![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-072-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-070-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/kona-hawaii-4-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAfter exploring <\/span>Oahu<\/a><\/b>, <\/span>Maui<\/a><\/b>, and <\/span>Kauai<\/a><\/b> multiple times, we figured it was finally time to check out Kona over on The Big Island. It was the last major Hawaiian island on our list, and honestly, I have no idea why we waited so long. It\u2019s just a quick and easy flight from San Francisco (where we\u2019re based!), yet somehow, over a decade passed between our first trip to Hawaii in 2013 and finally making it here. Better late than never, right?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
After finally visiting, I can confidently say Kona has a completely different vibe from the other islands. It\u2019s raw, rugged, and way less polished \u2013 but in the best way possible. Here\u2019s how I\u2019d spend 3 days in Kona and nearby. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
3 Days in Kona Itinerary Logistics<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
3 Days in Kona At-A-Glance<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Day 1: <\/b>Downtown Kona, Magic Sands Beach Park, night snorkel with manta rays<\/a><\/span> (whatever you do, don’t miss this! — it’s absolutely EPIC)<\/li>
- Day 2: <\/b>Kua Bay and\/or Makalawena, Kings\u2019 Shops in Waikoloa Village, sea turtles at Kaloko-Honok\u014dhau, sunset drinks\u00a0<\/span><\/li>
- Day 3: <\/b>Pu\u02bbuhonua o H\u014dnaunau, snorkel at Two Step Beach or join a <\/span>catamaran tour<\/span><\/a>, tour a Kona coffee farm, soak at Mamalahoa Hot Tubs, and <\/span>Hawaiian Luau<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Where is Kona, HI?<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Kona sits on the sun-drenched western coast of Hawai’i Island, better known as the Big Island. This stretch of coastline is part of the larger Kona District, which spans much of the island\u2019s southwest.\u00a0<\/span>And it’s just gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-129-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-120-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-108-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nGeographically, it sits between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Kohala Mountains to the north, with the Mauna Loa volcano to the south. The town of Kailua-Kona, often referred to simply as “Kona,” is the heart of the region and where you\u2019ll find not only tourists but plenty of locals. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unlike Hilo, which lies on the rainy, jungle-covered east coast, Kona is all about dry, sunny weather \u2013 perfect for snorkeling, diving, and lounging with a mai tai in hand. It\u2019s about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive between the two, and while Kona is a bit removed from some of the Big Island\u2019s major sights like Mauna Kea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it makes up for it with epic ocean views, world-class coffee farms, and OMG the sunsets.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kona isn\u2019t Honolulu \u2013 there\u2019s no towering skyline, no Waikiki Beach crowds, and definitely no rush-hour traffic. What will you find instead? A laid-back, beachy vibe, charming seaside restaurants, and some of the best snorkeling and manta ray night dives in the world. If you\u2019re looking for a slower-paced, sun-soaked Hawaiian escape, Kona is exactly where you want to be.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember \u2013 Don\u2019t expect to find the iconic sights of Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, or the <\/span>Road to Hana<\/a> <\/b>here \u2013 those are over on <\/span>Oahu<\/a><\/b> and <\/span>Maui<\/a><\/b>. Kona has its own kind of magic, with rugged lava fields, crystal-clear snorkeling spots, and a more laid-back, uncrowded vibe.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Get to Kona, HI<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-151-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-146-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-145-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nGetting to Kona is refreshingly easy, whether you\u2019re flying in from the mainland, island-hopping from elsewhere in Hawaii, or even arriving by cruise ship. We\u2019re especially lucky to be only a 5 hour non-stop flight away!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flying to Kona\u00a0<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main gateway to the Big Island is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), located just north of Kailua-Kona. It\u2019s well-connected to major U.S. cities, with nonstop flights from the West Coast, including Los Angeles (5.5 hours), Seattle<\/a><\/strong> (6 hours), and San Francisco (5 hours). If you’re coming from the East Coast, expect an 11-12 hour journey with a layover \u2013 most likely in <\/span>Honolulu<\/a><\/b>, <\/span>San Francisco<\/a><\/b>, <\/span>Los Angeles<\/a><\/b>, or Dallas.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flying in from another Hawaiian island? Super simple! Interisland flights on Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest connect Kona to Honolulu, Maui, and Kauai in under an hour, making it easy to add Kona to your island-hopping itinerary<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the things I love most about living in California is how easy it is to jet off to Hawaii for a long weekend. With multiple daily nonstop flights from San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX), it\u2019s basically a five-hour flight to paradise.\u00a0<\/span>And because of that, we’re trying to get to Hawaii as much as humanly possible, because we may not live on the West Coast forever!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trust me \u2013 there\u2019s nothing like stepping off the plane in Hawaii, feeling the warm, salty air and knowing you\u2019ve officially arrived in paradise. And just like in <\/span>Palm Springs<\/a><\/b>, the entire airport is practically outside and covered in palm trees!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Coming by Cruise Ship<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many longer Hawaiian cruises include a stop in Kona, typically for a day of exploring before continuing to other ports like Hilo or Maui. Since the harbor isn\u2019t deep enough for large ships to dock, passengers take tenders (small boats) from ship to shore, adding a bit of adventure to the arrival!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Get Around Kona<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-049-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-092-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-047-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nGetting around Kona depends on where you\u2019re staying and what you plan to do. Here\u2019s a breakdown of your best options:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Walking<\/b>: If you\u2019re staying in downtown Kailua-Kona, you\u2019re in luck \u2013 it\u2019s super walkable. Ali\u2018i Drive, the scenic oceanfront road, is packed with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making it easy to explore on foot. Just keep in mind that once you venture beyond the town center, you\u2019ll need another mode of transport.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Rental Car<\/b>: Highly recommended if you want to see more than just the downtown area. While Kona itself is compact, the Big Island is, well, big, and many of the best beaches and attractions aren\u2019t within walking distance. We loved Kua Bay (more on that below), but getting there by Uber would\u2019ve been pricey. And if you\u2019re staying longer than 3 days in Kona, you\u2019ll definitely want a rental car to visit places like Hawai\u2018i Volcanoes National Park, Pu\u2018uhonua o H\u014dnaunau National Historical Park, and Green Sand Beach.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Public Transit<\/b>: Kona does have a public bus system, but it\u2019s not the most convenient for tourists. Routes are limited, and buses don\u2019t always run frequently. It\u2019s fine for short trips around town but not ideal for reaching the island\u2019s best spots.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Rideshares<\/b>: Uber and Lyft do exist in Kona, but they\u2019re not as widely available as in bigger cities. They work well for short trips (like getting to\/from the airport or a night out in town), but if you\u2019re heading to more remote beaches, doing scenic drives, or exploring national parks, you\u2019ll probably save money (and hassle) by renting a car.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Island Hopping & Cruises:<\/b> If you\u2019re visiting from another Hawaiian island, inter-island flights are quick and easy, with Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offering frequent service. Also, some major cruise lines stop in Kona on longer Hawaii itineraries, giving visitors a day to explore before sailing on.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When to Visit Kona (Weather & Crowds)<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Kona enjoys some of the best weather in Hawaii, thanks to the Kohala Mountains blocking much of the rainfall from the northeast trade winds. This means plenty of sunshine, warm temps in the 80s F year-round, and only about 20 rainy days per year \u2013 my dream! But while the weather is pretty consistent, the crowds, prices, and wildlife experiences change depending on when you visit. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-003-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-027-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-025-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHere\u2019s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter (December \u2013 March): Peak Season & Whale Watching<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winter is one of the busiest times in Kona, with visitors escaping the cold from the mainland. Expect higher prices on flights and hotels, especially around the holidays, and more people at popular beaches and attractions. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
But there\u2019s another reason this season is so popular \u2013 it\u2019s humpback whale season! Over 8,000 whales migrate to Hawaii\u2019s warm waters, and Kona is one of the best places to see them. If <\/span>whale-watching tours<\/b><\/a> or spotting these gentle giants from the shore sound like your thing, winter is an epic time to visit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spring (April \u2013 June): Fewer Crowds, Perfect Weather<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spring is a sweet spot for visiting Kona. The holiday rush is over, spring break crowds taper off by mid-April, and prices start to dip. The weather? Still sunny and warm, with little rain. Plus, you might still catch the tail end of whale season if you visit in early April. This is a great time to visit if you want all the sunshine with fewer people.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-051-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-079-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-055-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSummer (July \u2013 Early September): Hot & Bustling<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summer brings warmer temps, slightly more humidity, and an influx of families since schools are out. Crowds are up, but it\u2019s still nowhere near as packed as <\/span>Oahu<\/b> or <\/span>Maui<\/b> in the summer. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you love snorkeling and diving, this is one of the best times for crystal-clear water \u2013 waves are calmer, making for incredible underwater visibility. Just book your accommodations early, as prices can rise during peak summer travel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fall (Mid-September \u2013 November): Best for Tranquility & Deals<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re looking for smaller crowds, lower prices, and still-perfect weather, fall is the time to visit Kona. We visited in late September and couldn\u2019t have asked for a better experience \u2013 warm, sunny days with minimal rain, and far fewer tourists than we expected. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to Stay in Kona<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Kona has a little bit of everything when it comes to accommodations \u2013 from oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and even unique vacation rentals. But where you stay depends on what kind of experience you\u2019re looking for of course. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do you want to be right in the heart of Kailua-Kona, close to restaurants and shops? Prefer a laid-back beachfront resort with easy access to the ocean? Or maybe you\u2019re after a secluded retreat surrounded by lush nature? <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-029-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-078-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-016-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s break it down:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Areas to Stay in Kona<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Kailua-Kona (Downtown Kona)<\/b> \u2013 Perfect if you wanna be within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and shops (like us!). You\u2019ll find mid-range hotels, budget inns, and oceanfront condos here. This is where most of the action happens, so it\u2019s ideal if you want a lively atmosphere.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>
- Keauhou<\/b> \u2013 Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this area is home to upscale resorts, golf courses, and the famous manta ray night dives. It\u2019s a great choice for relaxation with easy access to the main town.<\/span><\/li>
- Hual\u0101lai \/ Four Seasons Area<\/b> \u2013 If you\u2019re going all out, this is where you\u2019ll find luxury resorts with private beaches, top-tier dining, and spa experiences. The <\/span>Four Seasons Hual\u0101lai<\/b><\/a> is arguably the best resort in Kona (and comes with a hefty price tag).<\/span><\/li>
- South Kona \/ Captain Cook<\/b> \u2013 More of a quiet, local vibe with lush landscapes and coffee farms. Great if you want to be near Pu\u2019uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and Kealakekua Bay. Accommodations here are mostly vacation rentals and small inns.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-017-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-144-750x1000.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li>![\"Kona](\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kona-big-island-hawaii-008-750x563.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBest Hotels & Resorts in Kona<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Keauhou<\/b> \u2013 Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this area is home to upscale resorts, golf courses, and the famous manta ray night dives. It\u2019s a great choice for relaxation with easy access to the main town.<\/span><\/li>
- Island Hopping & Cruises:<\/b> If you\u2019re visiting from another Hawaiian island, inter-island flights are quick and easy, with Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offering frequent service. Also, some major cruise lines stop in Kona on longer Hawaii itineraries, giving visitors a day to explore before sailing on.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Rideshares<\/b>: Uber and Lyft do exist in Kona, but they\u2019re not as widely available as in bigger cities. They work well for short trips (like getting to\/from the airport or a night out in town), but if you\u2019re heading to more remote beaches, doing scenic drives, or exploring national parks, you\u2019ll probably save money (and hassle) by renting a car.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Public Transit<\/b>: Kona does have a public bus system, but it\u2019s not the most convenient for tourists. Routes are limited, and buses don\u2019t always run frequently. It\u2019s fine for short trips around town but not ideal for reaching the island\u2019s best spots.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Rental Car<\/b>: Highly recommended if you want to see more than just the downtown area. While Kona itself is compact, the Big Island is, well, big, and many of the best beaches and attractions aren\u2019t within walking distance. We loved Kua Bay (more on that below), but getting there by Uber would\u2019ve been pricey. And if you\u2019re staying longer than 3 days in Kona, you\u2019ll definitely want a rental car to visit places like Hawai\u2018i Volcanoes National Park, Pu\u2018uhonua o H\u014dnaunau National Historical Park, and Green Sand Beach.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Day 2: <\/b>Kua Bay and\/or Makalawena, Kings\u2019 Shops in Waikoloa Village, sea turtles at Kaloko-Honok\u014dhau, sunset drinks\u00a0<\/span><\/li>