Get a Jump on 2026: Start Planning Your Hawaii Vacation Today!

Aloha, future traveler!
If Hawaii is calling your name for 2026, now’s the time to answer. Planning early means you’ll enjoy the best selection of properties, the lowest rates, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dream vacation is already booked.

At Kona Coast Vacations, we make it easy to plan ahead so you can spend less time searching and more time dreaming about palm trees, ocean breezes, and your morning cup of Kona coffee with an ocean view.

🌺 Why Book Your 2026 Stay Early?

✨ Best Rates — Book Smart, Save Big
When you reserve early, you lock in today’s pricing before seasonal increases. That means more savings for island adventures, dining, and souvenirs.

🏖️ Top Property Selection — Get the Place You Love
From oceanfront condos in Kailua-Kona to luxury villas in Waikoloa Beach Resort, our most popular homes fill quickly. Booking now ensures you get your favorite property and preferred travel dates.

🌈 Peace of Mind — Paradise on Your Calendar
It feels amazing to have your Hawaiian getaway set in stone. No last-minute scrambling or “sold out” messages — just pure excitement and something wonderful to look forward to.

🌋 Picture Yourself Here

Picture this: you’re lounging on your private lanai, the waves rolling in as the sun sets over the Pacific. Spend your days snorkeling with tropical fish, exploring coffee farms, or discovering hidden beaches — all from your perfect home base on the Kona Coast.

🌴 Flexible Dates, Endless Options

Not sure of your exact travel dates? No problem! We offer flexible booking options and can help you plan the perfect trip — whether it’s a spring escape, summer adventure, or holiday retreat in paradise.

🌺 Get a Jump on 2026 – Reserve Now!

Your 2026 vacation will be here before you know it. Let’s make it unforgettable.

👉 Reserve Your 2026 Stay Now

The Big Island of Hawaii is more than just a destination—it’s a place where romance naturally unfolds. Whether you’re here for your honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply sneaking away for a romantic escape, this island is full of moments you’ll never forget. From oceanfront sunsets to stargazing atop Mauna Kea, here’s your guide to the most romantic experiences on Hawaii’s Big Island.

🌺 Honeymoon Highlights

1. Sunset at Mauna Kea
Few places in the world rival the beauty of a Big Island sunset. Drive up to Mauna Kea Visitor Center for breathtaking views above the clouds, or book a stargazing tour to marvel at the galaxies hand in hand.

2. Private Beach Moments
Skip the crowds and head to hidden gems like Makalawena Beach or Kealakekua Bay. Pack a picnic, snorkel together in crystal-clear waters, and let the rhythm of the ocean set the mood.

3. Couples’ Spa Day
Treat yourselves to a rejuvenating couples massage at one of the island’s luxury resorts or wellness spas. Many treatments use locally inspired elements like volcanic clay, Kona coffee scrubs, and tropical oils.

🍷 Date Night Ideas

1. Sunset Dinner by the Ocean
Book a table at one of Kona’s waterfront restaurants, where you can sip Mai Tais while the sun dips below the horizon. Fresh island seafood and candlelight create the perfect romantic backdrop.

2. Luau Under the Stars
Immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau. Enjoy live music, hula, and fire dancing as you feast on island favorites—it’s a lively and romantic evening rolled into one.

3. Night Manta Ray Snorkel
If you’re adventurous, this unforgettable experience is a must. Slip into the ocean after dark and watch giant manta rays glide gracefully beneath you. It’s thrilling, magical, and uniquely Kona.

💕 Romantic Getaway Experiences

1. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Wander through lush rainforests, walk across ancient lava fields, and share the awe of seeing one of the most active volcanoes in the world. For couples who love adventure, this is a bucket-list moment.

2. Waterfalls & Rainforest Adventures
Spend a day exploring the Hamakua Coast where you’ll find Akaka Falls and lush valleys perfect for hiking, picnicking, and creating those honeymoon-worthy photos.

3. Sail into the Sunset
Charter a private sailboat or join a sunset cruise from Kailua-Kona. Toast to your love as dolphins play nearby and the golden sky reflects on the ocean waves.

✨ Tips for Planning Your Romantic Escape

Book early for peak seasons (holidays, summer, and winter escapes) to secure the best oceanfront villas and tours.
Mix relaxation with adventure—balance lazy mornings on the lanai with thrilling island excursions.
Add personal touches like surprise flower lei, a private chef dinner, or stargazing from your lanai.

The Big Island offers the perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and romance. Whether you’re just beginning your journey together or reigniting the spark, this island will make your love story unforgettable.

🌴 Ready to plan your romantic getaway? Browse our collection of Big Island vacation rentals and book directly with Kona Coast Vacations.

Dreaming of a warm, tropical escape this holiday season? The Kona and Kohala Coasts on the Big Island of Hawai‘i transform into a festive paradise each winter — filled with sparkling lights, oceanfront luaus, Christmas parades, and cultural celebrations that bring aloha spirit to life.

Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving getaway in Kona or a Christmas vacation on the Big Island, this guide highlights can’t-miss events and travel tips to make your stay unforgettable.

Thanksgiving in Kona: Island Sunshine Meets Classic Tradition

Spending Thanksgiving in Hawai‘i is the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Local restaurants and resorts serve up holiday buffets featuring roast turkey, macadamia-nut stuffing, fresh island fish, and desserts like lilikoi pie.

Popular spots such as the Hilton Waikoloa Village and Four Seasons Resort Hualalai often feature Thanksgiving dinner menus that combine island flavors with family favorites.

Prefer a more casual holiday? Pack a beach picnic at Magic Sands Beach Park or book a Thanksgiving dinner cruise departing from Kailua Pier for an unforgettable sunset celebration.

Thanksgiving marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in Kona, setting the stage for a December full of events.

Top Holiday Events on the Big Island (Kona & Kohala Coasts)

The festive season lights up West Hawai‘i from late November through New Year’s Eve. Here’s your guide to Christmas parades, light festivals, and community celebrations across the island:

Holiday Parades

Waikoloa Village Christmas Parade & Keiki Fest
Saturday, December 9, 2025 – 10:00 a.m.

Parade begins at Waikoloa Road and Paniolo Road, ending at Waikoloa School.
Keiki Fest follows with food, games, and local vendors from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 13, 2025 – 5:00 p.m.

One of the island’s most beloved events, this parade features hula dancers, marching bands, and festive floats through historic Kailua Village along Kuakini Highway and Ali‘i Drive.

Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 20, 2025 – Evening

A magical, lighted night parade in upcountry Waimea with illuminated floats, community performances, and a cozy small-town feel.

Light Festivals and Community Celebrations

Holualoa Music & Light Festival
Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 5:30–8:30 p.m.

The quaint coffee village of Holualoa lights up with a tree-lighting ceremony, live music, art galleries, and food vendors along its historic main street.

Kailua Kalikimaka Lighted Boat Parade
Early December (Date TBA)

Boats and canoes decked with Christmas lights illuminate Kailua Bay while spectators gather along Ali‘i Drive to enjoy the show.

Resort Festivities and Luaus

Many Big Island resorts host holiday luaus and family events throughout December, including:

Hilton Waikoloa Village – Santa’s canoe arrival, holiday buffets, carolers, and fireworks.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel – Annual tree lighting, hula performances, and beachfront Christmas Eve dinners.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – Elegant luaus, kids’ holiday crafts, and a beachfront New Year’s Eve celebration.

Where to Stay: Big Island Vacation Rentals Near Holiday Events

For the best holiday experience, stay close to the action.

Kailua-Kona Vacation Rentals: Ideal for walkable access to restaurants, parades, and beaches.
Waikoloa Beach Resort Rentals: Great for families and resort-style amenities.
Kohala Coast Vacation Homes: Peaceful luxury stays with ocean views and easy event access.

Explore Big Island vacation rentals near Ali‘i Drive, Waikoloa Village, and Kohala Coast to make your trip seamless and stress-free.

Plan Early for Your Kona Holiday Getaway

The holidays are among the most popular times to visit the Big Island, so early booking is essential. Vacation rentals near Kona, Waikoloa, and Kohala fill quickly — especially around parade weekends and New Year’s Eve.

Book your stay now to experience the warmth, wonder, and aloha of the season on Hawai‘i Island.

