things to do in kailua-kona

Kailua-Kona, located on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Here are some things to do in Kailua-Kona:

1. Visit Hulihe’e Palace: This historic palace was once the vacation home of Hawaiian royalty and now serves as a museum showcasing the island’s rich history.
2. Explore Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park: This national park preserves ancient Hawaiian temples, burial grounds, and archaeological sites, offering a glimpse into the island’s past.
3. Snorkel or scuba dive with sea turtles: Kailua-Kona is known for its abundant sea turtles, and snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters is a great way to see these magnificent creatures up close.
4. Walk along the Kailua Village waterfront: This charming waterfront area is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and offers stunning views of the ocean.
5. Visit a coffee farm: The Big Island is famous for its coffee, and visiting a coffee farm is a great way to learn about the production process and taste some of the best coffee in the world.
6. Take a sunset cruise: Watching the sunset over the ocean is a classic Hawaiian experience, and a cruise is a great way to see it from a different perspective.
7. Hike to the top of Mauna Loa: For the adventurous, a hike to the top of Mauna Loa offers breathtaking views of the island and a unique opportunity to see the island’s unique volcanic landscape.
8. Visit the Kona Inn Farmers Market: Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Kona Inn hosts a farmers market featuring local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
9. Go kayaking or paddleboarding: Kailua-Kona’s calm waters make it an ideal spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, and there are plenty of rental shops and guided tours available.
10. Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau: A luau is a classic Hawaiian experience, and there are plenty of options in Kailua-Kona to choose from, featuring traditional food, music, and dance.
11. Visit the Kahalu’u Beach Park: This protected marine sanctuary is home to an incredible array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
12. Take a helicopter tour: For a bird’s-eye view of the island, take a helicopter tour over the Big Island’s stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and volcanic craters.
13. Visit the Mauna Kea Observatory: This world-renowned observatory offers stargazing opportunities and insights into the island’s unique astronomical features.
14. Go fishing: Kailua-Kona is renowned for its fishing, and there are plenty of charter options available for both deep-sea fishing and shore fishing.
15. Attend a cultural event: Kailua-Kona hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, including the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, the Hawaiian Woodworking Show, and the Kona Film Festival.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Kailua-Kona. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there’s something for everyone on the Big Island.