Things to do in Kailua-Kona

Top Things to Do in Kailua-Kona

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Things to Do in Kailua-Kona

Take it easy by Manini'owali Beach (you can slip in some snorkelling too), explore a coffee plantation, or go all out by hiking to the Mauna Kea summit.

Book these experiences for a close-up look at Kailua-Kona.


Top Attractions in Kailua-Kona

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.





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Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
*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 travellers are saying

  • Esther P
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Reaching 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 28 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Spuranam
    San Mateo, CA33 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Lovely 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 30 December 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • flu
    Chicago, IL164 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We 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 18 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Iliahi C
    Island of Hawaii, HI36 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Took 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 6 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Angelina M
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We 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 14 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Patty W
    Ogden, UT967 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It 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 24 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Gregory A
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This 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 18 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kelly K
    Ottawa, Canada23 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles

    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 21 November 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Rawa13
    San Jose, CA405 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A palace with beautiful surrounding, great history, and friendly staff. If possible, take the guided tour to learn more.
    Written 2 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • hogladyrider
    Yuma, AZ121 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Best 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 22 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DrValliappan
    Coimbatore, India6,757 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It 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 5 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Holly B
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our 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 10 December 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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