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The 21 Best Things to do in Kona (+ tips to know before you go)

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With rugged volcanic landscapes, sandy beaches, and laid-back seaside villages, Kona is one of the most visited destinations in Hawaii. But considering it takes up nearly two-thirds of the entire west side of the Big Island, planning what to do on vacation here can be a challenge. There are simply too many sights and attractions worth seeing!

We’ve been lucky enough to spend quite a bit of time in the area, which is why we wanted to share a list of all the best things you can do during your visit. Whether you’re interested in thrilling adventures or a lazy beach day, here are the 21 things you won’t want to miss on your trip to Kona.

Planning a trip to the Big Island? We have you covered: Find everything you need to know with our Ultimate Big Island Travel Guide Pick the best time of year to visit the Big Island Book a car with Discount Hawaii Car Rental to get around the island Search through our Where to Stay database to find the best Big Island lodging

Where is Kona?

Kona is a district that stretches along the western side of the Big Island. Because of its proximity to beautiful beaches and fascinating attractions, it’s one of the most popular places to stay. The region is also warmer and sunnier compared to the eastern side (near Hilo), making it a great destination for a tropical vacation.

Within the Kona district is Kailua-Kona, the second-largest town on the island. In this article, we’ll be sharing a few of our favorite places in Kailua-Kona as well as the greater Kona district.

How Many Days Do You Need in Kona?

As its name implies, the Big Island is big! There are so many things to do here, even if you stick to the Kona coast, which can make it difficult to plan how many days to stay . In our opinion, we recommend staying at least one full week, although you could easily spend several weeks or even months here without getting bored.

One week will give you time to tick off a few major sites while also having enough time to unwind and relax. However, it’s possible to shorten your trip if you’re just here for sightseeing. To make the most of your limited vacation time, make sure you have a step-by-step itinerary to help plan your route.

What is the Best Time to Visit Kona?

Kona has so much to offer that there’s really no bad time to visit. And while the east coast gets its fair share of rain, the leeward side of the Big Island is relatively warm and sunny throughout the year.

But that doesn’t mean that Kona is completely immune to rainfall. The rainy season runs from November until April, so it’s possible that you’ll see a shower or two if you visit during this time. If you’re hoping to maximize the number of sunny days you’ll have, then make sure to go during the summer, between the months of May to October.

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What is Kona Best Known For?

Like most places in Hawaii, Kona is known for its sun-soaked beaches and laid-back tropical atmosphere. However, there are a few specific things that Kona is especially famous for.

One of those things is Kona coffee, which can only be grown and cultivated in the Kona district (make sure you check out our favorite coffee farm tours ). Kona is also known for amazing snorkeling and diving. One of our favorite places is Kealakekua Bay , although there are dozens of great sites scattered up and down the coast.

The Kailua-Kona downtown area is also a big draw for visitors. Not only does it have spectacular ocean views, but it’s also a popular place for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.

How Do I Spend a Day in Kona?

Your perfect day in Kona will largely depend on your traveling style and preferences, but we found that a mix of beach time, good food, and some sort of activity was the best option for our family. Check out the video below for our experience!

For example, you can start with a hot cup of Kona coffee before hitting the water for some morning snorkeling. Then you can take a break and head into Kailua-Kona town or to the Ali’i Gardens Marketplace for some shopping before grabbing lunch. Afterward, stop by one of the many beaches on the coast (we like Manini’owali Beach) before heading back to your hotel for dinner.

However, this is just a sample itinerary. You can pick and choose your favorite things from the list below to craft your own perfect day in Kona!

21 of the Best Things to Do in Kona

1. night snorkel or dive with manta rays.

Snorkeling or diving with Manta Rays is a bucket list experience for anyone visiting the Big Island. These majestic creatures are the largest rays in the world, although they’re extremely docile and friendly toward people.

The Kona coast is one of the only places in the world where you can see the rays up close. During your night dive or snorkel, you’ll be swimming around a board that has a big spotlight. The light illuminates the plankton, which therefore attracts the hungry manta rays. It’s an unforgettable sight to have these gentle giants swimming and barrel-rolling just inches away from your group.

If you’d rather view the mantas from dry land, then there is a viewing spot in front of the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa (Manta Village) and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Manta Point). These land viewing areas are technically open only to guests, so you’ll want to book a room if seeing the Manta Rays is high on your list!

Related reads: Manta Ray Snorkel and Dive in Hawaii: Read Before You Book Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Guide: What to Expect (a thrill)

2. Sample Kona Coffee

You don’t have to be a coffee aficionado to appreciate a good cup of joe! Kona coffee is one of the most expensive coffees in the world, as it can only be produced in a few select places on the island.

There are so many great coffee shops where you can sample the smooth and robust flavors of Kona coffee. But if you want to dive deeper, we recommend booking a coffee farm tour to learn more about how the beans are grown, harvested, and roasted (plus, they usually end with a coffee tasting!).

We did the farm walk and tasting at Hala Tree Coffee , although Mountain Thunder Coffee has a variety of unique tours like nature walks, 4×4 plantation tours, and roastery experiences in addition to their free farm tour. You can also visit the Kona Coffee Living History Farm to see how coffee was first produced here in the early 20th century.

3. Tour a Vanillerie

If you’re interested in another farm tour, The Vanillerie near the Kona International Airport is an excellent option. All the vanilla orchids are hand-grown by a husband-and-wife duo, who use the beans to make vanilla extract, bath products, and seasonings. Even before you see the orchids, you’ll be able to smell them from afar!

Although you’re more than welcome just to come here to shop, it’s well worth the time and money to book a tour of the grounds. You’ll learn about the entire production of growing, harvesting, and taking care of vanilla. And to cap off your tour, you’ll get to taste real vanilla ice cream made with their beans.

If you’re looking for a cool souvenir, then check out their DIY vanilla extract kit. You’ll be able to scoop out your own beans from the pod to soak in an alcohol of your choice to make your own flavoring. The Vanillerie is truly one of the more unique farm tours on the island, and a must-see for any foodie or sweet tooth!

4. See How Salt is Made

Salt is a staple seasoning essential in all our pantries, but have you ever stopped to consider how it’s made? Hawaiian sea salt is unlike regular table salt, as it’s rich in minerals and nutrients like magnesium, calcium and potassium that makes it 33% lower in sodium.

To learn more about Hawaiian salt production, visit the Kona Sea Salt farm. This is the only salt farm in Hawaii that you can tour, making it a great day activity for anyone staying in Kona.

During your tour, you’ll learn about the history of salt making, its importance in Hawaiian culture, and how it’s harvested from 2,200 feet below the surface of the ocean. Of course, no tour would be complete without a tasting (tickets include a complimentary salt tasting of pure, flavored, and smoked salts with fruits and vegetables).

5. Hold a Seahorse

Hawaii may be known for its turtles and manta rays, but did you also know that there are seahorses that live here too? Ocean Rider is a family-run farm that raises seahorses for commercial aquariums, which eliminates the need for businesses to take wild seahorses from the ocean.

They have over 20 different types of endangered seahorses, as well as other marine creatures like leafy sea dragons. The 90-minute farm tour is led by an ocean conservationist, who will tell you all about the environment and breeding lifecycle of these beautiful creatures.

Ticket prices are relatively high compared to other Kona activities (it’s $74 per adult and $70 per child). However, the proceeds go to the farm in order to protect the lives of the threatened seahorses. And at the end of the tour, you’ll get to hold a real live seahorse, which makes this experience worth every penny.

If you’re not sure how to fit in everything you want to see on the Big Island, check out our itinerary! It takes you step by step on a planned out route so you can see, experience, and eat at the best places on the island. It makes your planning so much easier.

Hi, just want to say thank you for the great itinerary! We just got back from the Big Island and we used 3 different itinerary days from your guide. You helped us use our limited time well, and we’re grateful!  We hope we can visit Hawaii again sometime and explore a different island.  Thanks again! Amber M.

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the big island itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Hawai’i (Big Island).

6. Find the Queen Bee at Big Island Bees

Big Island Bees is a charming family-run honey farm that’s been on the island for 50 years. Their apiary of 2,500 hives and 125 million bees produce three different types of honey – Lehua Honey, Macadamia Nut Honey, and Wilekaiki Honey. 100% local, 100% organic, and 100% delicious!

They offer a fascinating beekeeping tour (advanced reservations are required) where you’ll get to look at an actual hive to learn how the honey is harvested and produced. You might even get to see the queen bee! And while honey bees are docile, you’ll be behind a screened area just in case.

After the tour, you’ll get free samples of the three different kinds of honey they produce on the farm. You can also visit the on-site beekeeping museum (which has free admission) to learn more about the process in more detail.

7. Snorkel Kealakekua Bay

One of our favorite snorkeling spots on the Big Island is Kealakekua Bay, right near the Captain Cook Monument. Not only are the waters crystal clear and calm, but the abundance of marine life is just breathtaking! In fact, it’s believed that the coral (which can be 100 feet in length) was used as inspiration for designing the reef in Disney’s Finding Nemo.

We’ve seen moray eels, white-tipped sharks, and tons of colorful tropical fish. Because the area is a protected marine reserve, fishing is strictly prohibited, which has allowed marine life here to flourish. 

However, Kealakekua Bay is located at the bottom of a rocky cliff, so getting there can be a bit of a challenge. It is possible to hike from the Captain Cook Monument, although it’s a long and steep 4-mile trek that can be difficult in the heat. You’ll be much better off taking a kayak or a boat tour to the snorkeling spot instead.

These are some of the Kealakekua Bay Tours that we love:

• Snorkel from a catamaran
• Head out on a snorkeling tour on a power raft
• Kayak and snorkel in Kealakekua Bay

8. Learn About the History at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

The Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historic Park is one of Kona’s most sacred sites. Up until the 19th century, this area was once the only safe sanctuary for people who broke the law, otherwise known as kapu. They would flee here to evade legal punishment, which in almost all cases was death. 

Despite its ominous past, the area is now a lovely 180-acre park and archeological site for the pubic to enjoy. In addition to the palm-tree fringed beach, it also includes reconstructed thatched-roof temples, royal fishponds, and sledding tracks. The grounds are equally as stunning, boasting pristine ocean views over the nearby bay. You can also walk across the tide pools to see fish, crabs, and, if you’re lucky, turtles.

9. Stroll Kailua-Kona town

Considered to be the heart of the Kona coast, Kailua-Kona town is the second-largest settlement on the island after Hilo. It is not actually very big, but there are tons of interesting sites and charming businesses set up along the 1-mile stretch of coastline.

Highlights include Kamakahonu Beach and the Kailua Pier (the Marriott hotel is a convenient place to stay nearby). You’ll also find Hulihe‘e Palace , a restored vacation home that was used for King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. Of course, there are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can grab lunch or spend a few hours.

One of our favorite places in downtown Kailua-Kona is the farmer’s market, which features more than 40 vendors. It’s a great place to pick up handicraft souvenirs or to stock up on fresh fruit and produce. There are so many unique and tropical fruits that you can’t find on the mainland, so make sure to come hungry if you want to sample the bounty!

10.  Take an Outrigger Canoe Ride

If you want to explore the open waters like a local, then hop aboard an outrigger canoe. These boats have been used for thousands of years for fishing and transporting (the first one arrived in Hawaii in 200 AD), and is now the official state team sport. As such, it’s a great activity to learn more about Hawaiian culture and to get a bit of exercise during your trip!

There are several tour operators and rental shops located in Kona. Anelakai Adventures and Kona Boys are two of the most popular shops. During your tour, keep an eye out for green sea turtles and spinner dolphins – they can often be spotted in the waves!

11.  Head Out Whale Watching

Every year, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from Alaska to bask and breed in the warm waters of the Pacific. So, if you happen to be visiting between December and April, you’ll want to book a whale watching tour to see these magnificent mammals for yourself!

Kona (along with Kohala and Hilo) is one of the best places for whale watching. While it’s possible to see them from shore, a boat tour can take you further into the ocean, therefore, increasing your chances of seeing the pods. In addition to the whales, you might also see dolphins, turtles, and even whale sharks on your trip too.

Check out these 16 passenger raft or 20 passenger power boat whale watching tours from Kona.

12.  Tour Hulihe’e Palace

Located right in the heart of downtown Kaliua-Kona is Hulihe’e Palace . The current building was constructed in 1838 as a vacation home for the reigning Hawaiian monarchy. Unfortunately, it sat unused during the early 1900s until it was passed over to the Daughters of Hawaii organization to be resorted.

The palace is now a museum dedicated to King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. It contains many artifacts and items from the 18th and 19th centuries, including Hawaiian quilts, feather work, and carved koa wood furniture.

For a more enriching experience, we recommend booking the guided tour (instead of just the self-guided ticket) to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.

13.  Attend a Luau

Going to a Hawaiian Luau is a great experience for families, couples, or anyone visiting Hawaii. With mouthwatering food, live music, and traditional Polynesian dancing, it’s easily one of the coolest things you can do to learn more about Hawaiian culture. And thankfully, some of the best luaus on the Big Island are right here on the Kona coast.

The Island Breeze Luau held at the Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel has been rated as the best of West Hawaii since 2000. The show is centered around the procession of King Kamehameha I and the Royal Court. We have a list of the best luaus on the Big Island to help you choose.

Luaus are not cheap, but they usually include an all-you-can-eat buffet as well as an open bar. It’s a great opportunity to try traditional Hawaiian foods, like Kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, and poi while watching an entertaining show.

14.  Hike a Volcano

The Big Island is home to two of the world’s most active volcanos. However, Kilauea and Mauna Loa are located in Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park , which is located on the other side of the island, roughly two hours from Kona. Fortunately, there’s a volcano located not so far from town, which makes it an excellent day trip for those interested in a fun and scenic hike.

Kona’s Hualalai volcano is the 3rd largest on the island and only accessible with a tour as it’s located entirely on private land. We booked the Hidden Crater Hike with Hawaii Forest and Trail, which takes you beyond the private locked gates past craters, collapsed pits, and 200-year-old lava tubes.

Altogether, it’s a four or five-mile hike and takes around five hours to make the full journey. It’s a moderate hike but may not be suitable for young kids because of the length and steep off-trail incline.

15.  Learn to Scuba Dive

There are so many wonderful spots to go scuba diving in the world, but Hawaii is arguably one of the best in the United States. It also happens to be a good place to learn how to scuba dive, as there are many schools and introduction lessons for first-timers – even if you don’t have any prior diving experience!

If you want to try scuba diving, you can start with a pool dive, shore dive, or boat dive. Jack’s Diving Locker in Kailua-Kona is a dive shop that offers all three types of intro dives for adults and kids (ages 10 and up for the pool and shore and 12 and up for the boat).

More experienced divers will love the diversity of dive sites located along the coast. Explore the colorful coral gardens of Honaunau Bay (Two Step), see the sunken Naked Lady sailboat, or swim with whale sharks and turtles at crescent beach. And don’t forget the iconic manta ray dive at night! We have a list of our favorite Manta Ray night snorkel and dives .

16.  Find the Secret Banana Bread Stand

If you’re looking for a sweet treat to get you through the day, then make sure to stop over at the little banana bread stand on Painted Church Road by the Paleku Gardens Peace Sanctuary. It’s just a small stand on the side of the road, so if you blink, you might miss it!

The entire operation is on a self-service honor system, as the owner bakes the loaves and then leaves them in a cooler outside her house. You can pay with cash or through Venmo. And while the loaves are very affordable (it’s only $3 per loaf!), we suggest that you pick up a few extras because it’s probably the best banana bread on the entire island.

17.  Head to the Beach

You can’t visit Hawaii without spending at least one day at the beach. Whether you’re there to snorkel or to work on your tan, there are a few must-see beaches that we love on the Kona coast.

One of our favorites is Manini’owali Beach at Kua Bay. This pristine slice of white sand is a haven for wildlife like sea turtles and spinner dolphins. But we noticed that the waves can be a bit rough, so if you’re traveling with kids, we suggest Kikaua Point Beach Park . The snorkeling here is outstanding, and the waters are protected and extremely calm.

Although it’s not a fine sand beach (there are some rocks here as well), ‘Alula is another decent option if you’re looking for rich marine life and shallow waters. It’s located within the  Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, which contains two ancient Hawaiian fishponds that date back more than 800 years.

Related read: 5 Best Big Island Beginner Snorkeling Spots You Shouldn’t Miss and the 11 Best Big Island Beaches

18.  Snorkel at Two Step

Honaunau Bay (also known as Two Step) is considered by many to have the best snorkeling and scuba diving on the Big Island. The waters are accessible by shore, and it’s possible to see the coral reef just 10 or 15 feet from the beach.

Keep your eyes peeled for parrot fish, crabs, sea urchins, and yellow tang. If you’re lucky, you might get to see spinner dolphins in deeper parts of the bay (around 100 feet in). They come here to rest in the shallow waters, and it’s crucial that you do not touch, disturb, or swim after them. In fact, it’s illegal to get within 50 yards of them, so give them distance if they’re in the waters.

Two Step is a very popular spot, so you’ll want to come early to snag parking in the main parking lot. Snorkeling in the morning is the best time to visit anyways, as the bay can become overcast later in the day, which may limit your visibility underwater. 

If you’d rather join a snorkeling tour, check out our favorite Big Island snorkeling tours .

19.  Eat and drink at Ola Brew Co

If you’re looking for a place to eat with delicious food and ice-cold beers, then look no further than Ola Brew Co . They’re situated right in the middle of Kailua-Kona and are open for lunch and dinner. You can’t go wrong with ordering anything off their menu. They have flatbreads, sandwiches, bao buns, salads, and a special keiki menu for the little ones.

To wash everything down, you’ll want to try one of their locally made brews, like the Ma’a Lager or the Luhia Pale Ale (they also serve a Lilikoi Lime Milkshake IPA which is definitely something unique to try). They produce their own hard juice, hard ciders, hard seltzers, and even hard teas, so there’s something for every tastebud.

20.  Take a Surfing Lesson

Kona may not be able to compete with the wild swells of Oahu’s North Shore, but it still has plenty of great spots where you can catch a few waves. And don’t be afraid if you’ve never been on a board before – Kona is a good spot for beginners, with tons of friendly and gentle waves for you to learn on.

And if you’re new to surfing, try your hand at surf lessons !

One of the best spots for first-time surfers is at Kahalu’u Bay . This is where you’ll find the majority of surf schools on the island. There are also some surf shops and rental booths round Kahalu’u Beach Park, where you can book classes or lessons. This bay is also frequented by snorkelers, as the waters are teeming with fish, turtles, and vibrant corals.

Once you’re a bit more comfortable on the board, you can hit up a few other intermediate surf sites like Kohanaiki Beach Park . Also known as the Pine Trees, this spot has consistent rolling waves where you can practice your technique. Other sites like Honl’s, Lyman’s, and Banyans are a bit more complicated and should be left to professionals or experienced surfers.

21.  Kekaha Kai State Park

If you want to spend a nice relaxing day in nature, then head to Kekaha Kai State Park. When you first enter the park, you’ll drive down a long road surrounded by pitch-black lava fields (as a side note- the drive can be bumpy, so make sure you have 4WD or an SUV). But this eventually opens up to a wide stretch of unspoiled golden sand beaches.

One of the things we love most about this park is that it’s somewhat off the main touristy track, so it’s a good place to hang out if you want to avoid the crowds. The water is translucently clear and ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and body boarding. There is no lifeguard on duty, so stay on high alert as the surf can get high during some parts of the day.

Besides the beach, there’s also a 4.5-mile hiking trail that winds up the coast to Kua Bay. If you do embark on the hike, make sure to bring lots of water and sun protection, as it can get very hot in the lava fields. You can also stop halfway to climb to the 342-foot summit of Pu’u Ku’ili for dramatic ocean views.

Related reads: The 59 Best Things to do in Hawaii: Your Ultimate Bucket List (2023) 9 Best Big Island Resorts for Families (your kids will love these hotels!) 11 Best Big Island Beaches You Need to Visit (+ map!)

Get the Best Big Island Itinerary

Planning a trip to Hawaii is a lot of work, especially if it’s your first trip, but with so much to do and see, we can help make even your 21st trip a new and exciting experience with our Big Island Itinerary .

I just returned from my Hawaii vacation and I wanted to let you know that your Big Island wayfinder/ guide was amazing! My husband and I throughly enjoyed all of the excursions we did based on your guide.  We plan on returning to visit Maui and Kauai and will purchase those as well. Maria E.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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THE 10 BEST Kailua-Kona Tours & Excursions

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25 of the Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss when visiting Kona, Hawai’i? Our guide to the best things to do in Kona is just what you need!

Get ready to embark on a sun-kissed adventure as we uncover the best things to do in Kona, on the Big Island . Welcome to Kailua Kona, a dreamy destination where white sand beaches, rich history, and a caffeine fix like no other await.

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach bum or a coffee aficionado, this place has got you covered! So grab your sun hat and flip-flops as we dive into a treasure trove of excitement, from snorkeling at the iconic Captain Cook Monument to sipping on the world-renowned Kona Coffee.

With so much to see and do, Kailua Kona promises an unforgettable vacation that blends adventure, culture, and the undeniable allure of those pristine white sand beaches.

