Picture yourself standing on sun-kissed shores, watching gentle waves roll onto pristine beaches while majestic manta rays glide through crystal-clear waters beneath you. This isn’t just a dream. This is Kona, the stunning western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, where adventure and relaxation blend perfectly.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, finding the best things to do in Kona can feel overwhelming with so many incredible options. From underwater adventures to cultural experiences, volcanic landscapes to coffee plantations, this guide will help you discover everything this tropical paradise has to offer.
Dive Into Underwater Adventures
When it comes to things to do in Kona Hawaii, nothing beats exploring the underwater world that surrounds this magnificent coastline.
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay stands as one of the premier snorkeling destinations not just in Kona, but in all of Hawaii. This protected marine sanctuary offers crystal-clear visibility and an abundance of colorful tropical fish.
The bay is home to the Captain Cook Monument, accessible by kayak or boat tour. Here, you’ll encounter vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Spinner dolphins frequently visit these waters, adding an extra touch of magic to your snorkeling experience.
Many visitors choose guided kayak tours that combine paddling with snorkeling. These tours typically provide all necessary equipment and expert guidance, making it perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Two Step Beach
Located adjacent to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, Two Step offers another exceptional snorkeling opportunity. The name comes from the natural lava rock formations that create easy entry points into the water.
The protected bay provides calm conditions ideal for snorkeling. You’ll find beautiful live coral formations here, so remember to maintain a respectful distance to preserve these delicate ecosystems.
Sea turtles are regular visitors to Two Step, and you might even spot spinner dolphins near the shore. The area offers free parking along the road, though it fills up quickly, so arrive early for the best experience.
Manta Ray Night Snorkeling
Among the top 10 things to do in Kona Hawaii, swimming with manta rays at night ranks as an unforgettable experience. These gentle giants, some with wingspans reaching 12 feet, perform graceful underwater ballets as they feed on plankton.
Tour operators provide flotation devices with lights that attract plankton, which in turn attracts the manta rays. As you float on the surface, these magnificent creatures glide mere inches from your face, creating memories that last a lifetime.
This experience is unique to the Kona coast and available year-round, unlike whale watching which is seasonal. Most tours depart around sunset and last approximately two hours.
If snorkeling isn’t your preference, you can still witness these amazing creatures from the Outrigger Kona Resort’s Manta Viewing Deck. The resort shines lights into the water nightly, attracting manta rays that you can observe from the comfort of a dry balcony.
Explore Stunning Kona Beaches
The beaches in Kona offer diverse experiences, from white sand shores to unique volcanic landscapes.
Magic Sands Beach
Magic Sands Beach, also known as White Sands Beach, earned its name from a fascinating phenomenon. Strong ocean currents can sweep away the white sand overnight, exposing the rocky shoreline beneath. Then, just as mysteriously, the sand returns.
When the sand is present, this city beach becomes a popular spot for bodyboarding and swimming. Amenities include showers, restrooms, and lifeguards, making it convenient for families.
The beach tends to get crowded, especially on weekends, but the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful setting make it worth a visit.
Kua Bay Beach
Located within Kekaha Kai State Park north of Kona Airport, Kua Bay boasts stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand. This beach is more spacious than Magic Sands and generally less crowded, though it’s still popular with both locals and visitors.
The clear waters here make it excellent for swimming and snorkeling. During winter months, Kua Bay becomes a fantastic spot for whale watching, with humpback whales often visible from the shore.
Full facilities including showers, restrooms, and lifeguards ensure a comfortable beach day. The beach occasionally experiences the same sand-disappearing phenomenon as Magic Sands, though less frequently.
Kahalu’u Beach Park
Kahalu’u Beach is perfect for beginner snorkelers due to its calm, shallow waters and abundant marine life. The rocky formations create natural habitats for countless tropical fish and sea turtles.
Volunteers at the beach pavilion provide information about daily marine life sightings and offer free reef-safe sunscreen. They also educate visitors about ocean conservation, making this beach experience both fun and educational.
The beach sits along Ali’i Drive in south Kona, making it easily accessible and ideal for an afternoon of affordable things to do in Kona.
Unique Colored Sand Beaches
For adventurous travelers, the Big Island offers beaches with sand in extraordinary colors.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, located south of Kona, features jet-black sand created by volcanic activity. Palm trees line the shore, creating postcard-perfect scenery. This beach is famous for green sea turtle sightings, and you’ll likely see several basking on the warm sand.
