Kona Guide
The Kona Coast — coffee farms, manta rays, and volcanic wonders.
Welcome to Kona
The Big Island's sunny west side offers endless adventure — from snorkeling with manta rays under the stars to sipping coffee grown on the slopes of Hualalai. Explore ancient Hawaiian history at Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, stargaze from 13,796 feet atop Mauna Kea, or simply relax on some of Hawaii's most beautiful beaches along the Kohala Coast.
- Kailua-Kona Main Town
- KOA Airport Code
- 100% Kona World-Famous Coffee
- Manta Rays Nighttime Icon
Ready to explore Kona on your own? A rental car is the easiest way to see the island at your own pace. Check Kona car rental rates →
The Bucket List
Night Snorkel with Manta Rays
One of the Big Island's most popular experiences — watch gentle giant manta rays, with wingspans up to 12 feet, feed beneath illuminated rafts just after sunset. Review & book a manta ray tour →
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Ranked the #1 thing to do on the Big Island — witness the active Kilauea Volcano, hike through rainforest and desert landscapes, and explore lava tubes and steam vents. Book the highest-rated tours →
Mauna Kea Observatory
Stargaze from one of the world's best astronomy sites at 13,796 feet. Dress warmly — temperatures often drop below 40°F at the summit. Book a summit tour with a free star photo →
Kealakekua Bay
Snorkel pristine, historic waters near the Captain Cook Monument by boat tour or kayak — some of the clearest water on the island.
Historic Kailua Village
Stroll Ali'i Drive to visit Hulihe'e Palace, Mokuaikaua Church, and oceanside dining and shops in the heart of Kailua-Kona.
Holualoa Kona Coffee Farms
Drive up the slopes of Hualalai to sample 100% pure Kona coffee and tour historic working orchards. Book a coffee & bee farm tour →
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau
Step back into Hawaiian history at the City of Refuge National Historical Park, with carved ki'i (statues) and tidal pools.
Hapuna Beach
Consistently ranked among Hawaii's best beaches — white sand, crystal-clear water, and excellent snorkeling along the Kohala Coast. Book a private Hapuna Beach & Hawi tour →
Kahalu'u Beach Park
Kona's favorite family-friendly cove — shallow coral reefs and frequent sea turtle sightings.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Ancient Hawaiian fishponds, green sea turtles, and coastal walking paths just north of Kailua-Kona.
Makalawena Beach
A hidden gem north of Kailua-Kona — soft white sand, clear water, and a serene, secluded atmosphere perfect for a quiet escape.
Waipi'o Valley
Ancient temples, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts — hike or ride horseback into the valley to see traditional Hawaiian taro farming. More info on Waipi'o Valley →
Family-Friendly Kona
Kahalu'u Beach Park is the go-to for families — shallow, protected reefs and near-guaranteed sea turtle sightings make it easy and safe for kids. Kaloko-Honokohau's flat coastal paths and ancient fishponds are an easy, educational walk for all ages, and a Kona coffee farm tour is a fun, hands-on outing the whole family can enjoy together.
Thrill Seeker
Doors-Off Helicopter Tours
Soar over Kilauea's active craters, dramatic ocean cliffs, and cascading waterfalls with nothing between you and the elements. Book helicopter tours →
Zipline Canopy Adventures
Fly above lush tropical valleys and river gorges along the Kohala coast on some of Hawaii's longest, highest ziplines. Explore zipline excursions →
Off-Road ATV & Lava Tube Exploration
Power through rugged volcanic trails and hidden rainforest paths on an all-terrain vehicle adventure. Book ATV adventures →
Kona Travel FAQ
Do I need a 4WD or Jeep in Kona?
No. Standard sedans, compacts, and SUVs easily reach almost all major sights, resort areas, coffee farms, and beaches around Kona.
How long is the drive to Volcanoes National Park?
About 80 miles via Highway 11 South — roughly 2 to 2.5 hours depending on stops.
Can I pick up in Kona and drop off in Hilo?
Yes — one-way rentals between Kona Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) are available through select rental partners, making cross-island road trips effortless.
Getting Around Kona
From coffee farms in Holualoa to the summit of Mauna Kea, Kona's best spots are spread across the island — a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Ready to Explore Kona?
From manta rays to volcanoes, the Kona Coast is calling.
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