Overview
Kona, also known as Kailua-Kona, is a vibrant town on the Big Island of Hawaii. It's famous for its rich history, beautiful coastline, and the annual Ironman World Championship triathlon. The area offers a blend of historic sites, water activities, and local culture.
Kona is historically significant as the ancient capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and a major center for Hawaiian culture and history. It's also known for its coffee farms, luaus, and water sports.
Location
Address
Kailua-Kona, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Neighborhood: Downtown Kailua-Kona
Coordinates
19.647200, -155.997500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and pleasant
- • Coffee harvest
- • Humpback whale sightings
summer
hot and sunny
- • Ironman World Championship
- • Luaus
autumn
cooler and less humid
- • Fishing tournaments
- • Kona Coffee Living History Farm
winter
warm and slightly rainy
- • Whale watching
- • Holiday events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Respect local customs
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen
- Stay hydrated
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • Sun exposure
- • Ocean conditions can be dangerous
Medical facilities: nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, light and breathable clothing, swimwear for beaches, comfortable shoes, flip-flops, or water shoes, Inappropriate clothing for cultural sites
Booking Tips
- • at least a week in advance
- • official tourism website or local tour operators
- • varies by activity, check with provider
- • available for popular tours and attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kona Visitor App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Maps, Event Calendar, Attraction Information, Dining Guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Cafes, Public beaches
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, Cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA)
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 25 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture
Historical Significance: Ancient capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, significant in Hawaiian history and culture
Insider Tips
- Visit local coffee farms for the best Kona coffee experience
- Check out the Kona Brewers Festival for unique local beers
- Explore the Kona Coffee Living History Farm for a deeper understanding of Kona's coffee heritage
Local Recommendations
- • Try Kona coffee at a local farm
- • Visit the Kona Brewers Festival
- • Explore the Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Japanese, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Kailua Pier
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the pier and the ocean
Result: Stunning sunset photos
Hulihee Palace
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Focus on the historic architecture
Result: Beautiful historic shots
Magic Sands Beach
Best Time: Midday
Tips: Capture the turquoise water
Result: Vibrant beach photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Hulihee Palace
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Historical Site
Moku'aikau Beach
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Beach
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Distance: 5km
Walking: 60 min
Type: Historical Farm
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Try the local coffee"
- "Explore the historic sites"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (19)
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Sunset Manta Ray Tour in Kailua-Kona
Kona Walking Food Tour
Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona
Glass-Bottom Boat Reef Tour
Polynesian Cultural ATV Tour in Kona
Captain Cook Reef Snorkeling of Kealakekua Bay
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona - Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures
Kailua-Kona Adventure Whale Watch
Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Kailua-Kona
Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport
Kona - 8 Hour Private Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kona Shore Excursion: Wild Dolphin Reefs Snorkel and Sea Caves
Deluxe Volcano Experience with Restaurant Dinner
Half Day Morning Fishing Charter
2.5 Hour Super-Raft Sunset Cruise
Kona Hawaii Fishing/Snorkel Large Group Private Charter on OE
Volcano Adventure - Search the Most Recent Active Volcano from Kona
Private - All Inclusive Big Island Waterfalls Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
42
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
$10-$20