For something truly special, hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach near South Point. This is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The distinctive color comes from olivine crystals in the surrounding volcanic cinder cone.
The hike to Green Sand Beach covers about 2.5 miles each way across exposed terrain, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Some visitors hike one direction and arrange a shuttle ride back with local drivers.
Discover Coffee Farm Experiences
Kona coffee is world-renowned, and visiting the farms where it’s grown ranks among the best things to do in Kona Hawaii.
Greenwell Coffee Farm
Greenwell Coffee Farm offers free 45-minute tours throughout the day, no reservation required. Simply show up and sign in for the next available tour.
While you wait, enjoy complimentary tastings from rows of self-serve carafes featuring different roasts. Flavored options include macadamia nut and chocolate macadamia nut varieties.
The tour takes you through the coffee-growing process, from bean to roast, providing insights into what makes Kona coffee so special.
Mountain Thunder Coffee
Located in the Kona Cloud Forest at higher elevation, Mountain Thunder Coffee provides a different perspective on coffee growing. Their green shack offers free coffee tastings, and a covered pavilion shows looped videos about coffee production.
Every half hour, free 15-20 minute farm tours explain the growing process and lead you through the processing facility with its large roasting machines.
Some coffee farms also offer 4×4 plantation tours and lava tube walks, combining coffee education with adventure.
Experience Hawaiian Culture and History
Understanding the rich cultural heritage adds depth to your Kona experience.
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Also known as the City of Refuge, this national historical park preserves a sacred Hawaiian site. In ancient Hawaii, those who broke kapu (sacred laws) could avoid punishment by reaching this sanctuary.
The park features restored temples, royal grounds, and wooden ki’i (carved images). Rangers and interpretive signs provide historical context, helping visitors understand the significance of this place in Hawaiian culture.
Adjacent to the park, you’ll find Two Step snorkeling area, allowing you to combine cultural education with marine exploration in one visit.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Located just south of Kona Airport, this park showcases an early Hawaiian settlement along the rugged Kona coast. The park protects two ancient fishponds and numerous archaeological sites.
A 3-mile trail passes a petroglyph field (best viewed in morning or evening light), Aimakapa Fishpond, and leads to Honokohau Beach. Green sea turtles are almost guaranteed sightings here.
The visitor center offers guided tours and special programs, providing deeper understanding of how ancient Hawaiians lived along this coast.
Walking Ali’i Drive
Ali’i Drive serves as Kona’s main tourist corridor, stretching 0.75 miles along Kailua Bay. This oceanfront road is lined with restaurants, gift shops, and art galleries.
Window shopping here costs nothing and provides entertainment for hours. Stop at Tasty Kona for free samples of locally made food products.
Street performers occasionally appear, adding to the lively atmosphere. The Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel features free art displays depicting Hawaiian history and culture.
Adventure on Land
Beyond beaches and water activities, Kona offers exciting land-based adventures.
Mauna Kea Summit
Standing at 13,803 feet, Mauna Kea is Hawaii’s highest peak. The summit offers otherworldly landscapes and some of the world’s best stargazing.
If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive to the summit. Otherwise, book a guided tour that handles transportation and provides warm jackets (temperatures at the summit can be near freezing, even when beaches are warm).
Sunset and sunrise from Mauna Kea are spectacular, and the star-filled night sky is unforgettable. The Milky Way appears clearly visible, and on clear nights, you might see other planets.
The Mauna Kea Visitor Center at 9,200 feet offers good celestial views if you can’t reach the summit. Download a stargazing app before your visit to identify constellations and planets.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
While located on the Hilo side of the island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park deserves a spot on your Kona itinerary. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours each way, making it a full-day excursion.
The park showcases active volcanoes, lava tubes, and diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforest to barren volcanic landscapes. The Kilauea Iki Trail offers an incredible hike across a volcanic crater floor.
If Kilauea is erupting during your visit, the glowing lava is best viewed at night, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Helicopter tours provide aerial views of volcanic activity and are worth considering if active lava flows are occurring.
Pololu Valley
Pololu Valley, located on the northern tip of the Big Island, offers dramatic black sand beaches and lush valley views. The hike down to the valley floor is steep but relatively short, taking only 15-20 minutes.
At the bottom, explore the beach, ponds, and forested trails. Some adventurous visitors discover rope swings hidden among the trees.
The valley provides peaceful solitude compared to more popular destinations, and the panoramic coastal views from the lookout are spectacular even if you choose not to hike down.