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Visit Kailua Kona and Wander through the historic town, shop for souvenirs, and dine at local eateries

Snorkel or dive at kealakekua bay to see the diverse marine life and captain cook monument, explore a hawaiian coffee farm on a coffee plantation tour, explore hawaii volcanoes national park and witness the active volcanoes, stroll through the kona farmers market for fresh produce and local crafts, discover the history and art of hawaiian quilts at the kona hawaiian quilt museum, visit the stunning hulihe’e palace in downtown kailua kona and learn about hawaiian royalty, attend a traditional hawaiian luau, such as the island breeze luau, join a whale-watching tour (seasonal) to spot humpback whales, discover pu’uhonua o honaunau national historical park, a sacred hawaiian site, take a scenic drive along mamalahoa highway, take a sunset cruise along the kona coast, tour the ocean rider seahorse farm and get up close with seahorses and learn about their conservation, go paddleboarding or kayaking in the tranquil waters of keauhou bay, watch the sunset at magic sands beach park, explore the underwater world with a night manta ray snorkel tour, visit the kona cloud forest sanctuary and observe unique flora and fauna, enjoy a scenic hike at kaloko-honokohau national historical park, stargaze atop mauna kea, one of the best astronomical sites globally, visit the kona brewing company for a brewery tour and tasting, explore the kamakahonu national historic landmark, the former residence of king kamehameha i, snorkel with dolphins at two-step (honaunau bay), a popular snorkeling spot, relax at kua bay (manini’owali beach), take a helicopter tour and get a bird’s-eye view of the big island’s diverse landscapes, learn about marine life at the kanaloa octopus farm, wrapping up, the best things to do in kona, hawaii.

When visiting Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii, there are numerous exciting activities and attractions to explore. Here’s a list of the top 25 best activities to add to your Big Island itinerary.

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Visiting Kailua-Kona Village is a delightful way to immerse oneself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Kona. Stepping into this charming historic town, you are welcomed by a blend of quaint architecture, local boutiques, and inviting restaurants.

As you stroll along the picturesque waterfront, the soothing sound of waves accompanies the exploration of art galleries and souvenir shops. Kailua Village’s warm and laid-back atmosphere offers a perfect setting for leisurely walks, savoring local delicacies, and interacting with friendly locals who are more than willing to share their island’s stories and traditions.

Whether it’s enjoying a refreshing shave ice treat, browsing for handcrafted treasures, or simply taking in the stunning coastal views, Kailua Village captures the true essence of Kona’s aloha spirit, leaving you with cherished memories of their Hawaiian adventure.

Kealakekua Bay is a breathtaking snorkeling and diving paradise located along the Kona Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. This pristine marine sanctuary not only offers crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs but also holds historical significance as the site where Captain James Cook first landed on the island in 1779.

Today, travelers can explore the underwater wonders of Kealakekua Bay, encountering an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. The bay’s calm and protected waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in the beauty of Hawaii’s underwater world.

The highlight of the bay is the striking Captain Cook Monument, perched on the shoreline, which commemorates the explorer’s life and his connection to the region. Kealakekua Bay is not just a natural wonder but a place where history and marine biodiversity converge, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking both adventure and cultural insights.

When visiting Kona, one of the must-do activities for any coffee enthusiast is to explore the captivating world of Hawaiian coffee farms. The Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation stands out as a prominent destination for this experience.

Nestled amidst the lush slopes of the Hualalai volcano, the plantation offers an immersive tour where visitors can witness the intricate process of cultivating and harvesting coffee beans. From learning about the unique Kona coffee-growing conditions to witnessing the art of hand-picking the ripe cherries, the journey through Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation provides an enriching insight into the rich heritage and dedication that goes into producing world-renowned Kona coffee.

And, of course, no visit would be complete without savoring the distinct flavors of freshly brewed coffee, making it an unforgettable and aromatic adventure for travelers.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , a mesmerizing wonder on the Big Island, holds the captivating title of being home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world. Exploring this breathtaking landscape allows travelers to witness the raw forces of nature at play, where fiery eruptions have shaped the island’s topography over millennia.

The park’s centerpiece is the legendary Kilauea, a spectacular volcano that continues to spew molten lava into the surrounding terrain, creating ever-changing landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas. Visitors can embark on thrilling hikes through vast lava fields, explore lava tubes, and even catch a glimpse of glowing lava as it flows into the ocean, offering a rare and unforgettable encounter with nature’s elemental forces.

For any adventurous traveler seeking a profound connection with the Earth’s geological history, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park stands as an unmissable destination that ignites the senses and leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

The Kona Farmers Market is a vibrant and bustling hub of local culture and flavors that beckons travelers to explore the authentic tastes and crafts of Kona. Situated in the heart of Kailua-Kona, this bustling marketplace features a diverse array of fresh produce, tropical fruits, and handmade goods from local artisans.

As you stroll through the colorful stalls, you can sample exotic fruits like lilikoi (passion fruit), taste freshly roasted macadamia nuts, and savor the sweetness of locally grown pineapples. The market is not just a foodie’s paradise but also a treasure trove of handmade crafts, from traditional Hawaiian jewelry and clothing to unique souvenirs that showcase the artistry of the island.

The vibrant atmosphere, friendly vendors, and the rich tapestry of Hawaiian flavors and crafts make the Kona Farmers Market an essential stop for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Kona.

Read More: Check out this post on all of the other great things to do on the Big Island .

The Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum is a captivating cultural institution that offers visitors a glimpse into the artistry and history of Hawaiian quilting. Situated in the heart of Kona, Hawaii, the museum houses a stunning collection of traditional and contemporary quilts, each telling a unique story through intricate patterns and designs.

You have the opportunity to learn about the significance of quilting in Hawaiian culture, where quilts have been passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms and gifts. The museum provides a rich educational experience, with exhibits showcasing various quilting techniques and the evolution of this time-honored craft.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Hawaiian traditions and creativity, a visit to the Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum is an enriching and inspiring endeavor that celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of this iconic art form.

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Hulihe’e Palace , nestled along the Kona coastline, offers a captivating glimpse into Hawaii’s regal past. Built in 1838, this historic landmark served as a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty during the reign of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi’olani.

Today, visitors can step back in time as they explore the elegant, oceanfront palace, adorned with intricate koa wood furnishings and beautiful artifacts from the royal era. The guided tours provide a fascinating narrative of the island’s royal history, offering insight into the customs, traditions, and lifestyle of the Hawaiian monarchs.

The well-maintained palace gardens, framed by swaying palm trees and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, create an idyllic backdrop that further enhances the experience. For those seeking a deeper connection to Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage, a visit to Hulihe’e Palace is an enchanting and educational journey through time.

The Island Breeze Luau is a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture and traditions that leaves visitors with unforgettable memories of their time in Kona. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Kona Coast, this lively luau immerses guests in a mesmerizing evening of music, dance, and authentic island cuisine.

From the moment you arrive, you are warmly welcomed with a traditional lei greeting, setting the tone for a night filled with aloha spirit. As the sun sets over the ocean, the luau comes to life with captivating hula performances, showcasing the grace and storytelling of this ancient dance form.

You have the opportunity to savor a delicious buffet, featuring a delectable array of Hawaiian dishes and tropical delights. Throughout the evening, you are encouraged to participate in fun activities, such as learning the hula or playing ancient Hawaiian games.

The Island Breeze Luau is a joyous celebration of Hawaiian heritage, offering travelers an authentic and immersive experience that brings them closer to the heart and soul of the islands.

Embarking on a whale-watching tour in Kona is a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience that allows travelers to witness one of nature’s most majestic creatures up close. During the whale-watching season (typically from December to April), humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to give birth and nurse their calves.

Guided by knowledgeable captains and naturalists, visitors set sail on boats equipped to respect the whales’ space while providing an unobstructed view of these magnificent marine mammals. As the boat glides through the ocean, passengers can witness humpback whales breach, tail slap, and sing their hauntingly beautiful songs.

The sheer size and grace of these gentle giants leave a profound impression, and the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat is both humbling and exhilarating. A whale watching tour in Kona offers an extraordinary encounter with these incredible creatures and creates cherished memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park , also known as the Place of Refuge, is a remarkable site steeped in Hawaiian history and spirituality. Located along the Kona Coast of the Big Island, this sacred sanctuary was once a place of refuge and absolution for those who had violated ancient Hawaiian laws.

Today, the park stands as a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, offering you a chance to step back in time and connect with the island’s past. You can explore the restored temples, ancient stone walls, and royal grounds, gaining insights into the customs and rituals of the Hawaiian people.

The serene coastal setting adds to the park’s allure, inviting contemplation and a sense of reverence. With its deep cultural significance and serene ambiance, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park offers travelers a unique and immersive journey into Hawaii’s storied past.

Driving along Mamalahoa Highway on the Big Island of Hawaii offers travelers an enchanting journey through some of Kona’s most picturesque landscapes. The highway winds its way through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and alongside stunning coastal vistas, providing an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty.

As you venture along this scenic route, you’ll encounter charming small towns, beaches, coffee plantations, and hidden gems that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage. The Mamalahoa Highway offers numerous opportunities to stop and explore, whether it’s to take a short hike to a hidden waterfall, savor fresh tropical fruits from roadside stands, or simply capture postcard-worthy views with every turn.

This road trip along Mamalahoa Highway is a memorable adventure that immerses visitors in the heart of Kona’s natural wonders, making it an essential part of any traveler’s itinerary.

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Embarking on a sunset cruise along the Kona Coast is an enchanting experience that casts a golden hue over an already stunning paradise. As the day draws to a close, the Pacific Ocean becomes a tranquil canvas, reflecting the vibrant colors of the setting sun.

The gentle breeze caresses your skin as the boat glides effortlessly, offering unobstructed views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and majestic volcanic peaks in the distance. With the soothing sound of waves lapping against the vessel, you can savor the magical moment with loved ones or in blissful solitude.

The golden hour gradually gives way to a starry sky, promising a celestial display as the boat returns to shore. The Kona Coast’s sunset cruise is an idyllic escape, a perfect finale to a day filled with exploration, relaxation, and the true essence of Hawaiian paradise.

The Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm in Kona offers a fascinating and immersive experience, providing you with a unique opportunity to interact with these captivating creatures up close. As the world’s only sustainable seahorse farm, it plays a crucial role in seahorse conservation efforts.

Guided tours take you through the facility, where they can learn about the intricate life cycle and behavior of seahorses, as well as the farm’s vital role in promoting their conservation. You are encouraged to hold and observe these delicate creatures in specially designed tanks, fostering a sense of appreciation and understanding for these mystical inhabitants of the sea.

The Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm is an educational and inspiring destination that leaves a lasting impression on visitors, encouraging them to advocate for marine conservation worldwide.

Paddleboarding or kayaking at Keauhou Bay is one of the must-do activities in Kailua-Kona HI, offering an unforgettable experience for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. With the iconic Kona Coastline as your backdrop, you’ll glide serenely over the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views.

Keauhou Bay is a paradise for exploration, providing the perfect opportunity to spot marine life, such as playful dolphins and graceful sea turtles, as you paddle along the coast. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned water sports enthusiast, this exhilarating adventure at Keauhou Bay guarantees an immersive and awe-inspiring encounter with the wonders of Kona’s natural beauty.

Don’t miss out on this unique and refreshing experience while discovering the best things to do in Kona!

Watching the sun dip below the horizon at Magic Sands Beach is an enchanting and unforgettable experience for travelers in Kona. This idyllic beach, also known as La’aloa Beach, lives up to its name as the sunsets here truly seem magical.

As the golden rays paint the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple, the palm-fringed shore becomes a serene vantage point to witness nature’s breathtaking spectacle. Locals and visitors alike gather on the sandy expanse, savoring the tranquil ambiance and reflecting on the day’s adventures.

The sound of gentle waves, the soft sea breeze, and the shimmering ocean create an ideal backdrop for capturing stunning photographs and making memories that will forever be cherished. Magic Sands Beach is a place of pure beauty and wonder, a reminder of the simple joys that make Kona such a special destination.

Embarking on a night manta ray snorkel tour is a truly awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience for visitors to Kona. As the sun sets over the horizon, travelers venture into the dark ocean waters, guided by specialized tour operators who create a safe and magical environment.

Using underwater lights, they attract plankton, which, in turn, draws in magnificent manta rays gracefully gliding through the water. Snorkelers float on the surface, mesmerized by the gentle giants as they glide beneath, their massive wings creating an ethereal dance.

The sheer size and grace of these magnificent creatures leave a lasting impression, and the experience of being in such close proximity to these gentle giants is nothing short of breathtaking. This night snorkel tour in Kona offers an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of marine life in its natural habitat, creating memories that will stay with travelers long after their Hawaiian adventure has ended.

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a hidden gem tucked away in the lush mountains of Kona, offering a tranquil and mystical escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike. As you venture into this enchanting cloud forest, you find yourself surrounded by a rich tapestry of native plants, moss-covered trees, and a chorus of birdsong.

The sanctuary’s unique microclimate creates an otherworldly atmosphere, with misty clouds drifting through the canopy and nourishing the diverse flora that thrives here. Guided tours lead travelers on a captivating journey through the forest, revealing its ecological significance and the efforts made to preserve this delicate ecosystem.

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is not just a haven for plant enthusiasts but a place of serenity and reflection, where the interplay of nature and tranquility invites visitors to reconnect with the beauty of the natural world and appreciate the wonders of Kona’s highland rainforests.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park offers a captivating journey into ancient Hawaiian history and natural beauty. Located along the Kona Coast of the Big Island, this sacred site holds cultural significance as a former Hawaiian settlement and fishing village.

As you explore the park’s rugged coastline and historic features, you can marvel at the extensive system of fishponds and ancient petroglyphs that provide a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the early Hawaiians. The park’s picturesque beaches and lava rock formations create a stunning backdrop, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a moment of reflection.

Guided tours offer valuable insights into the park’s archaeological treasures and the efforts made to preserve this precious cultural heritage. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is a sanctuary of both history and nature, inviting visitors to connect with Hawaii’s past and experience the serenity of the island’s unspoiled landscapes.

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Stargazing atop Mauna Kea, the majestic summit of Hawaii, presents an extraordinary celestial spectacle that transcends the ordinary boundaries of wonder. As night falls, the summit transforms into an ethereal sanctuary for astronomers and stargazers alike, offering a panoramic view of the universe.

At an elevation reaching nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, the clear, unpolluted skies provide an unparalleled opportunity to observe the cosmos in all its glory. The twinkling stars and distant galaxies seem within arm’s reach, while the Milky Way stretches across the heavens like a cosmic tapestry.

Visitors can join knowledgeable guides who lead astronomy programs, enriching the experience with insights into the constellations and celestial phenomena.

Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply seeking to connect with the vastness of the cosmos, Mauna Kea’s summit promises an awe-inspiring journey through the heavens, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the universe’s boundless mysteries.

Visiting the Kona Brewing Company is an essential experience for beer enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in the laid-back Hawaiian vibe. Nestled in the heart of Kailua Kona, this brewery offers a captivating tour that takes visitors behind the scenes of the beer-making process.

From witnessing the meticulous brewing techniques to learning about the locally sourced ingredients that go into their craft beers, the tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the art of beer production. After the tour, you can unwind in the inviting taproom, where you can sample a wide array of Kona Brewing Company’s signature beers, each inspired by the island’s tropical flavors and lifestyle.

From refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs, there’s a brew to suit every palate, making the Kona Brewing Company an excellent spot to enjoy the perfect blend of craft beer and aloha spirit.

Read Next: Plan to visit Oahu and add these great things to do to your itinerary.

Kamakahonu , located in Kailua-Kona HI, holds great historical significance as the former residence of King Kamehameha I, the first ruler to unite the Hawaiian Islands. This sacred site is also known as the “Eye of the King” and served as a place of rest and rejuvenation for Hawaiian royalty.

You can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii as you explore the beautifully preserved grounds and learn about the life and legacy of King Kamehameha I.

The landmark’s stunning location on the shores of Kailua Bay provides a picturesque backdrop, allowing travelers to not only connect with history but also appreciate the natural beauty that has drawn people to this place for centuries.

Snorkeling with dolphins at Two-Step is an extraordinary and heartwarming experience that offers a unique chance to interact with these playful and intelligent creatures in their natural environment. Located near Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Kona Coast, Two-Step is a popular snorkeling spot known for its calm waters and abundant marine life.

Here you can wade into the water, and if lucky, you may encounter Hawaiian spinner dolphins gracefully swimming by. Observing these delightful creatures gliding through the sea, spinning and leaping out of the water, is a truly magical sight.

The dolphins’ friendly and curious nature often leads them to approach snorkelers, creating an unforgettable and intimate connection with the wild marine world.

However, it’s essential to remember to maintain a respectful distance and adhere to responsible snorkeling practices to ensure the dolphins’ well-being and preserve this remarkable encounter for future generations to enjoy.

Kua Bay, also known as Manini’owali Beach, is a breathtaking slice of paradise nestled along the Kona coast that captivates travelers with its pristine beauty. This idyllic white sandy beach, fringed with coconut palms, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling world.

Its crystal-clear turquoise waters invite visitors to take a refreshing dip or snorkel among vibrant marine life. The gentle waves make Kua Bay a great spot for boogie boarding and body surfing, while the soft sand is perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles.

As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a picturesque setting, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, creating an unforgettable scene. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Kua Bay’s unspoiled charm and inviting waters make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the quintessential Hawaiian beach experience.

Taking a thrilling helicopter tour is a must-do activity for any traveler visiting Kona. Soaring above the Big Island’s diverse landscapes, passengers are treated to an awe-inspiring bird’s-eye view that reveals the island’s true majesty.

From the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to the rugged volcanic terrain and stunning coastlines, the panoramic vistas are simply breathtaking. The helicopter tour offers a unique perspective, showcasing the island’s volcanic origins and the dynamic forces of nature that have shaped its beauty over millions of years.

It’s an unforgettable experience that leaves travelers with lasting memories of the Big Island’s natural wonders.

For an intriguing and educational experience, the Kanaloa Octopus Farm in Kona is a must-visit destination. This innovative research facility is dedicated to studying and conserving octopuses while also providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about these intelligent creatures up close.

During the guided tours, visitors can witness various species of octopuses in their natural habitats and gain insight into their remarkable behaviors and adaptations. The farm’s mission to promote sustainable aquaculture practices and protect marine ecosystems adds an important conservation aspect to the visit, making it not only entertaining but also environmentally meaningful.

Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of the ocean, the Kanaloa Octopus Farm offers a fascinating and unique experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for these enigmatic cephalopods.

As our sun-kissed adventure in Kailua Kona comes to a close, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences we’ve had exploring the best things to do in Kona. From snorkeling amidst the fascinating marine life near the Captain Cook Monument to savoring the aromatic delight of Kona Coffee, each moment in Kona has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

The rich history, the captivating beauty of the beaches, and the warm hospitality of the locals have made this destination a true gem in the Hawaiian archipelago.

As we bid farewell to the mesmerizing Kona Coast, we carry with us cherished memories of adventure and cultural discoveries. Whether you’re an intrepid traveler seeking underwater marvels or a coffee lover in pursuit of the perfect brew, Kailua Kona welcomes all with open arms.

So remember to embrace the aloha spirit and keep the essence of Kona alive in your heart. Mahalo, Kona, for an unforgettable journey filled with sun, sand, history, and a good cup of Kona Coffee!

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kailua Kona: Adventure, Relaxation, and Culture in Hawaii

On the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua Kona is a gem of the Pacific. Known simply as Kona to locals, this region serves as a gateway to the island’s vibrant heart, where ancient Hawaiian kings once roamed and where today’s adventurers come to explore its sunny beaches, sacred temples, and verdant landscapes. This guide aims to unveil the best of Kailua Kona, from its top attractions and activities to dining, accommodations, and practical travel tips, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.

• Walk through the heart of Kailua-Kona to uncover its rich history at sites like Hulihe’e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church.
• Learn about the meticulous process of coffee making, from bean to cup, and indulge in the rich flavors of freshly brewed Kona coffee, famous for its deep, aromatic qualities.
• Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary, offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii, where you can swim alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins.
• For adventure seekers, Kailua-Kona is a playground for water-based activities.
• The scenic waterfront strip at Ali’i Drive is the heartbeat of Kailua-Kona, lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.

From Early Settlements to Royal Dominance

The history of Kailua-Kona, a picturesque locale on the Big Island of Hawaii, stretches back to the 9th or 10th century with the arrival of Polynesians. These early settlers found in Kona a vibrant center of Hawaiian culture and spirituality. It’s believed that Kailua-Kona was the site of the first luakini heiau, a sacred temple dedicated to worship and sacrifice, marking the beginning of its deep-rooted historical significance.

The Era of Kamehameha I

In a pivotal chapter of Kailua-Kona’s history, the legendary King Kamehameha I chose it as his seat of power. His monumental victory in 1795 over rival Hawaiian chiefs not only unified the Hawaiian Islands under his rule but also elevated Kona to the capital of the nascent Kingdom of Hawaii. Although the capital would later relocate, Kailua-Kona retained its prestige as a favored royal retreat, echoing the echoes of its regal past.

European Influence and Captain Cook's Arrival

The narrative of Kailua-Kona took a dramatic turn with the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1779, one of the first Europeans to set foot on Hawaiian shores. This momentous event, however, led to Cook’s untimely death in Kailua-Kona, marking a tragic but significant point in Hawaii’s history, symbolizing the beginning of European influence in the Hawaiian Islands.

Transition and Modernity in the 19th and 20th Centuries

Moving through the 19th and into the 20th century, Kailua-Kona transformed a revered royal center into a quaint fishing village. The tides of time saw it evolve yet again by the late 20th century, this time toward becoming a beacon of tourism. Today, Kailua-Kona stands as a beloved destination, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming spirit, a testament to its enduring appeal through the ages.

Top Attractions in Kailua Kona

Historic sites and cultural landmarks.

