Known as Kona to the locals, the western hub of Hawaii’s Big Island is as important today as it was to the ancient Hawaiians. Once the home of the kings and royalty of the island, today Kailua-Kona is a popular destination for history lovers, sport fishermen and those who just come to enjoy the sun.Kailua-Kona’s western location means it is protected from the trade winds that bring rain to much of the island, and instead enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Spend the day on the water with a fishing rod in your hand. Chartered fishing trips are available and the Kailua Pier is a favorite spot among locals. Take in the beautiful sunset from the pier while you wait for the fish to bite. Like much of the island, Kailua-Kona offers great spots to dive, swim and surf. You can rent equipment from a number of operators within the town.Kailua-Kona was a trade hub for the ancient Hawaiians, and there is much history to discover. Visit the former home of Hawaiian royals at the Hulihe’e Palace. Walk along the town’s main thoroughfare, Ali’i Drive, to reach the oldest Christian church in the state, the Mokuaikaua Church. The historic village can be explored with a guided tour, available from within town.Try the local cuisine at one of the town’s many popular restaurants before you venture out to enjoy Kailua-Kona’s thriving nightlife. There are many bars lining the beach, creating a relaxed atmosphere to meet the locals.Transportation in Kailua-Kona is limited and most visitors rent a car. There are a number of rental companies both in town and at the Kona International Airport.
Kailua-Kona, HI
Where to stay in Kailua-Kona
Holualoa Village
While visiting Holualoa Village, you might make a stop by sights like Honl's Beach and Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden.
Historic Kailua Village
Visitors to Historic Kailua Village rave about its stunning beaches, island views, and popular shops. You might also want to make some time to see Kailua Pier or Kailua-Kona Wharf while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Kahaluu-Keauhou
While visiting Kahaluu-Keauhou, you might make a stop by sights like Keauhou Shopping Center and Keauhou Bay Beach.
Kahaluu Bay
Kahaluu Bay is a destination visitors seek out for is beaches, seaside views, and pristine golf courses. You might want to check out attractions like Kahalu'u Beach Park or Magic Sands Beach while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Kona Palisades
Kona Palisades might not have many top sights, but Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Alii Heights Mauka
While Alii Heights Mauka might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Magic Sands Beach and Kahalu'u Beach Park.
Reviewed on May 15, 2024
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Reviewed on Apr 17, 2024
Popular places to visit
Kailua Pier
Find out about the history of Kailua-Kona with a stop at Kailua Pier. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Magic Sands Beach
One of the closest beaches to Kona, this stretch of sand on the Big Island earned its name for an unusual shoreline occurrence.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Discover ancient Hawaii at this historic settlement.
Kahalu'u Beach Park
Snorkel with tropical fish and swim with sea turtles at this great dive location.
Kailua-Kona Wharf
Explore the waterfront of Kailua-Kona Wharf and enjoy activities such as snorkeling in Kailua-Kona. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants.
Kona Brewing Company
You can find out about the history of Kailua-Kona with a visit to Kona Brewing Company. Amble around the area's seaside or seek out the snorkeling spots.
Things to do
Reviews of Kailua-Kona
5/5 - Excellent
Kailu Kona is unique tnat I always go there for work.There is dryside and wetside for sometimes also have snow on mountain and still have those active volcanoe for view.The island was big and lots of place for view or big enough for cruising around.
4/5 - Good
Our trip was made difficult by all the coronavirus restrictions. We couldn't use the beach or go in the ocean, had to order take out food and life became very difficult. Then our flight was cancelled and we had to pay for a new one.
5/5 - Excellent
Lovely quiet area that was amazingly beautiful.
5/5 - Excellent
Rugged, Borderline-Rural Beauty. I highly recommend an extended visit to this area for a unique face of Hawaii!
4/5 - Good
I love the Big Island but with the Corona virus going on, throughout the world, things were starting to shutdown and you couldn't visit many places. We still had a nice time, visiting friends and family there.
1/5 - Terrible
Don’t stay here!!!
Read travel guides and advice on visiting Kailua-Kona
Best snorkeling in Hawaii: Big Island, Maui, and Oahu
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Golf Course
- Kailua Pier
- Magic Sands Beach
- Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
- Kahalu'u Beach Park
- Kailua-Kona Wharf
- Kona Brewing Company
- Keauhou Shopping Center
- Keauhou Bay Beach
- Kona Country Club
- Kua Bay
- Manini'owali Beach
- Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area
- Kamakahonu Beach
- Haleo Luau
- Makani Golf Club
- Kohanaiki Beach Park
- Kona Le'a Plantation
- Kiholo Bay
- Kona Inn Shopping Village
- Mahai'ula Beach
- Makalawena Beach
- Honokohau Harbor
- Kikaua Point Beach Park
- Queen's Bath
- Hulihee Palace
- Honl's Beach
- Keiki Beach
- Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
- Lekeleke Burial Grounds
- Honokohau Marina
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation