Before visiting Kona, I imagined sleepy beaches and morning coffee with ocean views. What I found? That, and so much more. From snorkeling with manta rays to wandering ancient Hawaiian temples, Kona surprised me with its depth, history, and energy. If you’re heading to the Big Island and wondering where to start, here are my favorite things to do in Kona—a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural gems, and food I still dream about.
1. Snorkel with Manta Rays at Night
This is easily one of the most unforgettable things I’ve ever done—not just in Kona, but anywhere. Imagine floating on a light board in the dark, staring down into glowing water as massive manta rays swoop and somersault below you. The experience is surprisingly calm, even peaceful, and the creatures are completely harmless. Tours usually leave from Keauhou Bay just after sunset and last about 2 hours. Most companies provide wetsuits, snorkel gear, and floatation devices, so it’s beginner-friendly even if you’ve never snorkeled at night before.
Travel tip: Bring a towel and dry clothes for afterward—it gets chilly when you get out. I went with Sea Paradise, but there are a few reputable local operators to choose from.
2. Visit a Kona Coffee Farm
If you’re a coffee lover (like me), Kona is heaven. The slopes of Hualālai are lined with small, family-owned coffee farms that grow some of the most prized beans in the world. I toured Hula Daddy and was blown away by how meticulous the process is—from hand-picking red coffee cherries to sun-drying the beans. Most farms offer short, free or donation-based tours and end with tastings on a breezy lanai overlooking the coast.
Good to know: Hula Daddy, Greenwell Farms, and Heavenly Hawaiian are all great options. And yes—buying coffee direct from the farm supports local growers and guarantees freshness.
3. Explore Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
This park felt like stepping back in time. Located just north of downtown Kona, Kaloko-Honokōhau blends cultural history with untouched coastal beauty. I wandered past ancient Hawaiian fishponds, stone walls, and petroglyphs, all framed by lava rock and ocean spray. I also saw multiple honu (green sea turtles) sunning themselves on the shore.
There are a few different trailheads, but I started from the Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor and followed the Ala Kahakai Trail along the coast. It’s flat, scenic, and relatively quiet.
Pro tip: Wear sturdy sandals or hiking shoes—the lava rock gets hot and jagged in places.
4. Swim at Magic Sands Beach
Also called Laʻaloa Beach, this small but lively stretch of sand is a local favorite—and one of the few beaches in Kona with soft white sand (that’s sometimes washed away in winter, hence the nickname “Magic Sands”). On calm days, it’s great for swimming or bodyboarding. On rougher days, I loved just sitting on the shore and watching the power of the waves.
Safety tip: The waves can get punchy, and there’s a steep shore break—so it’s not always ideal for small kids. But lifeguards are usually on duty, which is reassuring.
5. Stroll the Kona Farmers Market
Located in the heart of Kailua Village, this market is the perfect place to start a lazy morning. It’s not huge, but the vibe is friendly and local. I found homemade jams, fresh leis, wood-carved souvenirs, tropical fruits I couldn’t pronounce, and a pineapple smoothie that was basically vacation in a cup. The market is open Wednesday through Sunday, and things start to wind down by early afternoon.
What I bought: Mangoes, a handmade ukulele magnet, and a coconut mochi pastry that disappeared in about 30 seconds.
6. Watch Sunset at Old Kona Airport Beach
This beach isn’t fancy, but that’s what makes it so special. It used to be an actual airport runway, and now it’s a wide stretch of lava-framed sand perfect for walking, picnicking, or watching the sun melt into the Pacific. Locals come here for early evening strolls, fishing, and even yoga sessions on the sand.
My favorite part: It never felt crowded. I brought poke takeout one night and just sat on the rocks—easily one of my favorite sunsets of the trip.
7. Tour Kona Brewing Co.
If you like beer even a little bit, this spot is a must. Kona Brewing Co. is iconic, and their original brewery in Kailua-Kona offers short tours that show how their island-inspired beers are made. The real highlight for me was kicking back on the shaded patio and ordering a flight of seasonal brews with a side of their famous fish tacos.
Try this: The Lemongrass Luau and Big Wave Golden Ale were my favorites. And yes, they offer gluten-free and non-alcoholic options too.
8. Visit Huliheʻe Palace
Tucked right along Aliʻi Drive in Kailua Village, Huliheʻe Palace once served as a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty. Today, it’s a small museum filled with antique furniture, regal portraits, and historic artifacts from the 1800s. I took a guided tour, and hearing about the royal family’s lifestyle and the palace’s role in Hawaiian history made the visit so much more meaningful.
Tip: Check the schedule for hula performances and live music—they occasionally host cultural events on the lawn.
9. Snorkel at Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Kahaluʻu was my first snorkeling spot on the Big Island—and I couldn’t believe how much marine life I saw within five minutes of getting in the water. Schools of bright yellow tangs, parrotfish, and even a sea turtle swam right by me. The waters are shallow and calm, especially in the morning, which makes it ideal for beginners.
What to bring: Water shoes (it’s rocky), a rash guard, and reef-safe sunscreen—this is a protected marine area.
10. Kayak Kealakekua Bay
Paddling across Kealakekua Bay was easily one of the most peaceful parts of my trip. The bay is calm, crystal-clear, and flanked by dramatic cliffs and green hills. I rented a kayak from a local outfitter and made my way to the Captain Cook Monument, where the snorkeling is among the best on the island. I even spotted spinner dolphins leaping beside my kayak.
Know before you go: Permits are required to land at the monument. If you want to snorkel there legally, book a guided tour—or just enjoy the view from the water.
11. Eat at Broke Da Mouth Grindz
This low-key eatery doesn’t look like much from the outside, but wow—the food lives up to the hype. I ordered the garlic furikake chicken, and it was easily one of the best meals I had on the island. The pork belly is also a local favorite, and everything comes in generous portions.
Heads up: They often sell out by early afternoon, so go for lunch rather than dinner.
12. Wander Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Just a 30-minute drive south of Kona, this “place of refuge” feels like sacred ground—and it is. In ancient Hawaii, this was where people who broke kapu (taboo laws) could seek safety and forgiveness. The reconstructed heiau (temples), carved wooden statues, and fishponds offer a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian society.
Tip: Download the free park audio guide before you go. It adds a lot of meaning to what you’re seeing.
13. Take a Coffee Tasting Flight at Greenwell Farms
Greenwell Farms is one of the oldest and most respected coffee estates in Kona. I took their free farm tour and followed it up with a tasting flight of several roasts—from nutty light blends to bold dark beans. The guides are super knowledgeable, and the views from the tasting area stretch out to the sea.
What I loved: Learning how elevation, rainfall, and soil affect the flavor—something I’d never thought about until I came here.
14. Visit the Painted Church (St. Benedict’s)
On a hillside above Hōnaunau sits a tiny church that’s bursting with color inside. The Father painted Bible scenes directly onto the wood walls in the early 1900s to teach scripture to locals who couldn’t read. It’s a quiet, meditative spot with sweeping views of the coast below.
Fun fact: The church was moved uphill in the 1800s by rolling it on logs.
15. Try Shave Ice at Scandinavian Shave Ice
After a hot day at the beach, nothing hits like a massive cup of shave ice—especially with a scoop of vanilla macadamia nut ice cream hiding at the bottom. Scandinavian Shave Ice offers dozens of tropical flavors like lilikoi, lychee, mango, and coconut, plus the option to add snow cap or li hing powder.
Go-to combo: Guava + passionfruit + coconut with a snow cap. Pure bliss.
16. Explore Lava Tubes
Just south of Kona near the Kaʻu District, I joined a small tour through ancient lava tubes formed by past eruptions. Some tubes are tight and spooky, others are vast caverns with skylights and tree roots poking through. The guides explain how lava creates these natural tunnels during flows.
What to bring: Closed-toe shoes, a flashlight, and curiosity! Most tours provide helmets.
17. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting between December and April, you’ve got a solid chance of spotting humpback whales off Kona’s coast. I booked a morning catamaran cruise from Honokōhau Harbor and within 20 minutes, we were watching a mom and calf breach in unison. It was magical.
Tip: Morning waters are calmer, and sightings are more frequent. Bring motion-sickness bands just in case.
18. Shop Aliʻi Drive Boutiques
Aliʻi Drive is Kona’s oceanfront strip, lined with souvenir shops, handmade jewelry, beachwear stores, art galleries, and cafes. I loved browsing without an agenda and ended up finding a one-of-a-kind sea-glass pendant and some locally made bath salts.
Zee’s tip: Many shops close early (by 6 or 7 PM), so plan your walk before dinner.
19. Hike to Makalawena Beach
This one takes some effort—a 20-minute hike across lava rock from Kekaha Kai State Park—but the payoff is a remote, uncrowded beach with soft white sand and bright turquoise water. I had an entire stretch to myself and even saw wild goats on the trail in.
Pack list: Water, sunblock, sturdy shoes, and snacks—there are no facilities once you’re there.
20. Visit the Original Don the Beachcomber Bar
This historic tiki bar helped launch the tropical cocktail craze. I came here for the atmosphere—bamboo furniture, surf memorabilia, live Hawaiian music—and stayed for the mai tai, which was perfectly balanced and not too sweet. It’s a great spot for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed nightcap.
Try this: Ask for the bartender’s off-menu specials. They know what they’re doing.
21. Catch Live Music at Gertrude’s Jazz Bar
For a chill but classy evening out, Gertrude’s Jazz Bar was a standout. With a second-story view of the ocean, a rotating lineup of talented musicians, and a small but solid food and cocktail menu, it was a lovely way to wind down after a day of hiking or snorkeling.
Bonus: They host salsa nights, open mic, and live art events too—check their calendar for themes.
Conclusion
Kona is one of those places that rewards slow exploration. From quiet beaches to lively brewhouses and cultural landmarks, I found myself falling into the Big Island rhythm—one cup of coffee, one snorkel session, one unforgettable sunset at a time. If you’re planning your trip, I hope these things to do in Kona help shape a few days you’ll never forget.
FAQs About Visiting Kona, Hawaii
What is Kona best known for?
Kona is most famous for its world-class coffee, beautiful beaches, and manta ray night dives.
Is it worth staying in Kona?
Absolutely. It’s sunny, relaxed, and full of experiences—from food to snorkeling to cultural spots.
How many days should you stay in Kona?
At least 3–4 days to explore beaches, coffee farms, and nearby parks without feeling rushed.
Where is the best place to stay in Kona?
Anywhere along Aliʻi Drive offers walkable access to the coast. For more luxury, check out resorts near Keauhou Bay.