Kailua-Kona is home to some of Hawaii’s most treasured historic sites and cultural landmarks . Hulihe’e Palace, once a royal vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the kingdom’s past. Ahu’ena Heiau, located on the grounds of King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, is a sacred temple that plays a pivotal role in Hawaiian spirituality and governance. Mokuaikaua Church, across from Hulihe’e Palace, holds the distinction of being the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, with its origins dating back to 1820, showcasing a unique blend of local and New England architecture.

Natural Wonders

The Kona Coast is a showcase of Hawaii’s breathtaking natural beauty. The beaches here offer golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a day under the sun. Mauna Kea summit presents visitors with an awe-inspiring view above the clouds, renowned for its astronomical observatories and sacred to Hawaiian culture. Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary, is not only a site of great historical significance—where Captain Cook first landed and was later killed—but also a natural wonder, boasting pristine waters and vibrant marine life.

Marine Life and Water Sports

For enthusiasts of marine life and water sports, Kailua-Kona is a paradise. The area is famed for its snorkeling and diving spots, with Two Step, near Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, being particularly notable for its easy access and abundant sea life. The Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay marks a historic site that doubles as a premier location for snorkeling and diving, offering an underwater adventure amidst coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and other marine creatures.

Things to Do

Outdoor Adventures

Kailua-Kona is an adventurer’s haven, offering an array of outdoor activities set against the backdrop of Hawaii’s stunning landscapes. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the island’s diverse terrain, from volcanic craters to lush rainforests. The clear, warm waters invite snorkelers and scuba divers to discover vibrant coral reefs and a rich marine ecosystem. For those seeking a thrill, parasailing along the Kona Coast offers breathtaking aerial views of the island’s majestic beauty.

Cultural Experiences

Immersing yourself in Kailua-Kona’s rich cultural tapestry is a journey of discovery and enlightenment. Coffee plantation tours not only provide insight into the meticulous process of coffee cultivation but also offer tastings of the world-renowned Kona coffee. Visiting local markets is a colorful adventure, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Attending a traditional luau completes the cultural journey, with authentic Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine, offering a taste of the island’s heritage and hospitality.

Leisure and Relaxation

For those looking to unwind and indulge in the serene beauty of Kailua-Kona, the destination offers ample opportunities for leisure and relaxation. Spa days in oceanfront resorts provide a blissful escape with treatments inspired by traditional Hawaiian healing practices. Beach hopping is a favorite pastime, allowing visitors to bask in the sun on pristine sands. Sunset cruises along the Kona Coast offer a magical experience, with the chance to witness the sky painted in hues of pink and orange, reflecting the tranquil waters—a perfect ending to a day in paradise.

Dining in Kailua Kona

Kailua-Kona’s dining scene is a vibrant celebration of local flavors and international cuisines. From the freshest seafood to the rich, aromatic Kona coffee, the area offers a culinary journey through the heart of Hawaiian gastronomy. Da Poke Shac k is a must-visit for traditional Hawaiian poke, offering a variety of fresh, local fish seasoned to perfection. For a more upscale dining experience, Huggo’s on the Rocks provides oceanfront views alongside its innovative island cuisine. Coffee enthusiasts should not miss Holualoa Kona Coffee Company , where you can enjoy a cup of the world-famous Kona coffee right where it’s grown.

Where to Stay in Kailua Kona

Kailua-Kona offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. Luxury seekers will find solace in Four Seasons Resort Hualalai , offering unparalleled service and amenities on a pristine stretch of coastline. For those looking for the comforts of home with a Hawaiian twist, Kona Coast Vacations offers a selection of vacation rentals ranging from beachfront condos to secluded homes.

Tips for Visiting

• Follow all posted signs and warnings at beaches to avoid strong currents and dangerous waves.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen generously and frequently to protect against strong UV rays.
• Wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, to shield from sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the warm climate.
• Be mindful of altitude sickness when visiting high elevations like Mauna Kea; acclimate gradually.
• Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins, to ensure their safety and yours.
• Check for travel advisories and health alerts specific to Hawaii before your visit.
• Carry a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries or ailments.
• Consider travel insurance that covers health emergencies and trip cancellations.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kailua Kona is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October when the weather is delightfully warm, and the tourist crowds are thinner, offering a more intimate experience of the island’s beauty. These months strike a perfect balance between pleasant weather and accessibility to the island’s myriad attractions. While the high season from December to March promises vibrant festivities and whale-watching opportunities, it also brings higher prices and denser crowds. Conversely, the wet season spans from November to March, presenting a warmer alternative with occasional rain showers that rarely hinder the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Kailua-Kona Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Kailua-Kona is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hawaii. It offers a blend of historical significance, beautiful beaches, and vibrant marine life, making it perfect for both adventure and relaxation.

What is Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Known For?

Kailua-Kona is renowned for its world-class coffee, historic landmarks like the Huliheʻe Palace, and the sunny outdoor capital of the Big Island, offering excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

What is the Difference Between Kona and Kailua-Kona?

Kona refers to the larger region on the west side of the Island of Hawaii, famous for its coffee-producing districts, while Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a town within this region and serves as the commercial and cultural hub.

Which is Better: Hilo or Kailua-Kona?

The choice between Hilo and Kailua-Kona depends on your preferences. Hilo, on the east coast, is lush and rainy, ideal for those seeking waterfalls and tropical gardens. Kailua-Kona, on the west coast, offers sunny days, historic sites, and beach activities, catering to visitors looking for a vibrant seaside experience.

What Are the Top Attractions in Kailua-Kona?

Key attractions include the Kailua Pier, a starting point for many ocean adventures; Aliʻi Drive, lined with shops and restaurants; and the sacred Ahu’ena Heiau. Don’t miss snorkeling at Kahalu’u Beach Park for vibrant marine life.

How Can Visitors Experience the Famous Kona Coffee in Kailua-Kona?

To experience Kona coffee, visitors should explore the Kona Coffee Belt. Many farms offer tours and tastings, providing insight into the coffee-making process from bean to cup. The annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is another great way to immerse in the local coffee culture.

How to Get There

To reach Kailua-Kona by car, the most direct route is via Highway 19 if you’re coming from the Hilo side or the northern part of the island. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the coast and the island’s unique landscapes. Travelers coming from other parts of the island should use Hawaii Belt Road, making sure to follow signs directing toward Kona to ensure they stay on the correct path toward their destination.

For those preferring public transportation, the Hele-On Bus provides services between various points on the island and Kailua-Kona. From Hilo, you can catch the direct bus to Kailua-Kona, which operates daily. This trip offers an affordable and convenient option, though it’s slower than driving. Make sure to check the current schedule on the Hele-On Bus website, as times and routes may vary.

Kailua Kona Captivates the Heart of Every Traveler!

As you plan your journey, immerse yourself in the local culture, embrace the natural wonders that abound, and let the spirit of Aloha guide you. Start planning your unforgettable escape to Kailua Kona today with this guide, and for more resources on bookings and further exploration, visit HawaiiActivities.com to ensure your trip is filled with the best experiences the Big Island has to offer.

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

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34 Exciting Things to do in Kona, Hawaii (+ tips!)

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 34 Exciting Things to do in Kona, Hawaii (+ tips!)

Kona is a gateway for exploring all that the west side of Hawaii’s Big Island has to offer. In this guide, we round up all the best things to do in Kona including highlights, offbeat treasures, and insider tips to help you plan your visit.

Being that the Big Island’s International Airport is just outside of Kona, it makes sense that this town is where most visitors start and end their trip . 

Kona is a tourist hotspot, but a worthwhile place to carve out at least a couple of days on your Big Island itinerary.

In and around Kona, you’ll find places to learn about Hawaii’s complex history, beaches to relax on, and coves for snorkeling. Kona is also home to lots of incredible restaurants – from those that are world-famous to hole-in-the-wall secrets. (Yes, we’re sharing them all!) 

While there are many things to do in Kona itself, it also makes a great hub for exploring more of the Big Island . There are some incredible day trips you can take, like driving to the summit of Mauna Kea, an active volcano that marks the highest point in the state of Hawaii.  

If you’re planning a visit to Hawaii’s Big Island , this guide to Kona is everything you need for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. Oh, and some truly memorable meals, of course!

Note:  In this article, you may notice some Hawaiian words and names spelled a couple of different ways. We want to acknowledge the linguistic markings of the modern Hawaiian language, such as the  ʻokina  [ʻ] or glottal stop and the  kahakō  [ō], while also keeping our content accessible and searchable for everyone.

How long do I need in Kona?

With 2-3 days you can see most of the major sights in Kona, as well as up and down Big Island’s west coast. 

If you have more time than that, you’ll be able to spend some time relaxing and getting off the beaten track. Plus, you’ll have a bit of buffer room in case you have less-than-perfect weather. We’d recommend 3 – 4 full days to be able to fit everything in and not feel too rushed.

Some travelers even base themselves in Kona for their whole vacation, taking day trips elsewhere around the island. This works well with a shorter itinerary, but if you have more time, we’d highly encourage you to split your time between Kona and Hilo (or somewhere else) so you can get a better feel for the Big Island.

Psst! Having your own wheels is going to be a huge help when it comes to getting around the Big Island. Luckily, we have a detailed guide on how to rent a car in Hawaii .

Kona Travel Guide

• Where to eat in Kona

Where to stay in Kona

Top things to do in kona.

If you’re looking for a quick & easy list, these are our very top recommendations for things to do on your first visit to Kona.

• Snorkel with manta rays at night
• Take a day trip to Papakōlea green sand beach
• Tour a Kona coffee farm
• Eat poke at Umekes Fish Market
• Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay 
• Cheers with local beers at Kona Brewing Co.

Keep scrolling for all the details on how to do each of these experiences yourself (+ insider tips and what to expect!).

1. Snorkel with manta rays at night

If you’re up for an adventure of a lifetime, don’t miss this bucket list experience!

National Geographic and the Discovery Channel have both featured night snorkeling with manta rays, and it is often listed as the #1 activity of all the things to do in Big Island, Hawaii .

Just off the shore of Kona, there are more than 240 resident manta rays . Zip up your wetsuit, strap on goggles, and get ready to see them up close. It was truly our very favorite thing to do in Kona.

We created an entire guide to snorkeling with manta rays in Kona so you know what to expect and exactly which tour company to book with (we’ll tell you why you should choose them!). 

2. Take a day trip to Hawaii’s only green sand beach

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is 1 of only 4 rare green beaches in the world . 

These beaches form after rare volcanic eruptions bring green olivine crystals to the surface that erode when met with seawater.

You can access Papakolea Beach along a 5.5-mile round trip trail or by a 4WD truck ($25 USD round trip or $15 one way). If you’re hiking, aim to go early in the morning or late afternoon as the trail is in full sun and the beach gets very hot.

Check out our guide to Papakolea green sand beach for all the details you need to know, plus tons of insider tips from our own personal experience.

Responsible travel tip : Do not take any of the sand home with you as a souvenir. It’s strictly prohibited since the olivine crystals do not regenerate the way regular sand does.

3. Tour a Kona coffee farm

Kona coffee is one of the rarest coffees on the planet . 

Grown only on the western edge of Big Island, this stop is a must whether you’re a coffee aficionado or you casually indulge in a cup of joe. 

• Greenwell Farms : one of the best Kona coffee farm tours (my aunt who has been to Hawaii many times and has done several tours says this is the best).
• Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation : this plantation uses select Kona beans to craft the finest and smoothest cups of coffee.
• Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm : an authentic Kona coffee farm with tours and expansive vistas.

4. Get the best poke in town

This local dish is a Hawaiian staple using raw, cubed fish that is seasoned to perfection . 

While there are many places to get poke on the Big Island, these are some of the best places to get it near Kona.

• Tip: If there’s a long wait (which is common), put your name in then pop over to nearby Kona Brewing for a beer!
• Da Poke Shack : this beachside takeaway spot specializes in local delights, hot Hawaiian plates, and of course, fresh poke using both ahi and other seafood varieties. 
• Pa’akai Poke & Deli : casual joint with excellent poke and far fewer lines than the more popular spots in town, this place surprised us!
• Pau Hana Poke : hole-in-the-wall poke spot with large portions and raving local reviews.

5. Go snorkeling

Kona is just as colorful below the surface as it is above! With your mask and fins, you can explore vibrant reefs teeming with wildlife . 

Top snorkeling spots near Kona

• Captain Cook ( Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park ): this spectacular coral reef encompasses one of the best snorkeling locations in all of Hawaii. Since the bay is a protected area, you’ll be able to spot abundant wildlife swimming among a colorful, well-developed reef. 
• Two Step : impressive coral reefs and lava rock pathways make up this popular snorkel spot. Directly off the beach are shallow coral areas where you can watch fish, otherwise you can head to the south side of the bay to try and see Hawaiian green sea turtles.
• Kahalu’u Beach Park : this protected bay resembles a real-life aquarium. Venture below the surface and you’ll see schools of tropical fish, coral heads, and sea turtles. Also, it’s easy to access, which makes it a great spot for beginner snorkelers. 

6. Cheers with a local brew

We’re big craft beer fans, so we were sure to try both of Kona’s two craft breweries. 

• Kona Brewing Co.

There are few better ways to cool down in Kona than with a foamy pour at the iconic Kona Brewing Co. .

Stop into their microbrewery to sample their pints and pizzas, or join their brewery tour to see how they’ve crafted and perfected liquid Aloha over the last 15 years .

Fun Fact: While the flagship location is in fact in Kona, some of the beer that is distributed on the mainland is brewed at Widmer Brewing in Portland, Oregon .

Ola Brew Co.

Ola Brew Co . is less famous than Kona, and we felt like it had a more local vibe .

They have an impressive selection of beers as well as hard teas, seltzers, and ciders, so even if you’re not into beer, it makes a fun stop. You can even get a flight to taste that includes one of each!!

If you’re feeling hungry, the flatbreads are great, as are their bao buns.

7. Learn the art of beekeeping at Big Island Bees

Raw and organic Hawaiian honey is the signature at Big Island Bees . 

On a beekeeping tour, learn about farming and cultivation up close at one of the world’s leading beekeeper farms.

Or simply visit the shop and do a honey tasting where you can compare 3 different varieties of this liquid gold. We bought a jar of the very special lehua blossom honey.  

What makes the lehua blossom honey special? I’m glad you asked! It is produced from bees that have been pollinating the ohia tree’s lehua blossoms. This flower is native to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else in the world, which makes lehua honey a very special souvenir. 

8. Learn about Hawaii’s culture at Pu-uhonua-o-Honaunau

Pu-uhonua-o-Honaunau is a 180-acre restored park that once served as royal grounds and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians that broke kapu (sacred laws).

A self-guided tour of one of Hawaii’s most sacred historic locations takes you through the Great Wall, ki’i (wooden images of gods), a sacred temple that housed bones, all situated along a mysterious black lava shoreline.

Good to know : you can get in free with your National Park Pass .

9. Hire a local photographer for a photo shoot

We think there are few souvenirs more special than photos . 

Local photographers know the areas really well, including when you’ll get the best lighting and where to go to avoid crowds. 

Plus, since you get to hang out with a local for a while, you can ask for insider advice on where to eat and places to explore nearby. 

This local photographer does shoots just north of Kona and earns rave reviews.

Here’s what guests are saying:

“…To start with, Ranae is an extremely warm and personable photographer. She is very talented, and was able to capture everything we wanted and so much more. The turnaround time was very quick and the pictures were captured beautifully. The editing, mood and highlights were all so perfect! … I would definitely recommend Ranae for anyone looking for a great, memorable and warm experience!” – Anusha, December 2022

10. Learn how to play the ukulele

Whether you’re an experienced player or a novice, you’ll have a blast learning to play the ukulele Old Hawaiian Style , admiring the sea views from the lanai.

“ This was a fantastic experience. Host was wonderful, very informative on the background and history of the area and ukulele. I have no experience in instruments and he was non-judgmental and very patient and encouraging. Location beautiful and easy to find. Give yourself extra time to drive there due to major traffic congestion. I 100% recommend this experience. Thanks so much!” -Brigitte, March 2023

11. Eat “Donkey Balls”

The Original Donkey Ball Store serves up chocolate treats with a healthy dose of humor. 

Their “Donkey Balls” (chocolate covered macadamia nuts) , is what they’re most known for, but they have an array of other balls to sample and bring back home.

12. Attend a luau

Right off of Kailua Bay, sip on mai tais as you marvel at traditional Hawaiian songs and Samoan fire knife dancers during the Voyagers of the Pacific Lū‘au .

It’s one of the best luaus in Kona with traditional Hawaiian dishes, captivating storytelling, and stunning seaside views.

If you weren’t able to grab a spot at Voyagers, Island Breeze Luau is a fantastic alternative that celebrates Ohana and authentic Polynesian culture.

13. Learn how to surf

Join a native Hawaiian surfer for a safe and authentic surfing lesson in the crystal clear waters of the Big Island. 

“ We had a blast during this surfing lesson and I would 100% recommend it. I had never surfed before and was quite nervous, but Kaleo coached me to standing comfortably on the board very quickly. Thank you so much for the experience!” -Claudia, January 2023

14. See the historic Hulihee Palace

Previously a home to Hawaiian royalty, and today a showcase of artifacts from the eras of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani , Hulihee Palace is a fascinating stop to learn about the rich history of Hawaii’s monarchy period.

Entrance : $22 USD

15. Go whale watching

Watching these gentle giants play in the waters off the coast is truly one of the most memorable things to do in Kona. 

Whales migrate from Alaska all the way to the warm Hawaiian waters during the winter months from November to April. The peak months for spotting are typically January to March. 

They’re a protected species in Hawaii, so there are many fantastic and ethical whale watching tours in Kona to choose from. 

16. Enjoy a happy hour mai tai, live music & hula dancers at Huggo’s on the Rocks

Glittering coastal views and colorful cocktails are highlights at Huggo’s On the Rocks . Positioned right on the shore, tables are all on the sand and every seat in the house has a good view. 

Come for happy hour and stay for a memorable sunset, live music, and the nightly hula dancer.

Our experience: I’ll be honest and say that you come here for the atmosphere more than anything else. In our experience the food was average and the service, I’m sorry to report, was poor. However, if you’re coming for happy hour drinks or music and hula, you won’t be disappointed. 

The details: Happy hour is daily from 3-5 p.m., and live music is from 6-10 p.m.

Alternative: Lava Lava Beach Club is a similar type of establishment.

17. Cool off with shave ice

These mounds of finely shaved ice topped with vibrant syrups and toppings are a staple for locals and travelers.

• Tip: Definitely get yours with the Dole pineapple soft serve in the middle!
• Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice : fine shaved ice with an array of exotic flavors.
• Original Big Island Shave Ice Co, Inc. : family-run shop with homemade, creative inventions and timeless classics.
• Gecko Girlz Shave Ice : authentic Hawaiian shave ice using locally sourced products and ingredients. 

Had enough shave ice? If you want gelato instead, head to Gypsea Gelato for the best in town!

18. Visit the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm

This one-of-a-kind farm aims to save endangered seahorse species from extinction through educational and ethical practices.

On their Ocean Rider farm tour , you’ll see thousands of seahorses from the waters of Australia all the way to Hawaii and play in interactive tide pools. 

19. Wander through the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary

Hugging the slopes of Mt. Hualalai, the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a 70 acre paradise that serves as a lush and diverse tropical oasis . 

Their 1-2.5 hour sanctuary tour goes in-depth to this rare ecosystem. 

They also offer other immersive experiences daily, like sound bath meditations, if you truly want to find your zen during your visit. 

Good to know: You can’t visit on your own, so you must book a tour if you’re interested. Tours are quite pricey at $95 per adult, but they earn rave reviews.

20. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Old Hawaiian Chocolate Factory

Just south of Kona, on the verdant slopes of Hualalai, the Old Hawaiian Chocolate Factory offers farm-to-bar tours that are just as sweet as their bars.

Taste milk, dark, and rare criollo chocolates as you journey from the cacao orchard to the chocolate factory to see how the bars are handmade .

Good to know : tours are only held on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and advanced reservations are required.

21. Explore the jungle on an ATV tour

The cultures of Hawaii, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa are showcased on this Polynesian Culture ATV Tour in the Holualoa Mountains. 

Drive through an award-winning coffee farm and zoom by rainbow eucalyptus trees before entering the lush jungle. Throughout the route are 4 figurative islands set up where you’ll stop and learn about the culture, food, and music of Hawaii and each respective country.

“Great ride with various terrains, appropriate for beginning or experienced riders. Guide was entertaining, knowledgeable, and very accommodating to people’s needs. Well worth the money and time.” -Guest, October 2022

22. Relax at Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is a heavy hitter as far as accolades go. 

It has recurring features in many “Top 10” or “Best” lists, including Best Beaches in America, Top 10 Beaches in the World, Best Beaches on Big Island, AND Best Beaches in Hawaii.

This beach is the largest stretch of white sand in the Hawaiian islands and is great for swimming, boogie boarding, leisuring, and snorkeling.

We spent an afternoon here and had the best time playing in the waves! 

Tip: There are many shaded picnic tables, making this a great place to bring lunch or a snack.

23. See ancient Petroglyphs

While many of the petroglyphs (rock carvings) in Hawaii have been destroyed due to eruptions and development, the Puako Petroglyph Park has preserved over 3,000 ancient petroglyphs (kiʻi pōhaku) and is one of the last places you can see them in all the islands.

The meaning/purpose of the symbols is unknown, but they maintain a significant connection to Hawaii’s ancient past and are a must-see if you want to learn more about the culture and history of the islands .

Ethical travel tip : please stay on the established trail and do not touch or rub the petroglyphs to help preserve this area.

24. Shop local at the Kona Farmers Market

Spread across 40 different stalls during peak days, you can find sweet and colorful fruits , flowers, leis, Kona coffee, wooden sculptures, jewelry, art, and novelty items at the Kona Farmers Market .

It can be a great place to support the local community and find a quality souvenir to bring home.

Our experience: When we visited, there weren’t all that many stands, but it may have been an off day.

Tip : Arrive early to grab the free parking near the entrance and the best pick of produce.

25. Visit a parrot sanctuary

Rescuing rehomed and rehabilitated parrots for over 18 years, the Parrots in Paradise Sanctuary is a non-profit Kona treasure.

You can see and interact with more than 90 parrots from all over the world here, where they receive space to fly, a nutritious diet, and fun interaction to live out the rest of their days.

“ Amazing experience and definitely one of the highlights during our trip to Big Island. Gerald was an amazing guide and storyteller. The property/farm was also luscious and filled with other fun animals.” -Yumi, March 2023

26. Eat authentic Hawaiian food at Kaaloa’s Super J’s Restaurant

Generous portions, homestyle cooking, and all the flavors of the islands are up for grabs at the family-owned Kaaloa’s Super J’s . 

They’re known for lau lau, which is pork (or other fillings) wrapped in steamed taro leaves.

You can choose how many lau lau you’d like as well as how many sides.

Our experience: We split 2 lau lau and 3 sides as well as an order of the kalua pork, and it was the perfect amount for the two of us (plus our 16-month-old daughter!).

27. Drive the Mamalahoa Highway 

The Mamalahoa Highway follows the coastline, but is inland. 

The stretch from Honalo to Kealakekua is packed with quaint cafes, gelato shops, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and coffee farms, which makes a fun drive, especially for foodies.

Stops along the way:

• Tip: we liked the “salty balls”, which are covered in dark chocolate and dusted with Hawaiian sea salt
• Greenwell Farms : We enjoyed our tour (and lots of samples!) at this coffee farm .
• Tip: upgrade with the crispy cheese taco – it’s so good!
• Kaaloa’s Super J’s Restaurant : family-owned restaurant serving authentic Hawaiian food ( specializing in lau lau ) in generous portions.
• Kaya’s Kawanui : this cafe oozes local vibes and has excellent smoothies, coffee offerings (lavender cardamom iced latte), and breakfast sandwiches (The Favorite)
• Black Sheep Pizza : excellent pizzas with a view
• Holuakoa Coffee Shack : cutest coffee shop with sweet and savory pastries

28. Walk the Captain Cook Monument Trail

The Ka’Awaloa Trail, or Captain Cook Monument Trail commemorates the fallen British explorer who was the first Westerner to discover Hawaii and had achievements mapping the Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia. 

The monument was built overlooking Kealakekua Bay, which is one of the best spots on the Big Island for snorkeling , so don’t forget to bring your fins and mask!

Tip : Start this trail early to beat the heat and the snorkel tour boats.

29. Adopt a dog for the day

If you’re looking for a fun way to get your dog-fix while traveling, the Hawai’i Island Humane Society hosts doggy field-trips where you can bring a shelter dog around the island with you for the day.

By doing this you’re giving back to the island and giving one of their dogs a positive experience, plus higher chances of getting adopted.

Good to know : Field trips are by appointment only, Saturday through Monday.

30. Stargaze at the summit of Mauna Kea

While this is quite a distance from town, you can definitely do this activity as a day trip from Kona (most visitors to the Big Island do). 

The best, and only way to stargaze on the Mauna Kea summit is through a guided tour as the summit is closed to regular visitors 30 minutes after sunset.

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Trip : complete with snacks, drinks, and free photos, this tour offers a well-rounded and fulfilling experience to the top of Mauna Kea. You’ll listen to historic accounts of Hawaii at the top while you sip a hot drink and enjoy a private star show through the Celestron telescope.

These tours can get pricey, but you can stargaze on a budget by self-driving to the visitor center. The viewing is actually better here even though you’re at a lower elevation because the lack of oxygen at the summit changes what you’re able to see.

Safety notice : Mauna Kea is one of the only mountains in the world where you can drive from sea level to nearly 14,000 feet within a few hours. If you don’t acclimate properly, you’ll likely experience severe altitude sickness. It’s highly recommended to stop into the visitor center for at least an hour before going to the summit. 

Good to know: We were not able to do this experience on our trip to Hawaii because it is advised that you do not bring children here due to the massive elevation change. If you are traveling with a baby or kiddos, keep in mind that you’ll have to skip this experience or find a babysitter.

31. Hang poolside with a happy hour cocktail

This tip comes from one of our Airbnb hosts who suggested we spend an afternoon at the pool at the Marriott King Kamehameha downtown. According to her, we could rock up, order a drink and be able to hang out in the pool without having to pay a resort fee .

Sounds too good to be true, right? We asked the staff (because we didn’t want to suggest this tip to others without knowing if it’s actually okay). As it turns out, this isn’t a well-known tip for most tourists that aren’t staying at the hotel, but it’s perfectly fine!

As luck would have it, we were there during happy hour (daily from 3-5 p.m.) so we got a great deal on poolside drinks. Plus, their $10 happy hour poke nachos were too tempting to turn down, and I can assure you they were well worth it.

32. Shop for locally-made souvenirs 

Not gonna lie, Kona has its fair share of cheesy souvenir shops. 

If you’re searching for souvenirs that are locally-made , head to Tasty Kona .

This boutique has a well-rounded selection of locally-made treats, jewelry, lotions, keychains, artwork, and kids’ items. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it here.

33. Buy baked goods on the honor system at this roadside stand

As we were driving to Two Step Beach, we saw a small tent on the side of the road with signs declaring banana bread, haupia pie, mochi cake, mango sticky rice, and more. 

How could we pass that by? Answer: We couldn’t!

Lucky for you, now you can put this gem (aka Two Step Bakery ) on your list because it ended up being a great stop!

There was nobody working in the tent. Instead, there was a security camera, a lockbox for cash, and signs that instructed how to use the honor system to pay . (Yes, you can use Venmo!)

It was hard choosing because everything looked great! We really liked the butter mochi cake and the ooey gooey pecan brownie .

34. Toast with chocolate cocktails

Puna Chocolate Company is just a stone’s throw from Kona Brewing Co. and while it may just look like a chocolate shop from the outside, it is much more…

In addition to selling all sorts of chocolate products, they also have a variety of drinks you can enjoy. From classics, like hot chocolate, to unique cocktails featuring chocolate liqueurs , this is a cool, tucked-away spot to grab a midafternoon drink.

Where to eat in & around Kona

From traditional Hawaiian eats to fusion foods, there are plenty of places to fuel up in Kona. We ate SO MUCH good food here, and we can’t wait to share our recommendations with you. 

Be sure to save these to your Google Maps so you have them handy during your travels.

Restaurants in Kona

• Tip: If there’s a long wait (which is common), pop over to nearby Kona Brewing for a beer!
• Da Poke Shack : Casual joint known for excellent poke .
• Kona Brewing Co. : One of the more popular spots in Kona, this iconic brewery is a good place for beer, pizza, and a lively atmosphere.
• Ola Brew Co. : With a great selection of beers, ciders, and hard seltzers , everyone can find something to enjoy at Ola. With more of a local feel than Kona Brewing, we loved their flatbread as well as their unique drink offerings.
• Pa’akai Poke & Deli : Casual joint with excellent poke and far fewer lines than the more popular spots in town.
• Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill Kona : Slightly upscale local favorite with seafood specialties.
• Our experience: This place came highly recommended by many people. Personally, we thought the atmosphere was great, the food average, and in our experience, the service poor. But if you come knowing this, it can still be a good choice. 
• Lava Lava Beach Club : Beachside seating with a laid back vibe and live music .
• Tip: definitely get the Dole pineapple soft serve in the middle!
• Gypsea Gelato : You’ll find lots of unique flavor options at this high-quality gelato shop .
• Ululani‘s Hawaiian Shave Ice : Renowned shave ice shop with exotic flavors.

Restaurants outside Kona

• Teshimas : a slice of traditional Japanese cuisine in an old-school atmosphere, feels like a hidden gem
• Randy’s Huli Chicken and Ribs : roadside huli BBQ chicken and rib plates

Before we share our recommendations, let’s go over the regions in and around Kona so you know which will be best for you.

Kona regions:

• Kailua-Kona: If cultural attractions, tours, hopping around town, or relaxing at your resort are priorities, stay a bit longer near the center of Kona. 
• South Kona: The areas just outside Kona as you head towards Captain Cook are lovely if you’re looking for a quieter stay.
• South Kohala: This region is north of Kona and home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Accommodations here tend to be more upscale.

Top choice: Downtown Airbnb : This is the Airbnb we personally stayed at in Kona and we absolutely loved it. It is so thoughtfully designed and is the perfect location in downtown Kona. Plus, if you’re traveling with kids , this layout gives you separate sleeping spaces which is so nice.

Top choice: Tiny Home outside of Kona : We stayed at this tiny home while on Big Island and are obsessed! It’s just 15-minutes south of downtown Kona and is situated on a 5-acre coffee farm just a short drive from a charming little community. The firepit, grill, and huge outdoor hang out space are a couple touches that make this property extra special. 

Budget option: Kona Seaside Hotel : Close to Kahaluu Beach Park, this boutique hotel is ideal for exploring the best things to do on Big Island on the west coast.  It’s right smack dab in downtown, walkable distance from the main attractions . Bonus: No resort fees (a rarity in Hawaii!)!

Mid-range option: Garden Condo with hot tub : This updated condo is situated near downtown Kona in a peaceful and quiet area. Both the hot tub and pool are huge perks of this stay, including the kitchenette and intimate patio .

Splurge: Fairmont Orchid (South Kohala Coast) : Widely considered one of the most luxurious hotels on Big Island, with a private white sand beach , multiple restaurants and pools, and a divine outdoor “spa without walls .”

Traveling onward to Hilo? 

You’re going to want to check these articles out:

• Things to do in Hilo
• How to get from Kona to Hilo

Round up of the best things to do in Kona, Hawaii

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Kona so you can see everything in one place.

• Manta ray night snorkel
• Papakōlea green sand beach
• Kona coffee farm tour
• Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
• Big Island Bees
• Pu-uhonua-o-Honaunau
• Photoshoot with a local photographer
• Learn to play the ukulele
• Eat “Donkey Balls”
• Attend a luau
• Learn how to surf
• Hulihee Palace
• Whale watching
• Huggo’s on the Rocks
• Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
• Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
• Old Hawaiian Chocolate Factory
• ATV jungle tour
• Hapuna Beach
• Puakō Petroglyph Park
• Kona Farmers Market
• Parrots in Paradise parrot sanctuary
• Kaaloa’s Super J’s Restaurant
• Mamalahoa Highway 
• Captain Cook Monument Trail
• Adopt a dog for the day
• Poolside cocktails
• Shop for locally-made souvenirs 
• Two Step Bakery
• Puna Chocolate Company cocktails

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Hawaii !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Planning a trip to Hawaii?

We have lots of resources on travel in Hawaii and destinations around the islands. Check out our  Hawaii Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Hawaii travel articles to help you plan your dream vacation to the Aloha State:

• Super Fun Things to Do in Hilo, Hawaii (+tips!)
• Hawaii Trip Planner: Your Dream Hawaiian Vacation Guide
• Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
• How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2023? (+Tips to Save)

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26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kona (Hawaii)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 30, 2022  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Kona is a district and town situated south of ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay that takes up the west of the state.

It is an impressive expanse that is perfect for a relaxing getaway.

There’s plenty of stuff to do, with historic and cultural landmarks to explore and several natural waterways and beaches to relax in and romp through.

There are also numerous ways to enjoy local fare, from cuisine to coffee and from cocktails to chocolate.

The calm, clear, and beautiful waters of Kona contribute to a memorable experience.

You can spot marine wildlife both in the wild and in facilities that protect and conserve them.

You can explore the wilderness or the oceans.

You can watch performances or peruse galleries.

This is a great vacation destination, and here are the 26 best and fun things to do in Kona, Hawaii.

Table of Contents

1. Hulihe‘e Palace

Merrilee Holmes / Shutterstock

Hulihe‘e Palace was constructed in 1838 and offers a glimpse back into the monarchy era of Hawaii when the royals of the state lived in the 19th century.

The palace was built as a vacation home for summer and is designed in a lovely, welcoming Victorian style.

It boasts two lanais on the oceanfront, six big appointed rooms, and gorgeous grounds, and is built completely from lava rock!

You’ll find the historic location on Kailua Bay.

Today, Hulihe‘e Palace retains its original appearance, with refurbished and genuine ornaments, furniture, and relics that have made it one of the top museum-type tourist attractions in all of Kona.

The Daughters of Hawaiʻi organization run it.

Its exhibits showcase numerous artifacts related to the monarchs King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiolani and items owned by them, such as portraits, furniture made from koa wood, and quilts.

Tours give you even more insight into the various royals who once walked these halls.

Once a month, Hulihe‘e Palace hosts an awesome event called Afternoon at Hulihe‘e Palace, which is a great cultural event and one of the most delightful free things to do locally.

You’ll get to experience mele and hula performances up close and personal!

The location also hosts a variety of other performance arts, such as Hulihe‘e Palace Band’s Hulihe‘e Palace Concert, the interesting Merry Monarchs Chorale, and the regular local artist folk tune performances.

Address: 75-5718 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

2. Kona Farmers Market

Chris Allan / Shutterstock

The Kona Farmers Market is a fantastic opportunity to sample some of the best that Hawaii has to offer.

You’ll get to meet locals, stock up on fresh produce, try a bunch of snacks that the island is famous for, and purchase all manner of handcrafted souvenirs and gifts.

It’s definitely one of the most fun places to visit, especially if you’re hungry, so come with an empty stomach!

It’s right beside the local public library in the downtown area.

The Kona Farmers Market boasts over 40 vendors that set up every week on market days, which are Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The market runs from dawn to dusk on these days, and it’s just a minute away from the beach, so it’s a great place to just go for a relaxing stroll.

You’ll get to try awesome meals like mochi, mangoes, shaved ice, honey, flowers, bread, macadamia nuts, colorful fruits you can’t get elsewhere, and even the famous Kona coffee!

Address: 75-5767 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

3. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

The most popular export of Hawaii is coffee, and one place to learn all about that is at Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation .

Offering free tours every hour on the hour, with special Japanese tours twice a week, the establishment is open all week long.

Tours can be undertaken in 4×4 vehicles for a plantation tour, or you can go through the fields of organic coffee on a nature walk.

There are also special roast master experiences and a great chance to see a lava tube, which are among the best things to do in Kona!

All coffee produced by Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is grown onsite.

You’ll learn all about how coffee is grown, cultivated, and processed, and you’ll even get to taste the many roasts and blends made by the company.

The aforementioned roast master experience spans two hours and lets you get hands-on, learning about the bean selection and roasting process and trying some of that yourself!

Coffee first arrived in this district in 1828 and has only become more popular since then.

The mineral-rich soil of the island, composed of volcanic dirt, is particularly conducive to the growth of this plant.

Don’t forget to pick up a bag of coffee before you leave – there are premium, decaf, espresso, private reserve, peaberry, Vienna roast, and other varieties to try!

Address: 73-1942 Ha’o St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

4. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

W Nowicki , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Looking for some interesting places to travel to for a full day getaway?

The Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is undoubtedly among the top 10 places to visit for those interested in local culture and history.

Absolutely filled with things to see, this beautiful locale is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and any tourists who want to get some sightseeing done.

The visitors center of Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is a great starting point.

Here, you’ll learn about the numerous hiking trails, including those that will lead you through all of the area’s ahupua’a, or land divisions of mountain to sea, as well as numerous old petroglyphs and sacred temples.

Some of these will grant you insight into the early settlers’ imaginative and innovative engineering abilities, including those who made the many fish ponds in the park.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park.

Go hiking, relax at the beach, try to spot wildlife like monk seals or sea turtles, and go snorkeling.

With 1,100 acres to its name, this National Historic Landmark is a symbol of the spirit of the local people, a site of renewal and spiritualism that was saved via the dedication of members of the community.

Address: Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

5. Attend A Luau

Maridav / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do in Kona, don’t forget about one of the most quintessential Hawaii experiences: attending a luau!

These fun events incorporate elements like music, drinks, food, and hula dancing to create joyful performances mixed with local culture and flair.

In case you’re unfamiliar, a luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast.

Most center around a kalua pua’a, meaning a roasted pig, and the event features vibrant dance performances, lots of fire, and thrilling rum music.

Other performances, such as knife rituals of Samoan origin, are also commonplace.

The state has luaus happening all the time all over the archipelago, so you’re spoiled for choice!

Popular places to head to for an authentic luau experience include the grounds of the historic Kamakahonu Royal, the Royal Kona Resort, the Island Breeze Luau, and the Voyagers of the Pacific Lū‘au.

These places all offer slightly different experiences, but you’ll get to watch a fire dancer show, eat all-you-can-eat local fare, enjoy music and dance, and grab drinks at open bars!

Some places may even offer additional activities, like lei workshops and the option to get a temporary tattoo in Polynesian styles.

Address: Kailua-Kona, HI, United States

6. Magic Sands Beach Park

MGambill / Shutterstock

Magic Sands Beach Park is one of the best things to do in Kona for families, especially those with kids!

Situated on Kailua-Kona town’s outskirts, this immensely popular location is nothing short of idyllic, offering the opportunity for many standard beach activities, such as playing volleyball, surfing, swimming, and watching beautiful sunsets.

Though it’s not the largest beach out there, Magic Sands Beach Park is a great place to catch some waves that are suitable for beginners in the world of surfing and bodyboarding.

Lifeguards are stationed all around, so you can be sure about your safety, and amenities like modern showers and restrooms allow for a comfortable experience.

Magic Sands Beach Park’s name comes from a surprisingly scary source.

In winter, the surf is very high, often causing the entire beach to disappear underwater, revealing nothing but lava rock beneath.

Luckily, during the day and during warm months, the beach is safe and suitable for people of all ages!

Address: Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

7. Kanaloa Octopus Farm

Kanaloa Octopus Farm

Kanaloa Octopus Farm is one of the unique things to do among Kona attractions, a fun and exciting place to learn all about cephalopods like squid and octopus.

At this farm, all animals are raised only for repopulation and for research purposes, aquariums, and hobbyists.

Of course, most of these efforts are focused on conservation and release into the ocean.

Fresh seawater is directly pumped into the many breeding tanks, which is why the facility is conveniently situated right on the beach.

Guided tours of Kanaloa Octopus Farm will teach you all about the process of farming and raising these creatures via the available guided tours.

You’ll gain tons of knowledge about each species here.

During these tours, you’ll get to get up close and personal with the octopus, and you’ll even get the cool chance to feed them!

You’ll also learn about aquaculture research, conservation, and the problems of extinction and over-fishing that these animals face.

Keep your eyes open, and you may just spot a cephalopod squirting some ink at a fellow tank mate!

Address: 73-4460 Queen Ka’ahumanu Hwy Ste 138, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

8. Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary

Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a lush, gorgeous expense spanning 70 acres.

It is home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the entire world and is filled almost completely with all manner of native plants.

The sanctuary is elevated more than 3,000 feet above sea level, being the only tropical cloud forest in the whole country.

It’s no surprise that this is one of the top points of interest in Hawaii!

But what’s a cloud forest?

These are essentially forests that gain a vast majority of their needed precipitation from low-hanging clouds, dense fog, and other weather that is common in high elevations.

This is contrary to the state of most typical rainforests, which gain moisture mostly from rainfall.

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is home to thousands of native plant types, including 30-foot gigantic tree ferns and more than 100 bamboo varieties.

This is also where some of the island’s most endangered and rare bird species live safely.

The area is packed with hiking trails spanning miles, which you can explore on your own or follow a ranger through.

So if you’re looking for scenic spots to make memories, you can’t go wrong with the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary.

Address: 73-1865 Hao St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

9. Ocean Rider Inc

Marcos del Mazo / Shutterstock

Ocean Rider Inc , also known as Ocean Rider Seahorse Tours, is the only establishment in the entire country that rears seahorses that are critically endangered.

Their goal is to attempt to save these animals from extinction, and as such, more than 20,000 of them – from different species – are on display within the farm.

For fans of seahorses, this is one of the most fun places to see these majestic and magical creatures!

Tours of Ocean Rider Inc are regularly scheduled, and on each, you can learn all about the life cycles of seahorses and the efforts being made to conserve them.

Feeding pools and petting pools let you get even closer to them!

You’ll also get to see some pregnant male seahorses and their babies.

Ocean Rider Inc is one of the more non-touristy things to do, despite how special and unique it is.

It is a family-operated farm and breeds over 30 species of seadragons and seahorses, which it has been doing since 1998.

You’ll get to spot tiger tail seahorses, leafy seadragons, and others!

Address: 73-4388 Ilikai Place, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

10. Moku‘aikaua Church

Moku‘aikaua Church

Moku‘aikaua Church is the oldest Christian church in Hawaii.

The church continues to operate but is also open for tours to the public, which is among the free things to do in beautiful Kona.

Whether you’re of this faith, believe in a different religion, or aren’t particularly religious at all, this is still one of the best Kona attractions to check out.

This church was established in 1837, 17 years after Christian missionaries from America first arrived to spread their truth.

They did so with King Kamehameha II’s permission and eventually built this place of worship.

At the time, it was made from wood that was gathered from rainforests locally, but after several fires destroyed that structure, they opted for stone instead.

