What to Do in Kona, Hawaii
Explore the best things to do in Kona, Hawaii! Whether it’s snorkeling, beach relaxation, or cultural experiences, find out how to make your Hawaiian holiday unforgettable. Your island adventure starts here!
Kona, Hawaii, is the best destination for travelers with various interests: a lot of attractions and different activities to do. However, the place is highly recognized for its potential in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a lot of leisure, adventure, and relaxation opportunities.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is one of the many places to visit in Kona. It offers a vision of the old Hawaiians by their conventional culture, and it is certainly one place to visit today on the west side of the Big Island. The park offers a broad education into Hawaiian history and culture, with restored village huts, ancient burial grounds, and many hiking trails for visitors to explore at their own chosen pace.
Another treasure trove for nature suckers is the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. The highest tropical cloud forest in the United States at over 3,000 feet in elevation, it has several native plants and endangered species of birds. It is a great place for hiking and viewing wildlife.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Another main attraction in Kona is Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. It is a historical site with many old petroglyphs, temples, and fish ponds built by the ancient Hawaiians. In this park, visitors can engage in hiking, snorkeling, and bird-watching, making the place both suitable for nature and history lovers.
Kona also offers several guided tours and any other vacation packages that a customer may desire to have tailored. Such packages may include accommodations, a transportation plan, and an itinerary tailored according to the visitor’s individual to ensure visitors get to know the culture and beauty of the place [8]. Historic sites like Kamakahonu and Ahu’ena Heiau add another slice to Kona’s cultural tapestry. Such provide guided tours and insight into their history, hence creating an element of tangibility to the storied past of Hawaii State [2].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Outdoor Activities
Kona, located on the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, provides just about any type of outdoor activity one is looking for. Whether youthful or old, there’s a commodity for any age. And if age does not matter, then the fantastic warm tropical weather in Kona creates a perfect location for seeing nature, sampling water sports, or witnessing some of the most extraordinary flora and fauna the world has to offer.
Hiking
Perhaps one of the better and somewhat unknown hikes in the Kona area is going to Pu’uwa’awa’a Cinder Cone State Park [9]. This hike is an easy to moderately difficult 12.9 km (8 miles) round trip. The hike offers some nice views and plenty of native flora. There are some beautiful wildflowers to be seen on this trail, which begins at a paved road that continues past a secured gate to ensure no invasive wildlife can pass.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
On this hike, you will see goats, rams, and wild sheep, but there are also cows and ducks, not to mention lots of birds of various kinds. On a clear day, one can see Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hualalai, and the North Kohala mountains from this climb. Of course, one would want a sunny, clear day to prevail so better views and nice weather prevail.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Surfing
Surfing, of course, originated in Hawaii, and the Kona coast is as good a place as any for a surfer to catch a wave on an ocean. Sign up for a surfing lesson through a local surf school, and their friendly, expert instructors will have visitors of all ages riding the waves in just minutes. A small group 2-hour session is around $99 and matched to create fun and learning at an individual’s skill level.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Swimming with dolphins
The swimming activity near dolphins is welcome for any person aged who can swim or not. It is identified as an unforgettable moment in life, offering lifelong memories to a guest. It is recommended to carry a waterproof camera to freeze those excellent moments [4].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Botanical Gardens
Plant lovers also have a couple of reasons to flock to the area, as it has native flora and flowers in botanical gardens. Camping Kona also hosts several camping sites. The campers can appreciate the island’s characteristic magnificence.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Golfing
Kona also hosts world-class golfing facilities. There are beautifully engineered golf courses around. The range can be easy to extremely challenging, and a golfer can choose according to their skill level.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Helicopter Tours
Helicopter tours take one through the sights of the Big Island as viewed by a bird. It is an exciting way to see the varied landscapes found on this island: volcanic craters, lush rainforests, and waterfalls that cascade with great force [4].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Kona, an area characterized by very warm, tropical waters, is a perfect place for the exciting activities of scuba diving and snorkeling. The visitors get to see the island’s colorful coral reefs and other underwater marine life, so this is a really action-packed adventure filled with thrills and memories to be made [4].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Ziplining and Whale Watching
This season runs from December to May, and visitors can get up close and see these majestic animals. Ziplining through the tropical treetops at 40 mph for an adrenaline surge is also unforgettable in the memories.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Cultural Activities
Kona also offers a variety of cultural events, including luas for tourists to sample local Hawaiian foods and take pleasure in local perfumes.
