Things To Do In Kona Hawaii
Kona, a region located on the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, is a paradise waiting to be explored. Known for its vibrant marine life, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Kona offers an array of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a beach bum, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Kona has something unique to offer. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Kona, Hawaii!
| Activity/Attraction | Description | Location | Key Facts/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Sands Beach (Magic Sands) | Popular beach with soft white sand and good waves for bodyboarding. | Kailua-Kona | Sand often disappears during certain seasons; ideal for bodyboarding. |
| Kahalu’u Beach Park | Snorkeling spot with calm, shallow waters rich in marine life. | Kailua-Kona | Abundant coral reefs and tropical fish; suitable for beginner surfers. |
| Ali’i Drive | Scenic coastal drive through historic Kailua Village. | Kailua-Kona to Keauhou | Offers ocean views, access to shops, restaurants, and historic sites. |
| Saddle Road (Hawaii Route 200) | Scenic drive between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa offering dramatic landscapes. | Across the Big Island | High-altitude drive; road conditions have improved significantly in recent years. |
| Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park | Historical park with coastal trails, ancient fishponds, and petroglyphs. | Kailua-Kona | Trails are relatively easy; offers insight into ancient Hawaiian culture. |
| Pu’u Wa’awa’a Cinder Cone State Park | Challenging hike to the summit of a volcanic cinder cone. | Near Kailua-Kona | Panoramic views of Kona coast and the island’s interior; suitable for experienced hikers. |
| Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park | Sacred site offering a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture. | South of Kailua-Kona | Known as the Place of Refuge; home to royal grounds and ancient temples. |
| Hulihe’e Palace | Former royal vacation home, now a museum. | Kailua-Kona | Showcases Victorian artifacts from the 19th century; located in Kailua Village. |
| Mokuaikaua Church | The oldest Christian church in Hawaii, built in 1820. | Kailua-Kona | A significant site in Hawaii’s missionary history; traditional Hawaiian architecture. |
| Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays | Unique snorkeling experience with manta rays at night. | Kona Coast | One of the few places in the world to snorkel with manta rays; tours typically depart at sunset. |
| Kealakekua Bay | Marine life conservation area, ideal for snorkeling and diving. | South Kona | Site of Captain James Cook’s first landing; home to vibrant coral reefs and sea life. |
| Deep-Sea Fishing | Sportfishing off the coast of Kona, known for big game fish. | Kona Coast | Known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”; targets include marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. |
| Whale Watching Tours | Seasonal tours to observe humpback whales. | Kona Coast | Best season is from December to April; tours offer close encounters with migrating whales. |
| Kona Coffee Tours | Tours of coffee farms in the Kona district, showcasing the coffee-making process. | Kona District | Learn about Kona coffee production; most tours include coffee tastings. |
| Kona Farmers Market | Market offering fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts. | Kailua-Kona | Open Wednesday through Sunday; great place to buy local goods and souvenirs. |
| Pure Kona Green Market | Community market with local produce, art, and live music. | Captain Cook | Held every Sunday; vibrant atmosphere with local vendors and entertainment. |
| Huggo’s On The Rocks | Popular oceanfront restaurant with casual dining and sunset views. | Kailua-Kona | Specializes in fresh, local ingredients; known for its beachfront location. |
| Island Lava Java | Oceanfront restaurant offering organic, fresh dishes. | Kailua-Kona | Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; famous for Kona coffee and waterfront views. |
| Ali’i Gardens Marketplace | Open-air market selling handmade jewelry, art, and crafts. | Kailua-Kona | Great spot for unique gifts and supporting local artisans. |
| Kailua Village Artists Co-op | Artist cooperative showcasing local art, including paintings and ceramics. | Kailua-Kona | Features work by local artists; ideal for purchasing one-of-a-kind pieces. |
| Kayaking and Paddleboarding | Water activities along Kona’s calm bays. | Various locations along the coast | Opportunities to see dolphins, turtles, and other marine life; rentals available. |
| Surfing Lessons | Beginner surfing lessons on gentle waves. | Kahalu’u Beach Park | Several surf schools offer lessons for all skill levels; ideal for first-time surfers. |
| Dolphin Quest | Interactive dolphin experiences suitable for families. | Hilton Waikoloa Village | Educational and fun; allows you to swim with dolphins in a controlled environment. |
| Big Island Ocean Tours | Family-friendly boat tours along the Kona coast. | Kona Coast | Explore marine life, including dolphins and turtles; various tour options available. |
| Kona Brewing Company | Local brewery offering craft beers and dining. | Kailua-Kona | Offers tours of the brewery; known for its island-inspired beers like Longboard Lager. |
| Weather in Kona | Kona enjoys warm temperatures year-round, making it a year-round destination. | N/A | Average temperatures range from mid-70s to mid-80s (°F); wet season is typically from November to March. |
| Events and Festivals | Kona hosts several annual events, including the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and Ironman World Championship. | Various locations across Kona | Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November; Ironman World Championship in October; both are major attractions. |
Exploring Kona’s Natural Beauty
Beaches in Kona
Kona is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, where crystal-clear waters meet golden sands, creating the perfect setting for a relaxing day under the sun.
