Things to Do in Kailua-Kona, HI - Kailua-Kona Attractions
Things to Do in Kailua-Kona
Take it easy by Manini'owali Beach (you can slip in some snorkeling too), explore a coffee plantation, or go all out by hiking to the Mauna Kea summit.
Explore popular experiences
See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings.
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kailua-Kona.
- fromper adult$242
- fromper adult$269
- Unique Experiencesfromper adult$94
- fromper adult$178
- Dinner and Show Ticketsfromper adult$177
- Wildlife Watchingfromper adult$119
- Photo Shootsfromper adult$119
- Shopping Toursfromper adult$40
- Full-day Toursfromper adult$699
- fromper adult$108
Other Top Attractions around Kailua-Kona
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travelers are saying
- Esther P2 contributionsReaching the summit of Mauna Kea was a highlight of our time in Hawaii. Being at 13,000+ feet in elevation was an experience. We took the trip up in a 4x4 van and it was definitely something we will remember forever. The views from the summit were amazing.
We totally want to come back and do a sunset and stargazing tour.Written February 28, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - SpuranamSan Mateo, CA33 contributionsLovely beach. Has a decent sized sandy portion. Parking is by the sides of the road. Come early or later in the day for closer parking. Good sized waves for boogie boarding and surfing.Written December 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- fluChicago, IL164 contributionsWe stopped by the Vanillerie on our way to the airport on our last day mostly out of curiosity. We talked with Steve, who was very knowledgeable, but missed the the full tour due to our flight time. We tried some of the ice cream made with the farm's vanilla and made a few purchases at the gift shop. The tour looked very interesting and I'll have to get on it the next time we are visiting!Written March 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Iliahi CIsland of Hawaii, HI36 contributionsTook the short cut on saddle road and it was a nice scenic drive across to Kona and back to Hilo town. Was able to see Mauna kea Summit too on our way back.Written March 6, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Angelina M8 contributionsWe did the sound bath with Brooke and enjoyed every minute. If you’re undecided about committing to a forest tour but want to check out / experience the area this is a great intro. We left mesmerized by the beauty of the area. The sound bath experience and a desire to book the jungle tour on our next visit!Written March 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Patty WOgden, UT967 contributionsIt was very informative and quite interesting seeing all the seahorses. It was also cool to be able to hold one. The thing I didn’t like was 50 people on a tour. I think it would have been much better if they split the group and only had 25 per group.Written February 24, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Gregory A8 contributionsThis secret gem less than 5 miles from KOA features dozens of protected green sea turtles basking in the water and on rocks and sand. Skip the visitor center and drive an extra mile south to the road that goes back to the marina. At the far end there is a labeled back gate with a VERY short walk to the ocean and turtle grounds, as well as historic walls. Great secluded beach for families, too.Written February 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Kelly KOttawa, Canada23 contributions
I was hesitant to make the drive after reading reviews but we did it in an SUV. Drive between 3-7 mph and you'll be ok. It isn't stress free though but if you are a good driver it's ok. Don't do it in a lower clearance vehicle. It takes about 15-20 min from Hwy 19.
When you park take the trail to the right. The first 10 -15 min of the walk is easy. You'll cross in front of an old red building then the last 20 min isn't hard it is just tedious as you are walking over lava rocks. Wear running shoes no flip flops.
You'll get there when there is sand dunes on your right and ocean on the left.
Beautiful teal water and white sand. A must for beach lovers.Written November 21, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Rawa13San Jose, CA405 contributionsA palace with beautiful surrounding, great history, and friendly staff. If possible, take the guided tour to learn more.Written January 2, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- hogladyriderYuma, AZ121 contributionsBest money one can spend for this tour! Hank our tour guide was the BEST! The brewery is amazing and the sustainability they have included is outstanding. Tours size is kept to a minimum and the beer samples are outstanding, even for someone like me who is not a big drinker. This tour was one of the best things we did while on our cruise to Hawaii. Easy Uber access to and from the port to the brewery. A definite MUST do for beer lovers for sure.Written February 22, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- DrValliappanCoimbatore, India6,757 contributionsIt is a small beach with waves to stand and some to surf. It is full of visitors with families and kids. Surrounded by shopping areas, lodging and restaurants. One of the top 10 beaches in Hawaii that has a life guard attached for safety.Written October 5, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Holly B8 contributionsOur guide was pleasant, lovely, and patient as she taught us all about abalone while leading our varied group of tourists through the areas of the farm. Our group of 4 adults truly enjoyed learning about how the Japanese abalone are bred, fed, and harvested. (Japanese abalone are much smaller than the California species.) The young kids in the group were entertained - and the elderly members of the group were able to make their way to the various stations. This is a rare and interesting opportunity that I highly recommend for anyone visiting the island.Written December 10, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kailua-Kona
- The top attractions to visit in Kailua-Kona are:
- Mauna Kea Summit
- Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay)
- Saddle Road
- Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
- Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
- The best outdoor activities in Kailua-Kona according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
- Mauna Kea Summit
- Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay)
- Makalawena/Pu'u Ali'i
- Kahaluu Bay
- The best day trips from Kailua-Kona according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
- Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars Free Astro Photos Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up
- Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
- Best Mauna Kea Summit Tour (Free sunset and star photo!)
- Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour
- The most popular things to do in Kailua-Kona with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- The Vanillerie
- Kona Style
- Kona Ocean Adventures
- Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
- Aquatic Life Divers