Things to Do in Kailua Kona & Where to Stay

Ready to start planning your Hawaiian getaway? Consider the beautiful Kailua Kona, a town on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. This seaside town is famous for its lush coastline, rich history, and vibrant downtown. Not to mention, this portion of the Big Island is home to truly magical boutique hotels that immerse you in the native culture of Hawaii while providing a lovely place to call home during your trip. So, in this blog, we’ll give you a handful of can’t-miss things to do in Kailua Kona to accent your tropical retreat, as well as a stunning place to stay nearby.

Things to See in Kona Hawaii

There’s so much to see across the Hawaiian Islands. However, Hawaii’s Big Island definitely impresses with its towering volcanoes, flourishing valleys and rainforests, and unrivaled oceanside activities. Particularly, the town of Kailua Kona extends the island wonders with its extraordinary beaches, authentic Hawaiian history, and downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and nightlife. Explore the possibilities for your Big Island itinerary below.

Downtown Kailua Kona

From monthly artisan events to spectacular day-to-day shopping and coastal dining, there’s so much to see in Kona Hawaii. First and foremost, consider starting your day with a steaming cup of Kona Coffee at any number of cafes in the town. The Kona region is famous for its signature Kona Coffee, which has a long and rich history of being grown, harvested, sun-dried, and enjoyed by those both on and off the island. So, consider stopping for a local coffee farm tour during your stay.

If you’re looking to do some shopping, visit Kona Inn Shopping Village. Since 1980, this charming seaside district in Kona’s downtown has featured jewelry stores, surf shops, coffee shops, and artisan galleries. The wooden boardwalk meanders adjacent to the turquoise surf. Here, you’ll find many an oceanfront restaurant with fresh catches and fresh fruit. Moreover, one Sunday each month brings the Kokua Kailua event. This is a leisurely art fair that brings you strolling down the historic streets of Kona and indulging in a unique variety of vendors.

And for beer lovers, you’ll definitely not want to miss visiting the Kona Pub. This is just one of the many authentic homes of the Kona Brewing Company in Hawaii. So, consider taking a tour, digging into delicious food, enjoying live music, and, of course, sipping on an ice cold Kona. You’ll also find many a Pacific luau in the area, which is a must among things to do in Kailua Kona.

Beaches on the Kona Coast

Looking for some Kona activities on the western coast? You’re in luck. The Kona Coast is home to countless sparkling white sand beaches that go above and beyond the average coastline. To start, the Kua Bay is within the Kekaha Kai State Park and features a three-quarter-mile beach framed by black lava fields. With a flourishing coral reef, this beach offers spectacular opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling. You may even catch a glimpse of beautiful green sea turtles and vibrant schools of tropical fish. There are also hiking trails in the state park for when you’re tired of swimming.

Up next is the Kailua Pier and Bay, which is known for offering some of the best snorkeling spots, diving, and sportfishing in the world. Not to mention, this pier is both the start and finish for the famous Ironman World Championship! When you visit, consider taking a diving adventure or boat tours to see manta rays and pods of spinner dolphins. And if you plan your trip for between December and April, you can even go whale watching for humpback whales on a stunning sunset cruise. Popular businesses for adventures here include the Manta Village Snorkel, Body Glove catamaran, and Kailua Bay Charter company.

Lastly, Kahalu’u Beach Park in Kailua Kona is also a popular beach due to its calm waters and fantastic snorkeling, surfing, and water recreation opportunities. From glass bottom reef tours to surf lessons, to a snorkel and dolphin watch, to simply sunbathing under swaying palm trees, spending time on the beach is at the top of our list for things to do in Kailua Kona.

Hulihe’e Palace & National Historical Parks

Now, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy the sacred sites in Kona. Of course, you’re going to want to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Both the Kilauea volcano and Mauna Loa volcano, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, are in this park. So, consider a day hike through the ancient terrain if you dare. The dormant Mauna Kea is also nearby for nervous explorers. Moreover, if you want a look at the history of Hawaiian royalty, visit the Hulihe’e Palace. Now a museum, this historic site in the Kona district was first home to a high chief. When in ruins in the 1920s, two daughters of royalty set to restoring it, keeping it as a museum of artifacts and Hawaiian royal history.

