25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kona (Hawaii)
1. Keahole Point Blowhole
One of the most exciting free activities in Hawaii is seeing the extremely rare Keahole Point Blowhole in Kona, which is also one of the most beautiful sights to behold!
This lava tube, which is best seen in the winter in the town’s western section, can spew seawater out of it quickly during strong waves.
The Hualālai volcano erupted in 1801, spewing lava into the sea and forming Keahole Point, which is where the Keahole Point Blowhole is located.
The low viscosity lava flowed in quickly and cooled, creating a “roof” that the tube links to, which is what enabled the tube to develop.
From above, this fascinating aspect of geology appears pretty impressive!
Address: Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
2. Fair Wind Cruises
If you’re wondering what to do that will bring you up close and personal with manta rays, check out Fair Wind Cruises!
This is among the greatest approaches to take an exhilarating marine excursion in Hawaii’s waterways.
While the manta ray snorkeling experience is by far the most well-liked of Fair Wind’s offers, it’s by no means the only one!
Diverse snorkeling adventures are offered; some visit secluded locations in south Kona, while others are held in the Kealakekua Marine Reserve.
Among other animals, you might get to see dolphins and turtles!
Each tour typically lasts three to five hours, during which time equipment and light refreshments are supplied.
Address: Kailua-Kona, HI, United States
3. Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary
Children six years old and up will love the Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary—as will the rest of their family, of course!
This privately owned sanctuary’s mission is to give a variety of unusual, uncommon, and endangered animals a safe place to live.
Among the animals you’ll encounter are flamingos, ostriches, owls, reptiles, zebras, chinchillas, horses, hawks, and monkeys!
Make sure to book a tour in advance if you want to include Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary on your list of things to do in Kona.
This is the only way to enter the sanctuary as it is not open to the general public besides tours!
There is a comparatively high minimum donation requirement that must be met, although receipts are given for tax purposes.
Address: 75-809 Keolani Sbd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
4. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Searching for some intriguing destinations to visit for a full-day escape?
Among the top 10 destinations for tourists interested in local history and culture is without a doubt the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park.
This stunning location, which is bursting at the seams with things to see, is the ideal retreat for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and any traveler looking to get some sightseeing done.
An excellent place to start is the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park visitors center.
This is the place to find information about the many hiking routes in the area, including those that go through all of the ahupua’a, or the mountain-to-sea land divides, as well as the many ancient petroglyphs and holy temples.
Some of these, like the ones that created the park’s numerous fish ponds, will provide you with an understanding of the inventive and creative engineering skills of the early settlers.
There are lots of things to do at the National Historical Park of Kaloko-Honokōhau.
Take a hike, unwind on the beach, look for wildlife like sea turtles or monk seals, and go snorkeling.
This 1,100-acre National Historic Landmark, a site of spiritualism and rejuvenation, represents the spirit of the people who live there and was preserved thanks to the hard work of many community members.
Address: Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
5. Attend A Luau
When considering things to do in Kona, don’t overlook one of the most iconic experiences in Hawaii: going to a luau!
These entertaining gatherings combine hula dancing, food, drink, and music to create upbeat performances with a touch of regional flair.
For those who do not know, a luau is a customary feast in Hawaii.
Most revolve on a roasted pig, or kalua pua’a, and include exciting rum music, lots of fire, and colorful dance displays.
Other performances are also typical, like Samoan-style knife rituals.
You have an abundance of options because luaus are held constantly throughout the archipelago in the state!
The grounds of the historic Kamakahonu Royal, the Royal Kona Resort, the Island Breeze Luau, and the Voyagers of the Pacific Lū’au are popular destinations for those seeking an authentic luau experience.
All of these locations provide somewhat different experiences, but you can witness a fire dancer performance, eat an unlimited amount of local cuisine, take in live music and dancing, and have drinks at open bars!
Certain locations might even include extra events, such as classes on making lei and the chance to acquire a temporary Polynesian tattoo.
Address: Kailua-Kona, HI, United States
6. Magic Sands Beach Park
One of the greatest activities in Kona for families, especially those with young children, is Magic Sands Beach Park!
