Kona Hawaii Things to Do: Top Experiences and Day Trips for an Unforgettable Visit

Planning a trip to the Big Island? Discover the top Kona Hawaii things to do, from breathtaking natural wonders and rich cultural experiences to exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Kona offers something for everyone. Explore hidden gems, enjoy world-class beaches, and immerse yourself in the island’s unique charm. Ready to uncover the must-do activities that will make your Kona visit truly unforgettable?

Key Takeaways

• Explore Kona’s diverse array of over 51 things to do, from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion
• Discover the region’s stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines
• Indulge in Kona’s world-famous coffee, farm-to-table cuisine, and local artisan experiences
• Uncover the area’s rich history and heritage through guided tours and visits to historical sites
• Venture beyond Kona for incredible day trips to volcanoes, valleys, and other unique landscapes

Introduction to Kona’s Natural Paradise

Kona is a beautiful spot on the Big Island’s west side. It’s known for its sunny weather and stunning coastline. From the northern Kohala coast to the southern Kona district, it offers many beaches, coffee farms, historical sites, and marine adventures. It’s the perfect place for outdoor lovers, making it great for exploring the island of Hawaii.

The Kona district is famous for its coffee. Over 700 local farms grow coffee here, adding to the area’s culture and economy. Visitors can take coffee farm tours to learn how Kona coffee is made.

The World Botanical Gardens in Kona are a must-see. They’re the largest botanical gardens in the area. The gardens have a huge collection of tropical plants, attracting botany fans and nature lovers. Nearby, Kealakekua Bay is known for its clear waters and amazing snorkeling, filled with tropical fish.

The Big Island has over 500,000 acres of state and federal land. This means lots of chances for outdoor fun and discovery. You can try ziplining, helicopter tours, kayaking, and guided hikes. Kona offers activities for everyone, whether you’re looking for excitement or a calm nature experience.

Best Beaches and Coastal Activities

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll find everything from soft white sand to dramatic black sand coves. Whether you want to relax, try exciting water sports, or watch the sunset, Kona has it all.

Top White Sand Beaches

• Kua Bay: This beach is famous for its soft white sand and clear blue waters. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding.
• Hapuna Beach: The largest white sand beach on Hawaii Island, Hapuna offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics.

Water Sports and Activities

The Kona coast is a paradise for water sports lovers. You can snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard to see the area’s colorful marine life. Boat tours, like those by Body Glove Cruises, let you see whales, dolphins, and sea turtles up close.

Sunset Viewing Spots

Seeing the sunset in Kona is a must. Beaches like Magic Sands and Kamakahonu offer stunning views, with volcanoes in the background. You can also find great spots to watch the sunset from the cliffs along the coast.

Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii is a unique coastal experience. With its beautiful beaches, water sports, and sunset views, it’s a top choice for travelers looking for the best activities on the big island.

Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a treasure trove of Hawaiian history and cultural experiences. Visitors can dive into the rich heritage by exploring historical sites and learning about traditions. This makes Kona a remarkable destination.

The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a must-see. It was a place of refuge in ancient Hawaii. Here, you can learn about traditional Hawaiian culture and see stunning ancient architecture and petroglyphs. Entrance fees are $15 per car or $7 for walking or biking.

• The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, also known as the King’s Trail, is a significant land route. It connects various communities on the Big Island. It offers a unique chance to explore the island’s history through a 175-mile footpath.
• The Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve spans 223 acres. It features over 3,000 lava rock carvings. These depict humans, turtles, and canoes, making it fascinating for families and history enthusiasts.
• The Hulihe’e Palace in Kailua village is a former royal residence. It gives visitors a glimpse into the island’s monarchical past. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for Hawaii residents.

The Big Island also has museums that show the connection between culture and environment. The ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center explores Hawaiian culture and the skies. The Mokupāpapa Discovery Center focuses on the island’s natural science and marine environments.

Kona offers a unique chance to connect with the island’s history and traditions. You can explore ancient petroglyphs, visit historical sites, and immerse in local museums. There’s no shortage of ways to experience Kona’s cultural legacy.

