Trip Planning

What to Do in Kona, Hawaiʻi: A Guide to the Sunny Side

Welcome to Kona, the sun-soaked heart of the Big Island's western shore. From world-famous coffee to crystal-clear waters and ancient history, find out what makes this district a must-visit destination.

May 15, 2026 • 9 min read • by Big Island Tours Editorial

Kailua-Kona, the vibrant center of the Kona district, is where sunshine, history, and adventure meet on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. This leeward coast is famous for its dependably dry and sunny weather, making it a perfect base for exploring a staggering variety of landscapes and activities. Whether you're here to dive with manta rays, sip the world's best coffee at its source, or simply relax on a white-sand beach, Kona offers a quintessential Hawaiian experience with its own unique flavor.

This guide will walk you through the essential things to do in Kona, from the bustling streets of Kailua Village to the sacred grounds of ancient historical parks. We'll cover the must-see sights, the best underwater adventures, and the flavors that define this special corner of Hawaiʻi.

Explore Historic Kailua Village

The heart of Kona is Kailua Village, a walkable stretch along Aliʻi Drive that hugs the curve of Kailua Bay. This is where history and modern life coexist. Start your exploration here to get a feel for the region's royal past and laid-back present.

Huliheʻe Palace: Once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, this palace is now a museum showcasing beautiful koa wood furniture and artifacts from the era of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It offers a tangible connection to Hawaiʻi's Aliʻi (chiefs).
Mokuʻaikaua Church: Directly across the street from Huliheʻe Palace stands Hawaiʻi's first Christian church. Built in 1820 by the first missionaries to the islands, its lava rock and coral mortar structure is a testament to the monumental changes of that period.
Aliʻi Drive: The main drag itself is an attraction. Stroll along the seawall, browse the shops, and stop for a shave ice or a meal with an ocean view. The Kailua Pier at the north end is the iconic starting point for the IRONMAN World Championship and a great spot to watch the sunset.

While the village is charming, it’s also the launching point for many ocean tours. You can book everything from sailing trips to submarine adventures right from the pier and surrounding storefronts.

Snorkel or Dive in Crystal Clear Waters

The Kona coast is legendary for its calm, clear, and life-rich waters, protected from the trade winds by Mauna Loa and Hualālai. This makes for some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in all of Hawaiʻi.

Top Snorkeling Spots

Kahaluʻu Beach Park: Just south of Kailua-Kona, this is arguably the best and most accessible snorkeling spot for beginners and families. A sheltered cove protects it from large surf, and the shallow water is teeming with colorful fish and honu (green sea turtles). The reef here is fragile, so be mindful not to touch or stand on the coral.
Kealakekua Bay: This historic bay, where Captain James Cook first landed on the island, is a protected Marine Life Conservation District. The water clarity is superb, and the coral gardens are vibrant. Access is by boat tour or a strenuous hike down to the Captain Cook Monument. We highly recommend a boat tour, as it's the most responsible and enjoyable way to experience the bay.
Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay): Located adjacent to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, this spot gets its name from the natural lava rock 'steps' used to enter the water. It’s a popular spot known for frequent encounters with spinner dolphins (observe from a distance as per federal law) and excellent coral formations.

Manta Ray Night Dive

For a truly unforgettable experience, join a manta ray night dive or snorkel. Tour boats use lights to attract plankton, which in turn draws in giant, gentle manta rays that feed on them. Watching these majestic creatures glide and somersault through the water is a bucket-list adventure that has earned Kona global recognition.

Sip Your Way Through the Kona Coffee Belt

Kona is synonymous with coffee, and for good reason. The volcanic slopes of Hualālai and Mauna Loa create a unique microclimate—sunny mornings, cloudy afternoons, mild nights, and mineral-rich soil—that is perfect for growing Arabica beans. This small, designated region is known as the Kona Coffee Belt.

Driving the scenic roads mauka (uphill) from the coast will take you through communities like Hōlualoa, where you'll find dozens of coffee farms. Many offer tours and tastings. Visiting a farm is a fantastic way to learn about the bean-to-cup process, from harvesting the red coffee 'cherries' to roasting.

During a farm tour, you can:

Walk through the coffee orchards.
See the processing mills and drying decks.
Learn about the '100% Kona Coffee' designation and how to spot blends.
Enjoy a complimentary tasting of freshly brewed coffee.

Most farm tours are free and a great way to support local agriculture. Be sure to buy a bag of beans directly from the source—it's the best souvenir you can bring home.

