Things To Do In Kailua Kona Hawaii

Kailua Kona is a popular tourist destination located on the western side of Hawaii’s Big Island. It is known for its picturesque beaches, rich culture, and tropical vibe. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in Kailua Kona. This city guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Kailua Kona.

Experience Hawaii’s Beaches

Kailua Kona is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. Kona is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class snorkeling. Some popular beaches include Kua Bay, Kahaluu Beach, and Hapuna Beach. Kua Bay is a white sand beach with crystal clear blue waters and is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Kahaluu Beach is a reef-protected beach with excellent snorkeling and a great spot to see the Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hapuna Beach is a great spot for sunbathing and swimming and is known for its beautiful white sand.

Explore the Historic Sites of Kona

Kailua Kona is home to many historical sites that are worth exploring. The Hulihee Palace is a royal palace built in 1838, and is open for tours. The Mokuaikaua Church is Hawaii’s first Christian church and is a great spot to take a tour and learn more about Hawaii’s history. The Kaloko-Honokohau National Park offers guided tours to explore the ancient Hawaiian sites. The Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a great spot to take a tour to learn more about Hawaiian customs and traditions.

Visit Kailua Kona’s Markets and Museums

Kailua Kona has a variety of markets and museums to explore. The Kailua-Kona Farmers Market offers a wide selection of local produce, artisanal food items, and crafts. The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory is a great spot to take a tour and learn about the macadamia nut industry in Hawaii. The Island Breeze Luau is a great way to experience a traditional Hawaiian luau with hula dancing and traditional Hawaiian cuisine. The Makalawena Beach Park is a great spot to explore and relax. The Lyman Museum and Mission House is a great spot to learn about Hawaiian culture and history.

Experience the Outdoor Adventures of Kona

Kailua Kona is home to some of the best outdoor adventures in Hawaii. The Kona Coast offers excellent hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking opportunities. The Kealakekua Bay is a great spot for snorkeling and kayaking, and is known for its excellent visibility. The Mauna Kea Beach Park is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The Big Island’s Kohala Coast is a great spot to go whale watching or take a boat tour. The Lava Tree State Park is a great spot to hike and explore the lava formations.

Enjoy the Local Cuisine in Kona

Kailua Kona is home to an array of delicious local cuisine. Some of the local favorites include poke bowls, ahi tuna tacos, and macadamia nut pancakes. The Kona Brewing Company is a great spot to try a variety of locally brewed craft beers. The Kona Coffee Company is a great spot to try locally roasted coffee and sample some of the best Kona coffee on the island. The Aloha Island Grill is a great spot to try some of the best Hawaiian dishes in town.

Make the Most of Your Trip to Kailua Kona

Kailua Kona is a beautiful destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing getaway, you can find it in Kailua Kona. It’s important to remember to be respectful of the local culture, and to have a great time. When you visit Kona, be sure to explore the beaches, historical sites, markets, museums, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine. With all the amazing things to do and see, you’ll be sure to make the most of your trip to Kailua Kona.

An Insider’s Guide: Things To Do In Kailua Kona, Hawaii

Kailua Kona is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Hawaii, and there are plenty of things to do, see, eat, and experience. However, as a traveler, it is always rewarding to learn about offbeat places, untold stories, and unique experiences. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some of the hidden gems and lesser-known aspects of Kailua Kona that only locals know.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Kailua Kona is famous for its stunning beaches, there are several local attractions that are worth visiting. One of them is the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, which features a well-preserved Hawaiian royal grounds and temple. It is a sacred place for the locals that provides an opportunity to learn about the ancient Hawaiian culture. Another hidden gem is the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, which offers an insight into the life of native Hawaiians and their fishing practices.

Dining Spots: Taste The Local Flavors

Kailua Kona has an exciting and diverse food culture, influenced by different ethnic groups. One of the dishes that you should not miss is Poke, a flavorful dish made from fresh raw fish. You can find it in almost every restaurant, but locals recommend the Da Poke Shack. Another place to try is the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, where you can taste the unique flavor of Kona Coffee and learn about its fascinating history.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace The Local Way

Kailua Kona is a melting pot of different cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the diversity. One of the most interesting events is the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which is a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture and hula dance. It is one of the most renowned hula festivals in the world where you can see the best dancers from all over Hawaii. Another unique cultural experience is the pa’u riding, which is a Hawaiian style of horseback riding that involves wearing colorful skirts and riding horses elegantly.

Local History: Stories That Inspire

Kailua Kona has a rich and fascinating history that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. One of the lesser-known stories is about the Hulihee Palace, which was a royal residence that is now a museum. The palace has survived several natural disasters such as tsunamis over the years, and each has its own story to tell. Another story is about the Ahuena Heiau, which was a sacred temple and residence of the famous king Kamehameha I. It is believed that the king spent his last days there, and you can still see the replica of his famous war canoe.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Your Adventure

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, then Kailua Kona has plenty of opportunities for you. One of them involves swimming with the manta rays that come out to feed at night. You can join a snorkeling or diving tour that takes you to the best spot to watch the gentle giants up close. Another suggestion is to hike to the top of Mount Hualalai, which is a dormant volcanic mountain. It offers incredible views of the island and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii.

Kailua Kona is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are an adventure seeker, history buff, or a food lover. We hope this insider’s guide has helped you discover some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that Kailua Kona has to offer. Don’t be afraid to explore, ask questions, and try something new, and we are sure that you will have a memorable trip.