Aloha from Kona: Where the Coffee is King and the Ocean is Your Playground!

Aloha, fellow adventurers! I’ve just returned from a sun-kissed trip to Kona on the Big Island of Hawai’i, and I’m still buzzing from the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. If you’re looking for a Hawaiian escape that offers stunning beaches, rich history, incredible marine life, and world-famous coffee, the sunny west side of the Big Island is your spot.

Here’s a look at what made my time in Kona so unforgettable:

1. Coffee, Coffee, Coffee (and the Views!)

You simply cannot visit Kona without diving head-first into the legendary Kona Coffee scene. The coffee belt, nestled on the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes, produces some of the most sought-after beans in the world.

• My Must-Do: Take a tour of a local coffee farm, like the Kona Coffee Living History Farm or just stop for a cup with a view. I highly recommend starting your day at a place like The Coffee Shack in Captain Cook—the panoramic views of Kealakekua Bay while sipping a fresh brew are life-changing.

2. Dive into the Deep Blue (Especially After Dark)

The Kona coast boasts some of the clearest waters and best snorkeling and diving spots in all of Hawai’i.

• Don’t Miss the Manta Rays: Hands down, the most exhilarating thing I did was the Night Snorkel with Manta Rays. Guides shine bright lights into the water, attracting plankton, which in turn draws in the majestic manta rays. Watching these gentle giants glide and loop right beneath you is truly a humbling, bucket-list-worthy experience.

• Best Snorkel Spots: For clear, calm water and abundant marine life, head to Kahalu’u Beach Park (perfect for sea turtles!) or Honaunau Bay (Two Step), which offers natural rock-step entry into the water and phenomenal visibility. You might even spot wild spinner dolphins on your boat tour!

3. Culture & History on Ali’i Drive

The historic seaside village of Kailua-Kona (often just called “Kona”) is centered around Ali’i Drive, a vibrant coastal strip packed with shops, restaurants, and historical sites.

• Stroll the Village: Spend an afternoon exploring landmarks like Hulihe’e Palace, a former vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and Mokuaikaua Church, Hawai’i’s oldest Christian church.

• The Kona Farmers Market (open most days) is a great place to sample local fruits, snacks, and pick up unique artisan crafts.

• Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: A short drive south is this sacred “Place of Refuge.” This incredible park offers a profound look into ancient Hawaiian culture, where kapu (sacred laws) breakers could seek sanctuary. The royal grounds and reconstructed temples are stunning.

4. Coastal Gems: Beach Hopping & Sunsets

Kona is famous for its bright, sunny weather and access to diverse beaches.

• White Sand Paradise: Kua Bay (Manini’owali Beach), located north of Kona, is a stunner with soft white sand and incredibly clear turquoise water—perfect for a beach day.

• The “Magic” Beach: Don’t be surprised if Magic Sands Beach (La’aloa Beach Park) lives up to its name—the sand here can sometimes disappear overnight due to strong currents, revealing a rocky shore! It’s a great spot for sunbathing and watching the local bodyboarders.

5. Fueling Your Kona Adventures: Must-Eat Bites

Hawaiian cuisine is a blend of cultures, and Kona has some fantastic local spots.

• Poke Perfection: You must get poke! Hit up a local favorite like Da Poke Shack or Umeke’s Fishmarket Bar and Grill for fresh, mouthwatering ahi.

• Local Grinds: For authentic Hawaiian and Filipino plate lunches, check out Broke Da Mouth Grindz. Their Furikake Chicken is a legendary local favorite.

• Oceanfront Eats: Treat yourself to a sunset dinner at an oceanfront spot along Ali’i Drive, like Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar or Huggo’s on the Rocks, where you can literally dine with sand between your toes!

Kona is truly the perfect base for exploring the wild, diverse Big Island. It offers the relaxed, island time vibe you crave, combined with enough unique activities and flavors to fill weeks of adventure.

Mahalo and happy travels!