White Sands Beach (Magic Sands)
One of Kona’s most popular beaches, White Sands Beach, also known as Magic Sands, is famous for its soft white sand and excellent waves for bodyboarding. The beach’s sand mysteriously disappears during certain times of the year, giving it its magical reputation.
Kahalu’u Beach Park
Kahalu’u Beach Park is a snorkeler’s paradise. The calm, shallow waters are teeming with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish. It’s also a great spot for beginner surfers to catch their first waves.
Scenic Drives
For those who prefer to explore by car, Kona offers some of the most scenic drives in Hawaii, each offering breathtaking views and unique experiences.
Ali’i Drive
Ali’i Drive is a coastal road that winds through historic Kailua Village, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to many of Kona’s attractions. This drive is perfect for a leisurely cruise, with plenty of spots to stop and explore.
Saddle Road
Saddle Road, also known as Hawaii Route 200, takes you through the heart of the island between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The drive offers a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock and lush greenery, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
Hiking Trails
Kona’s diverse landscapes provide some fantastic hiking opportunities, from coastal paths to mountain trails.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
This park offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural significance. Hike along the coastal trails to discover ancient fishponds, petroglyphs, and native wildlife. The trails here are relatively easy, making it accessible for all ages.
Pu’u Wa’awa’a Cinder Cone State Park
For a more challenging hike, head to Pu’u Wa’awa’a Cinder Cone State Park. The trail to the summit of Pu’u Wa’awa’a offers panoramic views of the Kona coast and the island’s interior. It’s a rewarding hike for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge.
Kona’s Cultural and Historical Sites
Kona’s rich history is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, and there are several sites where you can explore this heritage.
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Also known as the Place of Refuge, this historical park offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture. The park is home to sacred temples, royal grounds, and ancient stone structures. It’s a peaceful place where you can learn about the island’s history and traditions.
Hulihe’e Palace
Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, Hulihe’e Palace was once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty. Today, it’s a museum showcasing Victorian artifacts from the era of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. The palace is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Mokuaikaua Church
Mokuaikaua Church, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church, is another historic site in Kona. Established in 1820, the church is a beautiful example of early Hawaiian architecture and offers insight into the island’s missionary history.
Adventurous Activities in Kona
For the thrill-seekers, Kona offers a variety of adventurous activities that will get your adrenaline pumping.
Snorkeling and Diving
Kona’s clear waters and abundant marine life make it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving.
Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays
One of Kona’s most unique experiences is night snorkeling with manta rays. These gentle giants glide gracefully through the water as you observe them up close. It’s an unforgettable experience that you can only find in a few places around the world.
Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is another top spot for snorkeling and diving. The bay is a marine life conservation district, home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea life. It’s also the site where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Kona is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The deep waters off the coast are teeming with big game fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Charter a fishing boat for a day and try your luck at catching the big one!
Whale Watching Tours
From December to April, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off the coast of Kona. Whale watching tours give you the chance to see these majestic creatures up close as they breach and play in the ocean.
Kona’s Unique Experiences
In addition to its natural beauty and adventure activities, Kona offers some unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Kona Coffee Tours
Kona is famous for its coffee, and no trip to the region is complete without a tour of a Kona coffee farm. Learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup, and sample some of the world’s best coffee. Some farms even offer tours where you can pick your own coffee cherries.
Farmers Markets
Kona’s farmers markets are a great place to experience local culture and taste fresh, island-grown produce.
Kona Farmers Market
Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, the Kona Farmers Market is open Wednesday through Sunday. Here, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or try some local treats.
