Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa Review

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and looking for a resort that blends relaxed luxury, oceanfront views, and family-friendly amenities, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a standout option on the Kohala Coast on the Kona side of the Island.

The Beach in front of the Marriott Waikoloa

Set directly on Anaehoʻomalu Bay, this resort offers the kind of effortless island vibe that makes you slow down the moment you arrive without sacrificing comfort, space, or convenience.

Whether you’re visiting Hawaii with kids, planning a couples’ getaway, or using Marriott Bonvoy points to stretch your travel budget, this is a resort worth considering.

Location: One of the Best Spots on the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is unique for its diverse landscapes of volcanoes, rainforests, black sand beaches, and dry lava fields all in one place. The Waikoloa Beach Marriott is perfectly positioned on the island’s sunny west side, where you’ll find:

• Consistently warm, dry weather

• Calm waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding

• Easy access to restaurants, shopping, and resort walking paths

  
  

The resort is also walkable to Waikoloa Beach Resort’s Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace, making it easy to explore without needing to hop in a car. Be sure to stop at Island Gourmet Markets home to amazing sandwiches, poke, and hot dishes that are perfect for lunches, dinners, or snacks for the beach.

This resort isn' the biggest on the island but the resort is spacious and has a massive beautiful and calm beach just steps away.

Rooms & Suites: Comfortable, Spacious, and Island-Inspired

Guest rooms at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott feel bright, open, and intentionally relaxed and very much in line with the Big Island’s laid-back energy. The rooms feature:

• Private lanais (balconies), many with ocean or sunset views

• Comfortable beds with crisp white linens

• Spacious layouts that work well for families

• Updated bathrooms with walk-in showers

  
  

For travelers who prioritize space over ultra-modern design, the rooms deliver exactly what you want after a full day of beach time or island exploring. If you're looking for something more luxurious in the Marriott Bonvoy family, be sure to check out the Westin or Mauna Kea Resort just a short drive to the north.

Pools, Beach Access & Outdoor Amenities

• A large oceanfront infinity pool overlooking A-Bay

• A separate family-friendly pool area

• Direct beach access to Anaehoʻomalu Bay, ideal for calm swimming

• Sunset fire pits and open-air seating throughout the property

  
  

Dining: On-Site Options with Island Flavor

While the Big Island is known for its food scene, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott offers convenient dining options that make staying on property easy.

• Hawai‘i Calls Restaurant & Lounge – oceanfront dining with live music, local flavors, and sunset views

• Aka‘ula Lanai – poolside bites and tropical cocktails

• Nanea Coffee Bar – perfect for quick breakfasts and morning coffee

For longer stays, many guests mix on-property meals with nearby restaurants at Kings’ Shops or Queens’ Marketplace or other resorts. If you are looking for Fine Dining options I recommend making a reservation at the Mauna Kea Beach Resort or Fairmont Orchid properties which have way better options.

Who This Resort Is Best For

The Waikoloa Beach Marriott is especially well-suited for:

• Families traveling to Hawaii

• Couples who want beachfront views without an overly formal vibe

• Marriott Bonvoy members looking to redeem points

  
  

Using Marriott Bonvoy Points at Waikoloa Beach Marriott

One of the biggest perks of this resort is its accessibility through Marriott Bonvoy. Free Award Nights can offer strong value, especially during peak travel seasons when nightly cash rates are very expensive.

PRO TIP: Pairing a Bonvoy redemption with elite benefits like late checkout or upgraded views can significantly elevate your stay. I always recommend booking any Marriott stay with a Marriott Co-Branded Credit Card like the Marriott AMEX Bonvoy. Enjoy elevated perks with your free Platinum Elite Status as well as earn tons of points during your stay to redeem for future free nights. You also get a 1 Night Certificate that can be redeemed here as well when booking your stay!

Final Thoughts: Is the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Worth It?

If your ideal Hawaii vacation includes sunset views, beachfront pools, walkable amenities, and a relaxed island atmosphere, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a solid choice on the Big Island.

It’s not flashy or overdone but that’s exactly what makes it special. It feels like Hawaii.

Planning More Big Island Travel?

Be sure to check out my complete Big Island Travel Guide to help you plan the ideal vacation from picking the right resort to visiting the must see spots on the island.