Where should we stay in Kona?

"We want to stay in Hilo at the beginning of our vacation (February) in one of your rental homes. Maybe you can recommend something for us in Kona for the last part of our vacation (10 days total). Thank you,"
-- Jeff and Kathy D 

For your visit to Kona, it depends on your budget. We prefer the Kohala Coast. It's where all the nice beaches are and it's about 45 minutes from Kailua Kona. Our favorite hotel is the Mauna Kea. It's an older hotel but it feels like old Hawaii, and the beach is to die for. I think we paid a couple hundred a night. Kailua Kona is more touristy, but we like the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, which is on the edge of Kailua Kona so it's easier to avoid traffic. It'll run you about half of what the Mauna Kea would.

February is a great time to come. It's our rainy season but don't let that stop you. The temps will be comfortable.