Top Things To Do In Kona Hawaii

Kona, Hawaii is the largest city on the Big Island and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and exciting activities, Kona has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Kona has plenty of activities to keep you busy.

A Brief History Of Kona

Kona has been inhabited since the 12th century, when the Hawaiian Islands were first settled by Polynesian sailors. The city has a rich history of fishing, farming, and trading with other nearby islands. In 1820, the first Protestant missionary arrived in Kona and began to spread Christianity throughout the islands. Throughout the 19th century, Kona was a major port of entry for whalers and traders, as well as a stopover for ships traveling between Europe and North America.

Today, Kona is a bustling tourist destination boasting some of the best beaches in the world. The city is home to a vibrant community of locals, tourists, and businesses alike. From deep-sea fishing to stand-up paddleboard yoga, there’s something for everyone in Kona.

What To Do In Kona

Kona has plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for ways to relax or explore the area, there are plenty of things to do in Kona. Here are some of the top things to do in Kona:

Visit Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is one of the most popular spots in Kona and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The bay is known for its vibrant coral reef, which is home to a wide variety of marine life including dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, or just relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine.

Take a Culinary Tour

Kona is home to some of the best restaurants in Hawaii. Visitors can experience the flavors of the island by taking a culinary tour. On a culinary tour, guests will get to visit some of Kona’s best restaurants and sample a variety of local dishes. From fresh seafood to delicious desserts, these tours offer an amazing way to experience all that Kona has to offer.

Explore Volcano National Park

No visit to Kona would be complete without a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and witness some of nature’s most stunning landscapes. Visitors can also take part in guided hikes, bike rides, and more.

Visit Hulihee Palace

Hulihee Palace is one of the most popular landmarks in Kona and is a must-see for any visitor to the area. Built in 1838 as a summer home for King Kalakaua, this historic palace is now open to the public and offers visitors a look into Hawaiian history and culture. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, take pictures with its majestic palm trees, and learn about Hawaii’s past through its many exhibits.

Go Shopping at Alii Drive

Alii Drive is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Kona. The street is lined with a variety of shops offering everything from locally-made crafts to designer clothing. The street also features a number of restaurants and cafes, so visitors can take a break from shopping and grab a bite to eat. Alii Drive offers something for everyone and is a great place to go for a fun day out.

Tours To Enjoy In Kona

Kona offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore the area and experience all that it has to offer. Here are two popular tours that provide an amazing way to experience Kona:

Big Island Snorkeling Tour

The Big Island Snorkeling Tour offers an amazing opportunity for visitors to explore the waters around Kona. Guests will be guided by an expert snorkeling guide who will teach them about the different types of fish, coral, and other marine life found in this area. Once guests have been given their snorkeling gear, they will be taken out into the bay to explore its underwater wonders. Guests will be able to observe sea turtles, manta rays, and other marine life in their natural habitat. This tour provides an amazing opportunity for visitors to explore the waters around Kona and experience its vibrant marine life firsthand. Book a Big Island Snorkeling Tour here.

Big Island Whale Watching Tour

The Big Island Whale Watching Tour provides visitors with an up close view of some of the world’s most magnificent creatures. During this tour, guests will board an inflatable boat and journey out into Kona Bay in search of whales. Guests will be able to observe humpback whales as they breach and dive through the water, providing an incredible show for visitors lucky enough t witness it firsthand. This tour offers an amazing opportunity for visitors to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat without having to travel far from shore. Book a Big Island Whale Watching Tour here.

Conclusion

Kona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii and it is easy to see why. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting activities, there is something for everyone in Kona. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Kona has plenty of activities to keep you busy. From snorkeling and whale watching tours to exploring Volcano National Park and visiting Hulihee Palace, there are plenty of things to do while visiting Kona that will create memories that will last a lifetime.