👉 Browse Kona Vacation Rentals

As summer winds down and autumn settles in, the Big Island enters one of its most inviting seasons. With irresistible local festivals, tranquil beaches, lush waterfalls, and—believe it or not—the chance to witness one of nature’s most elemental performances, fall is the perfect season to stay with Kona Coast Vacations along the Kona and Kohala Coasts. Here’s how you can savor every moment of island magic:

Cultural Highlights & Festive Flavors

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (November): Immerse yourself in two centuries of coffee heritage through farm tours, tastings, parades, and unique cultural performances.
Ironman World Championship (October): Feel the raw energy of this iconic endurance event in Kailua-Kona—whether cheering the athletes or soaking up the excitement.
Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival (October): World-renowned chefs, winemakers, and mixologists gather for this premier culinary event. Enjoy tastings, farm-to-table dinners, and one-of-a-kind experiences showcasing the best of Hawai‘i’s local ingredients and global flavors.
Local Farmers’ Markets: Enjoy the seasonal bounty—fresh tropical fruits, local honey, and artisan goods—from markets in Kona, Waimea, and Hāwī.

Outdoor Adventures for Fall

Night Snorkel with Manta Rays: Kona’s signature nocturnal marine experience becomes even more enchanting as the evenings cool.
Waterfall Discovery in Hilo: Fall’s lush rains amplify the beauty of ʻAkaka and Rainbow Falls—spectacular and ideal for a refreshing outing.

Sun, Sand & Spectacle

Beaches of the Kohala Coast: Whether you’re looking for soft white sands, snorkeling spots, or simply a place to relax with an ocean view, beaches like Hapuna and Mauna Kea are favorites for visitors and locals alike.
Spectacular Sunsets & Whale Previews: As skies blaze with fall hues, you might even spot early-arriving humpback whales before peak season.
And Here’s the Grand Finale: Kīlauea is Erupting!
Since December 23, 2024, Kīlauea’s summit crater at Halemaʻumaʻu has experienced an ongoing cycle of episodic eruptions, including dozens of dramatic lava fountain events.
Just in June 2025, towering lava fountains—reaching more than 330 feet (100 m)—marked the 25th episode of the current eruptive phase.
In late May, a truly rare spectacle unfolded: lava fountains soaring over 1,000 feet, a display not seen in four decades.
While these eruptions are contained within the crater—a closed area within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park—official livestreams and updates offer stunning, safe viewing opportunities for curious visitors.

Why Choose Kona Coast Vacations?

With 250+ vacation rentals stretching from Kona to Kohala, Kona Coast Vacations offers the perfect basecamp for all your fall adventures. Whether you’re seeking oceanfront romance or spacious family comfort, we’ve got you covered. Our properties are a step away from beaches, cultural events, and even epic natural phenomena like Kīlauea’s fiery displays—so you never miss a moment.

Ready to Book?

Fall is not just a season—it’s an invitation. From seasonal festivals to unforgettable sunsets—and even volcanic drama—there’s no better time to visit. Secure your slice of island paradise now, and make fall 2025 unforgettable with Kona Coast Vacations.

🌺 Travel Tips for Your Fall Getaway

Pack Smart: Evenings can be cooler in fall—bring a light jacket for stargazing or dining outdoors.
Check Conditions: Surf, trail, and volcano viewing conditions can change quickly. Always check updates from local lifeguards or park services before heading out.
Plan Ahead: Events like the Ironman, Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival, and Kona Coffee Cultural Festival bring more visitors. Reserve activities and dining early to ensure availability.
Stay Flexible: Weather on the Big Island can vary widely from coast to coast—consider this a chance to explore both sunny Kona and lush Hilo in one trip!

Kīlauea Eruption Update – Experience the Power of Pele at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park 🌋

This morning, Kīlauea reminded us once again why it’s one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth. A new eruption has begun inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and visitors are already gathering to witness Pele’s fiery display. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing molten lava glowing against the night sky, now is the moment to make that dream a reality.

🎥 Kilauea Eruption 9.2.25

What’s Happening Right Now

Fresh fissures have opened, sending lava fountains skyward and painting the crater floor with fiery rivers of molten rock. Volcanic gas and steam plumes are rising dramatically into the sky, offering one of nature’s most unforgettable performances. The eruption is currently contained within the park boundaries, making it both safe to visit and truly spectacular to witness.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Eruptions are unpredictable — they can last days, weeks, or even just hours. The chance to see red-hot lava and glowing flows isn’t something you can put off until “next time.” Every eruption is unique, and visitors who go now will get to experience a once-in-a-lifetime display of nature’s raw power.