This stone structure remains as it was back then, and you can visit it today.

Within the Moku‘aikaua Church, you’ll see numerous vestiges and artifacts.

This includes a beautiful scale model of the ship that brought the first American missionaries here, the Thaddeus.

If you follow a public island tour, you’ll also learn about the church’s history and the people who were a part of it.

Address: 75-5713 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

11. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Pung / Shutterstock

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is situated slightly outside of Kona, and it’s one of the most important historic sites in Hawaii.

As such, though it is a fun experience and one of the island’s tourist attractions, it’s a sacred spot that deserves respect.

This is an educational site where you’ll learn about local history and culture via self-guided tours and anger talks.

Among the places you’ll see is the Great Wall, which often hits 17 feet in thickness, and the many wooden totem-like god images around the central sacred temple of Puuhonua-o-Honaunau called Kii.

When you’re exploring out and about, you’ll also see some ancient fishing pools and the royal canoe landing beach.

With 182 acres to its name, there’s no end to the interesting activities that can teach you about the area’s history on a long trip this weekend.

Once a refuge for both commoners and royalty alike, you can see recreated village huts and somber ancient burial grounds along the many easy hiking trails.

Address: State Hwy 160, Hōnaunau, HI 96726, United States

12. Two Step Beach

Two Step Beach

Situated near Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, Two Step Beach is an amazing spot for water-based activities and sightseeing to spot monk seals, dolphins, and turtles, as well as tons of vibrant fish.

Easily accessible on Honaunau Bay, this is among the top places to visit for a good beach experience.

You can swim, surf, and play games at Two Step Beach, but all the most loved features are underwater, where colorful coral reefs live beneath waves of turquoise.

You’ll have to bring your own gear or be prepared to buy some if you need any, but it’s well worth it for snorkeling enthusiasts visiting Hawaii.

Further down, you’ll also find the well-renowned lava rock pools, where diving opportunities are nothing short of incredible!

Address: Captain Cook, HI 96704, United States

13. Atlantis Submarines

Atlantis Submarines

It goes without saying that one of the most fun things to do in Kona is to explore the beautiful waters and all their wildlife.

After all, that’s what Hawaii is known for!

Atlantis Submarines allows you to do just this, bringing you across a stunning natural reef spanning 25 acres from the comfort of a lovely, air-conditioned underwater vessel.

As its name suggests, at Atlantis Submarines, you’ll be riding a submarine as it brings you 100 feet into the depths for a 45-minute experience.

You’ll see eels, sharks, colorful fish, stingrays, and turtles, which will not be threatened by your submarine, as it is silent and environmentally friendly!

The fact that the coral reef you’ll traverse is 18,000 years old adds an extra layer of beauty and wonder to the whole experience, which is already very much one of a kind!

Address: 75- 5660 Palani Rd #304, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

Want to check out Hawaii and Honolulu, but don’t know where to start? Here’s a list of some fun things to do in Hawaii and some of the best things to do in Honolulu when you visit!

14. The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory

The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory

The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory , as its name suggests, is the best spot in Kona, Hawaii for those with an insatiable sweet tooth.

Believe it or not, some of the most exclusive and delicious cacao is cultivated here in Hawaii, specifically on the Hualalai Mountain slopes.

The factory is actually the first local producer of sun-dried, hand-picked, site-processed cocoa beans in the state!

There are loads of things to see at the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory.

One-hour tours allow you to view the plantation and understand the whole process of picking, drying, and processing these beans into the desired chocolate products.

This includes criollo and dark chocolates, as well as those mixed with luscious milk to create various textures, tastes, and types of chocolate products.

The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory has been in business since 1997 and is family-run.

It goes without saying that you’ll definitely get the chance to try some of their quality, expertly-made products during your tour!

Address: 78-6772 Makenawai St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

15. Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

For even more activities, check out Kohala Waterfalls Adventure .

You may have wondered what to do in Kona if you prefer land adventure to water action, and this touring company has that covered!

Over the course of eight hours – a perfect chunk of time for an excursion this weekend – you’ll get to see all the most scenic portions of Kona, Hawaii.

During Kohala Waterfalls Adventure, you’ll hike through a private nature reserve, ride off-road in a six-wheel drive, and learn about local fauna, flora, culture, and history.

You’ll even stop off at Hawi, a historic local town.

Finally, you’ll reach the titular waterfalls and will be able to swim in the rush of the cascades, after which you’ll head to a scenic lookout to enjoy a delicious private lunch.

16. Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark

Billy McDonald / Shutterstock

The Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark , situated in northern Kailua Bay, was once the home of King Kamehameha I.

This great king was the man who united the many islands of Hawaii into one, and he lived here until his death in 1819.

The structures on display harken back to that time, giving you a glimpse of the lives led by the residents of Kona all those years ago.

There are plenty of restored or well-preserved structures at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark.

For history buffs, this is among the most fun and cheap things to do in Kona.

You’ll gain insight into the past from the lens of today as you view storehouses, thatched homes, places of worship, a personal retreat, and many more interesting sites.

Address: Kaahumanu Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

17. Keauhou Bay

Keauhou Bay is one of the best cultural spots in Kona, situated close to Kailua Village.

For a long time, it’s been one of the most popular Kona attractions, even becoming a favorite getaway for royalty and monarchs of Hawaii.

Now, it’s well-known as a great location for water sports thanks to the relatively calm waters.

Paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, and even fishing are all doable in this protected bay.

You may even see some giant manta rays!

Tours and experiences are offered by various companies nearby, and you’ll be able to book with plenty of operators.

There are also some historical sites worth viewing at Keauhou Bay.

These include numerous restored temples and other cultural sites.

18. Fantastic Race Kona

Fantastic Race Kona

If you’re looking for something super fun to do, take part in the awesome Fantastic Race Kona !

This is a mix of a racing competition and a self-guided tour that brings you to plenty of points of interest in this part of Hawaii.

It’s an educational experience, teaching you all about the town while also incorporating the need for solving problems and hunting for treasure to win.

Fantastic Race Kona works by giving participants a mysterious riddle that will require them to find clues, interpret them to find treasure, and learn about the histories and details of many Hawaiian gods.

Historic sites will allow you to learn and take photos, and there will be stops along the way where you can sample all sorts of local food.

Address: Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

19. Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery

Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery

The Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery is a great place to go to get a truly authentic taste of Hawaii.

There’s a lot of stuff to do and see, from traditional works to contemporary items and everything in between.

This is the ideal way to get a glimpse into Aloha culture, with great works by local creators like Ellen Crocker, Ric Stark, Phyllis Cullen, and Sylvia Pippen featured.

There are more than 60 quilts displayed at this museum and gallery, with some dating as far back as the 1800s.

From vintage offerings to island-themed motifs, you’ll gain knowledge on this lesser-known feature of local artistry and will also see some common internationally used quilting styles.

Regular events are also held, such as traveling quilt shows, and fun scavenger hunts for the whole family.

Address: 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy APT 112, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

20. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers

This diving company is one of the most popular and trusted in Hawaii, so naturally, it’s one of the Kona attractions that isn’t to be missed.

Big Island Divers offer lessons and tours of all kinds, ranging from the expected to the unique.

You can go for the Dolphin Watch experience, undertake a Blackwater Night Dives excursion, or participate in a Manta Ray Snorkeling Adventure tour!

This operations provider also offers equipment rental.

If you need paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and even underwater cameras, you can get some here!

Regardless, it goes without saying that this archipelago is the ideal spot for water sports, diving, and other enjoyable experiences up close and personal with marine life.

Address: 74-5467 Kaiwi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

21. Kona Joe Coffee Tours

Kona Joe Coffee Tours

Caffeine addicts will fall head over heels in love with Kona Joe Coffee Tours , one of the best tourist attractions for coffee aficionados in Hawaii.

Here, one of the free things to do is embark on a self-guided tour, or you can join a paid hour-long guided tour.

Regardless of your method of choice, you’ll learn about the whole coffee-making process.

From the cultivation of the beans till they’re picked, from their processing to their roasting, and finally to their delicious brewing and serving, you’ll watch the entire system go from start to finish.

Better yet, you’ll be able to sample the final product and bring home a coffee mug specially engraved!

There are also more in-depth experiences at this farm.

You can be guided through the process of roasting a batch of coffee just for yourself, after which you can bring those beans home with you for your enjoyment!

Address: 79-7346 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750, United States

Are you visiting Kauai, Maui, and Waikiki? If you plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Kauai , some of the best things to do in Maui , and some of the best things to do in Waikiki !

22. Wasabi Tours

Guided tours around the natural beauty and history of Kona are a fantastic way to kickstart a vacation in Hawaii.

You’ll have fun, gain new information, and find out a ton of different places to visit that you can check out in your own time.

Tours are small and intimate, too, and some last as long as 12 hours!

There are plenty of types of experiences offered by Wasabi Tours .

There’s the Big Island Grand Circle Tour, the Historic Kiona and Farm Tour, the Twilight Volcano Tour, and the Fire and Water Combo Tour, among others!

Depending on which one you pick, you may get to see volcanoes, snorkel alongside dolphins, or explore a black sand beach.

Address: 74-581 Honokohau St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

23. Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions

Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions

Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions is a beautiful way to explore Hawaii.

As one of the many activities and things to do in Kona, this is perfect for adrenaline junkies or people who like a little bit of a challenge with their excursions.

There are numerous available tour options and private charters available, and if you keep an eye out, you’ll probably see tons of marine life.

Tours with Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions last for approximately three to five hours, depending on your chosen experience.

The company has been operating for close to five decades, so they know what they’re doing and will ensure the perfect sightseeing and sporty adventuring experience.

You can go snorkeling, swim with dolphins, and get up close to a bunch of sea caves and lava tubes.

Seasonal whale-watching experiences are available, too!

Address: 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy #16, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

24. Keahole Point Blowhole

Keahole Point Blowhole is a very unusual sight in Kona, and it’s one of the most fascinating free things to do in Hawaii – and one of the most breathtaking things to see!

Most visible during winter in the western part of the town, this is a lava tube that, in times of high surf, blows out seawater at an alarming rate.

The Keahole Point Blowhole resulted from an 1801 eruption of the Hualālai volcano, which brought lava into the sea and created Keahole Point.

The flow caused the development of the tube due to the low viscosity lava flowing in fast and cooling, thus forming a “roof” that the tube connects.

This fun feature of geology is quite majestic to see from above!

Address: Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

25. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides

If you’re wondering what to do that will bring you up close and personal with manta rays, check out Fair Wind Cruises !

This is one of the best ways to explore the waters of Hawaii in an exciting marine adventure.

The manta ray snorkel experience is definitely the most popular of Fair Wind’s offerings, but it’s far from the only option!

Various snorkeling excursions are available, some going to remote spots in south Kona and others taking place in Kealakekua Marine Reserve.

You’ll also get to spot dolphins and turtles, among other animals!

Expect each tour to last for between three and five hours; equipment and light refreshments are provided.

26. Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary

Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary

Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary is a great, fun spot for children aged six and above – and the rest of their families, of course!

This is a privately-owned sanctuary dedicated to providing a safe living space for all sorts of exotic, rare, and endangered animals.

You’ll see ostriches, owls, reptiles, zebras, chinchillas, flamingos, horses, hawks, and monkeys, among others!

If you want to add Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary to your list of things to do in Kona, be sure to schedule a tour in advance.

The sanctuary is closed to the public except via tour, so this is the one way to get inside!

Mandatory donations are required with a relatively high minimum amount, but receipts are provided for tax purposes.

Address: 75-809 Keolani Sbd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Kona

Kona is stunning and breathtaking, filled with fun attractions relating to nature, the ocean, art, culture, history, and more.

With so many options for what to see, you’ll need our guide to help you narrow down the choices so you can build the perfect itinerary for your vacation, no matter who you’re traveling with!

11 Things You Must Do in Kona Hawaii Before You Leave

I lived on the Big Island for a year, getting to know all the nooks and crannies. I was also a a travel agent for 4 years, putting itineraries together and helping clients not miss out on the best things to do at their destinations.

With those skills and experiences, I’ve put together this list of 11 things you must do in Kona!

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel

My favorite must do activity in Kona is the manta ray night snorkel . These friendly giants come within inches of your face as they feast on plankton.

Tours out of Keauhou Bay have a short 5 min boat ride to the manta ray viewing so it’s less boat time and more snorkel time.

2. Whale Watching Tour

I never get tired of seeing the whales in Kona. While you can sometimes see them from shore, the best way view them is by a whale watching tour so you can see them up close!

There are different kinds of boats to take, some are more leisurely while others can be adventurous.

3. Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour

Snorkel tours to Kealakekua Bay start in Kona and are a good way to spend a morning. If you are in Hawaii you need to snorkel to appreciate a whole other world below the ocean’s surface, and Kealakekua Bay is known to be the best spot on the island.

I had so much fun seeing the dolphins and hearing parrotfish crunching on corral!

4. Sunset Dinner Cruise

Body Glove is the only company that offers a sunset dinner cruise in Kona . And boy howdy is it awesome!

Good food, live music, and romantic sunsets! What more could you want?!

It may be cliche, but I love going to luaus because I get a chance to try authentic Hawaiian foods prepared better than I could make at home and being surrounded by a festive atmosphere and entertained with hula dancer and fire knife dancers.

6. Aiopio Fish Trap

I consider this a hidden gem because people don’t talk about this beach much. But I love visiting the Aiopio Fish Trap because I have never NOT seen a green sea turtle here. Plus the white sand beach is sooooo long!

7. Get a Toe Ring

At Aloha Toe Rings in the Kona Inn Shopping Village you can get exceptional service finding a toe ring that fits. I loved their designs and the experience so much, I went twice – one toe ring for each foot!

8. Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm

My favorite Kona coffee farm to visit is Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm . They have unique coffee roasts, delicious candy samples, and a pool to cool off in!

9. Ho’oulu Community Farmers Market 

The best farmers market in Kona, in my opinion, is the Ho’oulu Community Farmers Market  next the Kona Outrigger. Friendly vendors, delicious food, and live music.

10. Foster’s Kitchen

The best meal I ever had on the Big Island was at Foster’s Kitchen . Their flatbread pizza had so much flavor and the cocktails were not skimpy on the alcohol.

Plus the view over Ali’i Drive and of the ocean was beautiful. Try to get there at sunset!

11. Ola Brew Co

Ola Brew Co has my second favorite cider EVER: Dragonfruit Lemonade Cider . It’s hot pink and refreshingly fruity.

They also serve many types of beer, hard seltzers, and hard teas as well as have a full kitchen for a meal.

And there you have it: my Kona must do list.

Did I miss anything?

Big Island Travel Planning Guide

  Should I buy Hawaii travel insurance?

YES  - I recommend Travel Insurance Master because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!

  Is it safe to rent a car on the Big Island?

YES - It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular . I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental , as they have some of the best prices around.

  Will my phone work on the Big Island?

PROBABLY  - Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

  What's the best way to book my Big Island accommodations?

For Big Island hotels,  Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO  for potentially better prices and options.

  What's the best site to buy Big Island flights?

I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip : check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.

  Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?

NO  - If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States . If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.

What should I pack to the Big Island?

Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack .

What To Do In Kona, Hawaii: A Local’S Travel Guide

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With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and relaxed island vibe, Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island is a dream vacation destination. If you’re wondering what there is to see and do during your time in Kona, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re short on time, here are some top things to check out: snorkeling at Two Step beach, tasting Kona coffee at a local farm, exploring downtown Kona, watching the sunset at Magic Sands beach, and checking out historic sites like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau .

In this nearly 3,000 word travel guide, we’ll give you a comprehensive overview of the top attractions, activities, sights, and hidden gems that Kona has to offer. Read on for everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip!

Beaches and Ocean Activities

Two step beach.

Nestled on the Big Island’s dry and rocky west coast, Two Step Beach offers some of Hawaii’s best and easily accessible snorkeling. The coral reef just offshore creates a protected swimming area with an abundance of tropical fish and sea turtles.

The beach gets its name from the unique two stepped lava formation leading into the ocean. Since there are no lifeguards, use caution when entering the water from the uneven rocky shoreline.

Magic Sands Beach

Also known as White Sands Beach or Disappearing Sands Beach , Magic Sands Beach features beautiful white sand that literally disappears and reappears depending on the current and wave action. When the surf is up, the beach erosion washes the white sand back into the ocean, revealing hard dark lava shelves, tide pools, and a rocky coastline.

When the surf is calm, the white sand reappears and provides excellent swimming and boogie boarding conditions.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

Kahalu’u Beach Park is one of the island’s most popular saltwater swimming holes due to the natural protection of the bay. Gentle waves make this an ideal spot for beginning surfers, stand up paddleboarders, and snorkelers. Underwater you’ll discover schools of colorful fish, sea turtles and corals.

Facilities include a covered pavilion, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and plenty of parking.

Kealakekua Bay

Recognized as one of the world’s best snorkeling destinations, Kealakekua Bay’s calm clear waters offer incredible underwater scenery. Snorkelers can spot an abundance of colorful fish, spinner dolphins, sea turtles and more.

The bay is also home to the Captain Cook Monument , marking the spot where Captain James Cook died in 1779. Due to overcrowding, new regulations restrict access so be sure to research before visiting this incredible protected marine area.

With balmy 80 degree water year round, West Hawaii offers some of the world’s best ocean activities. Whether you prefer swimming, snorkeling, surfing or just relaxing on sandy beaches, Kona’s beautiful beaches have something for everyone.

Just be sure to check with lifeguards for safety tips and follow regulations to protect Hawaii’s incredible marine environment.

Historic and Cultural Sites

The Kona district on Hawaii’s Big Island is rich with historic and cultural attractions that offer a window into native Hawaiian traditions. Here are some of the top sites to check out.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park

This sacred site on the Kona Coast was once a place of refuge and a royal ground for the chiefs of Hawaii. The Hale o Keawe temple housed the bones of chiefs and was a kind of mausoleum. Today, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park preserves the history of this area with a museum, thatched temples, royal fishponds, and more for visitors to explore ( https://www.nps.gov/puho/index.htm ).

Huliheʻe Palace

This stately two-story home in downtown Kailua-Kona was a vacation residence of Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s. Huliheʻe Palace offers informative tours that allow visitors to admire the architecture and furnishings as guides share stories of the past.

Wander through the seating area, dining room, and more as you learn about the palace’s owners and visitors over the decades.

Mokuaikaua Church

Right next to Huliheʻe Palace, Mokuaikaua Church is an imposing stone church that dates back to 1820, making it one of the oldest churches in Hawaii. Visitors are welcome to attend services or simply admire the architecture.

The church interior has an almost ship-like appearance with its vaulted ceilings, now decorated with carved koa wood beams, stained glass windows, and more. It’s a photographer’s delight.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm

For an immersive experience showcasing Kona’s coffee heritage, visit this working coffee farm in Captain Cook. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional methods of growing and harvesting coffee by hand.

You’ll also find vintage farm equipment and drying platforms on the grounds dating from the flurry of coffee cultivation in Kona in the 1920s and 30s. It brings Kona’s iconic coffee history to life.

So for historic sites, native culture, and agricultural history in Kona, these attractions deliver. As media statistics report , over 😊2.9 million😊 visitors enjoyed Kona’s history and sights last year, captivated by the preservation of Hawaiian traditions.

With informative tours, cultural demonstrations, and lush grounds, history here is anything but dry.

Outdoor Adventures

Mauna kea summit.

The Mauna Kea summit is one of the top attractions for adventure seekers visiting Kona. At 13,796 feet above sea level, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the island and clear night skies that make it a favored spot for stargazing.

The winding road up takes you past different climate zones and geological formations along the way. According to the official site’s latest records, over 1 million people visit annually to glimpse the incredible vistas or tour the complex of world-class astronomical observatories at the peak.

Some tips for visiting Mauna Kea:

• Bring plenty of warm layers as temperatures can drop below freezing
• Schedule a tour or obtain a permit for access past the Visitor Information Station
• Allow ample travel time for adjustments to the high altitude

Whether catching sunrise amidst the clouds or gazing at the Milky Way in its full glory, Mauna Kea offers an unforgettable adventure!

Waipi’o Valley Lookout

Another popular scenic lookout is the Waipi’o Valley Lookout . Located on the lush Hamakua coast, it rewards viewers with a stunning vista overlooking the valley often described as the Valley Isle’s “Grand Canyon”.

Steep, emerald cliffs enclose black sand beaches, taro fields, and meandering streams below. Waipiʻo means “curved water” in Hawaiian, an apt description of the shoreline’s shape.

Fun fact: Scenes from major Hollywood movies like Waterworld and 50 First Dates were filmed in Waipi’o Valley!

Pololū Valley Lookout

The Pololū Valley Lookout is yet another must-visit North Kohala overlook granting eye-popping views of a verdant valley extending down to the sea. Unlike Waipiʻo, visitors can also hike a steep trail from the lookout leading into the valley itself, where black sand beaches, sea caves, and roaming goats awaits amidst the spectacular wilderness.

The challenging hike and remoteness means fewer crowds at Pololū. Just don’t forget your sun protection, water, and camera!

Captain Cook Monument Trail

The Captain Cook Monument Trail is an easy hike overlooking Kealakekua Bay, where British explorer Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii. At the end stands a monument erected in 1874 honoring Cook’s achievements.

Most intriguingly, this is also the site of Cook’s death after an altercation with native Hawaiians just a year later.

The well-maintained 0.3 mile trail weaves up through dry landscape with informational plaques recounting history along the way. Sweeping coastal views open up at the top, allowing a glimpse of the rocky shoreline where pivotal events transpired over 200 years ago.

