Things to do in Kona

March 20, 2022
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At Hawaii Luxe Travel, we know that everyone travels differently. Maybe you want to enjoy a cocktail at the poolside cabana, cliff jump into the Pacific Ocean, zipline over waterfalls . . . or maybe all three? However you choose to spend your precious vaycay time, we’re just happy you’re doing it with us. The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most diverse places in the entire planet (we could bore you with geological facts, but we’ll save that for another blog). It doesn’t matter who you are or what you enjoy, you can find it here, along with plenty of aloha. We just have a few basics to get your vacation-ball rolling, and to give you a few ideas on how to spend your time here. We will be focusing on Kona in this blog, but the Big Island truly is BIG, so don’t worry, we promise to tell you all about the rest of it in future articles.

1) The best snorkeling in the world*

*Okay, so this hasn’t been officially verified by the Snorkeling Judges of the World, and maybe we’re a little bit biased, but there’s something truly spectacular about the snorkeling on this island. And if it isn’t THE best snorkeling, then it’s definitely Top 5. One of the more famous spots, Kealakekua Bay, even inspired a scene in Finding Nemo so. . .you’re basically swimming with celebrities. 

Also check out Honaunau Bay (also known as “Two Step” since it’s two steps before you’re in the water) and Kahalu’u Beach Park.

2) Kona Coffee Tours

Everyone deserves a vice (some people deserve two) and ours is definitely coffee (and wine). We won’t say coffee is our favorite part of living in Hawaii, but we will say that all those stunning sunrises and morning beach strolls are a little more enjoyable after a fresh (and we mean fresh) cup of coffee. Kona is home to coffee farms galore, many of which you can swing by spontaneously and grab some samples and take a walk through. If you’re not in the mood for the farm experience, just swing by one of the many coffee shops serving fresh Kona coffee.

Our top coffee shops: Kayas Coffee Shop, Kona Coffee and Tea and Kona Haven.

3) Swim with Manta Rays

Seriously one of the most worthwhile things you will ever do with your time. Kona is one of the few places in the world where you are able to get in the water with these absolutely incredible creatures. Go with a tour company and you’ll get a wetsuit (you go out at night so even these warm pacific waters can get chilly), a boat ride, floatation devices so you don’t have to tread water and hot cocoa afterwards. If you prefer to stay out of the water, then try to catch sight of them from the restaurant Rays on the Bay (very aptly named). Swim with the Mantas!

4) Zipline through paradise

Okay, don’t hate us. . this isn’t quite in the Kona area. But we really want to include it because honestly, who wouldn’t want to fly through the air with the greatest of ease? Especially through these stunning palm trees and over gosh darn waterfalls! With great guides and greater views, a zipline is a fun, exciting and truly beautiful way to experience the outdoors. Try Kohala Zipline or KapohoKine Adventures to feel like a bird.


5) Kona Stargazing

We’re not sure where you’re traveling from, but chances are you’re going to be impressed by the Hawaiian skies; sunrises, sunsets, sunshine and even those dark nights are pretty pretty spectacular. The Big Island is even home to one of NASA’s observatories up on Mauna Kea. Although Mauna Kea is definitely the “place” to go stargazing, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the clear skies from right here in Kona. Head down to one of the many crescent beaches for a little extra darkness, or simply gaze out straight from Alii Drive during your dinner. Looking to take it up a notch? Book your Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure