Where Do Celebrities Stay on the Big Island?
Because of its close proximity to Los Angeles, the Hawaiian Islands have long drawn Hollywood stars for tropical getaways. And while some may think of Maui as the top island for celebrities: it turns out….the Big Island may in fact be the secret “Sleeper Hit” for stars. Partly because it’s the quickest island to reach. Everyone from Beyonce & Jay-Z, to Demi Moore & Bruce Willis have visited ~ staying at the island’s most luxurious resorts (including one that just re-opened after a devastating 2011 tsunami). Here, we’ll find out: “Where Do Celebrities Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii?”
Find out where Beyonce & Jay-Z stay on the Big Island… Photo by People Magazine.
Map of Famous Big Island Hotels
The good news is: all three top celebrity hotels on the Big Island are only 10-20 minutes from Kona’s International Airport, making for an easy drive.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Four Seasons Hualalai
Kona Village Resort, A Rosewood
Kona Airport
Overview of Famous Big Island Hotels
Megan Fox & ex-husband Brian Austin Green on the Big Island. Photo by Yahoo.
- The Rosewood, Kona Village ($1,695+/night) = The Longest-Running Celebrity Retreat on the Big Island. This resort originally opened back in 1966. It became a cherished off-the-grid retreat for stars like Jim Morrison of The Doors (who once set the record for most Mai Tais drank at Shipwreck Bar….21!!), Steve Jobs, Goldie Hawn & Kurt Russell, Angela Lansbury, Bill Murray, Jeff Bridges, & Sylvester Stallone. In 2011, the resort was destroyed by a tsunami, & only re-opened as the Rosewood in July 2023. The most recent celebrities to visit are radio personality Ryan Seacrest, & former “Bachelor” contestant Becca Tilley, with her girlfriend ~ singer Hayley Kiyoko.
- Mauna Kea Beach Hotel ($998+) = The Most Reasonably-Priced Star-Spotting Hotel. Though the price seems high: this is where you’re most likely to find a deal. Star War’s creator George Lucas is a fan…many have run into him on the property’s famous crescent-shaped beach (one of the prettiest in Hawaii). William Shatner is also a fan ~ & you may run into Sigourney Weaver using their gym. Another thing that draws stars & tennis pros is Mauna Kea’s annual “Seaside Smash Celebrity Tennis Benefit,” which takes place every December. And their golf course isn’t too shabby either: Arnold Palmer & Jack Nicklaus have both played here.
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ($1,180+) = Where Beyonce & Jay-Z Stay on the Big Island. This resort has history too: Michelle Phillips, of the Mamas & Papas (who famously dated Jack Nicholson & Dennis Hopper), has stayed at the Four Seasons Hualalai ~ as have Demi Moore & Bruce Willis, back when they were married. Other stars like Hilary Duff, Megan Fox, Beyonce & Jay-Z, & Ivanka Trump have also visited.
Imagine getting your feet rubbed poolside at the Four Seasons….next to Beyonce. Photo by Booking.com
“We’ve never felt so welcomed & relaxed in our lives! Speaking for my wife & I, we had an amazing experience at the Four Seasons. Lush, clean room with an amazing view. Attentive & friendly staff. Amazing food! Won’t say how many times I ordered the burger!! We made beautiful memories here & can’t wait to return!”– Dom Rhee
Check rates at the Four Seasons Hualalai here.
Photos of The Rosewood, Kona Village Resort
Privacy & VIEWS, at The Rosewood Kona Village. Photo by Trip Advisor.
Beachy lux.
Incredible.
“We had an amazing experience at the recently re-opened Kona Village. The location is beautiful & private. Loved the lanai & soaking tub. Staff are excellent ~ friendly & attentive. Food is outstanding. Breakfast is included & pastry chef is amazing. Had live music every night, & a fantastic massage at the Spa with Angie. Complimentary snorkeling/paddle-boarding. Lots of little unexpected touches. Can’t wait to return!!“
– Kristen D.
Check rates at The Rosewood, Kona Village Resort here.
Photos of Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
My brother took this incredible shot of Mauna Kea’s beautiful, crescent-shaped beach. Photo by John Bertram.
Rooms here are a little more “normal” ~ while those at The Rosewood & Four Seasons offer more space & luxury.
Where Do Celebrities Stay on the Big Island?
For more articles on the Big Island (one of my family’s favorite vacation spots), read about the island’s great brunch spots ~ or our family’s FAVORITE coffee shop in the world….with the craziest views!
xoxo Noelia
Read Next: Best Big Island Hawaii Hotels for Snorkeling
Pin It
Welcome to GWTW!
The setting at Mauna Kea is hard to beat. Beautiful crescent-shaped beach with those pretty orange trees. Rooms may not be as glamorous as other hotels, but the affordability factor is huge.
I agree that Mauna Kea’s setting is stunning! Thanks for adding your input, Tim : )