Visiting the Captain Cook Monument Trail provides insight into a significant figure in Hawaii’s history in the very spot where it all occurred.

Shopping and Dining

Downtown kona.

Downtown Kona offers a vibrant mix of local shops, art galleries, and restaurants along the beautiful coastline. Historic Kailua Village has been the commercial center of Kona for over 200 years. Wander through unique boutiques like Kona Stories , which sells handmade jewelry and crafts by local artists, or stop into Gallery of Great Things to admire paintings and sculptures.

Don’t miss the farmer’s market held every Wednesday and Saturday morning in the village, where you can pick up tropical fruits and flowers as well as sample delicious poke bowls and smoothies from food trucks.

Aliʻi Drive

Just south of downtown Kona lies scenic Aliʻi Drive. This coastal road offers incredible views alongside high-end resorts, restaurants, and shops. Stop into Huggo’s to enjoy fresh seafood and Hawaiian fusion cuisine right on the water, or grab shave ice at Scandinavian Shave Ice in some wild flavors like guava chili lemonade.

Pick up gifts at boutiques like Hula Lē‘a Gallery , which sells Hawaiian artisan wares and hosts classes in hula dancing, lei making, and ukulele playing. With beautiful beaches nearby, it’s also a great spot to rent snorkel gear or schedule an evening dolphin watching cruise.

Kona Coffee

The Kona region is world-famous for its coffee beans cultivated on the fertile volcanic soil. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation offers free walking tours detailing the growing and harvesting process. Afterward, visit the tasting room to sample different blends and brews, like their Peaberry single-origin known for its rich flavor and subtle sweetness.

Other exceptional places to get your coffee fix include Kona Haven Café , set on a peaceful farm, and Holualoa Café , where you can sip espresso drinks on a charming back porch overlooking the village.

One of Hawaiʻi’s most popular dishes is fresh poke, diced raw tuna and vegetables flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, chili peppers, seaweed, and more. According to a survey , a whopping 93% of visitors indulge in poke bowls during their stay.

Hotspots in Kona include Umekes , where you can customize ingredients over sushi rice or greens, and Da Poke Shack , a casual spot near Magic Sands Beach churning out heaping portions with options like spicy ahi and wasabi crab.

For the freshest catch at affordable prices, don’t miss the take-out counter at Kona Fish Market in Honokohau Harbor, where local fishermen unload their daily haul.

Where to Stay

When visiting Kona, many tourists opt to stay at one of the area’s world-famous resorts. Nestled along the stunning shores, resorts like the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa offer luxurious amenities like pools, spas, golf courses, and more.

The views of Kona’s sparkling waters can’t be beat from these coastal havens. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s 2022 report, over 60% of visitors chose to stay at one of Kona’s many resorts last year.

VRBO Rentals

For travelers seeking a more home-like feel, Kona offers over 800 VRBO and other vacation rental options. From stylish condos to lush estates, these rentals allow guests to live like a local during their Hawaiian getaway.

Top neighborhood picks include Keauhou, Kailua Village, and Ali’i Drive for their central locations. As vacation rentals grow in popularity, statistics show VRBO bookings in Hawaii increased by 30% in 2022.

Airbnb has also exploded in popularity amongst Kona visitors in recent years. Offering over 1,200 unique stays, Airbnbs allow travelers to fully immerse themselves in the island lifestyle. Guest favorites include treehouse rentals amidst lush rainforests as well as cozy bungalows along world-famous beaches.

With average nightly rates around $250, Airbnbs offer an affordable way to stay in paradise. No wonder Airbnb saw a 40% boost in Kona bookings last year!

Hostels and Budget Hotels

For budget-focused travelers, Kona offers a nice range of affordable accommodations as well. From the charming Kona Tiki Hotel to the social Banana Bungalow Hostel , costs typically run from $50-100 per night.

These comfortable spots put you close to Kona’s top sites and beaches at a fraction of the price. Although cheaper, these accommodations still earn rave reviews from visitors. The Banana Bungalow, for instance, boasts an impressive 9.5 rating on Booking.com after over 4,500 guest reviews.

With stunning scenery, rich Hawaiian history and culture, delicious food, and plenty of relaxation or adventure – whatever your preference – Kona has something for every type of traveler. Use this local’s guide to help you experience the best of this Big Island paradise.

Have an amazing trip filled with aloha!

Sharing is caring!

Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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30+ Things to Do in Kona Hawaii On A Budget

While most of our yearly Hawaii trips are to Oahu to visit family, we’ve enjoyed a couple amazing vacations to Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. In this post, we’ll share some of the best things to do in Kona Hawaii for free or low cost.

As budget travelers ourselves, we know Hawaii is not a cheap destination to begin with. We recommend you choose one or two things you want to splurge on : special accommodations, a rental car, dining out, or adventure activities.

On our most recent Kona trip, the purpose was to spend quality time with family so we prioritized a nice vacation rental house where we could all be together. We saved money by doing most of our food shopping at Costco and finding free things to do in Kona.

* Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *  

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Hawaii? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Hawaii here: What you need to know about Hawaii travel right now

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Last updated: February 2024. Originally published: February 2020.

Read our complete guide on where to stay in Kona here >

About Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii has two main towns: Kailua-Kona on the West and Hilo on the East. Each has their own airport, but Kona is more tourist-centered. 

Kona is an ocean-side town which starts to slope up toward Hualalai volcano . Much of the ground is clearly lava rock , making it feel especially arid.

As you go uphill, away from the water, the landscape becomes more lush, though nowhere near as rainforest-like as the rainy Hilo side of the island. 

Kona’s climate stays relatively warm year-round , with temperatures rarely lower than 60 or higher than 90.

What to do in Kona for free

The following is a list of fun things to do in Kona Hawaii for free. After that, we’ll cover some more low cost things to do in Kona on a budget.

Wander around Kailua Village

Once a small fishing village, Kailua Village is now the heart of downtown Kailua-Kona. The main street is Ali’i Drive which runs along the coast. Designated a Hawaii Scenic Byway, it’s also called the “Royal Footsteps Along the Kona Coast.”

Kailua Village is home to several historic places that date back to the 1800s, including Hulihee Palace (the summer residence of Hawaiian royals) and Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church on the island.

King Kamehameha spent once lived on Kamakahonu Bay near Kailua Pier . This also happens to be the finish line of the annual Ironman World Championship and is a great place to watch the sunset.

Kailua Village, 75-5766, Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI

Visit a Coffee Farm

Kona coffee is a world-renown arabica coffee bean, grown on the slopes of Kona’s mountains.

There are a number of coffee farms open to visitors, including Rooster Farms, Hula Daddy, Greenwell Farms, and Mountain Thunder.

At Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, in the cloud forest just up the hill from town, you can take a free tour of the whole coffee production process on site. You can also sample their coffees in the gift shop.

73-1944 Hao Street Mon – Sun 9:30am – 4:30pm. Tours are every hour, 10am – 4pm. No reservations required.

Visit Big Island Bees

The Big Island Bee farm is a short drive South of Kailua-Kona. While their one-hour tour does have a fee, you can still visit this family-friendly honey farm free of charge.

There is a museum with exhibits and bee keeping demonstrations. Plus enjoy free samples of their local, raw honey.

82-1140 Meli Rd Suite 102, Captain Cook, HI Mon – Fri 10am – 4pm. Saturday 10am – 2pm.

Check out Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company visitor center

Delicious macadamia nuts have been produced on the island since the 1920’s. Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company has a visitor center/gift shop about an hour North of Kona. There, you can observe how macadamia nuts are processed and try free samples.

61-3251 Maluokalani St., Kawaihae, HI Mon – Sun 9am – 5:30pm

Watch the sunset or sunrise

With Kona being on the West side of the island, nearly everywhere has a great view of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Catch a glimpse from your accommodations or take a stroll out to Kailua Pier in town.

Enjoy a beach day

Returning to the place where we honeymooned almost 12 years later!

This side of the island has a wide variety of beaches, from white sand to pebble beaches and volcanic black sand as well. Wave size and undertow vary with the weather and seasons, so be sure to check for your own safety before entering the water. 

Also note that Hawaii is enacting a ban on reef-damaging sunscreens . To help protect the marine environment, check that the ingredients in your sunscreen comply with regulations. 

Here are some beaches to check out on the Kona Coast:

Hapuna Beach State Park – The Big Island’s largest white sand beach about 40 minutes North of town, good for body boarding and snorkeling. Restrooms and showers on site. Large parking lot can fill up mid-day on holidays or weekends. $5 per car.

Hapuna Beach on a holiday

Kauna’oa – White sand in a beautiful protected bay at Mauna Lani Resort. Open to the public but there’s only a limited number of parking passes given out at the Mauna Kea Hotel’s guard gate.

Kua Bay – White sand beach 10 minutes north of Kona Airport with big surf for experienced boogie boarders. Restrooms and showers available, but no shade.

Honokohau Harbor – Long beach 15 minutes south of Kona Airport. Shallow and protected swim area and lots of space for walking. Dogs allowed.

Kahalu’u Beach Park – A black sand beach and park on the South end of Kona with snorkeling, SUPing, and a beginner surf spot. Rental shop across the street.

Watch for wildlife

Whether it’s passing whales or pods of dolphins, bird watching, sea turtle spotting, or snorkeling to see colorful fish, there are plenty of opportunities around Kona to spot wildlife.

Be sure to keep your distance from any wild animals, especially sea turtles which are a protected species.

Kealakekua Bay is an underwater marine sanctuary at Captain Cook Bay, south of Kona, where you often can find dolphins and sea turtles. The best snorkeling spot is on the opposite side of the bay from the parking area, close to the captain Cook monument.

Kona’s North-West Coast is ideal for whale watching from December to May. This is when humpback whales frequent Hawaii’s warm waters to breed and give birth. 

Take a Hike

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park – This park is just South of the Kona airport. Stop by the visitor center for hiking trail information so you can find the park’s sacred temples and some very old petroglyphs. Admission is free.

A kid-friendly and dog-friendly option close to town is Makuala O’Oma Trail , a 1.4 mile loop in the forested hills above Kailua-Kona. 

Most of the other most popular hikes on the Big Island are further from Kona: – Kilauea’iki Trail (4 miles) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Waipi’o Valley (6.5 miles) or Pololu Valley (2.5 miles) in Kohala – Hawaii Botanical Gardens (1.5 miles) in Hilo – Mauna Loa Lookout (1.5 miles) at Volcano Village

Explore resort grounds and events

The grounds of the Mauna Lani Resort , North of Kailua-Kona, are home to several ancient Hawaiian fishponds and shark ponds.

You will also find a path with ancient petroglyphs at the Puako Petroglyph Park. The beach path from the Mauna Lani north to the Fairmont Orchid provides great beach scenery.

Self-parking is free at the resort. 

The Shops at Mauna Lani offer a free Polynesian show including fire knife dancing two nights per week in addition to cultural classes and other entertainment .

Additionally, Queens’ MarketPlace and Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort offer free entertainment and classes .

More Cheap Things to Do in Kona Hawaii On A Budget

Now that we’ve covered Kona’s free things to do, here are a few more options that are low cost.

Shop at Costco in Kona

If you’re a Costco member, you might want to grab some local snacks from the Kona Costco, which is right by the airport. (If you’re not a member, the food court is located outside so you can still order an acai bowls, smoothies, or chicken bake.)

Costco in Hawaii stocks most of the same products you’re probably used to but they also have some local specialties. Things like salted or chocolate covered macadamia nuts, One Ton chips, POG, and ready-made dishes can be a nice treat during your Hawaii vacation.

The Kona Costco gas station is one of the cheapest places to refuel your car on the island as well.

Visit a Farmers Market

Kona has a few different markets, which usually include fresh produce vendors as well as crafts or souvenir booths.

The main Kona Farmer’s Market (may be temporarily closed), open Wednesday through Sunday, is just off Ali’i Drive. Live music and performances are also common here.

While prices are not always the cheapest at these markets, you have the opportunity to buy directly from local producers.

Ali’i Drive Farmers Market (may be temporarily closed) Corner of Alii Drive and Hualalai Road, Kailua-Kona Wednesdays-Sundays 7am-4pm

Pure Kona Green Market Amy Greenwell Botanic Garden in Captain Cook Sundays 9am-2pm

Water sports: Snorkeling, SUP (stand up paddle boarding), surfing, and kayaking

The cost of these beach activities vary. If you can bring your own gear or book accommodations that provide equipment, then these types of water sports are definitely a cheap thing to do in Kona.

Even if you need to rent, hopefully it’s a worthwhile expense that helps you better experience what Hawaii has to offer.

A couple of us rented Stand Up Paddle boards and a surf board at Kahalu’u Beach Park on the South end of Kona. It’s a popular snorkeling area with sea turtle sightings. The park’s small protected bay also tends to be good for beginner surf lessons.

Kahalu’u Bay Surf and Sea rental shop is just across the street from the beach, offering rentals ($20 for 2 hours at the time of this writing) and surf lessons.

Visit Pu’uhonua o Hanaunau Historic Park

Puuhonua o Honaunau in South Kona was once the grounds of Hawaiian royalty and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

Today the park offers self-guided tours as well as daily ranger talks about this intriguing historical territory. Entrance at the time of this writing is $10 per pedestrian, or $20 per car (valid for 7 days).

Recommended Restaurants in Kona

Original Thai Cuisine – Tasty Thai dishes for dining in or take away. 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI

Broke Da Mouth Grindz Bar & Grill – Hearty Hawaii and Filipino comfort food. 75-5864 Walua Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI

Umeke’s – Poke bowls and local style lunch plates. 75-143 Hualalai Rd #105, Kailua-Kona, HI

Da Poke Shack – Award winning poke bowls (raw fish) by the beach South of Kona. Picnic tables outside or take it to go. 76-6246 Ali’i Dr., Kailua-Kona, HI

Lava Java – Locally-sourced cafe in downtown Kona with ocean views. Location: 75-5799 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI

Where to stay in Kona

First, here’s something to be aware of when looking for a vacation rental in Kona. Some islands in Hawaii have enacted new legislation about short term rentals and Airbnbs.

Rentals existing prior to 2019 must be officially registered. Otherwise, no new short-term vacation rentals are allowed in single-family residential or agricultural zones. Airbnb hosts are required to post their official Tax ID on their rental listing, so check for this before you book.

The view from our family-friendly Airbnb vacation rental overlooking Kona airport

Worthwhile Splurges for a Bucket List Kona Hawaii Trip

Bucket list activities in Kona aren’t cheap, but as we mentioned at the start, you may be able to keep your Kona trip budget-friendly and still enjoy one or two selective splurges. Here are some of the top rated activities in Kona:

Volcano Discovery Tour – An epic full-day experience to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and beyond with scenic views, hiking, tasting local specialties, and searching for sea turtles with a certified guide.  Check price and availability for the Volcano Discover Tour here >

Small Group Surf Lesson – Learn to surf in a 2-hour session with a friendly, professional instructor at Kahaluu Bay, in Kona. Check price and availability for Surf Lessons here >

Night Manta Ray Snorkel Experience – A must-do activity while in Hawaii, enjoy an amazing opportunity to see manta rays up close. Check price and availability for the Snorkeling Experience here >

More FAQs about things to do in Kona Hawaii

Is Kona worth visiting? 

Definitely. Kona Hawaii is a beautiful vacation destination, even if it’s not as lush and tropical as other parts of the islands.

As you can see from our list, there are plenty of things to do in Kona, Hawaii for free, for cheap, and for bucket list travelers. 

Is Kona or Hilo better?

Most visitors stay in Kona where there are more tourist amenities, beaches, and vacation rentals.

Hilo is frequently more rainy, but the weather is typically better in Kona. Personally, we only go to Hilo to visit family, while we visit Kona for vacation.

What should you not miss in Kona Hawaii?

Of course it depends on your interests, but we’d say the most interesting thing about the Big Island of Hawaii is its diverse landscapes. So get out and explore! See the rugged coasts, the hills of coffee, the pasturelands, the volcanoes.

Is Kailua Kona safe?

Hawaii is moderately safe but it’s certainly not immune from crime. For details about pandemic safety and travel requirements, see our Hawaii pandemic travel updates .

Do I need a car in Kona?

We do recommend renting a car to explore the Big Island, unless you plan to stay on the resort or in a hotel right in town. Kona is not particularly walkable and many of the best attractions require driving.

Is there Uber in Kona?

Yes, Uber and Lyft are available in Kailua-Kona and around the Big Island. With a car rental shortage and increasing rental car prices, ride share apps can be a useful alternative for travelers to Kona.

  * Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *

We hope this post has been helpful for you! Let us know in the comments if you have questions or recommendations of your own to add for cheap and free things to do in Kona on a budget. 

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Big Island Beaches Guide

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Big Island of Hawaii

Visitor information on where to stay, best things to do, and more....

Big Island of Hawaii Travel Guide

Visitor info & top things to do on the big island, essential tips for the ultimate big island vacation experience.

The Big Island of Hawaii seems determined to break the norm; the stereotype of the average tropical island, that is. Here you'll find the ongoing battle between green forests, black lava fields, the ocean, and the rain almost incomprehensible; the diversity is simply stunning . You may find yourself wondering, "Is this an ancient landscape or a future one?"

We say the Big Island is ‘big’ - and we mean it! It is an island of such proportions that all of the other islands in the main Hawaiian chain could fit inside it nearly twice ! Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 square miles, and is still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.

— article continued below —

Pololu Valley - Kohala

FREE Hawaii Island Summary Guidesheet

Updated with a new summary map of the  Big Island  with estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top must-see & do Big Island attractions, best times to visit , where to stay briefing, Big Island  airports detail , a monthly weather summary , and where to find the most noteworthy local ono 'grindz' (best eats) on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Download Guidesheet Now

On the Big Island, it's always best to expect the unexpected. Even the  beaches  don't follow the rules here. It's almost easier to find a black sand beach than a white one, and if you're adventurous enough, you can even sink your toes into one of the world's few  green sand beaches .

Snorkeling with Manta Rays * in the Kona area and touring the island's volcanoes are just a few of the tops things you should look into while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. Ultimately, we'll help you discover all that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer.

*Sponsored Content

Everything you need to know about the Big Island of Hawaii is here in one convenient place:

• Determine the best time to visit the Big Island
• Discover the perfect Hawaii accommodations or explore our variety of Big Island tours
• Read our Big Island travel tips & advice
• Explore all of the Big Island attractions

Kilauea Iki Trail - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Summary of Big Island topics covered on this page.

• Big Island Blog, recent news, and current events
• Current Weather, Climate, & Forecast
• Where to Stay on the Big Island - accommodations guide
• Big Island of Hawaii Map Packet
• Best Time to Visit the Big Island  - which month is best?
• Big Island Regions & Destinations Guide
• Top 10 Big Island Attractions to See & Do
• Big Island Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
• Top Big Island Sights
• Top Big Island Beaches
• Top Big Island Hiking Trails
• Big Island Popular Tours & Activities
• Big Island Visitor Information & Articles

When to Visit the Big Island?

The best months to visit.

Knowing when to visit the Big Island of Hawaii is essential when planning your Big Island trip or vacation. Honestly, there's not a wrong time to visit the island - it has an incredibly wide diversity and geography that suits almost any type of traveler- from outdoor adventurer to poolside fixture.

But, that said, some months are still better when considering things like the weather and your budget.  The  best times  to visit  the Big Island of Hawaii, taking into consideration the weather, how crowded or not the island is, and the demand for accommodations, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and October.  Some call these Hawaii Island's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.'

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article, we'll cover visitor arrivals, the Big Island's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on the Big Island.

When to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)

Where to Stay on the Big Island

Knowing where to stay on the Big Island is essential. The island is large (twice the size of all the other islands combined) and diverse. Many visitors find it challenging to decide upon an island accommodation. To assist the process, choose a location on the island that you will enjoy. Our guide will list some essential considerations to help you choose wisely.

Where Do You Stay on The Big Island?

Consider a location that affords you enough time to visit all of the most popular attractions. A week might cut it on smaller islands like Kauai, Maui, or Oahu. But the size of the Big Island requires more time to see all the worthwhile attractions. We suggest one week as a minimum, but two or three weeks are ideal. Plan to divide your time between the two primary halves of the island: the West Side and the East Side.

How to Maximize Your Stay From the West to the East of the Big Island 

We suggest splitting your stay between Kailua-Kona on the west side and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. This will ease a lot of extra driving and allow you to experience both sides of the island. If you have only allocated a week to visit the island, four nights in Hilo and three in Kailua-Kona will suffice. Use that same ratio for more extended visits. Most visitors spend longer periods in Kailua-Kona since most hotels, upscale resorts, vacation rentals, and Big Island motels are here. The north of Kailua-Kona on the Kohala 'Gold' Coast hosts lodging options. Yet, since most of the Big Island's best attractions & sights are closer to Hilo, visitors should attempt to book accommodations in Hilo for at least half of their stay on the island.

In this detailed article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each area we've briefly discussed above.

Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Accommodation Rates (click to enlarge)

Big Island Weather

Weather & climate on the big island.

Weather on the Big Island of Hawaii changes as rapidly as the terrain around it. No other island has the same diversity as the Big Island; not even by a long shot!

In some areas, rainfall can be absolutely zero; not a drop falls all year long, and the terrain reflects this- it's dry and barren. In other areas, it can be rainy every day of the year (as in Hilo or Puna), creating a lush paradise for visitors who enjoy that environment.

