Kona, a beautiful district on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a treasure trove of activities and experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone looking to relax on pristine beaches, you’ll find plenty of things to do in kona hawaii. This guide will help you explore what Kona has to offer.
Explore Historic Kailua Village
Begin your journey with a visit to the heart of Kona, Historic Kailua Village. This charming seaside town offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s past with its historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. A stroll along Ali’i Drive will take you past the Hulihe’e Palace, once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii. Exploring this village is one of the top things to do in kona hawaii.
Visit Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.
To dive deeper into Hawaiian history and culture, visit Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This sacred site was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers. Today, it’s a beautifully preserved park where you can see reconstructed temples, fishponds, and wooden images of Hawaiian gods. This park is a must-see for anyone listing things to do in kona hawaii.
Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Hawaii. The bay’s clear waters teem with vibrant coral reefs and various marine life, including dolphins. The Captain Cook Monument, located on the bay’s far side, marks the spot where the famous explorer met his end. Snorkeling here is one of the unforgettable things to do in kona hawaii.
Coffee Plantation Tours
Kona is famous for its coffee, and visiting a coffee plantation is essential to your itinerary. Many plantations offer tours where you can learn about coffee-making from bean to cup. Sampling freshly brewed Kona coffee while enjoying the scenic views of the plantations is one of the delightful things to do in kona hawaii.
Manta Ray Night Dive
For a unique and exhilarating experience, try the Manta Ray Night Dive. This activity lets you swim with the graceful manta rays as they feed on plankton illuminated by underwater lights. It’s a magical encounter often described as one of the top things to do in kona hawaii.
Relax on the Beaches
Every trip to Kona is complete with some beach time. Magic Sands Beach and Kahalu’u Beach Park are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The black sand beaches, formed by volcanic activity, offer a unique setting for relaxation. Spending a day at the beach is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things in Kona, Hawaii.
Discover Volcanoes National Park
While not located in Kona, visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is worth the drive. The park is home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Exploring the park’s lava fields, steam vents, and hiking trails provides an unforgettable adventure and adds to the list of exciting things to do in kona hawaii.
Attend a Luau
Experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture. Luaus typically feature hula dancing, fire dancing, and a feast of Hawaiian delicacies like kalua pig and poi. Attending a luau is one of the cultural highlights of Kona, Hawaii.
Explore Local Markets
Kona’s local markets, such as the Kona Farmers Market and the Ali’i Gardens Marketplace, offer a chance to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. These markets are a great way to support local artisans and farmers while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere. Visiting these markets is one of the delightful things to do in kona hawaii.
Go Whale Watching
During winter, Kona’s waters are frequented by humpback whales migrating from Alaska. Whale-watching tours provide an opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close. Seeing a humpback whale breaching is a spectacular experience and one of the memorable things to do in kona hawaii.
Conclusion
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Kona offers many activities for every type of traveler. Whether snorkeling in pristine waters, exploring historical sites, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, you’ll find no shortage of exciting things in Kona, Hawaii. Plan your trip today and discover all this Hawaiian paradise offers.
FAQ’s
Where is the best place to snorkel in Kona?
Kealakekua Bay is renowned for its excellent snorkeling conditions. The bay's clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it one of the top things to do in Kona, Hawaii, for underwater enthusiasts.
What unique activities can I experience in Kona?
One unique activity in Kona is the Manta Ray Night Dive, where you can swim with manta rays in their natural habitat under the night sky. Additionally, touring a Kona coffee plantation is a distinctive way to learn about and taste the world-famous Kona coffee.
When is the best time to visit Kona to watch whales?
The best time to visit Kona for whale watching is during winter, from December to April. This is when humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters, providing a spectacular sight and one of the memorable things to do in Kona, Hawaii.
