Vacation expenses can add up really quickly if you’re traveling as a family: more food, more sunscreen. And that dreaded “extra person” fee that you pay at some resorts. If you’re traveling to Hawai‘i this summer and you’re bringing the kids, take note! Big Island On The Cheap has several deals that you’ll want to know about, whether you’re a seasoned budget traveler or a lap-of-luxury type who’s cutting back.

Here are some Big Island accommodations that would love for your kids to join you – and stay for free. 

Through September, Bears’ Place Guest House in Kona is offering a special that allows one child to stay free for every paying adult. You’ll find all the comforts of home here, including an equipped kitchenette that will allow frugal families to eat some of their meals (complete with fresh fruit, of course!) in their temporary home in the islands.

Kids stay free in the condo units at Outrigger Fairway Villas on the Kohala Coast. You’ll also get free parking, free WiFi in the pool/fitness room area, free BBQs and free local and toll free calls. Outrigger Fairway Villas are located near the Waikoloa Beach Resort, the King’s Shops and are within walking distance of the golden sands at historic ‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay.

At the Fairmont Orchid on Hawai‘i Island’s Kohala Coast, children under 18 stay free when staying in their parents’ guest room. (Also ask about their “3rd night free” deal: for every two consecutive nights, you get a third night free.”) Kids can also enjoy free daily activities like learning to weave a lauhala bowl or trying a new game played in the time of the ali’i (royalty). Honu (turtle) watching is also a kid favorite and they’re sure to enjoy watching the nightly torchlighting ceremony at sunset.

Dragonfly Ranch in South Kona offers up something a little different for island visitors. Calling itself an eco-spa, tree house style bed and breakfast, the facility features several unique accommodations, a labyrinth and an organic garden. At Dragonfly Ranch, one child can join parents in one of their  indoor/outdoor suites free of charge. Owner Barbara Ann Kenonilani Moore is also offering readers of Big Island On The Cheap a fifth night FREE.

King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel stands on the grounds where King Kamehameha once lived, and is located in the heart of the historic fishing village of Kailua-Kona. Not only does it feature newly renovated rooms, it also welcomes kids for free when they use the existing bedding (maximum four people per room). The hotel also offers a 30 percent discount on room rates this summer; see the website for restrictions.

The three Aston properties on the Big Island (formerly “ResortQuest Hawaii;” presently they seem to be intermingling the names) offer a “Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE” program. The properties are the Aston Kona By The Sea, the Aston Shores at Waikoloa and Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas. Here’s how it works:

• KIDS STAY FREE: Children 17 years and younger stay free with their parents at any ResortQuest Hawaii hotel or all-suite condominium resort when using existing bedding.
• KIDS PLAY FREE: Children 12 and younger receive free admission at top island attractions when accompanied by a paying adult.
• KIDS EAT FREE: Children 12 and younger receive free meals at popular family friendly restaurants when accompanied by a paying adult.

View a complete list of Aston’s participating attractions, retail stores, and restaurants (subject to change without prior notice).

At the following Big Island Castle Resorts & Hotels, which are scattered around Kona, Hilo and Waimea, all children 17 and under using existing bedding stay free in the same room as their parents. NOTE: Total occupants including children cannot exceed maximum occupancy of the confirmed room.  Subject to availability, certain restrictions apply.

Kona Bali Kai
Kona Reef
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Waimea Country Lodge

Kids 17 and under (using existing bedding in a parent’s room) also stay free at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, which has one of the most incredible pools I’ve ever seen. Kids 17 and under stay free at its sister hotel, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, as well.

There you go — all the more reason to bring your kids to the wonderful Big Island. Come on over!

Please be sure to check the property’s website for details — some may have restrictions that you need to factor into your planning. And if you know other places where “Kids Stay Free,” let us know.

Stay tuned for a Kids Eat Free post coming soon!