The island’s picturesque drives and local historical sites, such as Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, are toured very frequently [4] [1].
Using such outdoor leisure pursuits, individuals who visit Kona come to witness the authentic beauty and cultural value of the land of Hawaii’s Big Island.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
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Cultural Attractions
Ali’i Drive
Enjoy a leisurely day walking along Ali’i Drive, the main street of Kailua Village that spans the coast. The ancient appearance of the street is adorned with well-maintained buildings, small-scale shops, coffee lounges, and restaurants that call out to passersby. It’s a place where the tourer encounters local conversational chatty people, quirky boutiques, and the taste of local delicacies that will make the tourer appeal to visitors [7].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Hulihe’e Palace
Hulihe’e Palace was a one-time residence of the Ali’i royalty and has since been renovated into a museum. The site houses magnificent furnishings artifacts and royal portraits that capture the grandeur of Hawaii’s royal history. It allows both the people of Hawaii, as well as visitors, to get a firsthand experience of history and to realize the rich culture that Hawaii has in its hands. It enables people to experience their history and rich culture [7] [10].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Merrie Monarch Festival
Going to Hilo during the traditional Merrie Monarch Festival provides the ideal opportunity to seek out experience authentic traditional Hawaiian hula, arts and crafts, and music, along with dozens of local events. This festival honors all Hawaiian customs and welcomes visitors closer to the more real island culture [5].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Kozy’s Tiki Palace
Kozy’s Tiki Palace, a place of life and irreverence, celebrates pop and Tiki art. With live performances of the best in local comedy and magic every night, this spot is a treat of a good time for both locals and visitors alike [5].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark
The importance of the Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark in the history of the State of Hawaii isn’t just that it was the residence of King Kamehameha I when he reached old age; this area is also where the first missionaries arrived in 1820. Numerous unique structures were misplaced, but serious reclamation works between 1975 and 1977 have brought to life key structures of the location, such as the Ahu’ena Heiau and Lord Kamehameha’s withdrawal. The site is now preserved and open to the public under the care of a special non-profit organization, with artifacts showcased at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel [12] and [2].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau, commonly known as the City of Asylum, is likely one of the most popular archeological destinations along the Kona coast. It is now a National Historical Park and 420 acres in size, much of which is still a very worthwhile historical area of Hawaiian history. A modern touch to investigating this historic site is that visitors can take an audio tour of the park with their cell phones [10] [13].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii 2024
Festivals and Events
Kona, Hawaii, is a diverse festival scene, jubilating the island’s rich culture unique agriculture, and historical traditions. Some of the main annual events and festivals that attract many locals and visitors to Kona every year include the following:
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is held every year from November 3rd to 12th, celebrating Kona-grown coffee—hailed by coffee connoisseurs worldwide as a gourmet delight. This very rare crop, well known for its light and mouthwatering flavor, grows in volcanically rich soil basking under the west side of the Big Island, where volcanic mountains present a perfect microclimate to grow coffee. The festival is packed full of events ranging from a lantern parade through Kona’s downtown area to a coffee art contest, farm tours, cupping competitions, craft demonstrations of Hawaiian culture, and cultural events that get people deep inside the Kona coffee culture [5].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
King Kamehameha Day Celebration
On June 11, King Kamehameha Day is the official state holiday that commemorates the monarch for having unified the Hawaiian Islands in the late 1700s. Leading up to it, though, are scheduled ceremonies with hula, displays of traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts, competitions, games, musical presentations, language demonstrations, and lectures—held in Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. The festival is a colorful presentation of Hawaiian culture and an homage to the legacy of King Kamehameha, which annually hosts hundreds of participants [11].
Merrie Monarch Festival
The annual Merrie Monarch Festival takes place in April of every year and is a celebration of Hawaiian culture through the hula. The festival was planned out of a 1960s cultural renaissance by Hilo businessman George Naope, and it has received international acclaim today. These are three days of competitive and non-competitive exhibitions, demonstrations, and workshops on hula. There are performances of authentic Hawaiian dances that manage to display the history and customs of these islands [11].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Kona Brewers Festival
The Kona Brewers Celebration is an exceptionally recognizable occasion that happens in April each year. It showcases homegrown breweries that display thousands of craft beers, accompanied by gourmet food. Furthermore, it advances ecological sustainability; the funds collected during that festival are utilized for several local non-profit organizations working in the field of conservation, education, and cultural preservation [11].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Big Island Chocolate Festival
The Big Island of Hawaii hosts its own Big Island Chocolate Festival every year, with a focus on sharing the local cacao and chocolates from the region. There are several lectures presented by industry experts, tasting parties, chocolate classes for kids, and more. It’s really something if one loves chocolate and is craving new flavors with some insight as to how a bar of exquisite chocolate is made [11].
Food and Drink
Kona, Hawaii, undoubtedly offers one of the widest and most sumptuous selections of food and beverages. The rich cultural traditions on the whole island and immense natural resources would undoubtedly help satisfy visitors’ thirst and appetites for both traditional Hawaiian dishes and innovative fusion cuisine.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Breakfast and Lunch
Visitors snorkeling step out for a light, plant-based tropical breakfast of a new island natural product bowl, conventional muesli, handcrafted banana bread, homegrown tea, and 100% Kona coffee developed on the Reasonable Wind family cultivate. Lunch consists of a BBQ Jackfruit & Cole Slaw sandwich (pulled pork style) and a chickpea sandwich (the tuna salad style), accompanied by Ulu (breadfruit) & purple sweet potato salad and a mixed green salad with homemade dressings. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a fresh cookie before more snorkeling. For the last hour of your cruise, there is a cash bar available to purchase cocktails, beer, and wine [15].
Coffee
Kona coffee is world-famous, and there are a few outstanding farms that cater to visitors. Greenwell Farms boasts an educational tour with liberal sampling. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation creates some of the best and smoothest cups from premium Kona beans. Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm provides authentic tours with expansive views [6].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Poke and Other Local Specialties
Poke is a classic Hawaiian dish of cut crude angle, and it is a must-try. Among those considered the best in Kona would be Umekes Fish Market and Da Poke Shack. But Umekes Fish Market has a great poke sampler, poke nachos, and big fish tacos [6]. For a real Hawaiian plate lunch, make your way to Kaaloa’s Super J’s Restaurant, famous for its generous lau lau and other dishes.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Special Dining Experiences
In addition to the above local Hawaiian cuisine, Kona has a couple of special dining experiences that one cannot afford to miss. Shaka Tacoz has the best tacos with amazing salsa and an ocean view. Holuakoa Coffee Shack has a very cozy feel with pastries that are sweet and savory. Black Sheep Pizza is the place to go for one who loves pizzas. They have perfect pizza with a view.
There is an Old Hawaiian Chocolate Factory located in the valleys of Hualalai with farm-to-bar tours where one can taste the milk and dark and rare Criollo chocolates with a few samplings on how the chocolate is prepared. Selected Wednesdays and Fridays are the tour days, and one needs to make the tour’s reservations early enough [6].