Pure Kona Green Market
The Pure Kona Green Market, held every Sunday in Captain Cook, is a vibrant community market. You’ll find fresh produce, local art, and live music, making it a perfect spot to spend a leisurely morning.
Dining in Kona
Kona’s dining scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from casual beachside eateries to upscale oceanfront restaurants.
Local Cuisine
When in Kona, you must try the local cuisine, which is a blend of Hawaiian, Asian, and American influences. Dishes like poke (marinated raw fish), loco moco (rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy), and shave ice are local favorites that you won’t want to miss.
Oceanfront Restaurants
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal with a view of the Pacific Ocean. Kona has several oceanfront restaurants where you can do just that.
Huggo’s On The Rocks
Huggo’s On The Rocks is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Located right on the water, it offers casual dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The sunset views here are spectacular, making it a great spot for dinner or drinks.
Island Lava Java
Island Lava Java is another great oceanfront option. Known for its fresh, organic menu, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning views of Kailua Bay. It’s a perfect spot to start your day with a cup of Kona coffee.
Shopping in Kona
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or unique local products, Kona has plenty of shopping options.
Ali’i Gardens Marketplace
Ali’i Gardens Marketplace is an open-air market where you can find handmade jewelry, local art, and Hawaiian crafts. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
Kailua Village Artists Co-op
For art lovers, the Kailua Village Artists Co-op is a must-visit. This co-op showcases the work of local artists, including paintings, ceramics, and jewelry. It’s a fantastic place to pick up a one-of-a-kind piece to remember your trip.
Water Activities in Kona
Kona’s coastline is perfect for water activities, offering something for everyone, from beginners to experienced adventurers.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The calm waters of Kona’s bays make it an ideal place for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline at your own pace. You might even spot some dolphins or sea turtles along the way!
Surfing Lessons
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, Kona is the perfect place to do it. There are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all skill levels. The gentle waves at beaches like Kahalu’u are ideal for beginners.
Family-Friendly Activities in Kona
Kona is a great destination for families, offering a variety of activities that kids and adults will love.
Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest, located at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, offers interactive experiences where you can swim with dolphins. It’s an educational and fun activity that the whole family will enjoy.
Big Island Ocean Tours
Big Island Ocean Tours offers family-friendly boat tours that explore the coastline of Kona. These tours are a great way to see marine life, including dolphins, whales, and turtles, in their natural habitat.
Kona Nightlife
Kona may be laid-back during the day, but it comes alive at night with a variety of entertainment options.
Live Music Venues
Kona has a vibrant live music scene, with many bars and restaurants hosting local musicians. Whether you’re into Hawaiian music, rock, or jazz, you’ll find a spot to enjoy some tunes.
Kona Brewing Company
For beer lovers, a visit to Kona Brewing Company is a must. This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, many of which are inspired by the island’s flavors. The brewery also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with your beer.
Best Time to Visit Kona
Wondering when to plan your trip to Kona? Here’s what you need to know.
Weather in Kona
Kona enjoys warm weather year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s (°F). The summer months (June to September) are the warmest, while the winter months (December to February) are slightly cooler. However, the weather is generally pleasant no matter when you visit.
Events and Festivals
Kona hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, which can add to your experience. The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November celebrates Kona’s coffee heritage with tastings, farm tours, and cultural events. The Ironman World Championship, held in October, draws athletes from around the world to compete in one of the most challenging triathlons.
Conclusion
Kona, Hawaii, is a destination that truly has it all—stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, thrilling adventures, and unique local experiences. Whether you’re relaxing on a beach, exploring a historical site, or enjoying a cup of world-famous Kona coffee, you’ll find something to love in Kona. So pack your bags and get ready to discover all the incredible things to do in Kona!
FAQs
What is Kona best known for?
Kona is best known for its beautiful beaches, world-renowned Kona coffee, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and coffee tours.
Is Kona family-friendly?
Yes, Kona is very family-friendly, offering a wide range of activities for kids and adults alike, including dolphin encounters, snorkeling, and educational tours.
What is the best time of year to visit Kona?
The best time to visit Kona is during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is slightly cooler and whale-watching season is in full swing. However, Kona is a year-round destination with pleasant weather throughout the year.
Are there budget-friendly activities in Kona?
Absolutely! There are plenty of budget-friendly activities in Kona, including beach days, hiking, exploring historical sites, and visiting farmers markets.
How do I get around Kona?
The best way to get around Kona is by renting a car, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. However, there are also taxi services, shuttles, and public buses available.