Located on the fringes of Kailua-Kona town, this highly sought-after spot is truly gorgeous, providing access to conventional beach activities like volleyball, surfing, swimming, and sunset viewing.
Magic Sands Beach Park is a terrific spot to catch waves that are appropriate for those who are new to surfing and bodyboarding, despite not being the biggest beach around.
There are lifeguards on duty all around, so you can feel secure, and facilities like new bathrooms and showers provide for a nice stay.
The origin of the name Magic Sands Beach Park is unexpectedly spooky.
The beach frequently disappears underwater in the winter due to the extremely high wave, exposing just lava rock beneath.
Fortunately, everyone of all ages can safely enjoy the beach throughout the day and during the warm months!
Address: Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
7. Kanaloa Octopus Farm
One of the most unusual activities in Kona is visiting the Kanaloa Octopus Farm, a fascinating and entertaining location to discover everything there is to know about squid and octopuses.
All of the animals bred on this farm are kept for repopulation, research, aquariums, and hobbyists.
Naturally, the majority of these initiatives are geared at ocean release and conservation.
The facility is ideally located right on the beach because fresh seawater is fed straight into the numerous breeding tanks.
You can learn everything there is to know about the farming and nurturing of these animals by taking one of the numerous guided tours of Kanaloa Octopus Farm.
Here, you will learn a great deal about every species.
You will be able to interact closely with the octopuses on these tours, and you may even get to feed them!
Along with these topics, you will learn about conservation efforts in aquaculture as well as the threats to these creatures’ extinction and overfishing.
If you keep your eyes peeled, you could just get a glimpse of a cephalopod squirting ink at another tank buddy!
Address: 73-4460 Queen Ka’ahumanu Hwy Ste 138, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
8. Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Covering seventy acres, the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is an opulent and breathtaking site.
It is nearly entirely covered with various native plants and supports one of the world’s most diversified ecosystems.
As the only tropical cloud forest in the entire nation, the sanctuary is situated more than 3,000 feet above sea level.
That this is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations is not surprising!
What, though, is a cloud forest?
In essence, these are woods that receive most of their precipitation from high-elevation weather patterns such as dense fog, low-hanging clouds, and so on.
This is unlike how most typical rainforests are, as they receive their moisture primarily from rainfall.
Thousands of native plant species can be found in the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, including over 100 different kinds of bamboo and enormous 30-foot tree ferns.
Additionally, this is a safe haven for a number of the rarest and most endangered bird species on the island.
There are miles and miles of hiking paths in the area that you may follow a ranger through or explore on your own.
Therefore, the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a great choice if you’re looking for picturesque places to capture special moments.
Address: 73-1865 Hao St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
9. Ocean Rider Inc
Critically endangered seahorses are raised by Ocean Rider Inc., also known as Ocean Rider Seahorse Tours, the only organization of its kind in the entire nation.
In an effort to prevent these animals from going extinct, the farm has more than 20,000 of them on display, representing a variety of species.
For admirers of seahorses, this is one of the most entertaining venues to visit these gorgeous and mystical creatures!
There are frequently planned tours offered by Ocean Rider Inc. where you may discover everything there is to know about the life cycles of seahorses and the conservation efforts that are underway.
You can get even closer to them with petting and feeding pools!
There will also be some male seahorses that are pregnant, together with their young.
As interesting and unusual as it is, Ocean Rider Inc. is among the less touristic activities.
Since 1998, this family-run farm has been raising over 30 different types of seadragons and seahorses.
Among the creatures you may see are leafy seadragons and tiger tail seahorses!
Address: 73-4388 Ilikai Place, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
10. Moku‘aikaua Church
Hawaii’s oldest Christian church is called Moku’aikaua Church.
One of the free things to do in stunning Kona is to take a tour of the church, which is still in operation.
Regardless of your religious beliefs, whether you practice this particular faith, another one, or none at all, this is still one of the top attractions in Kona.
Seventeen years after American Christian missionaries first came to promote their message, this church was founded in 1837.
With permission from King Kamehameha II, they eventually constructed this house of worship.
It was originally built of wood that was harvested from nearby jungles, but after multiple fires destroyed the building, stone was used in its place.
You can still visit this stone construction today, just as it was back then.