For the most part, the Big Island is warm and tropical year-round. In winter and summer, the average temperatures near the major resort areas (coastline) range from 75-85°F (23°C-29°C). At higher elevations like Volcano and Waimea, temperatures are often much cooler, especially during the night. Hilo can also have lower temperatures depending on how far mauka (inland) you travel. And, of course, the summit of Mauna Kea and flanks of Mauna Loa or Hualalai can be quite chilly, if not downright frigid. Plan for snow if you'll be visiting those areas.

Our Big Island of Hawaii Weather article has much more to cover.

Big Island of Hawaii Weather

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for the Big Island's primary airports in Kailua-Kona and Hilo. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on the Big Island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.

Big Island Average Monthly Temperatures

Big Island Average Precipitation

Big Island Weather Forecast

Kailua-kona town and hilo town forecasts.

Halemaumau Crater - Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

2024 Big Island Visitor Guides

Download your copy of one of our  Big Island Visitor Guides  today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Big Island of Hawaii insights . We've just updated and released our latest Big Island Essential & Highlights Guides for 2024.

These updated Big Island packets contain nearly  20 visual pages   (in the Intro/Highlights Guide)   and almost  45 visual pages   (in the Essentials Guide)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Big Island information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these packets.

Hawaii Island Regions

Popular destinations on the big island.

The Big Island of Hawaii, of course, is the  largest landmass  in the Hawaiian island chain- which consists of  eight major islands  and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the  Big Island of Hawaii .

With so many different climate zones and vastly different landscapes to explore, it can be hard to decide which part of the island to visit. Browse the Big Island of Hawaii regions below and learn about the many things to do, what to expect, and the diverse attractions of the island.

Kailua-Kona Region | Kohala Region | North Hamakua Region | Hilo Region | Puna Region | Volcano Region | South Kau Region | Saddle Rd Region

Kona (West) Side Big Island Destinations

Kona coast region, kailua-kona town, kealakekua, captain cook, honaunau, and more.

If you're heading to the Big Island there's certainly one area you cannot miss... the  Kona (West) Coast . This warm and sunny leeward area has become the resort hotspot of the island. In total, the Kona Coast stretches some 40 miles along the rugged west coast of the Big Island.

You'll find a vast array of ocean-side restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and activity huts promoting various water activities in the nearby Kailua Bay. Accommodations in Kailua-Kona are generally less expensive than along the Kohala gold coast (Waikoloa), and many resorts/condos are located along Ali'i Drive.

Many historical sites, beautiful beaches (some well-hidden), pristine bays, and lava fields (with prominent petroglyphs) criss-cross and line the coast of this area. North Kona has some of the most gorgeous white sand beaches on the island, like  Makalawena Beach  and Mahai'ula Beach located at  Kekaha Kai / Kona Coast State Park .

Kailua-Kona

Kohala 'Gold Coast' Region

Including waikoloa, waimea, and hawi.

On the far northwest tip of the Big Island is  Kohala , one of the most diverse areas on the island. This part of the Big Island started forming around 460,000 years ago and today includes the Kohala Mountains and the Kohala Ridge Road which straddles the mountain as it makes its way northwestward. Here you'll also discover the towns of  Waimea   (Kamuela) and   Hawi.

The distinction between the windward (wet) side of the island and the leeward (dry) side couldn't be more clear here. Northeast Kohala is green and lush, while the southwest side of the peninsula is dry and sometimes even barren. At one time this part of the Kohala Coast, fittingly called 'North Kohala,' was a area of flourishing sugar cane plantations. Today it has become dominated by one of North America's largest privately owned ranches - the  Parker Ranch .

The Kohala Coast region also includes an area called Waikoloa in 'South Kohala.' Some call this area the  gold coast  because of the many luxury resorts that have been engraved into ancient lava flows in this area. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island,  Hapuna Beach , is also located along this stretch.

Kohala Region

North coast & east big island destinations, north hamakua region, including waipi'o, honoka'a, laupahoehoe, and honomu.

On the  North Coast of the Big Island  lies the  Hamakua coast , one of the most beautiful stretches on the entire island. The North (Hamakua) Coast begins at the entrance to  Waipio Valley , at the end of the Kohala region, a once flourishing indigenous Hawaiian community, and ends at the outskirts of the Hilo region on the east side of the island.

Rainwater from the northern flanks of Mauna Kea along with snow from the summit of the great mountain flows down in countless streams along this part of the Big Island. The result is a mecca of stunning waterfalls and valleys. One such amazing falls are  Akaka Falls  and its surrounding State Park.

The main belt Highway (Highway 19) runs along the coast as the fastest route between Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Highway 19 often flirts with its predecessor, the Old Mamalahoa Highway, on which some amazing places and views can be found. The popular  Four Mile Scenic Route  is one such route off the main highway.

Hilo Region

The most notable location on the northeast side of the Big Island of Hawai'i is undoubtedly Hilo town. Hilo is the island's largest city (second largest in the state - population-wise) and also takes the title for the wettest city in the United States (70+ inches yearly).

Hilo is an especially lush city with several gorgeous orchid gardens, interesting parks (the most prominent being  Liliu'okalani Garden ), museums, and other various attractions. Hilo borders a beautiful bay and is often cooled by sea breezes and tradewind showers.

Hilo town remains the 'back door' of sorts for access to the central part of the island and its famous  Saddle Road .  Rainbow Falls State Park  and  Wailuku River State Park , featuring the Boiling Pots area and  Pe'epe'e Falls , are some of the larger natural attractions in town. Both parks are located on the same river just a few miles separate from one another.

Puna Region

Including Kea'au & Pahoa

East and south of Hilo is the  Puna district  and the funky little town of Pahoa (often called Hawai'i's outlaw town). This region is a diverse area of rain forests, lava fields, and rugged coastline.

One of the major attractions in Puna is the  Lava Tree State Park . In 1790 a lava flow passed through a forest of ohia trees, and today the molds of these trees are all that remain; it's a unique attraction to visit. In 2018, several other attractions in this region were destroyed by one of Kilauea's most recent eruptions.

Volcano Region

Including hawaii volcanoes national park, volcano village, and mountain view.

If there's one single hot-spot on the island (no pun intended) for visitors then it's definitely the Volcano area. The area, is of course, most famous for  Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park  (HVNP).

The most commonly asked question is always... "Will I get to see lava?" You might and you might not, it's really just the luck of the draw. Most of the lava traverses from Kilauea into the ocean via underground lava tubes (see  Nahuku Thurston Lava tube  for a look into an ancient tube). When surface flows do break out, you can usually get pretty close to them, safety permitting.

We honestly believe one of the biggest mistakes visitors make is that they do not devote enough time to the HVNP area. We highly encourage you to allow at least two whole days to this area, preferably starting from Hilo or another nearby town (like Volcano Village) each day.

South Coast Big Island Destinations

South Kau Region

Including Pahala, Punalu'u, South Point, and more

South Hawai'i is one of the quietest areas of the Big Island. Here you'll find no large hotels or resorts, no major golf courses, and no real push for tourism. It's wild country out here. So what makes it worth exploring? How about some unique beaches for starters.

The southern portion of the Big Island is home to two of the most unique beaches in the state,  Papakolea (Green Sand) Beach  to the northeast of  South Point , and  Punalu'u (Black Sand) Beach Park  off the Hawai'i Belt Road (Highway 11).

Central Big Island Destinations

Saddle road region guide, including mauna kea & mauna loa access.

A visit from the Hilo region to the Kona region (or Kona to Hilo) of the Big Island is a must on your visit. To do so you must drive the Saddle, a road that connects the east and west sides of the island passing between the island's two largest mountains, Mauna Loa (13,680 feet) and Mauna Kea (13,796 feet). The past few years there have been tremendous improvements to this entire area.

Today Saddle Road provides the only access to the Army Base, residential areas of Waikiki Ranch, Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, portions of Parker Ranch (mostly located in the Kohala Region), Kilohana Girl Scout Camp, Kaumana City, and Kaumana Caves County Park.

Saddle Road Region

Makalawena Beach

Big Island Travel Map Packet

Updated to include beaches map.

Updated Hawaii Island Travel Map Packet

Updated with a new high-resolution printable map of the Big Island. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.

PDF packet now additionally includes a Beaches Map.

-File is a print-ready PDF document

Big Island Blog & Travel News

Timely big island headlines, events, and announcements.

Akaka Falls State Park

Big Island Top Attractions

Top 10 big island of hawaii things to do.

All of the Big Island of Hawaii is fascinating and worth a visit. However, some Big Island attractions are significantly more popular because they offer an experience that truly captures the magical essence of the state's largest island. Most Inspirational, Must-See, Top Picks, Best of the Big Island... no matter what you label them, you absolutely must witness these attractions for yourself.

Top 10 Attractions on the Big Island

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including Kilauea Volcano
• Akaka Falls State Park - North Hamakua Coast
• Pololu Valley Overlook - North Kohala
• Pu'uhonua o Honaunau - South Kona
• Makalawena Beach - North Kona
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden - North Hamakua Coast
• Hapuna Beach State Park - Kohala
• Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay - North Kona
• Waipio Valley Overlook - Kohala & North Hamakua Coast
• Kilauea Iki Trail - Volcano area

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

#1 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

Originally founded in 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) is a living, breathing testament to the awesome power of Mother Nature. HVNP is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. 

HVNP is home to Kilauea Volcano, the most continuously active volcano in the world, and the park offers the unique experience of walking on land that is younger than you are. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has been honored as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site.

The park encompasses 333,000 acres of natural wonders and is situated at 4,000 feet above sea level. With its wealth of trails, drives, and activities you will likely need at least two days to fully experience all the park has to offer.

#2 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

Akaka Falls State Park, along the northeastern Hamakua Coast, is home to two gorgeous waterfalls and an abundance of lush tropical greenery to delight visitors.

The stroll to reach Akaka Falls is almost as beautiful as the falls itself. After taking a short set of stairs, turn left and follow the paved pathway through amazing greenery and small waterfalls flowing into babbling streams.

You will hear the dull roar of the waterfall before you see it. Just as you round a corner, you'll catch a glimpse of Akaka Falls free-falling 442 ft. through a green-lined gorge.

Pololu Valley Overlook

#3 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island

As you pass the 28-mile marker on Highway 270 past Hawi, the coast will open up and you will suddenly be treated to a breathtaking view of the lovely Pololu Valley.

On a sunny day, you will see the vibrant blue and green ocean crashing into the rugged sea cliffs and the deep green carpet of vegetation lining the sides of the valley.

A short walk to the lookout reveals the many folds and creases of the inner part of the valley which drop into a rich, green floor. Lines of ironwood trees divide the lush valley from the grainy black sand beach that meets the ocean.

Puuhonua o Honaunau Historical Park

Kailua-Kona Region

#4 rated in sights to see on the big island.

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (poo-oo-ho-noo-ah o hoe-now-now), formerly known as Place of Refuge at Honaunau, is an incredibly beautiful and educational experience that no trip to the Big Island should be without.

After paying your vehicle entrance fee and walking past the educational displays, you round a corner and are transplanted into the world of the ancient Hawaiians. On this scorched land of sand and lava rock, the ali'i (ruling class) of Hawaii made their home. 

Visitors can explore how the Hawaiians worked and played underneath the shade of Honaunau's stately palms. Great snorkeling is available nearby at  Two Step  at Keone'ele Cove.

#1 Rated Beach on the Big Island

Like anything worthwhile, Makalawena, or Mak, Beach makes you work a little bit to enjoy it. It's about a 20-minute walk across the lava to the beach, but don't worry, the path is well worn through the a'a flow.

This secluded white sand beach is a crescent broken up by rocky lumps of lava. Palms and other trees rim the dunes near the northern end where you are greeted with picnic tables and some wild chickens.

It's not likely that you will run into many people here and thus you'll likely be able to enjoy the most scenic beach on the island in solitude.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

#5 rated in sights to see on the big island.

This isn't a free attraction, but we still encourage all visitors to make some time and stop at one of the most beautiful botanical gardens you'll find anywhere: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.

This stunning rainforest preserve is touted as one of the most beautiful locations in Hawaii; a distinction it well deserves. With the aid of the map provided by the garden, you will easily spend several hours ambling through the various sections of this magical lush wonderland. Every twist and turn leads to a new plant or tree.

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden

Hapuna Beach State Park

#2 Rated Beach on the Big Island

This is an extremely popular beach for both locals and visitors. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has often ranked it as one of the top beaches in the US. It is hard to argue with this half-mile stretch of pristine golden sand and crystal blue water.

There are several covered pavilions to enjoy an afternoon picnic and restrooms, albeit rather pitiful ones, are available. There is occasionally a lifeguard on duty...despite the "no lifeguard on duty" sign.

Don't expect a lot of shade on this beach. Consequently, the golden sand heats to an unbearable temperature on a sunny day. During the summer months, the sand reaches 200 feet wide, so unless you want steaming toes wear sandals or water shoes. In the summer, the water is generally calm, but in the winter the surf can be treacherous. Be sure to monitor conditions carefully before entering. For snorkelers, the south end of the beach provides a variety of fish and coral.

Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay

#3 rated beach on the big island.

Kua Bay, also called Manini'owali Beach, is a lovely little pocket of sand that used to be very difficult to access, but since a multi-million dollar road has been paved right through the lava- it's a snap to enjoy this Big Island gem.

Kua Bay beach has full facilities including restrooms and showers, water, barbecues and picnic tables. It is very popular on the weekends, not to mention parking can be a nightmare, so you might want to aim for the weekdays.

When the water is calm, swimming is great here - some of the best in Kona. However, if the waves are going strong and the surf is up, stay out because it can be extremely dangerous.

Manini'owali Beach in Kua Bay

Waipio Valley Overlook

Kohala & north hamakua region, #6 rated in sights to see on the big island.

Located along the Hamakua Coast on the northeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i, Waipi'o Valley is the largest and southernmost of the seven valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains.

Time and nature's elements have carved an unimaginably massive valley filled with deep green-encrusted cliffs cut by plunging waterfalls. Its floor is carpeted with forests and neatly formed taro patches interspersed with the homes of its few residents.

At the mouth of the valley, the ocean licks the mile-long black sand beach which is sliced in half by the river that is partially fed by the 1,200 ft. free-falling  Hi'ilawe Falls  which resides deep in the valley.

Waipio Valley

Kilauea Iki Trail

#1 Rated Hike on the Big Island

As you stand at the  Kilauea Iki overlook inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can see a lightly-etched trail stretching across the crater floor. From your 400 ft high vantage point you might be able to see little specks walking the path: those are people!

Kilauea Iki is an approximately four-mile loop that takes 2-3 hours. It skirts the rim of the crater, dips down and across the floor and back up to the overlook. The portion of Crater Rim Trail that runs along the rim is a dense high-elevation jungle populated with flowering ohia trees and graceful ferns.

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley

Big Island of Hawaii Itinerary Suggestions

Orchid island itineraries.

The  Big Island  garnered its name from being the largest island in Hawaii. It has vast and transparent blue waters, spectacular beaches, hidden natural reserves, and an abundance of regions to travel to. If you are seeking trails to explore or sights to see in a day, three days, or however long you anticipate, the Big Island has ample amounts of activities. 

Ultimately, we've designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering  one ,  two ,  three ,  four ,  five ,  six ,  seven , and in now,  ten days  for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time on the island is utilized wisely. We've tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those who are looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you've dreamed of when planning your Big Island of Hawaii trip.

For each island we've attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e; on Volcanoes National Park day, you'd explore the best of the Big Island's HVNP attractions, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to necessarily be followed consecutively, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a  grab-and-go resource  for 'mapping' your trip - think of us as a  Wayfinder's guide to the Big Island of Hawaii .

For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the Big Island and making detailed notes about what the island's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.

It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the Big Island of Hawaii during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.

View Our Big Island Itineraries

Big island tours & activities, popular tours & activities on hawaii island.

For many visitors, a Big Island of Hawaii tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of the island that you'd never get to see.  We've hand-selected these top-4 Big Island tours  below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself!

Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour

Starting at $159/person

The tour begins in Keauhou Bay, where Hawaii’s longest-reigning monarch King Kamehameha III was born, and the tour provider, Fair Wind, will share with you stories of old Hawai’i as they travel towards Kealakekua Bay .

Learn about the last battle stand at the Kuamo’o Battlefield and view the Royal Holua Slide, the best and largest of its kind in the state!

Inside of Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument stands tall as a way to commemorate the site in which the celebrated circumnavigator, Captain James Cook, perished in 1779.

Guests are served a light, plant-based tropical breakfast with a fresh island fruit bowl, traditional muesli, homemade banana bread, herbal tea, and 100% Kona Coffee grown on the Fair Wind family farm. 

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour

Starting at $129/person

Join Fair Wind aboard their Hula Kai vessel, for one of the most exhilarating experiences in Hawaii, Kona’s First-Class Manta Adventure! Mantas are very gentle – no teeth, stingers, or barbs.

They are simply big and beautiful with wingspans that can exceed 15-feet in width!  These “Gentle Giants” visit us nightly to feed on the plankton attracted by Hula Kai’s bright lighting.

Enjoy a short and comfortable five-minute boat ride to Manta Village – located near the Sheraton Keauhou. Once at the site, just after sunset, Fair Wind's professional guides will assist you in the water for an experience of a lifetime! You will witness the mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton.

Big Island Experience Helicopter Tour

Starting at $629.00/person

See Kilauea & More on Our Big Island Helicopter Tour

The full island VIP adventure tour is for those who want it all! All of our Big Island helicopter tours rolled into one, plus an active volcano!

Helicopter Tour Highlights:

• Fly over the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea, which has been continuously flowing for over 30 years and inspires awe every day.
• While on the east side of the island, you are treated to views of Hawai’i Island’s largest city, Hilo.
• Your private journey continues along the Hamakua Coastline with wave-swept shorelines, tropical rainforests, and hundreds of waterfalls.
• Upon reaching the Kohala Coast, several majestic and sacred valleys exist to explore.
• Deep in the back of the valleys, where only helicopters can reach, are over 2000-foot waterfalls that you can hover right next to as you gaze at their power and beauty.
• Crossing over Kohala Mountain, you cruise over the Gold Coast.

Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure

Starting at $255/person

Our journey from sea level to the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Maunakea reveals the wonders and world-class clarity of the Hawaiian night sky.

Maunakea Summit & Stars Highlights:

• Enjoy a warm picnic dinner and learn about Hawaiian star navigation.
• Learn about the historical accounts of early travelers through the mountain regions
• Delight in the awe-inspiring Hawaiian sunset at the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific
• Descend to a lower elevation after the sun sets and sip hot chocolate during a private star show with our 11” Celestron telescope

Best Beaches on the Big Island

Big island beach guide.

The Big Island offers up not only some of the loveliest beaches in the state but also some of the most varied. Though the Big Island may be the newest island in the chain and has the fewest major beaches, the island still has some of the best beaches in the world.

Here you'll find everything from enchanting green sand and black sand beaches, family-friendly beach spots, and rugged and remote beaches for the adventurous types.

In our Big Island Beaches Guide , we'll go over the top 10 beaches on the Big Island, and also include links where you can explore every beach on the island by region.

Big Island Beaches

Best Things to See on the Big Island

To say the Big Island is bursting with some of the best and most popular sights and attractions in Hawaii is certainly an understatement.

Tour otherworldly volcanic landscapes; marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, lovely parks, and botanical gardens; or stop by the museums and cultural centers.

You can even commune with the stars on the world's tallest mountain (measuring from the seafloor to summit).  In our Big Island Things to See Guide , we'll show you the best landmarks and natural wonders the Big island has to offer, starting with our top 10.

Things to See on the Big Island

Best Hikes on the Big Island

Big island hiking trails guide.

Green sand beaches, gardens, rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, petroglyphs- this and so much more awaits you on the Big Island's incredible trails. 

The Big Island has some of the best hiking trails in all of Hawaii; whether you're a hard-core trekker or just want to stroll and admire the scenery.

Included in our Big Island Hiking Guide are a few of our favorite Big Island excursions, sorted by the top hikes and additionally by region, to get you started. 

Big Island Hikes

Big Island Visitor Information

Travel tips for hawaii's big island.

The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular Hawaiian island among visitors, hosting over 1.5 to 1.7 million travelers annually . Often called the "Big Island" to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name, Hawaii, the Big Island has certainly earned its nickname.

Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 sq. miles, and still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.

Composed of five major volcanoes, the island is the youngest in the Hawaiian chain with origins dating back some 800,000 years to the present day.

Popular Big Island Travel Articles

Big island of hawaii vacation guide, explore hawaii's big island by topic.

Often called the "Big Island" (or "Big I") to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name- Hawaii- the Big Island has undoubtedly earned its moniker. The Big Island offers visitors an incredible, diverse, and expansive variety of things to both see and do.

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The Big Island is world-famous for its pristine multi-colored beaches, explore more with our comprehensive beach guide.

With their incredible marine life, amazing coral, and crystal clear water, you’ll love these snorkeling spots around the Big Island.

Explore Hawaii with the Big Island Guide

Big Island Guide is your complete Hawaii travel guide before and during your Hawaiian vacation. We’ll walk you through where to stay, where to eat, and most importantly, what there is to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. Whether you’re visiting as part of a longer stay on other Hawaiian Islands or hoping to maximize your time on the Big Island, Big Island Guide is here to help.

The Big Island of Hawaii is paradise for travelers inclined toward adventure and exploration. From the flowing lava of Kilauea Volcano to the cascading waters of Hi’ilawe Falls to the snowcapped peaks of Mauna Kea, the sheer geographic and climate diversity present here is worth the journey.