Next up for historic sites is the Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. In ancient Hawaii, when the sacred law, or kapu, was broken, offenders were often punished with death. Any fugitive looking to escape punishment ran swiftly to Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau, also known as “a place of refuge.” Anyone who made it within the borders of a pu’uhonua could evade punishment. However, this pu’uhonua is the most well-preserved and dramatic in all of Hawaii.

Finally, the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is just south of the Kona International Airport and is filled to the brim with history and beautiful landscapes. Once a coastal Hawaiian settlement, this area is now famed for its ancient petroglyphs and sacred temples for you to admire. Not to mention, wildlife watching is popular in these parts, as you’re likely to see your fair share of Hawaiian monk seals, Big Island bees, marine life, and native birds.

Pacific 19: Nearby Things to Do in Kailua Kona

What better way to soak in Hawaiian culture than with stunning vacation rentals at the heart of Kailua Kona? However, one stands above them all: Pacific 19. This Big Island boutique hotel puts other luxury resorts to shame. Stylishly renovated in 1960, this one-of-a-kind Hawaiian hotel is just steps from Kailua Bay and thoughtfully immerses you in authentic Hawaiian culture. Discover amenities and accommodations below of your new homebase while exploring things to do in Kailua Kona.

Cozy Amenities

Say goodbye to the ordinary with Pacific 19. This gorgeous oasis boasts a modern island-urban ambience that you’ll quickly settle in to. As one of the only independent boutique hotels on the Big Island (and the only one in Kailua Kona), your stay is made to feel intimate with authentic touches of the Polynesian culture.

If you’re still at a lack for things to do in Kailua Kona, you’re in luck. This enchanting hotel features a meticulously crafted itinerary for any traveler looking to explore the “best of the bests” on the island, as well as must-see destinations. What’s more, Pacific 19 even offers curated experiences to more deeply immerse you in beauty and history of Hawaii. From thrilling adventures like shark diving in tropical waters to a guided tour of the Magical Creatures Sanctuary or Kohala waterfalls, there’s a great destination and experience for you.

Moreover, amenities on-site encourage you to take it easy and soak in your surroundings. Unwind or catch up on a bit of work in the cozy lobby lounge, complete with plush couches and thoughtful work spaces. However, if you’re looking to relax outdoors, head to the pool deck. This area is not only ideal for drenching yourself in sun and refreshing in the pool, but you’ll also find plenty of lounge areas for sipping a cool libation from the patio cafe beneath an umbrella. Visit in the early morning for some sunrise yoga as well! Now, let’s dive in to Kailua Kona accommodations below.

Island-Urban Accommodations

Though you’re not likely to be spending much time in your room with so many things to see in Kona Hawaii, Pacific 19’s suites do not disappoint. After a day of paddle boarding, meandering botanical gardens, or viewing lava tubes, you’ll be happy to slip off your hiking boots in any one of these suites. Each suite includes premium linens and towels, luxurious bath amenities, flat-screen TVs, a mini-fridge and macro bar, a private balcony, and a private bath with a shower/tub combination. Explore below.

• Partial Ocean View: features one king bed or two doubles. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Pool View: features one king bed or two doubles. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Town View: features one king bed or two doubles. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Garden View: features one king bed or two doubles. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Ohana Suite: features one king bedroom, two bathrooms, and living room with sleeper sofa. Accommodates four guests.
• Apartment Suite: features one king bedroom, kitchenette, and living room with sleeper sofa. Accommodates four guests.

Book Near Things to Do in Kailua Kona with Nook Outdoors

Feeling confident about your new list of things to do in Kailua Kona? Then don’t wait; book your Hawaiian vacation today! With Nook Outdoors, no vacation in nature is ever wasted. Our carefully curates portfolio of boutique hotels, cabins, and glamping experiences immerses you in nature without forgoing the modern amenities and accommodations you know and love. So, browse all accommodations below, and make reconnecting with nature a priority. Feel free to to contact us at info@nookoutdoors.com.