Kailua-Kona Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

Kailua-Kona Things to Do

Kailua-Kona is one of the main cities on the Big Island of Hawaii, and a popular spot for tourists to visit. Check out a few of the things that you can do while you’re there.

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Beaches

Although the beaches in Kailua-Kona aren’t known for being as pristine and perfect as some of the other beaches in Hawaii, they’re still excellent places to spend time during your vacation. Because Kailua-Kona’s beaches aren’t as famous as some of the other beaches in Hawaii, they’re also less crowded, which is a plus if you prefer a little extra space while you’re sunbathing. The snorkeling is particularly good in this area – under the water, you’ll find a gorgeous array of fish, plus other sea creatures like eels and rays.

Kailua-Kona’s beaches are also a great place to spot green turtles. You can see them while snorkeling, but even if you don’t snorkel, you’re likely to spot them while swimming, walking on the beach, or just looking out from your hotel balcony. They feed on algae found in the shallow water and bask on the beach’s rocks. Turtles are fun to watch, but be careful not to touch them or disturb them in anyway. They’re a threatened species that is protected by law.

Ali’i Drive

If you want to go shopping, Ali’i Drive is the place to go. There you can find shops selling souvenirs and t-shirts, as well as any other type of item you might need. This is also a great place to find a good restaurant when you’re hungry. Choose an outdoor cafe and enjoy the people-watching opportunities while you eat.

Ali’i Drive is more than just shops and restaurants, though. Here you can also find Hulihe’e Palace, a museum that was once a vacation house for royalty. Great photo opportunities can be found at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, which is known in the area as the Little Blue Church. There is a sea wall on one side of Ali’i Drive that makes a lovely backdrop for a picnic lunch, and there you’ll have views of the sea and of local fishermen going about their day. Near Ali’i Drive you can also stop at Ahu’ena Heiau, a temple that is dedicated to the Hawaiian god, Lono. This temple was ordered to be restored by King Kamehameha himself in the early 1800’s.

While these are only a small fraction of the attractions that Kailua-Kona has to offer, they should definitely be on your must-see list.

More from SmarterTravel:

• How to Big Island Like a Local
• Hawaii (Big Island) Unusual Attractions & Day Trips
• Lava Rock in Kailua-Kona and Other Warnings and Dangers

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Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Kailua-Kona.