Planning a trip to the Big Island and want to learn more about the Kona side of the island? Scroll to find out the best things to do in Kona Hawaii.
This Guide to the Best Things to Do in Kona was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Look, I’m just going to say it upfront: I’m obsessed with the Big Island.
I’ve been visiting Hawaii since I was 10 (I’m not telling you how many years ago that was), my grandma lived part-time on Kauai, my mom still does, and I’ve been dancing hula for over 20 years.
Between all the islands, I’ve made 40+ trips. I’m a certified Hawaii Destination Specialist, which sounds fancy but really just means I’ve spent enough time in Hawaii to figure out what works and what’s a complete waste of money.
And Kona? It’s where I send families who actually want to DO stuff, not just sit on a beach. (Though you can absolutely do that too.)
This isn’t going to be one of those “30 INCREDIBLE things” listicles where everything sounds exactly the same.
I’m going to tell you what my own kids loved, what I wish I’d skipped, and the one activity that literally nobody else is talking about that blew our minds.
Quick Reality Check About Kona
The Big Island is HUGE. Like, all the other Hawaiian islands combined huge.
Kona is the west (sunny) side. Hilo is the east (rainy) side. They’re about 1.5-2 hours apart depending on which route you take.
Most families stay in Kona because sunshine, but you’ll probably drive to Hilo at least once to see waterfalls and Volcanoes National Park.
The Kohala Coast is north of Kona and has the fanciest resorts and best white sand beaches.
When people say “Big Island beaches aren’t that great,” they’re wrong. They just haven’t been to Kohala.
Got it? Kona = sunny base camp. Hilo = day trip for waterfalls. Kohala = upgrade your beach game.
The ONE Thing You Actually Cannot Skip
Aloha Adventure Farms – Polynesian Cultural ATV Tour
I’m putting this first because I’m still thinking about it weeks later.
So here’s the deal: There’s this farm in Holualoa (10 minutes from Kailua-Kona) that created the world’s first Polynesian cultural ATV tour. And before you think “oh great, another touristy ATV thing.” It’s not.
The tour takes you through four “islands”: Hawaii, Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa. At each stop, you actually DO traditional activities.
Opening coconuts. Tasting poi. Spear throwing.
And the guides (Kepono, Kai, and Matt all get mentioned in reviews by name, which tells you something) share actual stories and history, not the watered-down resort version.
My 12-year-old, who generally thinks educational stuff is boring, was completely into it.
The ATV part? Muddy. Bumpy. If you have a bad back, maybe skip this. But if you’re fine with getting dirty, it’s ridiculously fun. The trails wind through tropical forest with views of the Kona coastline.
Kids 3-15 ride in a UTV with the guide. 16+ can drive their own ATV. Closed-toe shoes required, long pants recommended. (Trust me on this. You will get muddy).
Book at least 7-10 days out during peak season. They also offer a wood carving workshop with a 4th-generation Tongan master carver if you want to make your own tiki. You can do both on the same day or different days.
This was hands-down the most unique thing we did on our last trip.
Let’s Talk Beaches (And Manage Your Expectations)
Here’s what Instagram won’t tell you: Most Kona beaches are lava rock beaches, not white sand beaches.
Is that bad? Not if you set your expectations correctly. The lava creates incredible tide pools and protected snorkel spots.
But if you want that postcard white sand beach, you need to drive north to Kohala.
Kahaluu Beach Park
This is my top pick for families wanting to snorkel without getting on a boat.
The bay is protected, so even when other beaches are rough, Kahaluu usually stays calm. And the snorkeling is insane.
You might see green sea turtles feeding right in front of you, schools of tropical fish, coral formations you can reach from shore.
Get there before 9am. Parking lot fills up fast and once the crowds hit, it’s less enjoyable.
Fair warning: Don’t stand on the coral (it kills it). Don’t chase the turtles (illegal and also they’re way faster than you think). Stay at least 10 feet away from them.
The beach has lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, and a snack shack. Everything you need.
Old Kona Airport Beach
This is where locals go when they want space. The old runway is now a walking path alongside the beach, which is kind of cool in a weird way.
It’s not the best snorkeling, but it’s perfect for when your kids just want to play in the sand without navigating resort crowds. There’s actual room to spread out.
Free parking, which around here is not nothing.
The Kohala Coast Beaches (The Ones You See on Instagram)
If you want that perfect white sand beach photo, this is where you go:
Mauna Kea Beach – Consistently rated one of the best beaches in Hawaii. White sand, turquoise water, the whole deal. Public access but limited parking—get there early.
