Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Welcome to Kailua-Kona, a charming town located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Kailua-Kona is a true paradise for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
One of the main attractions in Kailua-Kona is its beautiful coastline. The crystal-clear waters of Kailua Bay are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and diving, allowing visitors to discover the colorful underwater world teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs. You can also embark on a thrilling boat tour to spot dolphins and even swim with majestic manta rays.
If you're a history enthusiast, you'll be fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of Kailua-Kona. Visit the Hulihe'e Palace, a former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty, and explore its beautifully preserved rooms filled with historical artifacts. Immerse yourself in the past at the Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, and learn about the arrival of missionaries in the 19th century.
No visit to Kailua-Kona is complete without exploring its vibrant local markets and shops. Stroll through the Ali'i Drive, a bustling street lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. Here, you can find traditional Hawaiian crafts, stunning jewelry made from local gems, and delicious treats like macadamia nuts and Kona coffee.
For those seeking adventure, Kailua-Kona offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hike through the lush rainforests of Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and discover ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. Take a thrilling helicopter tour to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Big Island from above, including the majestic Mauna Kea volcano.
In the evening, indulge in the local culinary delights that Kailua-Kona has to offer. From fresh seafood caught daily to traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke and kalua pig, your taste buds will be treated to an explosion of flavors. Don't forget to try the famous Kona coffee, known for its smooth and rich taste.
Hawaii
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Attractions - What to See and Explore
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Hulihe'e Palace, Kamakahonu, Kahaluʻu Bay, Mokuaikaua Church. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Shopping
Kona Inn Shopping Village
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiShopping Shopping centre Shop 
Ali'i Gardens Marketplace
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiShopping Shopping centre Flea market Puapuaa 2 Ahupua`a 
Kona Commons
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiShopping Shopping centre Keahuolu Ahupua`a 
Kona Coast Shopping Center
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiShopping Shopping centre Keahuolu Ahupua`a
Active
Hawaii Forest & Trail
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiHiking trail Hiking Nature and wildlife tours Kaloko Ahupua`a 
Holualoa Bay
Kailua-Kona, HawaiiSurf spot Archaeological site 
Ocean Course
Kailua-Kona, HawaiiScuba and snorkeling Dolphin and whale watching Outdoor activities 
Kona Country Club
North Kona, Kailua-Kona, HawaiiOutdoor activities Golf Keauhou 1 Ahupua`a
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kīlauea (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park), Mauna Loa (Hawaii Volcanoes National Park), Lake Waiau (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area).
Best Time To Visit Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Learn when is the best time to travel to Kailua-Kona, Hawaii weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a cherished quick bread made from cornmeal, typically leavened with baking powder. It has deep roots in Native American cuisine, where corn has been a staple for millennia. When European settlers arrived in the New World, they learned to prepare corn-based...
Cupcake
A cupcake is a delightful, single-serving cake typically baked in a small, thin paper or aluminum cup. These tasty treats have a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, with the term "cupcake" first appearing in the early 19th century.
Slider
A slider is a small, steam-grilled American sandwich, typically about 2 inches in diameter and served on a bun. The term "slider" originated from White Castle restaurants, where these miniature burgers were steamed with onions.
Cracker
Crackers are beloved for their flat, crispy texture. Primarily made from flour, they are often enhanced with a touch of salt, herbs, seeds, or cheese for added flavor. You can enjoy them straight from the package or pair them with cheese, dips, or spreads.
Cracker
Fajita
Fajitas are a delectable staple in both Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, characterized by grilled meat served on a warm tortilla. While they were originally prepared with skirt steak, today's fajitas feature a variety of meats including chicken and offer vegetarian...
Dish
Hawaii