The Best Things to Do in Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is the tourism hub of the Big Island of Hawaii, offering an incredible variety of tours and activities along the stunning Kona Coast. Whether you're looking for underwater adventures, cultural experiences, or simply want to soak in the tropical beauty, Kona has something for everyone.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Kailua-Kona that you absolutely cannot miss during your Big Island vacation.
1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel
The number one must-do activity in Kona is the world-famous manta ray night snorkel. Giant oceanic manta rays, with wingspans of up to 16 feet, glide gracefully beneath you as you float on the surface of the ocean at night. This bucket-list experience is only available in a few places in the world, and Kona is the best.
Hawaii Oceanic's Manta Magic tour is one of the highest-rated manta ray experiences on the Big Island, departing from Honokohau Harbor with small group sizes for an intimate encounter.
2. Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument (Kealakekua Bay)
Kealakekua Bay is widely regarded as the best snorkeling spot on the entire Big Island. The crystal-clear waters of this marine sanctuary are home to vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and frequent spinner dolphin sightings. The bay is accessible only by boat or a strenuous hike, making a guided boat tour the best way to experience it.
The Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour takes you directly to the monument where the water clarity and marine life are exceptional. Morning departures offer the calmest conditions and best visibility.
3. Sunset Cruise Along the Kona Coast
The Kona Coast is legendary for its dramatic sunsets. Watching the sun dip below the Pacific from the deck of a catamaran while sipping tropical drinks is quintessential Big Island. Many sunset cruises include snorkeling stops, whale watching (seasonal, December through April), and dinner options.
4. Visit a Kona Coffee Farm
The slopes of Hualalai above Kailua-Kona produce some of the world's finest coffee. Kona Coffee is renowned for its smooth, rich flavor, and dozens of family-owned farms offer tours where you can see the entire process from cherry to cup. Most tours include generous tastings and the opportunity to purchase fresh-roasted beans.
5. Explore Historic Kailua Village
The heart of Kona town is packed with Hawaiian history and culture. Walk along Ali'i Drive to see Hulihe'e Palace (the former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty), Mokuaikaua Church (the oldest Christian church in Hawaii), and the reconstructed temple at Ahu'ena Heiau. The village is also great for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
6. Deep Sea Fishing Charter
The Kona Coast is nicknamed the "Marlin Capital of the World" for good reason. The deep waters just offshore are home to massive Pacific blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and ono. Half-day and full-day charters depart from Honokohau Harbor daily, and both novice and experienced anglers will find something to love.
7. Whale Watching (Seasonal: December - April)
During the winter months, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off the Kona Coast to breed and calve. Whale watching tours offer up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures breaching, tail-slapping, and singing. The calm, clear waters of the leeward coast make Kona one of the best whale watching destinations in Hawaii.
8. Scuba Diving
Kona's calm, clear waters and abundant marine life make it one of the best scuba diving destinations in the Pacific. Dive sites range from shallow reef dives perfect for beginners to advanced lava tube systems and pelagic drift dives. The famous manta ray night dive is a particularly unique experience for certified divers.
9. Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Kailua Bay
The protected waters of Kailua Bay are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). You can rent a board from several shops along Ali'i Drive and paddle along the coast, often spotting sea turtles, tropical fish, and even dolphins. Early morning sessions offer the calmest water and most pleasant temperatures.
10. Hawaiian Luau
No trip to the Big Island is complete without attending an authentic Hawaiian luau. Kona's luaus feature traditional hula dancing, fire knife performances, Hawaiian music, and a feast of local favorites including kalua pig, poke, and haupia. Several resorts along the Kohala Coast host elaborate shows with ocean views.
Plan Your Kailua-Kona Adventure
With so many incredible things to do, Kailua-Kona is the perfect base for exploring the Big Island of Hawaii. We recommend booking your top-priority activities in advance, especially the manta ray night snorkel and Captain Cook snorkel, as these tours sell out regularly.
Browse all Big Island tours and activities to start planning your dream Hawaii vacation.