Best Restaurants and Cafes
The unique restaurants and cafés in this city are numerous. It is a very suitable place for smoothies, perfect breakfast sandwiches, unusual coffee drinks like the lavender cardamom iced latte, and a blessing of flowering trees adorned with plenty of outdoor seating. It is also the home to the Coffee Shack, on the way to the southern course on route to the Captain Cook. Serves more or less typical American breakfast and lunch, along with stunning coastal views and fabulous pie and coffee.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Dining in Kailua Village
Historic Kailua Village is excellent for its wide range of great food and restaurants, making for a delicious and very local culinary experience. Besides the fresh poke and famous Kona coffee—which should complement any type of visit to this area—other dining experiences shouldn’t be missed.
Shopping and Markets
Kailua Village, in Kona, Hawaii, is a place of myriad shopping experiences that mirror the local culture and artistry. A perfect starting point for any shopping adventure is Ali’i Drive, the village’s main street, which boasts several stores, galleries, and boutiques featuring local artisans and their works [7]. Here, visitors can find one-of-a-kind items ranging from colorful artwork to handmade jewelry that perfectly embodies the spirit of Hawaii.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Farmers’ Markets
One can best experience the local colors and flavors by stepping into the regular neighborhood farmers’ markets. Spread throughout the region, these markets offer a grand variety of fresh farm produce, exotic fruits, homemade treats, and handcrafted items. Among them is the Kona Farmers Market, which is set in the heart of downtown on Ali’i Drive.
Open every Wednesday and Saturday, this bustling market is home to over 40 vendors, from fresh produce and handcrafted gifts to delicious Hawaiian treats like shaved ice and mochi [16]. There are lots of booths having miscellaneous items for sale, from homemade honey and fragrant flowers to the famed Kona coffee, jumbo-size macadamia nuts, freshly baked bread, and even exotic fruits [16] [8]. The Kona Farmers Market is also an excellent place to converse with amicable farmers and learn about native methods of preparation and cooking that the Hawaiians used to employ [8] [17].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Kona International Market
If a little more excitement and hustle-bustle is what you want, then the Kona International Market might be precisely the place for you; this place is saturated with multi-cultured vendors, displaying every kind of clothing, accessories, craft, and souvenirs [7]. The various shops and stores allow one to wander, barter, and procure some knickknacks that are bound to become memorable souvenirs.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Local Arts and Crafts
Well, Kailua Village is steeped in traditions passed from one generation to the next. Galleries and studios selling handmade jewelry, woodwork, and colorful paintings enlighten any visitor about the local arts and crafts industry. To have a taste of local arts, one may want to visit Kona Oceanfront Gallery or Kailua Village Artists Gallery, which features local artists in rotating exhibitions. Most of the works, which are landscapes, animals, and people in various intricate styles, are for sale, making for a full afternoon of art.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Kailua Town moreover offers several social occasions and celebrations. Among them are the Kona Coffee Festival and the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. The Kona Coffee Festival features the rich tradition of coffee growing in this region, and guests can have a taste freshly brewed coffee and see the process of making coffee, in addition to the cultural entertainment of live music and dancing [7]. Many Kona, Hawaii, is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
The Big Island’s clear, warm waters offer some of the best snorkeling experiences, especially around Kealakekua Bay. This bay is one of the island’s most popular snorkeling spots, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of tropical fish and other marine life. Many tour operators offer guided snorkeling tours in the bay, ensuring that visitors can safely enjoy the underwater beauty. It’s an unforgettable experience, a package of adventure with serenity oozing from the natural landscapes of Kona.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Another must-do activity in Kona is a visit to one of the island’s coffee farms. Kona is world-renowned for its coffee, and the best way to appreciate it is by touring one of the local farms. Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation are two of the most popular spots, where visitors can learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. These tours often include tastings of the farm’s best brews, offering a great opportunity to savor the unique flavors of Kona coffee. It’s a cultural and culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Hawaii’s Big Island.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
For those interested in exploring the historical and cultural aspects of Kona, a tour of the Pu`uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is highly recommended. It’s also called the City of Refuge and is really one of the larger cultural spots on the Big Island. Visitors can take a self-guided or ranger-led tour to learn about the ancient Hawaiian practices and traditions that are preserved here.