The Moku’aikaua Church contains a variety of relics and antiquities.
Among them is a stunning scale model of the Thaddeus, the vessel that transported the first American missionaries to this location.
You can discover more about the past of the chapel and its participants by taking a public island tour.
Address: 75-5713 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
11. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
One of Hawaii’s most significant historic sites, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is located just west of Kona.
As such, even if visiting it is enjoyable and one of the island’s tourist attractions, it’s a holy place that needs to be treated with reverence.
This is an educational center that offers anger talks and self-guided tours to teach you about the history and culture of the area.
The Great Wall, which may reach a thickness of 17 feet, and the numerous wooden totemic deity statues around Puuhonua-o-Honaunau’s major sacred temple, known as Kii, are two of the sites you’ll witness.
You can also come across some historic fishing pools and the royal canoe landing beach while out and about exploring.
With 182 acres to its name, there are countless fascinating things you may do on a lengthy excursion this weekend to learn about the history of the region.
Along the various easy hiking trails, you may view rebuilt village houses and solemn ancient burial cemeteries, formerly a shelter for both commoners and nobility alike.
Address: State Hwy 160, Hōnaunau, HI 96726, United States
12. Two Step Beach
Two Step Beach, which is close to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, is a fantastic place to go swimming and sightseeing where you can view dolphins, turtles, monk seals, and an abundance of colorful fish.
Reachable with ease on Honaunau Bay, this is one of the best locations to go for a satisfying beach experience.
At Two Step Beach, you can swim, surf, and play games, but the most beloved aspects are underwater, where blue waves envelop vibrant coral reefs.
Snorkeling fans visiting Hawaii will find snorkeling well worth the investment, though you will need to bring your own gear or be ready to purchase some if necessary.
There are also the well-known lava rock pools further down, which offer amazing diving chances!
Address: Captain Cook, HI 96704, United States
13. Atlantis Submarines
Of course, exploring Kona’s stunning waters and diverse fauna is one of the most enjoyable things to do.
That is, after all, what Hawaii is renowned for!
You can accomplish this with Atlantis Submarines, which transports you across a breathtaking 25-acre natural reef as you relax in a beautiful, air-conditioned underwater vessel.
Atlantis Submarines, as the name implies, is a place where you may spend 45 minutes riding a submarine that descends 100 feet below the surface.
You will witness stingrays, turtles, sharks, colorful fish, and eels, all of which your silent, eco-friendly submarine won’t harm!
The already unique experience is enhanced by the additional layer of beauty and awe brought about by the 18,000-year-old coral reef you’ll be walking over!
Address: 75- 5660 Palani Rd #304, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
14. The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory
The ideal place in Kona, Hawaii for someone with an insatiable sweet craving is, as its name implies, The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory.
It may surprise you to learn that some of the most coveted and delicious cacao is grown in Hawaii, more precisely on the slopes of the Hualalai Mountains.
In reality, the factory is the state’s first indigenous manufacturer of hand-picked, sun-dried, on-site processed cocoa beans!
The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory has a ton of sights to view.
You may see the plantation and learn about the entire process of selecting, drying, and processing these beans into the desired chocolate products during one-hour tours.
This covers dark, criollo, and chocolates combined with decadent milk to make a variety of chocolate items with different flavors and textures.
Family-owned and operated, The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory opened for business in 1997.
Needless to say, during your tour, you will undoubtedly have the opportunity to sample some of their fine, expertly crafted items!
Address: 78-6772 Makenawai St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
15. Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
Visit Kohala Waterfalls Adventure for even more activities.
If you’re more of a land adventurer than an aquatic adventurer, this tour business has you covered for things to do in Kona!
All the most picturesque parts of Kona, Hawaii, may be seen in eight hours, which is a great amount of time for an outing this weekend.
You can go off-road in a six-wheel drive, stroll through a private nature reserve, and discover the history, culture, and wildlife of the area on Kohala Waterfalls Adventure.
You will even make a stop at the medieval town of Hawi.
When you finally arrive at the waterfalls named for the experience, you can swim in the rushing water and then proceed to a picturesque overlook for a delectable private lunch.
