathrooms, so it didn’t work at all the rooms were sweltering hot. The master bed was very uncomfortable and seemed like it was a makeshift hide a bed situation we couldn’t quite figure it out. There was some wooden box acting like a support in the center underneath the bed! The toilet paper holder was broken fell off!
ky e.
May 2026

The unit itself was awesome, clean, equipped with what I needed. Great view, peaceful. Although, I was not aware of the remodeling that was happening in building C. Some noise.My main complaint was the check-in and out process. I never received the link ahead of time for the entrance code, pool key location and parking pass info. If it wasn't for the onsite Kona Reef property management company helping me navigate the Travelocity website for contact info for the unit the day I arrived, I would not have been able to know how to access the entrance code! It was a very concerning and disappointing, especially, because the office was closing soon. Eventually, they found a contact phone number to get me to the owners PM company, and it finally worked out. Stressful! I checked my email and cell phone history and there was no links. Plus I was not able to access the checkout procedure. Other than that I enjoyed the stay.
Ken253 M.
May 2026

Great location, very clean and amazing views!
Leslie H.
May 2026

Our host, Marni, is the definition of premier. So helpful, on and the spot with communication. The property is spotless, comfortable, well-stocked and well-appointed.Parking is easy, and beach access is a dream.I can't say enough good things, and we will be back.Mahalo!
Gabrielle L.
May 2026

Love the property (well-stocked kitchen), beach amenities (though maybe add an umbrella to the bin!) comfortable bedding, plenty of towels. Great walking distance to stores, restaurants, etc. We would stay again!
Joan
May 2026

Nice ocean view from the lanai, great location relative to the pool, garage. Not a far walk to restaurants and shopping. Would stay again!
William E.
May 2026

Our stay was excellent at this wonderful property. The ocean view on the spacious lanai was gorgeous...we took advantage of relaxing there every afternoon. The condo was well-equipped and very comfortable and quiet. The location was excellent in terms of being near the town, beaches, and points of interest. Parking was easy. We will definitely come back again and would highly recommend it to others.
John W.
May 2026

Great stay!
Betsy L.
April 2026

Beautiful condo that had everything we needed for an enjoyable stay. Clean and comfortable with an amazing view!

April 2026

Yes as advertised. Million dollar view, comforts of home. Great location to nearby restaurants and town. Comfortable bed, smart tv. Very quiet except for the pounding of the surf. I just left and am heartbroken. We’ll be back!
Sharon S.
April 2026

Oceanfront all the amenities we will be back
Mary T.
April 2026

Wonderful place oceanfront, and we’ll appointed.
Martha L.
April 2026

We enjoyed the small complex. The condo and grounds were clean and easy to navigate. We appreciated being able to easily walk to town and a small beach nearby. Thank you for having extras like chairs, a cooler, snorkel gear, and umbrella. This all makes the trip easier. Kitchen was well stocked. Thanks for a great trip!
Alyssa M.
April 2026

We love the Kona Reef Complex. We have stayed there 6-7 times. Great Location. There were 3 issues with this condo. One, the air conditioner in the bedroom was very noisy. Every 5-6 minutes it would sound like a motor starting up and last for a minute or two. Second, the box spring in the bedroom has a very large yellow/brownish stain on the side. Third, its an end unit and the street noise was loud. (older windows) Between the air conditioner and the street noise we didn't sleep well. I did call the management company to let them know.
corrine c.
April 2026

We booked this place for our honeymoon and absolutely loved our stay here! It was so clean and had everything we needed and more. The property management company was so responsive and accommodating. We had an issue with the AC unit in the living room and they had someone out to fix it within a couple of hours. The property is a short walk to downtown Kona, where there are plenty of great restaurants, bars, and shops. Highly recommend this place! Would definitely stay here again!
Kristina W.
April 2026

Convenient home base in Kona!
Alicia C.
April 2026

Rooms were clean and spacious. Kitchen was decently stocked with just about anything you would need, and the location and view were spectacular.

April 2026

The condo was exactly as pictured and described. The amenities provided were abundant and even more than expected! Location is perfect to get to the Historic Kailua Village for shopping and restaurants. Being in Ali'i Drive was so convenient to get on the 11/19 Hwy.One of the best parts was waking up each morning to the amazing view. We had coffee and breakfast on the Lanai every morning.
DARCY S.
April 2026

Nice place to stay in was very clean. Beautiful view of the ocean. Nice big shower easy to move in. You don’t have to bring any shampoo because they are already stocked. He will stay here again when we come back.
Sue C.
April 2026

Recommended! Roomy, comfortable unit on the water with a spectacular panoramic view up and down the coast and a 5-minute into town via Ali'i Dr. Great kitchen with up-to-date appliances. Main rooms and master BR have AC and other bedrooms have fans, which kept nighttime temps comfortable. Check-in/out was easy, grounds/pool are well-maintained and on-site personnel were very nice for the few quick questions we had. Will 100% book this unit again next time we come to Kona!
Ryan M.
April 2026

The view and sound of the ocean was fantastic! The condo is situated in a prime location within walking distance to restaurants, shopping and beaches.
Matt E.
April 2026

Loved the lanai! Made it my home. I worked out on the lanai, had meals there and read there. The views were amazing.
Sharon D.
April 2026

