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West Side Hawai'i

South Kona Area

Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau (City of Refuge) 

This state historic park offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture with reconstructed buildings and stunning coastal scenery. The tide pools often host sea turtles and a scenic coastline trail heads south for a picturesque walk.

Kealakekua Bay 

Renowned for its excellent snorkeling and marine sanctuary status, this bay is a must-visit. Bring your own snorkel gear, available for rent in Kona town. Kayak rentals are available from Kona Boys. Contact: 808-328-1234 (Kealakekua Shop).

Painted Church 

An intriguing historic church featuring vibrant painted scenes on its ceilings and walls.

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary 

A serene botanical garden showcasing a variety of plants, with a focus on meditation and tranquility.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm 

Experience the history of coffee farming in Kona with this living history museum, where you can tour a working coffee farm.

South Kona Hikes

  • Captain Cook Monument Trail: A popular hike to the monument at Kealakekua Bay, offering great snorkeling at the end. The hike is steep with little shade, so start early and bring water.

  • Hōnaunau Natural Bridges: Explore the natural rock formations and enjoy stunning ocean views.

Kona/North Kona Area

Para-sailing 

Experience the thrill of para-sailing with UFO Para-sailing. Leaves from the boat dock near King Kamehameha Marriott in Kona. Contact: 800-359-4836.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding 

Rentals and lessons from Kona Boys. Contact: 808-328-1234 (Kealakekua Shop) or 808-329-2345 (Kona Beach Shack off Ali‘i Drive).

Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary 

Tour this unique botanical garden located in the cloud forest.

Kaloko Fishpond/Queen’s Bath Hike 

Explore the ancient fishpond and natural Queen’s Bath, a secluded coastal pool.

Chocolate Farm Tour 

Discover the process of chocolate making with a farm tour. Contact: 888-447-2626.

Ziplining 

Experience the thrill of ziplining closer to Kona. Contact: 808-889-5111. While not as impressive as the East side tours, it’s a convenient option.

Mo‘okini Heiau 

Visit this ancient Hawaiian temple near Kawaihae on the North Kohala Coast.

Kona Area Restaurants:

  • Island Lava Java: Ocean view dining with excellent breakfast options.

  • Kona Coffee & Tea: Locally owned coffee shop serving Kona coffee, sandwiches, and wraps.

  • Daylight Mind: Waterfront restaurant, coffee house, and bar with frequent live music.

  • Original Thai: A favorite local Thai spot.

  • Kona Brewing Co.: The original microbrewery site, featuring patio dining and live music on Sundays.

  • Don the Beachcomber: Oceanfront dining at Royal Kona Resort, perfect for cocktails and epic views.

  • Kamana Indian: Authentic Indian cuisine.

  • Kenichi Pacific: Sushi and Asian cuisine.

  • Laulima Food Patch: Great local food with gluten-free options.

  • Evolution Bakery: Vegan and gluten-free options.

  • Holuakoa Cafe: Locally sourced ingredients and house-made breads in a lovely patio setting.

Ali‘i Drive 

A vibrant coastal road in Kona town featuring restaurants, shops, and bars along the waterfront.

Night Manta Ray Snorkel 

An unforgettable experience where you can snorkel with manta rays at night.

  • By Boat: Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours. Contact: 808-313-1116. Approx. $90 per person.

  • By Kayak: For a more intimate encounter, consider a kayak tour. Big Island Kayak. Contact: 800-979-3370. Approx. $80 per person.

Dolphin Watching

  • Manini Beach: Best chance of seeing dolphins around the full moon. Paddleboard or kayak towards the monument until about 9am.

  • Two-Step: Look for a cluster of snorkelers in the bay, often indicating a pod of dolphins. Best in the morning before 11am.

  • Ho‘okena Beach: Dolphins can be spotted throughout the month, typically until noon.

Sea Turtles

  • City of Refuge: Commonly seen on the beach or in tide pools.

  • Ka‘upulehu (Four Seasons Hualalai Resort Beach): Occasionally, you'll find turtles in large numbers. Ask for public beach access at the gate.

  • Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach: Often frequented by sunning sea turtles. Located on the southern coast en route to Volcanoes National Park.

South Kona Beaches

  • Manini Beach: Best snorkeling spot at Kealakekua Bay.

  • Two-Step: Excellent for snorkeling.

  • Ho‘okena Beach: A beautiful, lesser-known beach.

South Kona Area Restaurants

  • Ke‘ei Cafe: Dinner only. Don’t miss the Lilikoi Cheesecake.

  • Rebel Kitchen: Great local dishes.

  • TAPS at Ohana Warehouse: Known for their local plate lunches.

  • Randy’s Roadside Huli: Roadside BBQ available on Friday and Saturday near Kona Boys.

  • Manny’s: Mexican cuisine in Captain Cook.

  • The Coffee Shack: Breakfast and lunch with stunning views of the Kona coastline.

  • Loko Wraps: Fresh wraps and local flavors.

Waikoloa and North Kohala:

  • Beach Tree at Four Seasons: Beachfront dining with a true Hawaiian feel.

  • Ulu at Four Seasons: High-end restaurant with quality ingredients.

  • Napua at Mauna Lani: Fine dining in a beautiful setting.

  • Lava Lava Beach Club: Waterfront dining, ideal for lunch.

  • Under the Bodhi Tree: Vegan cuisine.

  • Tommy Bahama’s: Upscale dining with a nice bar and patio seating at the Shops at Mauna Lani.

  • Blue Dragon: Dancing and live music nightly in Kawaihae.

Kona Area Beaches:

  • Mahai‘ula/Kekaha Kai State Park Beach: Close to Kona town, with shade and a rough access road.

  • Beach 69/Waialea Beach: Known for its shade, outdoor shower, and public restrooms.

  • Makalawena: A local’s favorite with white sand and aquamarine waters, though hard to reach.

  • Kua Bay: Beautiful white sand beach, great for body surfing. Often crowded with strong waves.

  • Beach at Mauna Kea Resort: Public showers and a large sandy beach.

  • Mau‘umae Beach: A private, locals' beach near Mauna Kea Resort. Limited access hours.

  • Hapuna Beach: A large, popular beach with great facilities.

  • Kiholo Bay: A serene bay known for its clear waters.

  • Puako: A great spot for snorkeling with rich marine life.

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