Address: Kailua-Kona, HI, United States
16. Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark
The Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark, situated in northern Kailua Bay, was originally the home of King Kamehameha I.
This magnificent monarch was the guy who united the various islands of Hawaii into one, and he lived here until his death in 1819.
The buildings that are on display transport you back to that era and provide you with a window into the way of life that Kona’s citizens had all those years ago.
Many well-preserved or renovated buildings can be seen in Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark.
This is one of the most enjoyable and affordable things to do in Kona for history aficionados.
Viewing storehouses, thatched homes, places of worship, a personal retreat, and many other fascinating locations will give you a modern perspective on the past.
Address: Kaahumanu Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
17. Keauhou Bay
Situated near Kailua Village, Keauhou Bay is one of Kona’s greatest cultural destinations.
It has long been one of the most well-liked sights in Kona, even turning into a preferred vacation spot for Hawaiian aristocracy and monarchs.
Nowadays, because of the comparatively calm seas, it’s well-known as an excellent place for water sports.
In this sheltered harbor, activities like fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are all possible.
It’s possible to spot some enormous manta rays!
Numerous local businesses offer tours and activities, and there are many operators with whom you can make reservations.
Keauhou Bay also has a few historical sites that are well worth seeing.
These include various cultural attractions and repaired temples.
Address: Kailua-Kona, HI, United States
18. Fantastic Race Kona
Join us for the amazing Fantastic Race Kona if you’re searching for something really enjoyable to do!
This hybrid of a self-guided tour and racing competition takes you to many of the interesting locations in this region of Hawaii.
It’s an instructive experience that teaches you everything there is to know about the town and instills in you the necessity of problem-solving and treasure hunting in order to succeed.
Amazing Race Kona involves presenting a mystifying puzzle to players, who must solve it by gathering hints, deciphering them to uncover hidden meanings, and studying the life tales and specifics of numerous Hawaiian deities.
There will be educational and photo opportunities at historic locations, as well as stops along the route where you may try a variety of regional cuisine.
Address: Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
19. Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery
The Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery is a great place to go to get a truly authentic taste of Hawaii.
There’s a lot of stuff to do and see, from traditional works to contemporary items and everything in between.
This is the ideal way to get a glimpse into Aloha culture, with great works by local creators like Ellen Crocker, Ric Stark, Phyllis Cullen, and Sylvia Pippen featured.
There are more than 60 quilts displayed at this museum and gallery, with some dating as far back as the 1800s.
From vintage offerings to island-themed motifs, you’ll gain knowledge on this lesser-known feature of local artistry and will also see some common internationally used quilting styles.
Regular events are also held, such as traveling quilt shows, and fun scavenger hunts for the whole family.
Address: 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy APT 112, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
20. Big Island Divers
Since this diving firm is among the most well-known and reliable in Hawaii, it goes without saying that it’s a must-see attraction in Kona.
Big Island Divers provides various types of courses and tours, from the standard to the unusual.
You can take part in a Manta Ray Snorkeling Adventure tour, go on a Blackwater Night Dives adventure, or watch dolphins!
Additionally, this operations supplier rents out equipment.
This is the place to acquire paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and even underwater cameras!
All the same, this archipelago is the perfect place for diving, water sports, and other fun activities involving close encounters with marine life.
Address: 74-5467 Kaiwi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
21. Kona Joe Coffee Tours
One of the greatest tourist destinations for coffee lovers in Hawaii is Kona Joe Coffee Tours, which will make caffeine addicts fall madly in love.
Here, you can take an hour-long paid guided tour or choose to go on a self-guided tour for free.
Whichever way you choose, you will get knowledge about the entire coffee-making process.
You will observe the complete process from beginning to end, from the bean’s cultivation to the time it is harvested, from its processing and roasting to its delectable brewing and serving.
Even better, you’ll be able to take home a specially engraved coffee mug and experience the finished product!
This farm offers deeper experiences as well.
You can take those coffee beans home with you to enjoy after being guided through the process of roasting a batch for yourself!
Address: 79-7346 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750, United States
22. Wasabi Tours
Starting a Hawaiian trip with guided tours of Kona’s natural beauty and history is a great idea.
You’ll learn new things, have a great time, and discover a ton of interesting places to visit that you may explore at your own pace.
