Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort is located in the heart of the Kohala Coast, nestled next to a crescent-shaped sandy beach. The resort itself has been located here for 32 years, becoming a Marriott resort in 2004 and receiving a full renovation in 2008. The 533-room resort surrounds three swimming pools, championship golf courses and world-class shopping and dining options, with some of the best sunset views on the coast — all for a price lower than many of the neighboring luxury resorts.

The Marriott is spread out across the Kamehameha Tower, Kaahumanu Tower and Beachfront Cabanas. Corner rooms and cabana rooms are the largest of the 533 rooms available. The resort provides 100 connecting rooms and can guarantee connecting rooms for families needing more space. Standard rooms feature king beds or two double beds. Suites provide separate living and bedroom areas, with one king or two double beds and a sofa bed, as well as an additional half or full bathroom.

All rooms have a non-smoking policy, and feature private lanais, small refrigerators, coffee/tea makers and high-speed Internet access. Cribs and rollaway beds are available upon request.

The resort features three swimming pools: a heated infinity pool, a partial sand-bottom pool and a pool with a waterslide that kids favor. Guests must wear a wristband for pool use. Beyond the pools awaits a crescent-shaped, golden-sand beach, facing Anaeho'omalu Bay -- a rarity on the lava-rock filled Kohala Coast.

For an extra fee Ocean Sports provides numerous water activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking and sunset cruises, including glass-bottom boat rides every 45 minutes, coral reef snorkel adventures and scuba dives.

The Marriott is located on the Waikoloa Beach Resort, which features two championship golf courses. Twilight golf and lessons are also available.

Complimentary Hawaiian culture programs and classes are available throughout your stay, from beginners' hula classes to lei making. You can also take a complimentary walking tour with a guide, who will explain the island's past and showcase the property's cultural treasures.

Sunset Luaus are scheduled twice a week, at 5 p.m., on the lawn overlooking the beach and bay. Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner, which includes a traditional pig roast, and watch Polynesian dances into the night.

Hawaii Calls Restaurant & Lounge is the resort's only onsite restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Special buffet and themed dinners are offered throughout the week. Breakfast is a buffet (and pricey), but the Kona Coffee Shoppe, also located on property, provides to-go breakfast, like pastries and fruit, at a lower price. The restaurant provides salads and sandwiches poolside at lunch, as well as in the seated restaurant.

The Waikoloa Resort offers more dining options at the neighboring Hilton, and the Queens' or King's Marketplace shopping and dining areas. Romano's Macaroni Grill, Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Tommy Bahamas' Tropical Café & Emporium and Ruth's Chris Steak House are just some of the local restaurants within five miles of the resort. A shuttle is available to each location, at a small fee.

All about the Extras

Babysitting service can be arranged through an outside service provider.

Coin-operated laundry facilities are available.

A resort fee of $25 per day includes self-parking, local telephone calls, Wi-Fi and discounts at Ocean Sports.

The Art of Smart Timing
The Kohala Coast doesn't get a lot of rain, and winter temperatures remain in the 70's, making the resort an ideal destination throughout the year. The resort is busiest during summer months, school vacations and holidays.

Getting There
The Kohala Coast is about a 30-minute drive from the Big Island's Kona International Airport. Once at the resort, shuttles provide services to shopping and off-resort dining, and excursions can be arranged through the hotel. You won't need to rent a car while you stay here.

For Mom and Dad
For an afternoon of true relaxation, visit the resort's Mandara Spa, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. It provides a number of soothing services, including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures and body treatments.