Kona Hawaii Things to Do: Essential Experiences

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is full of attractions and activities. It lets visitors dive into the island’s culture and natural beauty. From downtown Kailua-Kona to local markets and traditional pastimes, there’s something for everyone.

Downtown Kailua-Kona Attractions

The downtown Kailua-Kona area buzzes with activity. It has historical sites, museums, and entertainment. Visitors can walk the Kailua Pier, see Hulihee Palace, and Mokuaikaua Church. They can also enjoy the ocean views.

The Kona Farmers Market is open Wednesday through Sunday. It’s a great place for fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Hawaiian culture.

Local Markets and Shopping

Kona’s local markets and shops are unique. They let visitors dive into the island’s artisanal culture. The Kona Farmers Market is a favorite spot for fresh fruits, vegetables, handmade goods, and traditional Hawaiian foods.

Traditional Hawaiian Activities

Visitors can experience Kona’s cultural heritage through traditional activities. Attending a luau, learning hula dancing, and making your own lei are great ways to understand Hawaiian traditions.

Kona offers a wealth of experiences. From downtown Kailua-Kona to local markets and traditional activities, it’s a place of rich culture and natural beauty.

Coffee Farm Tours and Tastings

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is famous for its top-notch coffee. It’s grown on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Visitors can dive into Kona’s rich coffee culture by going on coffee farm tours and tastings.

Greenwell Farms is a top spot in Kona. It’s been named Hawaii’s Best Farm Tour by Hawaii Magazine for three years. It also won the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for its amazing visitor experience.

• Greenwell Farms offers free guided farm tours that last 45-60 minutes. Visitors can see how coffee is grown.
• The Deluxe Tour & Tasting at Greenwell Farms is for just 6 guests. It costs $39.95 per person plus tax. It’s available at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
• Greenwell Farms also has the “Art of Coffee: Manual Brewing Class.” It’s a hands-on workshop teaching manual coffee brewing. It’s limited to 6 participants and runs Tuesday through Saturday at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM.

There are over 650 coffee farms in Kona, along the scenic roads of Hualalai and Mauna Loa. Many farms let visitors explore and taste their famous Kona coffee.

The best time to visit Kona’s coffee farms is from February through August. You can see the coffee plants in all stages of growth, from blossoming to harvesting.

Marine Life Adventures

The island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is a paradise for marine life lovers. You can dive with manta rays at night, watch dolphins, or see whales. The island’s waters are full of amazing sea creatures.

Manta Ray Night Diving

Swimming with manta rays in Kona is a dream come true. At sunset, these gentle giants gather in the shallow waters. They come for the plankton.

On a guided night dive or snorkel tour, you can see them up close. They glide through the water with their huge fins, reaching up to 16 feet wide.

Dolphin Watching

The Kona coast is home to a pod of spinner dolphins. They can be seen playing in their natural habitat. Dolphin watching tours start in Kailua-Kona.

On these tours, you can see dolphins doing flips and playing in the warm waters. It’s a sight you won’t forget.

Whale Watching Seasons

From December to May, humpback whales visit the island of Hawaii. They come to breed and give birth. Whale watching tours let you see their amazing displays.

The best time for whale watching is from January to March. But you can see them from December to May.

Kona offers many marine life adventures, from manta ray dives to dolphin and whale watching. Whether you’re snorkeling or on a boat tour, the island of Hawaii is unforgettable. It’s a place where you can connect with the deep sea’s wonders.

Exploring Ancient Hawaiian Sites

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is filled with ancient Hawaiian sites. These sites give visitors a peek into the islands’ rich culture. The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park are two top spots.

The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is known as the “Place of Refuge.” It was once a royal settlement and a safe place for native Hawaiians. Here, you can see ancient temples and learn about Hawaiian customs and beliefs.

The park’s walls are 16 to 20 feet high and 224 by 110 feet wide. They show the amazing skills of the ancient Hawaiians in building.

The Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is near the Kona airport. It’s a key spot for those looking for the best activities on the big island. The park has ancient fishponds, petroglyphs, and sacred sites. You can also hike through lava fields, giving you a unique experience.

Other sites on the Big Island include the Puukohola Heiau and the Lapakahi State Historical Park. These places are over 600 years old. They let visitors connect with the islands’ cultural history and appreciate the native Hawaiian people’s resilience and ingenuity.