Hapuna Beach – Longer, wider, more space. Great for bodyboarding. Can get rough in winter.
Anaehoomalu Beach (A-Beach) – Good for SUP, calm water, palm trees. Best sunset spot.
Kikaua Point (Kukio Beach) – This one requires a walk from the parking lot because it’s technically in an uber-exclusive resort community, but there’s public access.
White sand, protected cove, ridiculous for photos. The palm tree grove is what everyone photographs.
Worth the drive north? If beaches are your priority, yes. If you’re more about activities and snorkeling, Kahaluu is fine.
The “Hidden” Beaches Nobody Mentions
Makalawena Beach and Mahai’ula Beach require short hikes from the parking lot, which keeps crowds down. Makalawena is the one with that isolated palm tree everyone photographs.
No facilities. No lifeguards. Ocean can be rough. But if you want that pristine, nobody-else-around Hawaii beach experience, this is it.
Just know what you’re getting into—this isn’t where you take toddlers.
Snorkeling (The Real Reason People Come to Kona)
Kealakekua Bay – Captain Cook Monument
Best snorkeling on the island. Period.
The catch: You can’t drive there. You either kayak (1.5 hours each way from Napoopoo Wharf) or take a boat tour.
I’m going to be honest, we tried the kayak thing once. It’s beautiful. It’s also exhausting.
And if the ocean isn’t calm, it’s not fun. Unless you’re in really good shape and the ocean is glass, take the boat tour.
The snorkeling though? Crystal clear water (like 100+ feet visibility), coral gardens, spinner dolphins, tropical fish everywhere, turtles. It’s worth it.
Most tours include multiple snorkel stops and sometimes lunch. Book through Viator or Get Your Guide.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Okay so this is the thing everyone says you HAVE to do in Kona. And they’re right, but let me set expectations.
After dark, boats take you to spots where manta rays feed on plankton. You float on the surface holding a lighted board while these enormous (10-16 foot wingspan) mantas somersault inches below you eating microscopic plankton.
It’s surreal. On a good night, you might see 30-40 mantas. On a slower night, maybe just a few.
About 10% of nights they don’t show up at all (most operators will let you rebook for free if that happens).
Pricing in 2026: $99-139 per adult
Budget option: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tours ($99)
Unique option: Eka Canoe Adventures (traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe)
All gear is provided: wetsuit, mask, snorkel, flotation device. Most tours leave from Honokohau Harbor and last about 2 hours.
Age-wise, most operators allow 5+, but ask yourself: Is my kid comfortable in the ocean at night? Will they panic? If you’re unsure, wait until they’re older. The mantas aren’t going anywhere.
The Luau Situation (Let Me Save You Some Money)
I’ve been to a lot of luaus. Most are forgettable. A few are worth it.
Voyagers of the Pacific Luau – Royal Kona Resort
This is the one I recommend.
Why? The location is oceanfront right on Kailua Bay. You watch sunset during dinner, then the show starts as the sky turns pink and purple. It’s honestly beautiful.
The food is actual Hawaiian food (kalua pork from the imu ceremony, poi, fresh fish, haupia) plus mainland options for picky eaters. Open bar includes mai tais, which as an adult, I appreciated.
The show ends with a Samoan fire knife dance that my 12-year-old is still talking about. Not the cheesy resort entertainment version. The real deal. Check availability.
When: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday at 5:30pm
2026 Price: Adults $168.65 | Kids 6-11 $65.88 | Under 5 free
Parking: $5 with validation
Hawaii Loa Luau – Fairmont Orchid
This one’s on the Kohala Coast (40 minutes north of Kona), so it requires a drive. But if cultural authenticity matters more than convenience, this is your luau.
The location is on sacred ground historically used by Hawaiian royalty. The 3-hour experience includes hands-on demonstrations, traditional performances, and really good food.
It’s more intimate, more culturally focused, more expensive. Check availability.
When: Saturdays (occasional Wednesdays during high season)
Price: From $203/person
Island Breeze Luau – SKIP IT
I’m just going to say it: Don’t waste your money here. Mediocre food, feels rushed, cattle-call vibes. There are better options.
The Historical Site That Actually Matters
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
This place is powerful in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re standing there.