The park’s serene atmosphere, coupled with its historical significance, makes it one of the most unique things to do on the island. It’s a great way to connect with the deep history of Hawaii while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Kona coast. Local artisans and craftspeople may also join in on these events, selling their products.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Kona, on Hawaii’s Big Island, is a paradise for those seeking the best in snorkeling adventures. The clear, warm waters around the island make it a prime location for snorkeling, with Kealakekua Bay being one of the most famous spots. This bay offers some of the most vibrant coral reefs and a different array of tropical fish, making it a must-visit for any snorkeling sucker. Many tour operators in Kona provide guided snorkeling tours, ensuring that visitors can explore the bay safely while taking in the breathtaking underwater scenery. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of snorkeling with the serene beauty of Kona’s marine life, making it one of the best things to do in Kona, Hawaii.
One of the more prominent historical locations in Kona would have to be the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park—a well-restored glimpse into classic Hawaiian culture with village huts, ancient burial grounds, and an educational walking trail [1]. Other key historical attractions include the Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark and the Ahu`ena Heiau, offering an entire journey deep into the past of the island [2].
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Besides the historical buildings, there are guided tours, in which one learns and sees for themselves how other many places are connected to Hawaii’s rich tapestry of culture. For nature lovers, Kona has outdoor activities galore. One of the places of interest is the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, elevated over 3,000 feet above sea level.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
It is said to be the only kind of tropical cloud forest in the United States, with a collection of unique native plants and endangered bird species [3]. From hiking Pu’uwaa’wa’a Cinder Cone State Park to snorkeling and scuba diving in the island’s warm, clear waters, all of this will appeal to those who are looking for an adventure [4]. Catching a wave on the Kona coast, swimming with dolphins, or zipping through tropical treetops by zipline, the county offers experiences for every age and interest [4].
Kona’s coffee farms are another highlight of the Big Island that should not be missed. Known globally for its exceptional coffee, Kona offers visitors a chance to tour some of the best coffee farms on the island, such as Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation. These tours provide an in-depth look at the coffee-making process, from the cultivation of beans to the final brewing. Visitors can sample freshly brewed Kona coffee, savoring the rich flavors that have made it world-renowned. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture while enjoying the island’s natural beauty, making it a top activity for any Kona itinerary.
The Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
Exploring the natural beauty of Kona doesn’t end with snorkeling and coffee tours. The island is also home to stunning beaches and parks that offer a wide range of outdoor activities. For example, the Pu`uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park provides a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage while also offering great opportunities for hiking and exploring. Kona’s beaches, like those around Honaunau Bay, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. It’s easy to see why Kona is considered one of the best destinations on the Big Island, offering something for everyone, whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Hawaii’s natural and cultural wonders.
Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii
[1]: Pu»uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park (Place of Refuge)
[2]: 26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kona (Hawaii) – Busy Tourist
[3]: The #1 Thing to Do in Kona, Hawaii According to Locals
[4]: Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark – Hawaii Travel Guide
[5]: Big Island hike at Pu’uwa’awa’a – This Hawaii Life
[6]: 26 BEST Things to Do in Kona (Beaches, Coffee, Tours & More)
[7]: Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Visiting Kailua Village
[8]: Different Historic Sites On The Big Island | Kona Directory
[9]: The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival | Big Island Guide
[10]: Popular Annual Events On Big Island | Kona Directory
[11]: Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark – Historic Hawaii Foundation
[12]: Hawaii’s history comes to life on the Big Island’s Kona Coast
[13]: Events + Festivals on the Big Island: month-by-month list
[14]: Book Snorkel Tours to Kealakekua | Fair Wind Cruises
[15]: 34 Exciting Things to do in Kona, Hawaii (+ tips!) – Two Wandering Soles
[16]: 51 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Kona, Hawaii – TourScanner
[17]: 33 Awesome Things to Do in Kona, Hawaii | 2024 (with Photos)
Best Things to Do in Kona Hawaii