Planning a journey to the captivating and relaxed atmosphere of Kona, Hawaii? To truly immerse yourself in the spirit of the islands, our guide to the Best Things To Do In Kona Hawaii offers insights into the wealth of activities awaiting you. Kailua Kona is often considered the activity hub of the Big Island, boasting consistent sunshine and incredible diversity, from the pristine white sands of the Kohala Coast to the rugged southern Kona districts.
This guide dives deep into the experiences that make Kona unique, blending adventure with culture, history, and culinary delights. Whether you seek thrilling ocean encounters, a taste of authentic Hawaiian history, or simply wish to relax on a beautiful beach, Kona provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.
Discovering Kona’s Culinary and Cultural Gems
The Kona coast is not just about stunning landscapes and ocean activities; it’s a place rich in culture and flavor. Exploring the local food scene, visiting historical sites, and engaging with the community offer a deeper connection to this beautiful part of Hawaii. These experiences highlight the unique blend of traditions that thrive in Kona.
Savor the Flavor: Kona Coffee and Local Brews
Kona is synonymous with world-renowned coffee. The unique microclimate on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes provides the perfect conditions for growing exceptional beans. A visit isn’t complete without experiencing Kona coffee firsthand.
Many coffee farms in the Kona district welcome visitors for tours and tastings. These tours offer a glimpse into the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and the chance to sample the aromatic brew right where it’s grown. It’s a sensory journey that deepens your appreciation for this celebrated local product.
Beyond coffee, Kona’s craft beverage scene is growing. Breweries like Kona Brewing Company and Ola Brew Company offer a taste of local beers and ciders, often brewed with island ingredients. Visiting a brewpub is a great way to relax, enjoy good food, and soak in the local atmosphere after a day of exploring.
Visitors take a Kona Coffee Farm Tour at the Greenwell farmVisitors sample freshly brewed coffee during a Kona Coffee Farm tour, learning about the cultivation process on the island.
Explore Vibrant Kona Farmers Markets
To truly connect with the local community and sample the freshest produce, visit a farmers market. Kona hosts several markets throughout the week, with the central Kona Farmers Market being a popular choice.
Here you can find a colorful array of tropical fruits, local vegetables, handmade crafts, and prepared foods. It’s a fantastic place to pick up unique souvenirs, enjoy delicious snacks, and chat with local farmers and artisans. Each market has its own unique vibe and offerings.
Step Back in Time at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
History comes alive at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This sacred site was once a place of refuge for those who had broken the ancient Hawaiian laws (kapu). If they could reach this sanctuary before being caught, they would be absolved by a kahuna (priest) and spared.
Wandering through the park allows you to explore reconstructed temples, ancient fishponds, and the Great Wall. It offers a profound look into traditional Hawaiian culture, laws, and spirituality. The history here is palpable, connecting you to the island’s past in a powerful way.
The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park is a GREAT good place to learn about Hawaiian History. Next door (300 feet from the park entrance) is one of the best places of the island to go snorkeling.Historical structures within Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, offering a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life and laws.
Uncover Ancient Stories: See Ancient Petroglyphs
Petroglyphs, or kiʻi pōhaku (stone images), are ancient carvings in volcanic rock that offer a unique window into Hawaii’s history and the lives of its early inhabitants. Some of these carvings date back centuries.
Near Kona, you can find accessible petroglyph fields like the Waikoloa Petroglyph Field. Walking among these rock carvings feels like stepping into an open-air museum, deciphering the symbols left by generations past. It’s a quiet, reflective activity that highlights the deep history embedded in the landscape.
Petroglyphs in the Waikoloa Field. Carved into volcanic rock, the earliest of these carvings are centuries old.Ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs carved into volcanic rock, preserving stories and symbols from centuries ago near Kona.
Experience a Traditional Luau
A luau is a festive Hawaiian party featuring traditional food, music, and hula performance. Attending a luau near Kona is a popular way to experience local culture in a lively setting.
You’ll enjoy a feast typically including kalua pig, poi, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, often served buffet-style. The evening is filled with storytelling, Polynesian dance, and music, sharing the legends and traditions of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. It’s a memorable cultural immersion combined with delicious food.
Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: The Best Things To Do In Kona Hawaii
Kona is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, blessed with incredible natural beauty and near-perfect weather year-round. The range of activities is vast, from exploring volcanic landscapes to diving into vibrant marine ecosystems.
Dive or Snorkel with Majestic Manta Rays
Considered a must-do activity on the Big Island, the Manta Ray Night Dive or Snorkel is a truly magical experience. As darkness falls, powerful lights attract plankton, which in turn attracts the gentle giant manta rays.
Snorkelers float on the surface holding onto a light board, while divers sit on the ocean floor. The manta rays glide and somersault gracefully around the lights, feeding on the plankton, often coming within inches of visitors. It’s an ethereal ballet and one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters you can have.
A diver shares the water with a majestic Manta Ray during a night dive off the Kona coast, a highlight among things to do in Kona Hawaii.
Explore the Underwater World: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Kona’s coastline is renowned for its clear, warm waters and abundant marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving are prime activities here.
Spots like Kealakekua Bay (home to the Captain Cook Monument) offer spectacular coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. “Two Step” near Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau is another favorite for its easy entry and diverse marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, exploring Kona’s underwater paradise is a captivating experience. Scuba diving opens up deeper reefs, lava tubes, and encounters with larger marine animals.
Suggested tour:
Afternoon Sail & Snorkel Tour to Kealakekua Bay
Sail to one of the best snorkeling spots on the island past the scenic Kona coastline with a spacious 50 foot catamaran from Keauhou to Kealakekua Bay. Notoriously difficult to reach over land, this is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island with pristine clear blue waters and a vibrant reef.
Duration: 3 hours
By: Sea Paradise
Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour
from:
$125
Details
Napo’opo’o BeachSnorkelers enjoy the clear waters near Napoʻopoʻo Beach at Kealakekua Bay, famous for its vibrant coral reefs.
Suggested tour:
2-Tank Morning Dive on the Kona Coast
Explore world renowned Hawaiian reefs, lava tubes, and more! Not certified? No problem! Go for an introductory dive under the direct supervision of one of our world class instructors!
Duration: 4.5 hours
By: Torpedo Tours
Free cancellation: up to 2 weeks before tour
from:
$180
Details
Bask on Stunning Beaches
Kona is fringed with beautiful beaches, each with its own character. From golden sands to unique black sands, there’s a beach for every mood.
White sand beaches like Kua Bay offer pristine conditions for swimming and sunbathing. Other beaches, often formed from volcanic activity, feature darker sands, providing a dramatic contrast with the turquoise water. Exploring these diverse beaches is a simple yet essential Kona experience.
Go Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) or Surf
Embrace the Hawaiian heritage of surfing or try the increasingly popular Stand Up Paddleboarding. Kona’s calm bays are ideal spots for beginners to learn or for experienced paddlers to enjoy a peaceful time on the water.
Several local surf schools offer lessons, promising to get you riding a wave in no time. SUP rentals are readily available, allowing you to leisurely paddle along the coast, enjoying the views and marine life from a different perspective.
people snorkeling at KahaluVisitors enjoying snorkeling and paddling activities at Kahaluʻu Bay, a popular spot for water sports south of Kona.
The Ultimate Guide to What to Eat in Austin Texas
Your Guide to the Michigan Map with Cities – Unlocking the Great Lakes State
Ultimate Guide to Weekend Trips From Las Vegas
Suggested tour:
Surf Lessons in Kona
Learn to surf with a small group 2-hour session. Friendly and professional surf instructors will have you riding the waves in just minutes, with lessons matched to your skill level
Duration: 2 hours
By: Kahaluu Bay Surf and Sea
Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour
from:
$139
Details
Witness Playful Spinner Dolphins
Spinner dolphins frequent the bays along the Kona coast. Watching these acrobatic creatures leap and spin out of the water from a respectful distance is a joyful sight.
While guidelines emphasize not disturbing them by getting too close (swimming with wild dolphins is discouraged by NOAA), many boat tours adhere to regulations and offer fantastic opportunities to observe them in their natural habitat. Seeing a pod play in the wild is a truly special moment.
Spinner dolphins swimming off the Kona coast.Spinner dolphins leaping from the water off the Kona coast, showcasing their natural agility.
Seek Adventure in the Outdoors: Hiking and Ziplining
Beyond the coast, Kona’s inland areas offer thrilling adventures. Hike through diverse landscapes, from stark lava fields to lush rainforests. Trails range from easy coastal walks to more challenging mountain treks.
For an adrenaline rush, try ziplining. Soar high above the forest canopy, enjoying breathtaking views of valleys and waterfalls. Zipline courses, like those near the Kohala volcano slopes, provide exhilarating experiences combined with stunning natural scenery.
Pololu black sand beach, pololu valley, big island, hawaii, waipio valleyA panoramic view of the Pololu Valley and black sand beach, a popular hiking destination near Kona.
Suggested tour:
Kohala Zip & Dip (zipline + waterfall swim)
Family friendly zipline tour + private waterfall swim. This 8-hour tour lets you zipline high above the forest floor, picnic at a secluded spot, and swim under a private waterfall fed by a cool mountain stream.
Duration: 6-7 hours
By: Kohala Zipline
Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour
from:
$325
Details
Twin ziplines with Kohala Ziplines.Thrill-seekers traverse twin ziplines high above the trees, offering aerial views of the landscape near Kona.
Scenic Drives Around Kona
Take the time to explore the beautiful roads around Kona. A scenic drive along the South Kona coast, often referred to as “Coffee Country,” offers rolling hills, ocean views, and access to numerous farms and historical sites. These drives reveal hidden gems and provide a deeper appreciation for the island’s diverse environments.