In ancient Hawaii, if you broke kapu (sacred laws), the punishment was death. Unless you could make it to this sanctuary. Reach this place of refuge, a priest performs ceremonies, you’re absolved.
You walk these grounds and see massive tiki statues (ki’i) guarding the entrance, the Great Wall built around 1550, royal fishponds, reconstructed thatched buildings.
Green sea turtles sun themselves on the rocks. Palm trees frame the black and white sand beaches.
It’s one of the most photogenic places on the Big Island AND culturally significant. Not just pretty…meaningful.
Entry is $15 per vehicle (good for 7 days). Give yourself 1-2 hours. Early morning is best—fewer people, better light for photos.
Side trip: On your way there or back, stop at the Painted Church (St. Benedict’s).
It’s a tiny Catholic church covered floor-to-ceiling in biblical murals painted by a Belgian priest in the early 1900s. Takes 5 minutes, absolutely worth it.
Where to Actually Eat (Not Sponsored, Just Honest)
Huggo’s on the Rocks
This is our family favorite in Kona. It’s literally built on lava rocks with the ocean right there—you can feel the spray.
The setup is casual: order at the bar, grab a table, watch the sunset. The food is good (fresh fish, burgers, tacos) but honestly you’re here for the vibe and the cocktails.
My boys—both of them—get excited when we go here. The 12-year-old calls it “the place where the ocean is right there.”
Go at sunset. No reservations, first come first served.
Lava Lava Beach Club
My 12-year-old literally dreams about the ribs here. I’m not exaggerating. He’s mentioned them multiple times since our last trip.
They’re fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs covered in guava BBQ sauce, served with Hawaiian mac salad that’s addictive.
But what makes this place special is you’re sitting ON the sand. Actual sand. There are lawn games for kids (cornhole, giant Jenga), live music, and the food is legitimately good.
Order: The ribs (obviously), poke nachos, anything with guava BBQ sauce, mai tais.
Umeke’s
Best poke on the island. It’s a local spot (not fancy) but the poke is incredibly fresh…caught that morning. They have about 15 different preparations.
Get the sampler if you can’t decide.
Island Lava Java
Good for breakfast. Huge portions, good coffee, outdoor seating with ocean views. The macadamia nut pancakes are ridiculous. My kids split an order and it’s still too much food.
Scandinavian Shave Ice
I’m putting a shave ice place in here because it’s THAT good. They use Scandinavian-style technique (finer, lighter, better texture) with housemade syrups.
The “Coconut Cloud” with condensed milk and coconut cream is basically a dessert masterpiece.
Location: Kona Commons shopping center
What to Skip
Most hotel restaurants. You’re paying 30-40% more for food that’s not any better than off-property.
Kona Inn Restaurant has a prime location on the water but the food is mediocre and overpriced. You can do better.
Kona Coffee (Why It’s Expensive and Why It’s Worth It)
Kona coffee can only be grown on these specific volcanic slopes. The microclimate, elevation, soil…it creates a flavor you literally cannot get anywhere else. That’s why it’s expensive.
Farm tours are free or cheap and take 30-45 minutes. You learn how coffee grows (on trees! as cherries!), the hand-picking vs. machine picking process, roasting. Kids actually find it interesting.
Best farms for tours:
- Greenwell Farms (free, family-friendly)
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation (beautiful property)
- Kona Coffee Living History Farm (vintage equipment, historical focus)
Buy your coffee AT the farm. Way fresher, often cheaper than resort gift shops selling the same beans.
Day Trips from Kona
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Two hours from Kona. Worth the drive.
What you’ll see:
- Active lava flows (if Kilauea is erupting—check USGS website for current status)
- Nahuku Lava Tube (walk through an actual lava tube)
- Steam vents
- Crater Rim Drive
- Devastation Trail
Plan a full day. Leave Kona early, spend the day in the park, drive through Hilo on the way back for dinner.
Bring jackets. It’s 4,000+ feet elevation and can be chilly even when Kona is hot. We learned this the hard way.
Hilo & Waterfalls
Rainbow Falls – 80-foot waterfall right in Hilo. Easy access. Often has rainbows in the morning when sun hits the mist.
Akaka Falls – 422-foot waterfall accessed via a short loop trail through bamboo forest. Stunning.
While you’re in Hilo: farmers market (Wednesday and Saturday), Lili’uokalani Gardens, downtown shops, Big Island Candies factory (free samples).
Real Talk: What Nobody Tells You About Kona
You Need a Rental Car
The Big Island isn’t walkable. Rideshares are expensive and unreliable outside downtown. Rent a car.
