Things to Do in Kona for Families

Ranked as one of the top activities in Hawaii, this unforgettable adventure with Sea Paradise offers you the chance to swim alongside these majestic creatures. With over three decades of experience, Sea Paradise ensures a safe and sustainable tour aboard their modern 50ft catamaran, “Hoku Nui.” Escape to paradise and create lasting memories with this incredible night dive adventure!

Immerse yourself in the spirit of ‘ohana—Hawaiian for family and friendship—at the Island Breeze Luau on the former estate of King Kamehameha the Great in Kailua-Kona. Enjoy a vibrant evening of Polynesian culture with traditional arts, and crafts, and an exquisite Hawaiian buffet featuring kalua pork, fresh fish, teriyaki beef, and more, all complemented by an open bar. The “He ‘Ohana Kakou” night show will captivate you with enchanting songs and dances that tell traditional stories.

Choose your preferred route and soar along either the stunning south or north coastline. The southbound route features iconic landmarks like Honokohau Bay, Kona Town, Keauhou Bay, and the renowned town of Captain Cook, with a spectacular view of Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook’s monument. Alternatively, the northbound journey offers the mesmerizing sights of Kua Bay, Kiholo Bay, and Anaeho’omalu Bay. With the option for a thrilling doors-off flight, this tour promises an adventure like no other.

Experience the beauty of a Kona sunset aboard the Honi Olani, a spacious 53-foot sailing catamaran.  Enjoy complimentary tropical cocktails from the full bar as the sun dips below the horizon, with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks included. Take advantage of the happy hour special with two free drinks and discounted prices on additional beers and mixed drinks. With lifeguard-certified crew members on board and top-notch amenities, the Honi Olani promises a memorable and enchanting evening on the water.

Join Body Glove’s Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise for an unforgettable evening to Kealakekua Bay! This historical journey on a spacious, ADA-accessible double-deck catamaran features live entertainment, a delicious Hawaiian-style dinner, and tropical drinks from the bar. As you sail towards Captain Cook’s Monument, marvel at the stunning landscape illuminated by the setting sun.

Explore the off-the-beaten-path side of the Big Island on a 4-mile expedition through surreal landscapes, native forests, lava tubes, hidden caves, and awe-inspiring craters. This easy hiking tour offers exclusive access to the upper slopes of Hualalai Volcano, allowing you to stand on the edge of precipitous craters and witness volcanic features up close. With minimal drive time from Kona, you’ll experience unique volcanic sites comparable to those in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Swim alongside tropical fish and explore vibrant coral gardens in the calm, protected waters near the famous Captain Cook Monument. Choose from a 4.5-hour Premium Morning Cruise with 2.5 hours of snorkeling and a delicious plant-based breakfast and lunch, or a 3.5-hour Afternoon Cruise with 1.5 hours of snorkeling in a less crowded setting. Perfect for all skill levels and family-friendly, this is a must-do activity on the Big Island.

Join a fun-filled, budget-friendly glass-bottom boat eco-tour in Kailua-Kona, led by a certified marine naturalist. Ideal for families, this guided cruise offers expert narration as you glide over vibrant coral reefs, spotting tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and other marine life. The fully covered boat with shaded seating ensures comfort for all ages. Enjoy a close-up view of the underwater wonders through the transparent floor, creating unforgettable memories while staying dry.

Descend into the depths of the Big Island’s ocean on a top-of-the-line, 48-passenger submarine for a unique underwater adventure! With large windows for optimal viewing, your expert narrator will share fascinating insights about the formation of the Hawaiian Islands and the vibrant 18,000-year-old coral reef below. This 1.5-hour tour includes a scenic shuttle boat ride along the Kona coast and a 45-minute submarine exploration. Perfect for families and anyone looking for an exciting alternative to snorkeling and scuba diving.

Explore historic downtown Kona, visit sacred sites at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and take a guided nature walk through Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Discover Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles at Honokohau Beach, taste delicious honey at Big Island Bees, and savor world-famous coffee from a local plantation. Enjoy a bento lunch and beverages, with dietary options available.

Journey along Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, where you’ll learn about the island’s history and volcanoes. After a delicious dinner, use a state-of-the-art solar telescope to observe the sun setting, then switch to a high-powered Dobsonian telescope to explore the night sky. Marvel at galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, planets, and more from the slopes of Mauna Kea.

Begin your journey with a stop at the famous Punaluu Bakery to savor their delicious malasada donuts, then explore the black sands of Punaluu Beach. Learn about the Big Island’s history as you head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, walk through a massive lava tube, and witness the vast Kilauea Crater. Enjoy a delightful dinner at Kilauea Lodge before returning to your hotel. This tour includes lunch, dinner, snacks, beverages, and professional photos.

Explore the charming Paniolo town of Waimea, visit the sacred Waipio Valley lookout, and marvel at the stunning Akaka and Rainbow Falls. Enjoy a gourmet lunch in Hilo, tour a Kona Coffee Farm, and learn about the coffee-making process. In Volcanoes National Park, witness active craters, steam vents, crater rim trails, and a lava tube. Frequent photo stops, including at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, offer opportunities to capture the island’s lush scenery and spot green sea turtles.

Uncover the beauty of North Kohala, Big Island’s hidden gem! Begin with an exciting off-road drive, followed by a leisurely trail walk through a lush private nature reserve. Explore seven stunning waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the final pool. Afterward, relax with a delicious picnic lunch overlooking Pololu Valley and its majestic sea cliffs. On the way back, stop by the charming town of Hawi. Expect a 1.5-mile hike over 1-2 hours.