At over 4,000 square miles, the Big Island lives up to its name. A trip around the island is over 220 miles, taking the better part of the day. Due to the variety and density of natural and local attractions, most visitors to Hawaii Island return several times in an attempt to explore every inch. To make the most of your Big Island adventure, smart planning and a little insider’s insight will go a long way. That’s where Big Island Guide comes in, we have the travel tips to make your Hawaii vacation amazing.

The connection to the natural world on the Big Island is truly awe inspiring. The refreshing Pacific Ocean with its abundant sea life, clear water and pristine beaches makes a dramatic backdrop for water-sports, diving and snorkeling. The night skies are so clear that multinational observatories have been established atop the staggering volcanoes at the heart of the island. Massive shield volcano Kilauea is one of the world’s most active and a breathtaking reminder of the constructive, and destructive, powers of nature.

In stark contrast to the natural beauty present here, the Big Island also offers world-class Hawaiian resorts, travel centric activities, and remarkable preservations of Hawaiian history. Hawaiian cultural sites tell the rich history of this land and provide a glimpse into the lives and customs of ancient Hawaiians.

The various observatories, dedicated to the study of the stars, help mankind gain ever-more understanding of the universe. The many galleries, museums, hula, and music events across the Big Island share a common artistic expression that only life on the Big Island could inspire. The world class resorts on the Kona and Kohala Coasts offer travelers a place to reconnect with friends and family, relax and recharge beneath the swaying palms and tropical sun of Hawaii.

Consider splitting your trip between the western “Kona side” and the eastern “Hilo side” for a more complete Big Island experience. For endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, water activities, and world class resorts, Kona is your travel paradise. If exploring the volcano, botanical gardens, lush rainforests, and breathtaking waterfalls demand your attention, then the Hilo side will fulfill your sightseeing dreams.

Big Island Guide is meant to be your constant companion, guiding you to the best attractions in Hawaii, and making sure you see all the Big Island has to offer. With such a huge variety of activities to do, sights to see and regions to explore, we recommend travelers spend a week or more on island. Even if you only have a few days to stay, we know your time on the Big Island of Hawaii will be memorable. We welcome you to the island and wish you a wonderful adventure.

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First-timer’s guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

The scale and ferocity of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a wonder to experience © Yiming Chen / Getty Images

Unsurprisingly, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is one of the state’s most popular attractions.

This incredible landscape is home to two massive volcanoes – Kīlauea being one of the world’s most active – and stretches from sea level to the summit of Mauna Loa, one of the world’s largest. Sprawling across 333,259 acres on the island's southeastern side, the park is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the US.

Its ever-changing landscape boasts an assortment of terrain, from lush rainforests and barren lava fields to a volcano often dusted with snow every winter. Yes, even in Hawaiʻi!

So grab those hiking boots and binoculars and use our insider guide to get the most out of your first trip to this unique national park.

When is the best time to visit Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park? 

There isn’t an especially bad time to visit the park, which sees nearly two million visitors annually. The weather on the Islands doesn’t vary much, with temperatures fluctuating between 66-85°F throughout the year. Winter and early spring, though, tend to be rainier and cooler than other times of the year and hurricane season runs from June to November, which can mean tropical storms, whipping winds and torrential rain.

The busiest travel seasons in Hawaiʻi are summer and winter – summer is peak vacation time for families and winter lures travelers eager to escape colder climes. Expect more people on trails and longer waits for parking during these periods.

Spring and fall are slower travel months and ideal times to visit the park. Trekking conditions are much more comfortable without the intense summer heat and you’ll likely find better airfare prices and hotel rates at nearby hotels. The park does get a surge of visitors during spring break and around the weekend of the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a week-long hula competition based in Hilo around late March or early April.

Tuesday is the busiest day at the park – pick another day if at all possible. This is when the Pride of America , a cruise ship that sails around the Islands, docks in Hilo. Many of its 2000 passengers head to the national park, hitting popular stops like the Kīlauea Visitor Center , the Kīlauea Iki Trail , and Nāhuku (otherwise known as Thurston Lava Tube ). Winter brings yet more cruise ships to Hawaiʻi Island as thousands of North Pacific humpback whales migrate annually from Alaska to the warmer waters surrounding the Islands.

Though Kīlauea stopped erupting on Sept 16, 2023, the volcano still attracts visitors despite no visible lava fountains or flows. And it’s likely it will erupt again – the Puʻuʻōʻō eruption, which began in 1983 and lasted 35 years, ranks as the longest and most voluminous known outpouring of lava from Kīlauea’s east rift zone in more than 500 years. “If there is an eruption,” says Jessica Ferracane, the park’s spokesperson, “it is busy all day, every day, especially if it’s at the summit of Kīlauea.”

Planning tip: The park is currently undergoing a big disaster recovery project following the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse. There could be temporary area closures, lane closures, reduced parking and other limited services for the next two years. Check the park website to check for construction closures and delays . 

Find out everything you need to know about what's happening in Hawaii throughout the year in  our guide to the best time to visit the Aloha State

How much time should I plan to spend at the park?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may not be as huge as Alaska’s 13.2-million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve – larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park and Switzerland combined – but it does stretch from sea level to the summit of 13,681-ft Mauna Loa and across seven different ecological zones. You’ll need at least a full day to explore all the best parts of the park but two days are even better. 

Park staff recommend that visitors arrive by sunrise to hit the park’s most popular trails first – it's open 24 hours to allow everyone to maximize their time. Dusk is also a wonderful time to go exploring – the lack of light pollution provides dark skies that are perfect for stargazing.

There are a variety of hikes within the national park, from the easy 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail to the challenging backcountry treks up Mauna Loa that can take two days. And having an extra day means you can visit the park’s quieter and less crowded Kahuku Unit on the southerly slopes of Mauna Loa. This 116,000-acre former ranchland is about an hour's drive from the Kīlauea Visitor Center and is open to the public five days a week. You can hike to the top of an old cinder cone, trek through a pristine Hawaiian rainforest or bike through scenic pastures with panoramic views of the ranchlands.

The tiny town of Volcano Village just outside the park is also well worth a visit, with its laid-back eateries and food trucks, art galleries, and  a vineyard and winery .

Is it easy to get in and around the park?

The nearest airport is Hilo International, about 30 miles northeast of the park (you can fly into the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole, but the drive from Kailua-Kona will take about two hours). Getting to the park from Hilo is easy – take Route 11 (Hawaiʻi Belt Road) west until you reach the main entrance. The drive takes about 45 minutes.

Hele-On Bus is the island’s only public bus service, operated by Hawaiʻi County. The No. 11 Red Line runs between Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, stopping daily at the Kīlauea Visitor Center. The bus schedule is subject to change, so check ahead. There is no public transportation or shuttle service within the park, so you’ll need a car to get around.

Top things to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Kīlauea iki trail.

One of the most popular hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the 4-mile roundtrip Kīlauea Iki Trail. The terrain is varied – it starts in a forest of native ʻōhiʻa trees and hapuʻu (Hawaiian tree fern) and ends with a walk across an otherworldly crater floor – and it’s short enough to complete in a few hours, giving you plenty of time to visit other parts of the park.

The trailhead is at an overlook of the crater formed from an eruption in 1959 that was marked by fountaining lava over a half-mile long and a plume reaching a world-record 1900ft high. The first part of the trail is a descent through a lush rainforest lined with native ʻōhiʻa and koa trees. Look for the white-rumped ʻapapanae , a nectarivorous Hawaiian honeycreeper, often found flitting from tree to tree. The switchbacks end at the crater floor, a vast moonscape that sharply contrasts with the surrounding native forests.

This lava tube – also known as Thurston Lava Tube – was created by a river of 2000°F (1093°C) molten lava about 500 years ago. Discovered in 1913, this massive lava cave is very accessible, with a flat rock floor and ceiling height of more than 20ft in places. Electric lights illuminate most of the path, though you may want to bring a flashlight – it takes about 20 minutes to stroll through the tube. The rainforest that surrounds Nāhuku is brimming with native birds, including the scarlet ʻiʻiwi , a Hawaiian honeycreeper listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Hōlei Sea Arch

At the end of the Chain of Craters Road – about 18 miles from the Kīlauea Visitor Center – is the Hōlei Sea Arch , a 90-ft-tall rock formation cut into the cliff of an ancient lava flow about 550 years ago. In 2020, the park opened a new viewing area about 1000ft past the gate at the end of the road and set back away from the cliff edge.

Puʻuloa Petroglyphs

There’s an area of Pānau Nui on the southern flank of Kīlauea with numerous pecked images, or petroglyphs, in the hardened lava. Puʻuloa, which translates to “long hill” in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language), is a sacred place to Native Hawaiians. The archaeological site here boasts more than 23,000 petroglyphs – the largest collection in Hawaiʻi – with motifs of circles, canoe sails, human forms, feathered capes and other geometric shapes.

Devastation Trail

This half-mile hike is suitable for everyone as it's wheelchair and stroller accessible. The paved path meanders through a stark yet beautiful landscape buried by falling cinder from lava fountains of the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. You might find volcanic debris in the form of glass-like droplets and strands called Pele’s Tears and Pele’s Hair, respectively, named after the revered Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Nēnē (Hawaiian geese) frequent this area; refrain from feeding or interacting with this threatened species.

My favorite thing to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in Hawaiʻi where you find native forest birds anymore. Their populations have plummeted due to habitat destruction, predators like feral cats, mongoose and non-native mosquitoes that spread avian pox and avian malaria.

But at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where native habitats are protected and able to thrive, you can see – and hear – a variety of these special birds, from the friendly ʻelepaio (Hawaiian flycatcher) to the elusive ʻōmaʻo (Hawaiian thrush), which can only be found in the montane rainforests on Hawaiʻi Island. The bright orange ʻākepa , an endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper with an odd-shaped beak, can be spotted in the high-elevation forests of the park’s Kahuku Unit. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endemic ʻio , the only hawk species native to Hawaiʻi.

I love wandering along the 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail, an easy loop through pristine native forestland in an area known as a “bird park.” A kīpuka is an area of land that’s surrounded by younger lava flows, like an “island” within a sea of lava. There are more native tree species per acre here than any other forest in the national park, which means you’ll find native forest birds that rely on the native trees that grow here.

How much money do I need?

Park entry costs $30 for a private car, $25 for a motorcycle, and $15 for pedestrians and cyclists. The park has gone cashless, so payment has to be made with debit or credit cards in person or online .

If you're also planning to visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park near Kailua-Kona or Haleakalā National Park on Maui, consider buying the Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass for $55. This allows you to enter all three of these parks in a single, private vehicle.

The National Park Service offers free admission to everyone on the following days: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the first day of National Park Week in April, Juneteenth, the Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day.

Average costs at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

• Basic room for two at Volcano House: $80 to $385 per night
• Airbnb in Volcano: $150 average per night
• Cup of coffee: $3.50
• Midrange meal: $15-$20 per person
• Local beer: $10
• Gas (regular) in Hilo: $4.81 per gallon

How to travel in the park consciously

With two active volcanoes and ongoing construction to repair damage caused by the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, it’s important to stay on marked trails and overlooks and keep out of closed areas. And no matter what you may have seen on social media, please leave the rocks alone and unstacked. Park staff often use ahu (stacked rocks) to mark trails; it’s not an invitation to do the same. Not only is it culturally insensitive but it can be disorienting to hikers who rely on the ahu to guide them along trails. It’s also long believed that taking lava rocks brings bad luck. Hundreds of people return rocks they’ve taken from the park every year.

There are many culturally significant sites within the park, itself a Unesco World Heritage Site. These include petroglyphs, historic trails, fossilized footprints, shelter caves, heiau (Hawaiian temples) and stone walls of canoe sheds and corrals. Many of these sites are listed in the National Register of Historic Places – please be respectful when you get the chance to see them close up.

The land within the park is sacred to Native Hawaiians, with moʻolelo (stories) and mele (songs) tied to this area. They believe Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, lives in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater at the summit of Kīlauea. If you come across Native Hawaiians performing cultural rituals in the park, keep a respectful distance. Let them – and others – connect undisturbed with nature.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated 1 day ago

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First-timer’s guide to Hawaii: 14 days, four islands, five flights, three rental cars and two missing hiking poles

• Updated: Apr. 19, 2024, 1:52 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 18, 2024, 9:26 a.m.

Spectacular Waimea Canyon on Kauai, one of the highlights of a 14-day tour of the state. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

• Susan Glaser, cleveland.com

HONOLULU, Hawaii – Fourteen days, four islands, five flights – a lot could go wrong, I feared, as I planned my first-ever trip to Hawaii.

I’m happy to report that almost nothing did.

I could attribute that to good planning, but I know it took a good bit of luck, too.

Before and after my trip, the Kona airport on the Big Island was shut down due to cracks in the runway; Kilauea Volcano, also on the Big Island, threatened to erupt, possibly upending my plans; and high-wind warnings were keeping visitors out of the ocean early during my stay.

I worried about all these things and more, mostly for naught.

The weather cooperated, no flights were delayed and I got to swim in the water everywhere I went.

This was one of the more complicated trips I’ve planned, and I admit to being a bit nervous -- starting with my 6 a.m. departure from Cleveland on a blustery Saturday in February.

I booked a flight to Honolulu on United Airlines with a scant 50-minute connection in San Francisco. Turns out, it was plenty of time.

The only glitch? Apparently you’re not supposed to pack hiking poles in your carry-on bag. But even then, Transportation Security Administration officers waited to enforce that rule until I was headed back to Cleveland – so I was able to use the poles during the whole trip before leaving them behind at Lihue Airport on Kauai.

Traveling with only a carry-on bag was important to me because I was booked on five flights – from and to Cleveland, plus three interisland hops. A carry-on bag is typically free on both United and Hawaiian airlines, but a checked bag would have cost as much as $40 per flight.

So I packed light (kind of) and kept the souvenirs to a minimum.

I started my tour on Oahu, where my husband and I spent a single night. Although I enjoyed the afternoon on Waikiki Beach, our main reason for starting here was to tour Pearl Harbor National Memorial . It’s a must-see for every American.

From Honolulu, we flew to Maui for three full days of touring, followed by five days on the Big Island and five days on Kauai.

I scheduled Kauai last because I figured it would be my favorite island, as well as the most relaxing. I figured correctly on both counts.

We flew home from Kauai on an overnight flight to Denver, where we connected to Cleveland.

Among the highlights:

* Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island

* Supporting the businesses and chronicling the comeback of West Maui after devastating wildfires last summer

* The Road to Hana on Maui

* Hiking the Napali Coast on Kauai

* Snorkeling Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island

* Doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai

* Waimea Canyon on Kauai

There were certainly activities and attractions that we missed – notably stargazing atop Mauna Kea, the Big Island’s massive 13,796-foot-high volcano. Traveling from Cleveland in February, I wasn’t excited about donning full-winter gear for what typically is a cold, blustery tour. Still, I’m certain I missed something special.

Keeping costs down

No way around it – Hawaii is a very expensive destination, from hotel prices to rental cars to food. Though I considered this a bucket-list trip – and I wasn’t trying to keep to a strict budget -- I didn’t want to (completely) break the bank. I tried to keep overnight costs below $300 a night, and for the most part, I succeeded.

The helicopter tour was the single most expensive activity we did – $324 per person. But it was spectacular.

Food was expensive, too. We had access to a kitchen at most of the places we stayed and typically ate breakfast in our condo before heading out for the day. We could have made it cheaper by cooking dinner in our condo, but we opted to eat most dinners out.

Mai Tais at Duke's Kauai on the final night of a two-week Hawaiian tour. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

A taste of Hawaii

We ate seafood every day, tried Spam, poke and lots of shave ice. Among the highlights:

* Many, many Mai Tais. I’m not sure I’d ever had one of these rum drinks before, but I made up for it on this trip. The traditional Tiki drink combines rum, curacao, orgeat syrup and lime juice. The best I had was at Nalu’s South Shore Grill in Kihei, Maui. The food at Nalu’s was terrific, too.

* Spam musubi, a traditional Hawaiian lunch that was popular with plantation workers. It combines a slice of Spam, rice and nori (seaweed). I wasn’t sure I would like it, but I did – enjoyed at the Pine Tree Café near the Kona airport.

* A smorgasbord of traditional Hawaiian fare at the Island Breeze Luau at the Courtyard by Marriott Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel on the Big Island. Among the buffet items: poke, kalua pork, haupia, and poi – the bland, starchy paste that is made from the taro plant. It was the only Hawaiian food that I didn’t care for.

* Lots and lots of shave ice. I figured this was just a fancy snow cone, but I was wrong. The best shave ice I had combined delicate ice shavings atop ice cream, mochi, boba and a rainbow of flavors at a place called Aloha Icelabs in Waikiki.

Experiencing Hawaiian culture

I made an effort, too, to learn some Hawaiian history and experience culture during the trip.

Among our stops: Hulihee Palace , the summer house for King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani on Kailua-Kona; Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park , also on the Big Island, where the sacred Hikiau Heiau temple once stood; and Wailua River State Park on Kauai, where the remains of four major temples are part of the Wailua Heritage Trail.

Touring Hawaii’s Pearl Harbor, a history lesson and memorial service all in one

Maui after the fires: Hawaiian island is open, welcoming and absolutely stunning

Exploring the Big Island (which isn’t all that big): From Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the Kona coast

No, you don’t need four-wheel drive in Hawaii, and other car rental tips

Five days on Kauai: North Shore vs. South Shore, and the view from a doors-off helicopter tour

No, you can’t take hiking poles in your carry-on bag (and other TSA misadventures)

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Rare sighting of Risso’s dolphins in Kona leave tour guides in awe

Hawaiian Adventures Kona tour boat was on the water for about an hour before the crew made a sighting that left them excited and in disbelief.

At about 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, the crew along with 26 guests aboard a 46-foot catamaran, spotted a pod of six Risso’s dolphins about 10 miles offshore. Capt. Andrew Aggergaard and crew member Olivia Miller said this was the first time seeing these animals during their years working in Kona waters.

Miller said it took her a couple of minutes to figure out what the species was as they were still far away from them.

“When I saw their characteristic white heads I immediately yelled up at the captain,” Miller said.

Employed as a naturalist, Miller educates guests about wildlife along the Kona Coast during the tours. She said Risso’s are not typically seen near Hawai‘i’s coastline as they spend their time in deep water. She said: “They are more open ocean creatures.”

Risso’s dolphins are the fourth largest dolphin in Hawaiian waters and are distinguishable by their unique coloration and large dorsal fin.

While most of the guests were unfamiliar with this dolphin species, Miller said they got excited when they saw the crew’s reaction.

“I think they understood the gravity of the sighting,” Miller said, who has spent four years working offshore in Hawai‘i.

One of the few tour companies that focus on whale and dolphin watching year-round, Miller said they’ve recently seen sperm whales and pilot whales, which are residents of the Kona Coast. The crew has also seen rough-toothed dolphins and pan-tropical spotted dolphins.

Wednesday was a perfect day to spot wildlife as the ocean was calm and skies were clear.

Miller said she gets excited to see new wildlife all the time. “I actually said ‘I’d love to see Risso’s this year,’ and saw them two days later.”

The pod cruised along with the catamaran, known as Artemis, allowing those aboard to snap photos of the rare sighting.

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• Friday, April 19, 2024
• Today's Paper

Kona airport reopens, but will close overnight for runway repair

• By Star-Advertiser staff
• April 12, 2024

Unlimited access to premium stories for as low as $12.95 /mo.

UPDATE: 12:30 p.m.

State officials said the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole reopened at noon today, following the closure of a runway this morning to repair an asphalt crack.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation said the crack in the pavement formed overnight, between the intersections of Taxiways “G” and “H” on Runway 17-35.

DOT officials said they suspect overnight rain was a factor in the crack, which was discovered early this morning. Visual inspections are conducted daily.

Although the airport has reopened, DOT said the airport will be closed overnight — 12:30 to 5 a.m. — as crews conduct additional pavement repairs.

“The paving activities are needed to establish a more long-term repair solution to the crack,” transportation officials said in a news release. “There are no alternate runways at KOA, and therefore the airport will be closed for flight operations during the overnight repairs. In the event an emergency medical evacuation is needed, helicopter service out of KOA will be available.”

HDOT said it has coordinated with airlines and other partners to minimize impacts to flights. No commercial flights are scheduled during the closure.

Passengers are advised to check on the status of the flights with their airlines.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE

The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport is temporarily closed to patch a crack in the runway, according to state officials.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation said in an advisory it anticipates being able to reopen the runway by noon.

It isn’t the first time the airport at Keahole has had to close this year due to cracks in the runway.

In January, there were three cracks in the runway that disrupted flights.

The first crack measured 3 by 10 inches that had eroded into a hole 3 feet deep. A second crack was discovered shortly after, measuring 8 inches long and 2 inches wide. Details on the third crack were not provided.

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority said they are monitoring the situation and are in contact with HDOT and the airlines that service the airport. “We are working and coordinating internally with our partners at the Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Visitors Bureaus on each island, and Kilohana,” the agency said in an email.

“We will share updated information as soon as we have it. Passengers are encouraged to contact their airline for information on their specific flights.”

Hawaiian Airlines said it is holding flights to and from the Kona airport while waiting for the state to repair the runway.

“We’ve canceled one HNL-KOA roundtrip, and delayed five flights,” said Hawaiian Airlines spokesperson Alex Da Silva. “In the meantime, we have issued a travel waiver giving guests traveling to or from Kona today flexibility to change their flights at no cost.”

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Robert MacNeil, earnest news anchor for PBS, dies at 93

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Looking back.

April 24, 2001: Hawaii public school teachers ratify contract, ending 19-day strike