Book through Discount Hawaii Car Rental. They compare rates and usually have the best deals.
Book Activities Early
Manta ray snorkels, popular luaus, ATV tours sell out 7-10 days in advance during peak season. Sometimes weeks. Don’t wait.
The Sun is Brutal
Even locals get burned. The sun is STRONG here. Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes. Wear a rash guard in the water. I’m serious.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
Rental shops charge $10-15/day per person. If you’re snorkeling multiple times (and you should), buying your own gear saves money. Get a decent set on Amazon for $30-40.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen Only
Hawaii banned non-reef-safe sunscreen. Look for mineral-based with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. If you bring the wrong kind, you can’t use it in the ocean.
KTA Super Stores for Groceries
Don’t buy groceries at hotel gift shops or tourist areas. Go to KTA (local chain) for way better prices on everything.
Drive Times Are Real
Kona to Hilo: 1.5-2 hours
Kona to Volcanoes: 2+ hours
Kona to Kohala beaches: 30-45 minutes
Factor this into your planning. The Big Island is BIG.
Get Travel Insurance
We learned this one the hard way. One kid gets sick, your $8,500 vacation gets cut short, you’re out all that money. Get insurance that covers trip cancellation, interruption, and medical emergencies.
Sample Itinerary (What I’d Actually Do)
If You Have 5 Days:
Day 1: Arrive, settle in, easy beach day at Old Kona Airport, sunset at Huggo’s on the Rocks
Day 2: Morning: Kahaluu Beach snorkeling | Afternoon: Pu’uhonua o Honaunau + Painted Church | Evening: Voyagers of the Pacific Luau
Day 3: Polynesian Cultural ATV Tour at Aloha Adventure Farms | Afternoon: Kona coffee farm tour | Dinner: Lava Lava Beach Club
Day 4: Full day trip to Volcanoes National Park | Dinner in Hilo on the way back
Day 5: Manta ray snorkel (book an afternoon/evening tour) | Morning: downtown Kona shopping, Kailua Pier | Afternoon: beach time or pool day
If You Have 7 Days:
Add:
- Kealakekua Bay kayak/snorkel tour
- Full day in Hilo (waterfalls, farmers market, gardens)
- Beach day at Kohala Coast
- Extra pool/beach day (you’ll need it)
FAQ (The Questions Everyone Actually Asks)
Is Kona better than Maui?
They’re different. Maui has prettier beaches. Big Island has volcanoes, manta rays, more variety of ecosystems. I think Big Island is more interesting for kids, but Maui’s beaches are objectively better.
How many days do you need?
Minimum 3 days to hit highlights. Ideal is 5-7 days.
Can you see lava?
Not in Kona itself. Active lava is in Volcanoes National Park (2-hour drive). Whether you can see flowing lava depends on if Kilauea is erupting—check the USGS website.
What should I pack?
Reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel gear (or buy when you arrive), water shoes (lava rocks are sharp), light rain jacket for Hilo/Volcanoes, multiple swimsuits (they don’t dry overnight), hat, sunglasses, bug spray for Hilo.
Are there sharks?
Yes. Shark attacks are extremely rare. Don’t swim at dawn/dusk, don’t swim where people are fishing, don’t swim in murky water after rain. Follow those rules and you’re fine.
Is it safe?
Very. Standard precautions apply (don’t leave valuables in your car, lock your rental), but Kona is safe for tourists.
My Honest Take After 40+ Hawaii Trips (About 5 to the Big Island)
The Big Island isn’t as “pretty” as Maui. It doesn’t have Kauai’s dramatic cliffs or Oahu’s infrastructure.
But it has substance. Variety. Space.
Where else can you snorkel with manta rays at night, ride ATVs through Polynesian cultural sites, walk through ancient places of refuge, drink world-class coffee on a volcanic slope, and fall asleep to waves crashing on lava rocks?
For families who want their kids to actually learn something while having fun, Kona delivers.
Your next steps:
- Grab my free resources: 5-Day Email Course: How to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro and 7-Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to the Big Island
- Listen to my podcast: How to Plan a Trip to the Big Island
- Get the full guide: Big Island Travel Guide for Families
- Need personalized help? I offer Hawaii travel consultations where I’ll build you a custom itinerary
The manta rays are swimming. The coffee is brewing. The palm trees are swaying.
I’ll see you on the Big Island.
