We visited the Big Island last summer for 7 nights and compromised and moved around a bit, and we were glad we did. We were so glad we didn't have to drive back to the other side of the island after we hiked down and across the volcano crater., and glad we could see the voncano two nights because one night early evening viewing was eliminated with cloud cover.
Our vacation began after a week of business travel in wakiki, we flew into Kona in the morning. We stayed a night in Kona, which was our least favorite, then enjoyed a great drive to volcano with time for great stops, spent two nights in volcano national park, one in their furnished cabins, and one night at volcano house ( pricy) but priceless middle of the night view out your window of glowing volcano. We offset the volcano house costb by staying in the parks furnished cabin the first night, which was close enough to walk to the volcano viewing area. if money is a big consideration, I would say just stay two nights in a cabin but then again, after the 4-5 hour hike the hotel showers and robes felt awful good! We were glad we did the cabin the first night and had the hotel comforts the hotel when we returned from the hike. We are not big hikers, but took our time and the experience of being on the floor of the volcano was spectacular. Don't miss it. After leaving volcano, We then slowly drove back to the otherside of the island stopping at recommended sites and gave ourselves a couple relaxing nights at the Mauna Lani Bay, Hotel and bungalows. We have done extensive traveling the last two years and this is is we're we dream of going back to! We had the rare perfect stay here. The room, the views, the snorkeling, sunsets all spectacular. Found a great rate on jettsetter.com and can honestly say never have had such a wonderful couple of days. We walked over to one of the other resorts nearby (maybe the Fairmont) and we were really glad we were staying at the Mauna Lani Bay. They have rivers and fishponds all throughout the hotel and grounds.
Enjoy the combination of adventure and relaxation the big Island has to offer. We Found sample itenarys were helpful in planning, managed to stop at Merrimans resteraunt for lunch and it lived up to its hype.