Kona, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its pristine beaches, historic sites, and unique activities, Kona promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Here are seven must-do activities that will help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting part of Hawaii.
1. Explore the Pristine Beaches of Kona
Kona, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers some of the most pristine beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Each beach in Kona has its unique charm and features, making it a paradise for beach lovers.
Hapuna Beach is one of Kona’s most famous beaches and for a good reason. Its expansive stretch of white sand and clear blue waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The gentle waves also make it a family-friendly spot where children can safely enjoy the ocean.
Manini’owali Beach, also known as Kua Bay, is another gem in Kona. This beach is known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an excellent location for snorkeling as you can often spot turtles and various colorful fish near the shore. The scenic beauty of Manini’owali Beach makes it a favorite among photographers looking to capture stunning coastal landscapes.
Kahaluu Beach Park stands out as a top destination for snorkelers. The calm waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, including schools of tropical fish and even an occasional sea turtle. The park also provides facilities like restrooms and showers, making it convenient for families to spend an entire day exploring underwater wonders.
Whether you’re looking to relax on soft sands or dive into adventurous water activities, Kona’s beaches offer something for everyone. From Hapuna Beach’s family-friendly environment to Manini’owali Beach’s picturesque views and Kahaluu Beach Park’s snorkeling opportunities, each location promises an unforgettable experience in paradise.
2. Visit the Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona)
Nestled on the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua Village, also known as Kailua-Kona, is a treasure trove of history and culture. This charming seaside town offers visitors a unique blend of historic sites and modern amenities that make it a must-visit destination.
One of the main attractions in Kailua-Kona is its array of historic sites. The Hulihe‘e Palace, once a vacation residence for Hawaiian royalty, now serves as a museum showcasing Victorian artifacts from the era of King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani. Just a short walk away is Mokuaikaua Church, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church, established in 1820. These landmarks provide an insightful glimpse into Kona’s rich past.
In addition to its historical significance, Kailua Village is also renowned for its vibrant shopping and dining scene. Ali’i Drive, the main thoroughfare along the waterfront, is lined with boutique shops offering everything from local crafts to high-end fashion. After exploring these stores, visitors can indulge in culinary delights at one of many restaurants that feature fresh seafood and traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Whether you’re interested in delving into Kona’s storied history or simply looking to enjoy some retail therapy paired with delicious food, Historic Kailua Village offers something for everyone.
3. Hike Through Volcanoes National Park for Stunning Scenery and Active Volcanoes
Volcanoes National Park offers an unparalleled hiking experience for those seeking both stunning scenery and the thrill of witnessing active volcanoes. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from lush rainforests to barren lava fields. One of the most popular activities here is hiking, with numerous trails catering to various skill levels.
For an unforgettable adventure, consider embarking on one of the Volcanoes National Park hikes. Trails like Kīlauea Iki Trail offer breathtaking views as you traverse through a crater that once bubbled with molten lava. The Thurston Lava Tube provides a fascinating underground journey through a tunnel formed by flowing lava centuries ago.
If you’re keen on witnessing volcanic activity up close, there are several active volcano tours in Hawaii that operate within the park. These guided tours provide insightful information about the geology and history of the area while ensuring your safety as you explore these dynamic landscapes.
For those staying near Kona, scenic trails abound just a short drive away. The Mauna Loa Lookout offers panoramic views from one of the world’s largest volcanoes, while Devastation Trail showcases stark contrasts between life and destruction caused by past eruptions.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to experience some of Earth’s most extraordinary landscapes, Volcanoes National Park promises an adventure filled with awe-inspiring sights and educational opportunities.
4. Experience Snorkeling and Diving Adventures
Kona, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers some of the most breathtaking underwater experiences for both novice and experienced enthusiasts. The region is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Kona Snorkeling Spots
One of the top Kona snorkeling spots is Kealakekua Bay. This marine sanctuary is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant fish species. Another must-visit location is Honaunau Bay, also known as Two Step, where snorkelers can effortlessly glide into the water from natural lava steps to explore an underwater world teeming with colorful marine life.
Diving Tours in Kona
For those looking to delve deeper into Kona’s aquatic wonders, diving tours offer an unparalleled experience. The waters off Kona are home to fascinating dive sites such as the Manta Ray Night Dive. This unique excursion allows divers to witness these majestic creatures up close as they glide gracefully through the illuminated night waters. Another popular dive site is Garden Eel Cove, where divers can observe garden eels swaying in unison along with schools of tropical fish.
Marine Life in Kona Waters
The marine life in Kona waters is incredibly diverse and captivating. Snorkelers and divers can expect to encounter a variety of species including parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The coral reefs themselves are a spectacle of color and form, providing essential habitats for countless organisms.
Whether you’re gliding over shallow reefs or exploring deeper dive sites, the underwater experiences in Kona promise unforgettable memories filled with awe-inspiring encounters with nature’s wonders.
5. Tour a Coffee Plantation for a Taste of Kona’s Famous Coffee
Kona, Hawaii is renowned for its exceptional coffee, and there’s no better way to experience it than by touring one of its many coffee plantations. Here are four must-visit Kona coffee farms that offer insightful and engaging tours:
1. Greenwell Farms: One of the oldest and most respected names in Kona coffee, Greenwell Farms provides an immersive tour that takes you through the entire coffee production process. From the lush fields where the beans are grown to the roasting room where they’re prepared for market, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes Kona coffee so special.
2. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation: Nestled at a higher elevation, Mountain Thunder offers a unique perspective on Kona’s famous brew. Their tours include an exploration of their organic farming practices and a visit to their state-of-the-art wet mill and dry mill facilities. Plus, you can enjoy complimentary tastings of their award-winning coffees.
3. Hula Daddy Coffee: Known for its innovative approach to coffee cultivation, Hula Daddy provides an educational tour that highlights their sustainable farming techniques and meticulous processing methods. Visitors can savor freshly brewed samples while enjoying panoramic views of the Kona coast.
4. Kona Coffee Living History Farm: For those interested in both history and agriculture, this living history farm offers a glimpse into the lives of early 20th-century Japanese immigrant farmers who contributed significantly to Kona’s coffee industry. The self-guided tour includes interactive exhibits and demonstrations on traditional farming practices.
These tours not only showcase some of the best coffee plantations in Kona but also provide visitors with a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each cup of this world-famous brew. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated aficionado, these experiences will enrich your understanding and enjoyment of Kona’s finest export.
6. Embark on a Manta Ray Night Dive or Snorkel Tour
Manta ray dives in Kona offer one of the most unique underwater experiences you can find in Hawaii. The waters off the coast of Kona are renowned for their vibrant marine life, and among the most captivating creatures you can encounter are manta rays. These gentle giants, with wingspans that can reach up to 16 feet, glide gracefully through the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Night snorkeling tours in Hawaii provide an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic animals up close. As night falls, powerful lights are used to attract plankton, which in turn draws manta rays to the area. Divers and snorkelers alike can observe these magnificent creatures as they feed and interact with their environment.
For those seeking adventure and an unforgettable experience, joining a manta ray night dive or snorkel tour is a must. Not only will you gain a deeper appreciation for marine life, but you’ll also create lasting memories of your time in Hawaii’s breathtaking underwater world. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice snorkeler, this is one activity that should be at the top of your list when visiting Kona.
7. Relax at a Luxury Resort with World-Class Amenities and Spa Services
When it comes to unwinding in style, few destinations compare to the luxury resorts in Kona. These opulent retreats offer an unparalleled experience, combining world-class amenities with the serene beauty of Hawaii. Among the best hotels in the Kailua-Kona area, these resorts stand out for their exceptional service and top-notch facilities.
One of the key highlights of Kona luxury resorts is their comprehensive spa services. Guests can indulge in a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. From traditional Hawaiian massages to advanced skincare therapies, these spas provide an oasis of relaxation amidst the tropical paradise.
In addition to spa services, these resorts boast a range of amenities that cater to every need. Infinity pools with breathtaking ocean views, gourmet dining options featuring local and international cuisine, and state-of-the-art fitness centers are just a few examples. Whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility, Kona’s luxury resorts have something for everyone.
For travelers seeking the ultimate escape, there’s no better choice than one of these premier establishments in Hawaii. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional spa services, and unbeatable amenities ensures a memorable stay that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
