Unique Things to Do in Kona

Visit the ancient royal grounds at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, marvel at sacred sites, and take a guided walk through Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see ancient fishponds and seawalls. Discover Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles at Honokohau Beach, enjoy a honey tasting at Big Island Bees while learning about beekeeping, and savor world-famous coffee on a plantation tour. This journey engages all the senses, providing a deep appreciation for Hawaii’s beauty.

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Hawaii’s stunning waterfalls, including Rainbow, Umauma, and Akaka Falls, nestled in lush mountains and rainforests. Choose between the comfort of a doors-on flight or the unobstructed views of a doors-off flight. Experience enchanting spots in Hawaii only accessible by air and capture high-quality photos of these breathtaking landscapes.

Gain exclusive access to the upper slopes of Hualalai Volcano, exploring volcanic sites that offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand on the edge of dramatic craters. This easy hiking tour reveals the island’s volcanic history without the lengthy drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Just 30-40 minutes from Kona, you’ll traverse uneven terrain, experience elevation changes, and marvel at unique volcanic features like 200-year-old lava flows and spatter cones.

Ride the waves in a 14-person ocean raft, with thrilling splashes adding to the excitement. Your knowledgeable captain will share fascinating local history and marine life facts as you journey. Depending on your tour choice, snorkel at 1, 2, or 3 stunning locations, including the renowned Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay, known as the Place of Refuge. For the ultimate experience, the 3-stop tour includes a secret snorkeling spot. These fast, open-air vessels ensure a safe and intimate adventure, equipped with all you need for a memorable snorkeling trip.

Experience the Big Island of Hawaii like never before with the Ocean Encounters Snorkeling Cruise. This 4-hour boat adventure takes you to the secluded coves of Pu’u Ali’i Bay and Makalawena Beach, accessible only by boat or a challenging hike. The tranquil waters and lava rock formations create a unique haven for tropical fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles.  With all gear included and expert local guides on board, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

Encounter an array of marine life, including reef fish, moray eels, lobsters, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and reef sharks, all while exploring a 25-acre, 18,000-year-old coral reef. Your expert Atlantis narrator will guide you through the fascinating formation of the Hawaiian Islands and the diverse species inhabiting the reef. Ideal for families with young children, this 1.5-hour tour includes a scenic shuttle boat ride along the Kona coast, followed by a 45-minute submarine dive with panoramic views from large portal windows.

Encounter an array of marine life, including reef fish, moray eels, lobsters, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and reef sharks, all while exploring a 25-acre, 18,000-year-old coral reef. Your expert Atlantis narrator will guide you through the fascinating formation of the Hawaiian Islands and the diverse species inhabiting the reef. Ideal for families with young children, this 1.5-hour tour includes a scenic shuttle boat ride along the Kona coast, followed by a 45-minute submarine dive with panoramic views from large portal windows.

Embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure in Keauhou Bay, where you’ll paddle solo or in tandem with a stable kayak led by an experienced guide. Navigate calm waters along sea cliffs to explore spectacular sea caves, and if conditions allow, paddle right inside! Discover lava tubes and enjoy free time for snorkeling and swimming in a protected cove teeming with marine life, including Green Sea Turtles and Spinner Dolphins. Relish light snacks and cold drinks, explore sparkling tide pools, and take the plunge from 12-25 foot cliffs into rejuvenating waters.

Get ready to ride the waves like a pro with private Kona surfing lessons from Hawaii Lifeguard Surf Instructors. Enjoy one-on-one instruction from experts certified by the American Red Cross in lifeguarding, ocean rescue, CPR, AED, and first aid. These personalized lessons ensure you make the most of your time in the pristine Pacific waters.

Hop into a comfortable 4×4 off-road vehicle and explore some of the Big Island’s most beautiful and hidden locations, including the majestic landscapes and rare ecosystems of Mauna Loa and the Mauna Kea forest reserve. Enjoy a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides who are experts in geology, botany, biology, and Hawaiian cultural history. Capture memories with professionally taken photos included in the tour.

Glide past landmarks such as Hulihee Palace, once a royal vacation home, and Ahuena Heiau, a temple retreat for King Kamehameha I. Visit Mokuaikaua Church, the island’s first Christian church, and enjoy various fun stops and beach stores along the way. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced Segway enthusiast, this tour offers a unique and engaging way to explore Kona’s rich history and vibrant local scene.

Experience the exhilaration as this high-speed raft glides through the waves, bringing you up close to Hawaii’s majestic humpback whales. Witness breathtaking breaches, tail slaps, spy-hopping, and other spectacular behaviors in their natural habitat. With expert narration, comfortable seating, and ample amenities, this tour ensures you capture unforgettable photos and videos of these gentle giants.

Join Epic Tours for an unforgettable stargazing experience in Hawaii, led by James, an analog astronaut and Pro Astro-Photographer. Begin your journey to a remote, dark-sky location where James will highlight celestial objects and share fascinating stories about ancient Polynesian navigation. Use the most sophisticated, light-sensitive camera/scope in Hawaii to view stunning deep space objects like galaxies and nebulas. End the night with a fun photoshoot, capturing breathtaking images of you with the Milky Way.

Travel along Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, and acclimate to the altitude while learning about the island’s history and volcanoes. Enjoy a delicious dinner before gazing through a solar telescope as the sun sets, and then switch to a high-powered Dobsonian telescope to explore the night sky. See galaxies, nebulas, star clusters, planets, and more with unparalleled clarity. Kapohokine Adventures’ state-of-the-art equipment ensures the best celestial views in Hawaii.

Start your day with a scenic drive along Saddle Road to the exclusive Kauhi Cavern. Then, explore Volcanoes National Park with an expert nature guide, witnessing the dramatic transformation of Kilauea Crater from recent lava flows.  Highlights include exclusive access to one of Hawaii’s largest lava tubes, off-the-beaten-path sites, and the chance to see the evening glow of an active volcano. This 10-12 hour tour includes park entrance fees, meals, beverages, and all necessary gear.

Begin your journey at the Waipio Valley Lookout, offering stunning views of this sacred valley. Continue to the majestic Akaka Falls, where a rainforest walk leads you to Hawaii’s most famous waterfall. Explore the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, filled with rare and exotic plants. If the weather permits, enjoy an afternoon swim under the 120-foot private Kulaniapia waterfall. This eco-adventure includes captivating lookouts, rainforest wonders, and unforgettable experiences.

Encounter seven stunning waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing dip in the last pool. After swimming, savor a delicious picnic lunch at a scenic overlook of Pololu Valley and majestic sea cliffs. On your way back, stop by the charming town of Hawi. This 1.5-mile eco-adventure tour is perfect for those seeking to explore Hawaii off the beaten path.