The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park is a GREAT good place to learn about Hawaiian History. Next door (300 feet from the park entrance) is one of the best places of the island to go snorkeling.Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Park viewed from the coast, accessible via a scenic drive in the South Kona district.
Unique Experiences and More Things To Do In Kona Hawaii
Beyond the most popular activities, Kona offers a range of unique experiences that cater to diverse interests, ensuring there are always new Best Things To Do In Kona Hawaii to discover.
Visit Unique Farms and Sanctuaries
From the world of miniature horses at a seahorse farm tour to the vibrant colors of a parrot sanctuary, Kona offers opportunities to see unique animal life. There are also farms specializing in vanilla, chocolate, and honey, offering tours and tastings that showcase the island’s agricultural diversity. These visits provide fascinating insights into local production and conservation efforts.
seahorse, hawaii, farmA visitor gently holds a seahorse during a tour at the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm, one of the unique things to do in Kona Hawaii.
Hit the Greens: Golfing in Kona
The Big Island is a premier golf destination, and the Kona coast features several championship golf courses designed by renowned architects. With stunning ocean or mountain backdrops, golfing here is an experience that combines challenging play with breathtaking scenery.
Take to the Sky: Helicopter Tours
See the Big Island from above with a helicopter tour departing from Kona. Gain a perspective impossible to achieve from the ground, viewing hidden waterfalls, volcanic craters, and sweeping coastlines. It’s an unforgettable way to grasp the scale and dramatic beauty of the island.
Suggested tour:
Private Kona Sunset Helicopter Tour (Big Island)
A 30 minute private helicopter tour during sunset along the magnificent Kona coastline during the “Golden Hour”
Duration: 30 minutes
By: Mauna Loa Helicopters
Free cancellation: up to 24 hours before tour
from:
$229
Details
Ride Horses with Ocean Views
Experience the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) tradition with a horseback riding tour. Several ranches offer guided rides through scenic pastures, valleys, and even along the coastline, providing stunning views and a peaceful way to explore the landscape.
big island, horseback riding tourA group enjoys a scenic horseback riding tour through a lush valley on the Big Island, near the Kona area.
Suggested tour:
Small Group Horseback Ride on the scenic Hamakua coast
A scenic horseback riding tour that takes you from fertile gardens and a working livestock ranch to sweeping grasslands, oceanfront, and tree canopies
Duration: 3 hours
By: Waipio on Horseback
Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour
from:
$150
Details
Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)
During the winter months (typically December to May), humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and calve. Whale watching tours depart from Kona, offering the chance to see these magnificent creatures breaching and playing. It’s a highlight for many winter visitors.
Suggested tour:
Whale Watching Cruise from Kona
2.5 hour Whale Watching Excursion with free snacks, guaranteed whale sightings (or come again!), an on-board marine life naturalist, and underwater hydrophones so you can hear the whales sing.
Duration: 2.5 hours
By: Body Glove
Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour
from:
$125
Details
Give Back: Volunteer Opportunities
For a truly meaningful experience, consider volunteering during your trip. Many organizations on the Big Island focus on environmental conservation, historical preservation, or community support. Volunteering allows you to contribute positively to the island and often provides access to unique places and interactions with dedicated locals.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Things To Do In Kona Hawaii
Here are some common questions travelers have when planning their activities in Kona:
What is the absolute best thing to do in Kona?
While “best” is subjective, the Manta Ray Night Dive or Snorkel is consistently rated as a top, unforgettable experience due to its unique wildlife encounter. Kona coffee tasting and visiting historical sites like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau are also highly recommended for cultural immersion.
Is Kona suitable for families?
Absolutely! Kona offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including easy beach access, snorkeling in calm bays, farm tours, gentle hikes, and luaus that are entertaining for all ages.
What time of year is best to visit Kona?
Kona enjoys good weather year-round, but the peak season is typically December to April. If you want to see humpback whales, visit during these winter months. For fewer crowds, consider the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November).
How do I get around to experience the best things to do in Kona Hawaii?
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Kona and the wider Big Island at your own pace, especially for reaching beaches, farms, and historical sites outside of the main town. Taxis and ride-sharing are available in Kailua-Kona town, and various tours offer transportation for specific activities.
Can I experience Hawaiian culture in Kona?
Yes, Kona offers many ways to engage with Hawaiian culture, including visiting historical parks, attending a luau, exploring petroglyph sites, visiting local markets, and even participating in cultural workshops or volunteer opportunities.
Conclusion
Kona, Hawaii, is a destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich culture and thrilling adventure. From the world beneath the waves during a manta ray encounter to the historical whispers found among ancient petroglyphs and the simple pleasure of a perfectly brewed Kona coffee, the Best Things To Do In Kona Hawaii offer something for every traveler. It’s a place to seek adventure, find relaxation, and connect with the unique spirit of the islands, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.