We had a wonderful three-week stay at this Kailua Kona condo and would happily return. The unit has been nicely renovated and the kitchen was easily the best equipped and most thoughtfully organized of any VRBO we’ve rented over the years. We also appreciated how well stocked the condo was with everyday essentials like laundry and dishwasher supplies.The balcony was our favorite spot to relax and we loved watching surfers and also watching local residents marking the end of each day by blowing conch shell. The location is ideal, just a short walk from historic Kailua Village, making it easy to enjoy shops, dining, and the waterfront.One small consideration: as with many properties along Ali’i Drive, there can be some traffic noise at night. That said, it didn’t detract from what was otherwise a lovely and very comfortable stay.
Donna H.
April 2026

Very clean. View is the best. Enjoyed our stay.
Kimberly O.
April 2026

Easy. Great location. Easy parking. Not fancy but exactly as advertised. Bring shampoo and body wash and beach towels. Easy walk to dining spots. Nice balcony view of the ocean and pool. Has ac.
Kerry K.
April 2026

Stephanie was a responsive and fun host. She gave us great recommendations. The location of the condo and spectacular views made our trip. We’d foresure come back and recommend our friends to stay at Stephanie’s condo.
Brian W.
April 2026

This is our fourth time of booking this particular room. It is the best for a family. We love the convenience of the bottom story with the large patio space. We actually pick our dates around the availability of this condo.
Christie M.
April 2026

We have stayed at Kona Reef many times, this is by far one of the best views! The room is clean and updated. Would definitely book this room again!
Christie M.
April 2026

We had the absolute best time at this condo at the Kona Reef. We were in town for our dear friends’ wedding and couldn’t have asked for a better unit. The furniture and decor were awesome. Our hosts could not have been more accommodating, you could not ask for better views and the pool and spa area are perfect. We will definitely be back.
Brooke S.
April 2026

Excellent location beside a small beach. The unit had some snorkeling equipment that we used and bought another set that we left there for our future visit! The unit is slightly dated but the location and the view are amazing. 5 min walk to great restaurants. Pool and hot tub very convenient after spending day at the beach. Free parking for a rental car. We arrived earlier than check-in time and were able to get the unit. Thank you!
Carole F.
April 2026

The lanai offered a very pleasant end of day area to rest, have a drink, and plan the next day. It had a great view of the small public beach area and ocean, with visitors enjoying the breaks in the nearby reef and such - all quiet and gone by early evening. The house had a well stocked kitchen and large refrigerator, but we found ourselves typically taking the very short walk "downtown" for a coffee and acai bowl or muffin, then back to the resort to continue exploring the island even though this is our 5th visit to the Big Island. And a short walk downtown for dinner, etc. During our stay the Artemis II mission was in progress but we had some difficulties with the TV in the family room. We travel a lot so I can usually overcome difficulties with TV but this stumped me. With Marni's help with some info, I called the TV provider (Spectrum) and they quickly reset the box and all was well. However over the next couple days it degraded again, but with the nice weather we were out enjoying Hawaii anyway. Overall, wonderful lodging, responsive host (Marni), and very enjoyable stay.
Dave W.
April 2026

The worst unit I have ever stayed in. The pictures are very misleading. Broken cabinets, rusted out closets and broken tiles. Starting with the bathroom, the shower is an old musty shower with broken caulking, dirty tile floors and walls. Very out dated and in need of a complete overhaul. The vanity has a tennis ball size hole in it! Moving into the bedroom. The closet, you are greeted by a closet that’s completely covered in rust! Omg I didn’t even use it. And the overhead AC unit was also covered in rust right at the air exhaust. What a sight ! I swear laying on that bed and looking up at this was disturbing. The kitchen was usable but also dirty , the walls and ceiling are covered in black spots. Also the unit is advertised as sleeping 4 people with 2 sleeping on the retractable couch in the living room. That bed is unusable. The middle of the bed just falls in on you. No support In the middle. So that’s misleading. I’m an adult 5’11 and bed could not hold me up. Also the couch needs a cleaning, dirty. We didn’t even sit on it, it was that dirty. On the balcony the tiles are sticking up so I was stabbing my toe when going out on the balcony. The balcony furniture also needed to be cleaned so we avoided using the balcony furniture. Overall the unit is a disaster. Would not recommend to anyone. Please be careful Only good thing I would say was the view and location of the unit. Parking was good too. Checking in and out was easy.
Aleksandr S.
April 2026

Excellent communication and accommodation with Host. Beautiful condo. Would high recommend it. Very clean.
Lydia M.
April 2026

Kitchen was fully equipped. And parking was easily accessible.
Joseph p.
April 2026

Great property and location. We would happily stay here again.The lanai was slightly larger than it appears in the photos . The nightly salute to the sunset by four residents blowing on conch shells in each of the compass points was charming. We took full advantage of the pool and hot tub. The property was quiet and mostly Boomers. My 13 year old grandson had hoped to connect with other teens - none were there our week. We loved walking into the Harbor area to dine or bring take out back to the unit.
Liz Y.
April 2026

Everything was great The screen door a little rough to open close but all good Great shower :)
Jill N.
April 2026

The parking was great and secure. The air conditioning worked well but we did not need it. The hot water, in the shower, was not abundant, but enough. The main issue we had was the lack of toilet paper and paper towels. I contacted the manager and he told me that only a startup supply was available. I did not read that in the agreement, but that was my fault. We have not had that issue in any other condo. Location was great, close to the ocean.
mariann r.
April 2026


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