Discover Hawaiian History and Culture

The Kona coast is steeped in Hawaiian history. Two national parks, managed by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), offer profound insight into the culture and traditions that shaped these islands.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

This is one of the most significant cultural sites in Hawaiʻi. In ancient times, a puʻuhonua was a place of refuge. If a person broke a kapu (sacred law), the penalty was death—unless they could reach the safety of the puʻuhonua. This park's grounds have been beautifully restored, with a massive stone wall separating the royal grounds from the sanctuary. You can take a self-guided tour to see reconstructed hale (thatched huts), kiʻi (carved wooden images), and feel the powerful spirit of the place. The NPS provides excellent interpretive information on-site.

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

Located just north of Kailua-Kona, this park protects the site of an ancient Hawaiian settlement. It features impressive rock walls, petroglyphs (rock carvings), and several large loko iʻa (fishponds) that demonstrate the ingenuity of early Hawaiian aquaculture. It's a quieter park, perfect for a walk and a glimpse into daily life in ancient Hawaiʻi. You may also see honu basking on the shore.

Relax on Sun-Drenched Beaches

While the Kona coast is rugged and volcanic, it's also home to some of the Big Island's most stunning white-sand beaches, primarily located north of the airport.

Maniniʻōwali Beach (Kua Bay): A postcard-perfect crescent of fine white sand and turquoise water. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike, so arrive early to secure parking. The waves can be strong in the winter, making it a fun spot for boogie boarding, but be cautious.
Makalawena Beach: Often called 'Mak' beach, this is arguably the most beautiful beach on the island. It requires a 20-30 minute hike over aʻā lava from the parking area at Mahaiʻula Beach, but your reward is a series of pristine coves that feel a world away from everything.
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area: A bit further north on the Kohala Coast, but worth the drive. Hāpuna is a long, wide expanse of sand that consistently ranks among the world's best beaches. It's fully equipped with lifeguards, picnic facilities, and restrooms.

Enjoy Fresh Flavors and Local Grinds

Kona's food scene reflects its identity as a coastal and agricultural hub. Don't leave without trying some local favorites.

Poke: Get authentic, fresh poke (diced raw fish salad) from a local market like Da Poke Shack or Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill. It's a world apart from what you might find on the mainland.
Farmers' Markets: The Kona Farmers Market near Aliʻi Drive offers a bounty of tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers, and locally made crafts. It's a great place to pick up snacks and see the island's agricultural diversity.
Plate Lunch: This local staple typically consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and an entrée like Kalua pork, chicken katsu, or grilled fish. Find a local spot and dig in for a filling, affordable meal.
Oceanfront Dining: For a more upscale experience, Kona offers numerous restaurants along Aliʻi Drive where you can enjoy a fantastic meal while watching the sunset over the Pacific. Many specialize in locally sourced ingredients and fresh-caught fish.

Kona is more than just a place; it's a gateway to incredible experiences. With its rich history, abundant ocean life, and world-class coffee, the Kona coast provides a perfect and sunny slice of paradise. For help arranging guided tours or luxury travel experiences across the island, consider a bespoke travel plan from High End Hawaii.

Frequently asked questions

What is Kona best known for?

Kona is most famous for its world-renowned coffee, grown on the slopes of Hualālai and Mauna Loa. It's also celebrated for its exceptionally clear and calm waters, making it a global destination for snorkeling, diving, and especially the manta ray night dive.

Is it better to stay in Hilo or Kona?

It depends on the experience you want. Kona, on the west side, is known for its sunny, dry weather, resorts, and beautiful beaches. Hilo, on the east side, is lush and rainy, offering access to waterfalls, botanical gardens, and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Many visitors split their time between both.

How many days do you need in Kona?

To experience the main highlights of Kona without feeling rushed, plan for at least 3 to 5 days. This gives you time to explore Kailua Village, visit a coffee farm, enjoy a snorkeling tour, relax on a beach, and visit a historical park like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau.

Can you swim with dolphins in Kona?

While you may see spinner dolphins in the wild, federal regulations prohibit swimming with or approaching them within 50 yards to protect their natural behaviors. The best and most respectful way to see them is from a distance on a guided boat tour that follows sustainable wildlife viewing practices.

What is the best month to visit Kona?

Kona's weather is fantastic year-round. April, May, September, and October are often considered the best months as they fall outside the peak tourist seasons, offering fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. However, any time of year is a good time to visit the sunny Kona coast.

Is Kona a walkable town?

The central part of Kailua-Kona, known as Kailua Village along Aliʻi Drive, is very walkable. You can easily stroll between shops, restaurants, Huliheʻe Palace, and the pier. However, to explore the broader Kona district, including beaches, coffee farms, and historical parks, you will need a rental car.

What is there to do in Kona at night?

The star attraction at night is the manta ray snorkel or dive, a truly unique experience. Other evening activities include enjoying a sunset dinner at an oceanfront restaurant, attending a lūʻau for traditional food and entertainment, or simply stargazing—the clear Kona skies are brilliant.