Things to Do in Kona at Night
Kona comes alive after dark with unique experiences and entertainment options.
Live Music and Entertainment
Several restaurants and bars feature live music nightly. Papa Kona offers cozy dining with waves crashing below your table and regular musical performances. Huggo’s on the Rocks provides a lively atmosphere where you literally have sand between your toes while enjoying live entertainment.
The Royal Kona Resort hosts Voyagers of the Pacific Luau, which can be viewed from the pool area or Don’s Mai Tai Bar even if you don’t purchase luau tickets. Similarly, Island Breeze Luau at the Courtyard by Marriott can be watched from Kailua Pier across the bay.
Free hula and Polynesian performances occur regularly at Keauhou Shopping Center and at Waikoloa’s Queen’s Marketplace and Kings Shops.
Sunset Watching
Watching the sunset ranks among the most romantic and affordable things to do in Kona. Popular sunset viewing spots include Old Kona Airport State Recreation Park, Pine Trees Surfing Beach, and Kua Bay Beach.
If you’re lucky, you might witness the elusive “green flash,” a brief green shimmer that appears just as the sun dips below the horizon. This rare phenomenon requires clear skies and an unobstructed view of the horizon.
Farmers Markets
Several farmers markets operate in the evening or stay open late. These markets offer locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and food truck vendors. Live music often provides free entertainment while you browse.
Markets worth visiting include Kona Farmers Market (Wednesday through Sunday), Ho’olulu Market (Wednesday and Friday), and Ali’i Gardens Marketplace (Tuesday through Sunday).
Unique Water Activities
Submarine Tours
For those who want to explore underwater without getting wet, submarine tours offer a unique alternative. The Atlantis submarine descends to depths where you’ll see marine life and coral formations through large viewing windows.
This experience is perfect for families with young children, non-swimmers, or anyone who prefers to stay dry while experiencing the underwater world.
Surfing and Paddleboarding
Kona’s waves make it an excellent place to learn surfing. Several surf schools offer lessons for beginners, with patient instructors who can usually get first-timers standing on a board.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) originated in Hawaii and remains popular in Kona’s calm bays. The gentle waters make it easy for beginners to learn, while experienced paddleboarders can venture out to explore the coastline.
Outrigger Canoe Rides
Outrigger canoes have been used in Hawaii since 200 AD. Taking a ride in one of these traditional vessels provides both a cultural experience and a fun activity.
Tours depart from Kailua-Kona and offer unique perspectives of the coastline while guides share information about Hawaiian voyaging history and traditions.
Activities for Families
Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
This unique attraction lets visitors hold live seahorses. The 90-minute tour educates guests about seahorse breeding, conservation, and their natural environment.
At the tour’s end, a seahorse wraps around your finger, creating an unforgettable moment that even shy or grumpy kids will enjoy.
Big Island Bees
This working honey farm offers tours where beekeepers open hives and explain the honey-making process. Kids love trying to spot the queen bee among thousands of workers.
After the educational portion, everyone samples different honey varieties. The farm also sells honey products and beeswax items.
Shave Ice at Ululani’s
On hot afternoons, nothing beats Hawaiian shave ice. Ululani’s stands above other shave ice shops with unique flavors made from premium purees and fruit juices.
Flavors like pickled mango, wedding cake, tamarind, and green tea complement traditional fruit options. The texture and taste quality make it worth seeking out this specific location.
Adventure Tours and Excursions
Helicopter Tours
Helicopter tours provide perspectives of the Big Island impossible to see from the ground. Tours typically focus on three areas: the entire island circuit, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, or the Kohala Coast.
Kohala Coast tours showcase dramatic sea cliffs, remote waterfalls, and pristine valleys. Some tours include waterfall landings in secluded locations.
Volcano-focused tours are especially spectacular if Kilauea is actively erupting, with the glowing lava creating stunning aerial views, particularly during dawn or dusk flights.
Zipline Adventures
Zipline tours let you soar above Kona’s lush canopy. Kohala Zipline offers one of the best experiences, with safety as a top priority and guides who ensure everyone has fun while staying secure.
These tours typically last several hours and include multiple ziplines of varying lengths and heights, providing thrills for adventurous travelers.
Whale Watching (Winter Months)
From December through March, humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters. These massive creatures can be spotted from shore, but boat tours provide up-close encounters.
Watching whales breach, tail-slap, and care for their calves creates incredible memories. Tour operators follow regulations that protect the whales while allowing guests to observe these magnificent animals.
