Nestled on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua-Kona is a tropical paradise. Located in the sunny Kona District, Kailua-Kona has warm temperatures year-round, making it a popular summer destination spot for tourists and nature lovers alike.
Known for its pristine sandy beaches, the area is teeming with fun water activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to parasailing and ocean tours.
For first-timers, the Big Island is undoubtedly one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit. The largest island in the U.S., it spans more than 4,000 square miles. This means that for those looking for extra adventure, there is also a plethora of attractions in the surrounding areas, from hiking through historical parks to exploring Hawaii’s active volcanoes.
UPDATE: 2023/07/25 07:21 EST BY BARRY JUMA
More Things To Do In Kailua-Kona
From spending time at the beach to hiking up one of the island’s many mountains, the excitement in Kailua-Kona is virtually endless. This update offers even more things to do in this thrilling destination, most of which involve spending time in nature, which is known to be stunning in Hawaii.
Top Things To Do
From its fine dining options to its luxurious resorts, Kailua-Kona is a wonderful coastal getaway with many island comforts to be enjoyed.
1 Tour Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Black sand beach in Kailua-Kona.
Home to hundreds of coffee farms—thanks to the region’s rich volcanic soil and ample cloud coverage—Kona is teeming with interesting coffee tours. Located in the heart of coffee country, Kailua-Kona is a java lover’s dream.
Located about 20 minutes south of Kailua-Kona, tourists can learn all about the history of the area’s world-renowned coffee with a trip to Kona Coffee Living History Farm. The 5.5-acre farm features a historic 1920s farmhouse, which visitors can navigate with a self-guided tour.
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Address:
82-6199 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704 -
Hours:
Open Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 2 pm -
Cost:
$20 for adults; $10 for children (ages 7-17)
Final admission to the plantation is 1:15 pm.
2 Take A Stroll Down Ali’i Drive
Shops along a busy street in Kailua-Kona.
Kailua-Kona’s main street, Ali’i Drive, spans from Kailua Pier to Kuamo’o Battlefield, a historic Hawaiian burial site, along the coastal shores.
For a relaxing outing, stroll the coastline, visiting the many shops, restaurants, and historical sites that the area has to offer. Stop by Coconut Grove Marketplace, or shop at the retailers in Kona Square.
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Address:
Ali‘i Dr, Hawaii 96740
3 Explore Hulihe‘e Palace
The historic museum Hulihe‘e Palace, located on Ali’i Drive.
Located on Ali’i Drive, this historic museum was once the summer vacation home for Hawaiian royalty. Established in 1903, the estate was built out of lava rock and features six large rooms, two beachfront lanais, and sprawling greens.
Explore the artifacts of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani, including native quilts and beautiful wood furniture.
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Address:
75-5718 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Hours:
Docent-guided tour general admission $22 for adults, $16 for seniors, $14 for children (5-12), and $3 for children under 4 and under; self-guided tour general admission $16 for adults, $10 for seniors, $10 for children (5-12), and $1 children 4 and under -
Cost:
Open from Wednesdays to Fridays by reservation only and Saturdays from 10 am to 3:30 pm
Self-guided tours are available on Saturdays.
4 Go Sunbathing On Kailua Beach
An aerial view of Kua Bay in Kailua.
Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches to visit, and Kailua-Kona is no exception. From swimming and boogie boarding to surfing and snorkeling, Kailua Beach offers visitors a variety of opportunities to explore its shimmery, crystal-clear waters.
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Address:
755560 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Hours:
Open daily from 7 am to 9 pm -
Cost:
Free
5 Hit The Waves At Kahalu’u Bay
Waves crashing on a public beach in Kailua-Kona.
Looking for the best place to catch waves on the Kona coast? Head to Kahalu’u Bay, which is perfect for novice and expert surfers alike.
Beginner surfers can pop into Kahulu’u Surf and Sea—which is located directly across the street from the bay—for surfing lessons. In addition to boards, the surf shop offers snorkeling and kayaking rentals.
6 Go Parasailing For A Bird’s-Eye View Of The Big Island
An incredible bird’s-eye view of Kailua-Kona
The U.S. has some of the best parasailing destination spots. And UFO Parasail Kailua Kona is the perfect option for those looking to revel in Hawaii’s beauty from high above.
Get breathtaking views of Hawaii from 1,200 feet above the ground with an exhilarating dip in the ocean at the end of the flight.
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Address:
Located in the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, 75-5660 Palani Rd #111, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Hours:
Flights available daily from 8 am to 5:30 pm -
Cost:
$136 per person
The company checks in all parasailing guests at the blue umbrella on Kailua-Kona Pier, which is located next to the hotel. Get discounted parking validation at a rate of $2 for 3 hours from UFO to park in the hotel’s self-parking section. Children under the age of five are not permitted and participants must be 160 pounds to fly alone.
7 Go Snorkeling In Kealakekua Bay To See The Manta Rays
A view from above Kona, Hawaii.
Some of the world’s most serene destinations are by the sea. For those looking to explore Kona’s deep blue waters, make a pit stop at Kona Snorkel Tours.
The tour agency offers charters to Kealakekua Bay, located about 30 minutes south of Kailua-Kona. Explore Kona’s alluring reefs and get the opportunity to spot an array of sea creatures, from manta rays to tropical fish.
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Address:
74-5596 Pawai Place #3e, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 (boat departs from Honokohau Harbor, Hawaii 74-429 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua Kona, HI 96740) -
Cost:
Prices range from $95 to $1,400.
Check the website for snorkeling tour options
.
8 Hike Through Kaloko Honokōhau National Historical Park
Sea turtle swimming through Kona’s waters.
Located about five miles south of Kona International Airport, this national historic park is brimming with wildlife, including sea turtles and birds, fishponds, and magnificent coastal views.
The 1,160-acre park is rich with historical and cultural significance, housing more than 200 archeological sites, such as ancient homes, shrines, and petroglyphs, or rock carvings.
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Address:
Kaloka Honokōhau National Historical Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Hours:
The visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 4 pm -
Cost:
Free
9 Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Stunning view of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Featuring the summits of two of the most active volcanoes in the world—Kīlauea and Mauna Loa—this national park is certainly a go-to for thrill seekers and action junkies alike.
Although the park is about 95 miles away from Kailua-Kona, it’s definitely a must-see adventure for anyone visiting the Big Island. It features over 123,000 acres of wilderness, offering a number of hiking opportunities, and remarkable crater views.
Pop into the Volcano Art Center, located next to the Kilauea Visitors Center, to learn about the art of Hawaii’s Natives.
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Address:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718 -
Hours:
Open 24 hours -
Cost:
$30 per vehicle; $15 per pedestrian
10 Enjoy A Day At Kahalu’u Beach Park
A section of Kahalu’u Beach Park
Nestled on the outskirts of Kailua-Kona, Kahalu’u Beach Park is a haven for snorkelers and beach lovers. The park is celebrated for its calm waters teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
Visitors are often treated to sights of colorful fish, green sea turtles, and stunning coral reefs. The park also offers amenities like picnic tables and restrooms for a comfortable day out.
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Address
: 78-6710 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96739, United States -
Hours
: 6 am – 11 pm (daily)
11 Take A Guided Tour To Mauna Kea Summit
The Mauna Kea Summit, an astronomical paradise, offers a unique opportunity to gaze upon the stars from one of the highest points in Hawaii.
The summit is home to numerous observatories from around the world, owing to its clear skies and high altitude. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours to the summit, with stargazing included in the cost as well as meals.
12 Explore Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Statues in Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, known as the City of Refuge, transports visitors back to ancient Hawaii. The park features a sacred sanctuary, where lawbreakers sought refuge to avoid punishment.
Today, the park offers self-guided tours through its ancient temples, royal fishponds, and carved wooden images.
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Address
: Highway 160, Honaunau, HI 96726, United States -
Hours
: 8:15 am – sunset (daily) -
Cost
: $20 per vehicle; $15 per motorcycle; $10 per individual on foot or bicycle
13 Tour Kona Brewing Company
Growler Shack in front of the Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The brewery, known for its craft beers inspired by the island’s natural ingredients, offers guided tours.
These tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from grain to glass. After the tour, visitors can sample some of their popular brews in the outdoor beer garden.
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Address
: 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States -
Hours
: 10 am – 9 pm (daily) -
Cost
: From $25 for a guided tour (includes beer samples)
14 Best Time To Go
Golden hour in Kailua-Kona.
Kona is warm and partly cloudy with moderate precipitation year-round, making it the perfect vacation spot any time of year.
Keep in mind that as people from colder states flock to Hawaii to get away from the snow, peak season on the island typically occurs from December to early spring, so these will generally be the busiest and most crowded times to visit.
15 Best Ways To Get Around
Surfers waiting for a wave above a reef in Hawaii.
This seaside escape is very pedestrian-friendly, featuring a plethora of shops, restaurants, accommodations, museums, parks, and other activities in the downtown area. The Kona Trolley also offers tourists a speedy mode of transportation for getting around Kona.
However, those wanting to venture out into the Big Island to explore attractions like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on their own time should opt to get a rental car.
16 Where To Eat In Kailua-Kona
Beautiful view of Kailua-Kona.
Kailua-Kona offers vacationers endless choices for every meal.
Breakfast
Island Lava Java
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Address:
Located in the Coconut Grove Marketplace at 75-5801 Ali‘i Dr. Building 1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Breakfast staples, including waffles, scrambles, and platters (vegan options are available)
808 Grindz Cafe
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Address:
Located in the Kopiko Plaza at 75-5660 Kopiko St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Local cuisine (vegetarian options are available)
Lunch
Kona Brewing Company Pub & Brewery
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Address:
74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Microbrewery serving sandwiches, pizzas, and salads
Journey Cafe Big Island
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Address:
75-5729 Ali‘i Dr C-106, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Farm-to-table, plant-based offerings
Dinner
Huggo’s
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Address:
75-5828 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Fine dining restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and pasta
Foster’s Kitchen
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Address:
75-5805 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Fresh seafood and other local fare
Drinks
Gertrude’s Jazz Bar
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Address:
75-5699 Ali’i Drive, 75-5699 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Classic cocktails, tropical drinks, wine, and beer
Huggo’s On the Rocks
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Address:
75-5824 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Cuisine
: Outdoor lounge serving wine and cocktails
17 Where To Stay In Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona’s incredible coastal views.
Accommodations are abundant in Kailua-Kona but book early for the best odds at securing the perfect spot.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
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Address:
76-6246 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 -
Amenities
: Mountain view, hot tub, terrace/patio, outdoor dining area, outdoor pool, and kitchen
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Address:
73-4620 Old Government Mauka Rd, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740 -
Amenities
: Free parking
Mid-Tier Hotels
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Address:
78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740 -
Amenities
: Snorkeling, water slide, fitness center, bar/lounge, indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, tennis
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
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Address:
75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740 -
Amenities
: Snorkeling, beachfront, fitness center, bar/lounge, outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service
High-End Hotels
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
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Address:
68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96743 -
Amenities
: Private beach, snorkeling, infinity pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, water sports facilities, outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service
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Address:
72-100 Ka’Upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, The Big Island, HI 96740 -
Amenities
: Water sports facilities, beachfront, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, snorkeling, outdoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, bicycle rental
18 Tips To Know When Visiting
Tourists walking the beach and enjoying the waves in Kona.
Similar to international travels, tourists arriving on the Big Island must go through customs to ensure they aren’t importing anything illegal—this includes animals like dogs and even certain foods.
In terms of weather, depending on what part of the island a tourist is visiting, rainfall is possible throughout the year, so pack accordingly.
19 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Kailua-Kona
Start the day off with a tasty breakfast at a popular local café. Head to Coconut Grove Marketplace to dive into a delicious, morning meal at Island Lava Java. Then head to Hulihe‘e Palace, less than half a block away, to explore the historic grounds.
Next stop: head south to Captain Cook for a self-guided tour through Kona Coffee Living History Farm.
Grab some lunch in the area—nearby options include Black Rock Pizza and Shaka Tacoz. Take a short hike through Captain Cook Monument Trail, a 3.6-mile walk to the Captain Cook Monument. (Captain Cook was a British navigator who discovered the Hawaiian Islands in 1778.)
Afterward, head up the coast for a trip out into the water. Visitors can choose from a number of water activities, from snorkeling and parasailing to surfing and scuba diving. Finish the day with dinner on the waterfront at Huggo’s fine dining restaurant and then enjoy an evening walk along the Pacific.
FAQ
Q: Is Kailua-Kona worth visiting?
Located on the Big Island, one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit, Kailua-Kona is definitely worth seeing. The tropical escape has stunning coastal views and offers visitors a plethora of opportunities to enjoy the waters, from snorkeling to parasailing.
Q: What is the difference between Kailua-Kona and Kona?
Kailua-Kona, one of the U.S.’s most beautiful ocean getaways, is an unincorporated resort community located in the Kona district.
Q: What is Kailua-Kona known for?
Hawaii has some of the most beautiful beaches to visit, and Kailua-Kona is no exception. The area is known for its pristine beaches, charming shops, and coastal views.
