There are 8 major Kona resorts north of the airport on the "gold coast."
One reason I've heard it called the gold coast is because of the nice sunny weather all the time. This particular area of the big island receives vary little annual rainfall.
The first of the major Kona resorts is about 6.2 miles north of the Kona airport, they are the Four Seasons Hualalalai and Kona Village Resort, not the town. Then about 14 miles further north is the Waikoloa resort area next to Anaeho'omalu bay, known by the locals as "A"bay for short. I've lived here over 10 years and I have a hard time pronouncing it.
To get there you turn left on highway 19 when leaving the Kona International airport. Don't worry about the hiway number though, there's only one leaving the airport. I just included the number for technical accuracy.
Driving north 6.5 miles you will see the sign for Hualalalai Resort on your left, after making the turn, just a little ways down the road on your right will be a small and I mean "small" sign for the right turn that goes to Kona Village Resort.
About 14 miles further you'll come to a stop light and notice the entrance to Anaeho'omalu Bay on your left, turn here. You'll notice beautifully manicured grounds as you enter the resort, lush green grass and majestic swaying palms as you continue on.
Just up the road a little ways you'll come to the Kings Shops on your right. It has a couple of restaurants, Starbucks, and some unique little shops.