Practical Tips for Visiting Kona
Best Time to Visit
Kona enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F. The drier season runs from May through October, while winter months see occasional rain showers.
Winter (December-March) is whale watching season, making it popular despite being slightly wetter. Summer offers calmer ocean conditions ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Getting Around
Rental cars are essential for exploring Kona and the surrounding areas. The Hele-On public bus offers limited service along Ali’i Drive via the Kona Trolley, but it runs on an unpredictable schedule.
Many resorts and hotels offer free parking, though some areas along Ali’i Drive charge for parking. Arrive early at popular beaches to secure free roadside parking.
What to Bring
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and marine ecosystems. Hawaii has regulations regarding sunscreen ingredients that can harm coral reefs.
Bring a reusable water bottle, as staying hydrated in Kona’s sunny climate is essential. Many locations offer water refill stations.
Lightweight, breathable clothing works best, though bring a light jacket for evening activities or high-elevation visits like Mauna Kea.
Respecting the Environment and Culture
When visiting cultural sites, maintain respectful behavior. Don’t touch artifacts, climb on structures, or remove anything from historical areas.
Maintain appropriate distances from marine life. Federal regulations require staying at least 10 feet from sea turtles and 50 feet from Hawaiian monk seals.
Use marked trails to prevent damage to fragile ecosystems. Many native Hawaiian plants exist nowhere else on Earth and are at risk of extinction.
Where to Eat in Kona
Local Favorites
Kona Inn offers arguably the best mai tai in town, paired with stunning ocean views. While the food receives mixed reviews, happy hour makes it an affordable stop for drinks and appetizers.
Lava Lava Beach Club provides beachfront dining with your toes literally in the sand. The casual atmosphere and fresh seafood make it a local favorite.
For breakfast, try one of the local cafes serving traditional Hawaiian plate lunches or fresh tropical fruit.
Coffee and Treats
Sample Kona coffee at local cafes and shops throughout town. Many offer free samples, letting you compare different roasts and find your favorite.
Don’t leave Kona without trying malasadas, Portuguese-style fried doughnuts that have become a Hawaiian staple. These sweet treats are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Making the Most of Your Kona Experience
With so many incredible things to do in Kona, planning becomes essential. Prioritize activities based on your interests, whether that’s marine life, cultural experiences, adventure sports, or relaxation.
Book popular tours and activities in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Many operators offer free cancellation policies if plans change.
Balance busy activity days with leisurely beach time. Part of Kona’s appeal lies in its relaxed island atmosphere, so don’t over-schedule your vacation.
Consider splitting your stay between Kona and Hilo if you have a week or more. This allows you to experience both sides of the Big Island without long daily drives.
Conclusion
From swimming with gentle manta rays to exploring ancient Hawaiian sites, hiking volcanic landscapes to sipping world-famous coffee, Kona offers endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation. The diverse activities cater to every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking thrills, cultural enrichment, or peaceful beach days.
The 25 best things to do in Kona Hawaii mentioned in this guide represent just the beginning of what this remarkable destination offers. Each visit reveals new discoveries, hidden beaches, and unforgettable experiences that keep travelers returning year after year.
Start planning your Kona adventure today. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this stunning Hawaiian destination promises memories that last a lifetime. Book those snorkeling tours, reserve your manta ray experience, and get ready to fall in love with everything that makes Kona beach and the surrounding area so special.
The things to do in Kona at night, the affordable things to do in Kona, and the breathtaking natural beauty all combine to create the perfect tropical getaway. Your Hawaiian adventure awaits on the sun-drenched shores of Kona, where every day brings new wonders to discover and experiences to treasure.
FAQs
1) What is Kona best known for?
Kona is famous for manta ray night snorkeling, world-class Kona coffee farms, and sunny beaches along Hawaii’s Big Island west coast.
2) Is Kona better than Hilo for first-time visitors?
Yes, for most travelers Kona has more beaches, tours, restaurants, and better weather. Hilo is greener, rainier, and better for volcano sightseeing.
3) Can you snorkel in Kona if you can’t swim well?
Yes calm spots like Kahaluʻu Beach and guided boat tours provide flotation gear and instructors for beginners.
4) Do you need a rental car in Kona?
Almost always yes. Public transit is limited and most top beaches, farms, and parks require driving.
5) When is the best time to visit Kona?
May October for dry weather and smooth seas; December–March for whale watching and cooler temps.
