Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Experience the sun-soaked charm of Kailua-Kona, Big Island’s bustling seaside town. Delve into Hawaiian history, savor world-famous Kona coffee, and explore vibrant waterfront locales.
Getting to Kailua-Kona
Things to Know About Kailua-Kona
- Overview: Kailua-Kona, often referred to simply as Kona, is a bustling seaside town on the western coast of the Big Island, Hawaii. Known for its sunny weather, historical sites, and beautiful beaches, Kailua-Kona is a must-see destination for visitors to the Big Island.
- Highlights: Kailua-Kona’s picturesque waterfront, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries, offers a lively atmosphere. The town is also renowned for its world-famous Kona coffee, which is grown in the surrounding region and can be sampled at local cafes.
- Activities: Visitors can enjoy snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Kailua Bay, take a guided tour of a Kona coffee farm, or explore the historic Hulihe’e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church.
- Information: Kailua-Kona is accessible year-round, with most attractions open daily. While there are no entrance fees for the town itself, some attractions like Hulihe’e Palace may have admission fees. The best time to visit Kailua-Kona is during the dry season, which runs from April to October.
- History & Significance: Kailua-Kona was once the seat of power for the Hawaiian Kingdom and served as the residence of King Kamehameha I. Today, it remains an important cultural and historical center, with numerous sites showcasing the rich heritage of the Hawaiian people.
- Tips & Insights: To make the most of your visit to Kailua-Kona, consider renting a car or scooter to explore the surrounding areas, including the beautiful beaches and coffee farms. Don’t forget to try the famous Kona coffee and local delicacies like poke and shave ice during your visit. Lastly, for a memorable experience, book a sunset cruise or manta ray snorkel tour in Kailua Bay.
Explore More of Kailua-Kona
2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter
Dive into the majestic world of manta rays with the 2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter in Kailua-Kona, Big Island – an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Discover 5-star luxury at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Big Island. Unwind with beachfront access, rejuvenating spa treatments, and 7 outdoor pools.
Night Manta Experience
Snorkel alongside majestic manta rays at night in Kailua-Kona, Big Island with Sea Quest Hawaii’s Night Manta Experience, a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort
Immerse in paradise at Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort, Kailua-Kona’s 3.5-star oceanfront gem, boasting lush gardens, two pools, and luxurious rooms with private lanais and jetted tubs.
Makalawena Beach
Explore Makalawena Beach’s unique blend of coral sands, lava rocks, and wildlife on Big Island, Hawaii. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and rich history.
Kua Bay (Manini’owali Beach)
Experience Kua Bay’s white sand & turquoise waters in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, surfing & rich cultural heritage.
Kona Brewing
Savor island breeze at Kona Brewing in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – eco-friendly brewpub with outdoor lanai & true Aloha spirit.
Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch
Discover Kona’s marine life on the Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch tour. Enjoy snorkeling, dolphin sightings, and delicious meals amidst Hawaii’s stunning underwater paradise.
Magic Sands Beach (La’aloa)
Uncover the magic of Kailua-Kona’s ever-changing Magic Sands Beach, where pristine waters meet disappearing sands for a unique Hawaiian experience.
Kukio Beach
Explore Kukio Beach’s serene atmosphere, unique shoreline rocks, and rich history on Hawaii’s Big Island. Enjoy fishing, surfing, and tranquil ponds.
Kona Snorkel Adventure
Discover the wonders of Kealakekua Bay and the Place of Refuge on the Kona Snorkel Adventure, where vibrant marine life and volcanic marvels await.
Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa
Discover the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in Kailua-Kona, Big Island: luxurious oceanfront stay, rejuvenating HO’OLA SPA, and exciting snorkeling adventures await.
Black Water Night Dive
Dive into the extraordinary with Kona Honu Divers’ black water night dive in Kailua-Kona! Suspend over 4000ft deep waters and marvel at rare pelagic creatures.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Experience a thrilling night snorkel with manta rays in Kailua-Kona on a RIB Zodiac speed boat. Enjoy an intimate encounter with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Kona Coast Resort
Discover Kona Coast Resort in Kailua-Kona, Big Island, where golf, volleyball, and basketball meet stunning views and family-friendly amenities.
Manta Discovery Adventure
Discover the magical Kona Manta Rays on a nighttime snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona, Big Island. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with a knowledgeable crew, small groups, and gear provided.
Hulihe’e Palace
Discover Hawaii’s royal heritage at Hulihe’e Palace, Kailua-Kona. Admire stunning architecture, explore royal artifacts, and enjoy cultural events for an unforgettable experience.
Kona Coast Helicopter Tour
Soar over the Kona Coast on a helicopter tour, marvel at award-winning beaches, and delve into Hawaiian history in the captivating town of Captain Cook.
Beach Tree Restaurant
Beach Tree Restaurant: Oceanfront dining, fresh Mediterranean-California cuisine, local ingredients, and live entertainment in Big Island, Hawaii.
Magics Beach Grill
Oceanfront Magics Beach Grill on Big Island, Hawaii: fresh fusion cuisine, Kona views & local ingredients. Experience Aloha! 130/150
Manta Night Snorkel
Discover the magic of Kailua-Kona’s Manta Night Snorkel, where you’ll swim alongside majestic Manta Rays and marvel at their acrobatics under a starlit sky.
Kahalu’u Beach Park
Experience the magic of Kahalu’u Beach Park in Kailua-Kona, Big Island, where vibrant marine life meets Hawaiian history. Snorkel, swim, and relax in paradise.
Ahu’ena Heiau
Explore Ahu’ena Heiau in Kailua-Kona, Big Island – King Kamehameha the Great’s personal temple. Delve into Hawaiian history and marvel at intricate carvings.
Join Hawaiians.
Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.
Discover More Big Island Towns
Delight in Big Island’s towns – vibrant Kailua-Kona, historic Hilo, and quaint plantation town of Hawi.
Kealakekua
Discover Kealakekua, Big Island’s gem, where history meets natural beauty. Snorkel in pristine Kealakekua Bay, explore Captain Cook Monument, and hike scenic trails.
Hilo
Discover Hilo’s charm on Hawaii’s Big Island, where lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable experience.
Kapaau
Experience the authentic Hawaiian charm of Kapaau, Big Island, with its rich history, iconic King Kamehameha I statue, and vibrant art-filled downtown.
Pahoa
Explore Pahoa’s unique charm on Hawaii’s Big Island: stroll its historic main street, visit lava-formed tree molds, and unwind in geothermally heated pools.
Keauhou
Explore Keauhou’s rich history, home to Hawaiian royalty, and enjoy pristine beaches, snorkeling adventures, and kayak tours to Captain Cook Monument.
Holualoa
Experience the charm of Holualoa, Big Island’s artistic hub, and immerse yourself in its vibrant art scene, world-famous Kona coffee farms, and rich history.
Join Hawaiians.
Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.