Farm-to-Table Experiences

Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii is known for its vibrant agricultural scene. Visitors can enjoy unique farm-to-table experiences. These include educational tours of local farms and immersive culinary adventures.

Local Food Tours

Kona’s food tours highlight the region’s diverse culinary offerings. Guests can taste tropical fruits, macadamia nuts, and fresh seafood. They get to see farms, markets, and specialty food producers up close.

These tours give a deep look into the local food culture. They share the stories behind the ingredients.

Agricultural Adventures

The Big Island boasts a thriving agricultural landscape. It has over 650 coffee farms, tea plantations, and more. Visitors can tour farms like Gingerhill Farm Retreat.

At Gingerhill, guests learn about sustainable farming and enjoy farm-fresh lunches. These adventures show the importance of local food production.

Farmers Markets

Kona’s farmers markets, like the Kona Farmers Market, are famous. They offer local produce, artisanal products, and culinary creativity. Visitors can sample regional specialties and meet the farmers and artisans.

These markets are lively places to experience Kona’s food culture.

Kona’s farm-to-table experiences let visitors connect with the island’s agricultural heritage. They can explore local food tours, agricultural adventures, and vibrant farmers markets. This way, they dive into the rich culinary culture of this Hawaiian paradise.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It has over 500,000 acres of state and federal land. This means endless activities for those who love adventure.

For a thrilling view, try Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours. They offer a stunning aerial tour of the island’s landscapes. On the water, Kona Snorkel and Sail cruises let you see the marine life up close. Body Glove Cruises and Sea Paradise also offer amazing boat trips.

There are also many land-based adventures. Horseback riding tours with Hawaii Forest and Trail take you through beautiful trails. Kohala Zipline and Umauma Falls and Zipline Experience Tours give you a rush through the canopy. Golfers can play at top courses with beautiful ocean views.

Kona has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for excitement or a chance to connect with nature. With a 4.58 rating from over 4,087 reviews, these activities are a must-do on your Kona trip.

Best Day Trips from Kona

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a great spot for exploring. It’s close to many natural wonders and cultural sites. You can enjoy scenic drives, hikes, and more.

Waipio Valley Excursions

The Waipio Valley, or “Valley of the Kings,” is a must-see. You can get there by 4WD or on a guided hike. The drive from Kona takes about 40 minutes, with stunning views.

For thrill-seekers, hiking down into the valley is a unique adventure. It’s a 6.5-mile round trip that lets you see Hawaii’s rich history up close.

Holualoa Artist Village

Holualoa, just 15 minutes from Kona, is a haven for art lovers. You can walk through galleries, try local food, and enjoy the Coffee & Art Stroll. It’s a chance to see the island’s artistic side.

Kohala Coast Adventures

The Kohala Coast is a short drive north from Kona. It’s known for its stunning beaches and resorts. Hapuna Beach is just 30 minutes away, and Ho’okena Beach Park is about 40-45 minutes south.

For a special view, try a helicopter tour. You’ll see volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests from above.

Kona offers many day trips for adventure, culture, and nature. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or exploring, there’s something for everyone. Make your visit to Hawaii unforgettable.

Snorkeling and Diving Hotspots

Kona’s waters are crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore a variety of underwater wonders. From famous bays to hidden coves, there’s something for everyone.

Kealakekua Bay is a top spot for snorkeling, known for its clear waters and marine life. Honaunau Bay, or “Two Step,” is great for seeing colorful coral reefs. Kahalu’u Beach Park is perfect for beginners, with calm waters and lots of fish.

Divers will love Kona’s sites. The Manta Ray night dive is a must-try, where you can see these creatures up close. The Atlantis Submarine site and underwater caves offer exciting dives for thrill-seekers.

• Kealakekua Bay: Renowned for clear waters and abundant marine life
• Honaunau Bay (Two Step): Easy access to vibrant coral reefs
• Kahalu’u Beach Park: Ideal for beginner snorkelers with calm waters and diverse fish
• Manta Ray night dive: A bucket-list experience for adventurous divers
• Atlantis Submarine site: A popular diving destination
• Lava tubes and underwater caves: Thrilling underwater explorations

Kona is a top spot for snorkeling and diving, with its clear waters and stunning beauty. It’s perfect for both seasoned explorers and first-timers. Kona’s marine ecosystems offer endless adventures.

Local Brewery and Dining Scene

Kona, Hawaii, is known for its lively brewery and dining scene. It showcases the island’s diverse tastes and rich culture. From food trucks to fancy restaurants, there’s a wide range of places to eat. You can try local produce, fresh seafood, and dishes from around the world.

The Kona Brewing Company is a favorite spot. It offers tours and a brewpub where you can try their famous beers. Ola Brew Company is another gem, focusing on beers and ciders made with local ingredients.

Kona’s dining options are varied and exciting. Lava Lava Beach Club is lively, while Village Burger serves gourmet burgers. Moon and Turtle offers Pacific fusion cuisine, and Aloha Mix Food Truck and 808 Grindz Cafe serve authentic Hawaiian dishes.

For a fancy meal, try the Bamboo Restaurant in Kohala. It has beautiful ocean views and a Pacific Rim menu. Naung Mai Thai Kitchen is also a top choice for Thai food.

Don’t miss trying Kona Coffee at places like Kona Coffee and Tea. Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.

Kona’s food and drink scene has something for everyone. Whether you want a craft beer, a local dish, or a meal with a view, Kona has it all. It’s a place where local flavors meet international tastes, all set against stunning ocean views.

Nature and Botanical Gardens

Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for nature lovers. It has many lush botanical gardens and diverse ecosystems. You can see native Hawaiian plants at the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden and enjoy the peaceful Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens. The cloud forests of Kona also let you explore the area’s unique biodiversity.

The Big Island has over 2,000 plant varieties in its gardens. This shows the island’s amazing ecological diversity. It has 4 out of 5 major climate zones and 10 out of 13 sub-zones. This variety is seen in Kona’s natural landscapes.

Exploring Kona’s Botanical Gems

• The Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook showcases a vast collection of native Hawaiian plants, giving visitors a peek into the island’s rich cultural and botanical heritage.
• The Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens in Kona offer a calm and peaceful setting, featuring a wide range of plant species from the Hawaiian Islands.
• The cloud forests of Kona are home to unique flora and fauna, providing a magical chance for nature enthusiasts to explore the island’s varied ecosystems.

These botanical gardens and natural wonders are great for learning. They teach about Hawaii’s conservation efforts and the need to protect its delicate ecosystems. Whether you love gardening or just want to enjoy Kona’s beauty, these spots will make a lasting impression.

Seasonal Activities and Events

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a year-round gem. It offers many seasonal activities and events for visitors. From winter whale watching to summer festivals, there’s always something exciting happening here.

Winter Attractions

In winter, visitors can see humpback whales in Hawaii’s warm waters. Whale watching tours start from the Kona coast. It’s a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.

Another winter highlight is the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. It celebrates the island’s coffee with demos, tastings, and cultural shows.

Summer Festivities

Summer brings Kona to life with many events. The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament happens in August. Anglers from all over come to compete.

The Queen Liliuokalani Outrigger Canoe Race is another summer event. It shows off the endurance and skill of Hawaiian paddlers.

Year-round Activities

• Explore the weekly farmers markets in Kona. You can try fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Hawaiian food.
• Walk through Holualoa Village. It’s known for its art scene with galleries and studios. They host monthly First Friday events.
• See cultural demos and performances at resorts and historical sites. It’s a great way to learn about Hawaii’s rich heritage.

No matter the season, Kona, Hawaii has something for everyone. From whale watching to cultural festivals, it promises an unforgettable visit.

Conclusion

Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a treasure trove of activities. It showcases the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and varied activities. From Kona coffee farms to the lava flows of Kilauea volcano, it offers an unmatched travel experience.

Looking for outdoor fun, cultural experiences, or a calm retreat? Kona has it all. You can visit historic sites, enjoy traditional luaus, or go on scenic trips to Waipio Valley and the Kohala Coast.

Kona is a must-see for anyone wanting to explore the best of Hawaii. With its breathtaking views, warm welcome, and endless discoveries, it promises a memorable vacation. From its natural wonders to cultural treasures, Kona is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored.