Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island blends historic charm, world‑class coffee farms, and spectacular ocean vistas. Known for its sunny weather, vibrant waterfront, and easy access to marine and cultural sites, the best time to visit is April‑October when the seas are calm and the skies clear for stargazing.
Top Things to Do in Kailua-Kona
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Getting Around Kailua-Kona
From the Airport
Transport. The Kona International Airport (KOA) is served by the Hawaii County Hele-On Bus Route 1, which runs to downtown Kona in about 30-40 minutes for a $2 fare; private shuttles such as Kona Shuttle or Robinson's Airport Shuttle cost roughly $15-20 and take 15-20 minutes. Uber and Lyft both operate at KOA, and local taxi companies like Hawaii Taxi are also available.
Once You're There
Transport. There is no metro, subway or tram on the Big Island, but downtown Kailua-Kona is compact and very walkable. For longer trips, Uber and Lyft are the norm, and many visitors rent a car to explore the west coast and nearby attractions, as the Hele-On Bus network is limited and a car is generally considered worth it.
Where to Stay in Kailua-Kona
Hotel picks for Kailua-Kona are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Kailua-Kona
Kona Brewing Company★ 4.8 (21)Sample the Big Wave IPA, a hoppy tribute to the Pacific, straight from the brewery’s taproom alongside a plate of garlic‑butter pretzel bites.
The Coffee Shack★ 4.7 (2,600)The acai bowl topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes offers a sunrise view over the ocean.
Merriman's★ 4.7 (2,140)Try the macadamia‑nut‑crusted Mahi Mahi, a farm‑to‑table showcase of locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients.
Da Poke Shack★ 4.6 (2,684)The spicy tuna poke with mango, chili and toasted sesame seeds delivers a bright, tropical heat.
Kona Coffee & Tea Company★ 4.6 (1,814)Their single‑origin Kona coffee, hand‑poured in a pour‑over, showcases the island’s premium beans.
Jackie's Ribs★ 4.5 (2,626)The hickory‑smoked baby back ribs glazed with Kona coffee‑infused barbecue sauce are a local legend.
Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill★ 4.4 (6,518)Their Ahi Poke bowl, made with island‑caught tuna, furikake and a splash of soy‑sesame dressing, is a benchmark for poke in Kona.
Huggo's on the Rocks★ 4.4 (4,724)Enjoy the fresh grilled Mahi Mahi served on a lava rock, with ocean views that make the dish unforgettable.
Island Lava Java★ 4.4 (3,705)The Kona‑coffee‑infused breakfast burrito, packed with scrambled eggs, bacon and avocado, highlights the island’s coffee heritage.
Kona Inn Restaurant★ 4.2 (2,098)Their classic Hawaiian plate lunch featuring tender Kalua pork, steamed rice and cabbage is a must‑try comfort dish.
3 Days in Kailua-Kona
Historic Kona & Waterfront
Morning. Start at Hulihe‘e Palace for a guided tour of the former royal residence, then walk across the street to the historic Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest standing church in Hawaii.
Afternoon. Stroll down Ali'i Drive, stopping at the Kona Brewing Company for a tasting tour, then browse fresh produce and crafts at the Kona Farmers Market.
Evening. Watch the sunset from Kailua Pier and enjoy a relaxed dinner of fresh poke at Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill.
Coffee Country & Coastal Adventure
Morning. Tour the Kona Coffee Living History Farm to learn about coffee cultivation and sample premium Kona brews.
Afternoon. Drive to Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park; hike the short trail to the Captain Cook Monument and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.
Evening. Dine on locally sourced seafood at Huggo's on the Rocks while watching the waves, then sip a dessert coffee at Kona Coffee & Tea Company.
Cultural Parks & Starry Skies
Morning. Explore Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, wandering the ancient refuge grounds and sacred sites.
Afternoon. Visit nearby Kaloko‑Honokōhau National Historical Park to see historic fishponds, tidal pools, and coastal trails.
Evening. Drive up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for sunset views and a guided stargazing program; finish with a celebratory dinner at Merriman's.