Things to Do in Kona for First Timers

Visit the historic downtown, marvel at sacred sites in Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and enjoy a nature walk through Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Encounter Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles at Honokohau Beach, taste honey at Big Island Bees, and sip world-famous coffee at a local plantation. This tour engages all the senses, offering a deeper appreciation of Hawaii’s beauty. Enjoy a bento lunch with options for all dietary needs, ensuring a delightful and inclusive experience.

Departing from Honokohau Harbor, you’ll cruise to Keauhou Bay at sunset, where you’ll spend an hour in the water with these gentle giants. Unlike other rays, manta rays are harmless, feeding on plankton with wide mouths. You’ll float on the surface, holding onto a light board that attracts plankton and manta rays, who perform mesmerizing barrel rolls beneath you. The 46-foot “Ocean Encounter” boat ensures a safe, comfortable trip, complete with certified crew members, a restroom, shaded areas, and excellent viewing from the upper deck.

Explore the rich history and culture of Polynesia, learn traditional arts and crafts, and indulge in a lavish Hawaiian buffet. The evening culminates with the enchanting “He ‘Ohana Kakou” Big Island luau night show, which tells traditional stories through mesmerizing song and dance. Highlights include the Royal Court procession with King Kamehameha’s entourage in traditional attire, making this the most popular luau on the Big Island.

Experience the perfect evening with Body Glove’s Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay. Depart from Kailua-Kona pier and embark on a historical journey aboard a spacious, ADA-accessible double-deck catamaran. Enjoy live entertainment, a Hawaiian-style dinner, and tropical drinks as you take in the breathtaking sunset and the iconic Captain Cook’s Monument.

Embark on a deluxe snorkel sail to two of the Big Island’s most stunning snorkeling locations: the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay and Red Hill at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Begin your morning with a continental breakfast before diving into the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. Enjoy a hearty lunch as you sail to Red Hill, where you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter colorful tropical fish, and possibly see Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins.

Dive into the depths of the Big Island’s ocean aboard a state-of-the-art, 48-passenger submarine. Encounter diverse marine life, as you explore a 25-acre, 18,000-year-old fringing coral reef. Your expert Atlantis narrator will reveal the fascinating formation of the Hawaiian Islands and identify various marine species. The tour includes a scenic boat ride along the Kona coast to the dive site and a 45-minute submarine adventure with ample viewing through large portal windows.

Learn to ride the waves like a pro on the Big Island with Hawaii Lifeguard Surf Instructors. These private Kona surfing lessons offer one-on-one guidance from experts certified in Professional Lifeguarding, Ocean Rescue, CPR, AED, and First Aid by the American Red Cross. Available for ages 3 and up, each two-hour session includes a 15-minute classroom lesson and ample surfing time.

Glide along the beautiful Kona Coast searching for majestic humpback whales, guided by knowledgeable marine naturalists. With a certified crew ensuring a safe and smooth ride, you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views from the deck. The tour, aboard the spacious and comfortable 65-ft. catamaran Kanoa II, features ample indoor and outdoor seating, a full-service bar, ADA-compliant facilities, and more. This unforgettable experience promises amazing sightings or a free return trip!

Journey to the top of the Big Island where your adventure begins at the Onizuka Visitor Information Station (VIS) for acclimation and a delicious meal. Then, ascend to the Mauna Kea summit to witness a breathtaking sunset above the clouds. Back at the VIS, warm up with hot drinks as your guides use lasers to highlight constellations, star clusters, and celestial bodies in the night sky. View planets and galaxies through Celestron telescopes for an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Start with a Kona coffee farm visit, sampling 100% locally grown Kona coffee. Explore Punaluu, the southernmost area in the U.S., and visit the famous Punalu’u Bakery and iconic black sand beach. Discover the dynamic features of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park post-eruption. Conclude with magical stargazing along Saddle Road on the slopes of Mauna Kea State Park. This approximately 11-hour tour, operating daily, includes lunch, dinner, beverages, all admission fees, jackets, and rain gear.

Enjoy the intimacy of a smaller group and the comfort of a tour vehicle with large windows. Visit Bay View Farm on Mauna Loa Volcano’s slopes to sample 100% Kona Coffee with views of Kealakekua Bay. Stroll along Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, spot Hawaiian green sea turtles and explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s Kilauea Iki Crater and Halemaumau Crater. Savor handmade treats at Big Island Candies, marvel at Rainbow Falls, and end your day at Waipio Valley Lookout on the scenic Hamakua Coast.