Small-group, personalized tours are available; some go for up to 12 hours!
Wasabi Tours offers an extensive variety of experiences.
Among these are the Big Island Grand Circle Tour, the Twilight Volcano Tour, the Historic Kiona and Farm Tour, and the Fire and Water Combo Tour!
Depending on the one you choose, you can get the opportunity to visit a black sand beach, snorkel with dolphins, or witness volcanoes.
Address: 74-581 Honokohau St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
23. Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions
The Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions offer a stunning means of discovering Hawaii.
This is an ideal activity for thrill-seekers or those who enjoy a little difficulty in their travels, among the many things to do in Kona.
You’ll likely encounter a ton of marine life if you keep an eye out, and there are lots of tour options and private charters available.
Depending on the adventure you select, Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions may last anywhere from three to five hours.
With nearly 50 years of expertise, the organization is well-versed in providing the ideal combination of sporting adventure and sightseeing.
In addition to swimming with dolphins and getting up close to several lava tunnels and sea caves, you may go snorkeling.
There are also whale-watching excursions offered seasonally!
Address: 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy #16, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
24. Hulihe‘e Palace
Built in 1838, Hulihe’e Palace provides a window into Hawaii’s monarchy period, when the state’s royal family lived in the nineteenth century.
The palace was constructed in the charming, hospitable Victorian architecture as a summer vacation residence.
Completely constructed from lava rock, it features six spacious rooms with ample natural light, two lanais on the seashore, and stunning grounds!
The historic site is located on Kailua Bay.
With restored and authentic decorations, furnishings, and artifacts, Hulihe’e Palace still maintains its original look today, making it one of Kona’s most popular tourist destinations for museums.
It is operated by the Daughters of Hawaii group.
The displays feature a plethora of relics associated with King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiolani, as well as personal belongings they owned, like quilts, koa wood furniture, and portraits.
You can learn even more about the several royals who have passed through these halls by taking a tour.
One of the most enjoyable free things to do in the area is Afternoon at Hulihe’e Palace, a fantastic cultural event that takes place once a month at Hulihe’e Palace.
You’ll be able to witness melee and hula performances up close!
Other performances include the Hulihe’e Palace Band’s Hulihe’e Palace Concert, the engaging Merry Monarchs Chorale, and the regular folk tune performances by local artists.
Address: 75-5718 Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
25. Kona Farmers Market
A great place to try some of the best food Hawaii has to offer is the Kona Farmers Market.
Meet the locals, fill up on fresh fruit, sample a variety of the island’s signature foods, and buy a wide range of handcrafted gifts and souvenirs.
Come with an empty stomach because it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit, especially if you’re hungry!
It is located in the downtown area, directly next to the public library.
Wednesdays and Saturdays are market days at the Kona Farmers Market, when more than forty exhibitors set up each week.
These days, the market is open from sunrise to sunset and is a nice area to take a leisurely stroll because it’s close to the beach.
Delicious dishes such mochi, mangoes, shaved ice, honey, flowers, bread, macadamia nuts, vibrant fruits that are exclusive to Hawaii, and even the well-known Kona coffee will be served to you!
Address: 75-5767 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
26. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is a great site to learn everything there is to know about Hawaii’s most popular export, coffee.
The establishment is open all week, providing free tours every hour on the hour and special Japanese tours twice a week.
You can take a nature walk among the organic coffee fields or go on a plantation tour in a 4×4 vehicle.
One of the nicest things to do in Kona is to witness a lava tube, and there are also unique roast master experiences!
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation grows all of the coffee used in its products.
You will taste a variety of the company’s roasts and mixes and learn all about the cultivation, roasting, and processing of coffee.
During the two hours of the previously stated roast master experience, you can get your hands dirty, learn about the process of choosing and roasting beans, and even test some of it yourself!
Since its introduction to this neighborhood in 1828, coffee has only grown in popularity.
Particularly favorable to the growth of this plant is the mineral-rich volcanic soil of the island.
Before you go, don’t forget to grab a bag of coffee! You can sample premium, decaf, espresso, private reserve, peaberry, Vienna roast, and more!
Address: 73-1942 Ha’o St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States