Imagine standing at the overlook as the sky glows orange, the ground rumbles softly, and the volcano breathes fire before your eyes. It’s the kind of moment you’ll remember forever — and one you’ll want to share with friends and family back home.

Tips for Visiting During the Eruption

🌋Go early or late: Crowds gather fast; sunrise and after dark offer the most dramatic views.

🌋Dress warmly: The summit can get chilly, even with lava glowing nearby.

🌋Bring a flashlight or headlamp: For safe walking along viewing trails after sunset.

🌋Check park updates: The National Park Service posts real-time alerts about closures or changing conditions.

Plan Your Big Island Adventure

With Kīlauea active once again, this is one of the most exciting times to visit Hawai‘i Island. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning adventurer, there’s nothing like seeing the volcano in action. Don’t wait — opportunities like this don’t last forever.

✨ Fall and winter are some of the busiest seasons here in Kona, and our rentals book quickly. Make sure you secure your stay now while there’s still availability. Start planning your trip today with Kona Coast Vacations

Ironman 2026: The Tradition Returns — Book Your Kona Stay Early!

If you’ve been to Ironman week in Kona, you know there’s nothing else like it. Every October, our island town transforms into the epicenter of endurance racing, welcoming athletes and fans from around the globe to witness one of sport’s most iconic events — the Ironman World Championship.

And while the race has always had a home here in Kona, the event format has seen a few changes in recent years.

A Quick Recap:

Before 2020, both the men’s and women’s World Championship races took place together here in Kona during one unforgettable week.
In 2022, Ironman split the men’s and women’s races into separate days, both held here in Kona. That proved challenging for our small community, so in 2023 Ironman made a new plan: alternate the men’s and women’s championships between Kona and Nice, France.

This year, 2025, Kona is proud to once again host the Women’s World Championship in October, and we’re looking forward to another incredible race week on the Big Island.

The Big News for 2026:

In 2026, Ironman will return to its time-honored tradition of hosting both the men’s and women’s World Championship races on the same day in Kona.
It’s the format that built Ironman’s legendary legacy here — and one we know the athletes, spectators, and our island community have been waiting for.

Why You Should Book Early for 2026:

🌺 High demand expected. With both championships happening together again, vacation rental occupancy will fill quickly.
🌺 Prime locations won’t last long. Oceanfront homes, condos on the race route, and properties near the finish line are always first to book.
🌺 Lock in your rates and availability. Rates tend to climb as race week approaches — booking early means better selection and better pricing.
🌺 Experience Kona race week at its best. There’s a special magic when both championships happen here at once — and 2026 will be one of those unforgettable years.

2025 Rentals Still Available

If you’re heading to Kona for the 2025 Women’s Ironman World Championship, we still have a handful of vacation rentals available for October. It’s the perfect time to secure your spot for race week in paradise.

Plan Ahead for 2026 Now

Our Ironman 2026 calendars are open for booking, and interest is already building. Whether you’re racing, supporting, or soaking up the incredible atmosphere, we have the perfect home base for your Kona adventure.

📅 Check availability and reserve your Ironman 2026 accommodations today — before the best options are gone!

👉 View Ironman 2026 Availability

We look forward to welcoming you to race week in Kona.

One of the most cherished cultural traditions on the Big Island returns this June — and if you’ll be on Hawaiʻi Island, this is one event you won’t want to miss!

On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade and Ho‘olaule‘a (festival) will take over Historic Kailua Village, bringing together the island’s community, history, and aloha spirit in one unforgettable morning.

🌺 A Day to Honor Hawaiʻi’s First King

King Kamehameha Day is a special state and county holiday in Hawaiʻi, established in 1871 by King Kamehameha V to honor his grandfather, Kamehameha the Great — the courageous chief who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 and became Hawaiʻi’s first king. Statues, lei-draping ceremonies, and parades take place throughout the islands every June, but Kailua-Kona’s parade is especially beloved for its beauty, pageantry, and connection to history.

🐎 Parade Highlights

This year’s King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade kicks off at 9:00 a.m. on Kuakini Highway near the Palani Road intersection. From there, it winds down Palani Road to Kailua Pier, then travels south along Aliʻi Drive through the village to the Royal Kona Resort.

What makes this parade so unique? The beautiful pa‘u riders. Over 100 horseback riders, adorned in the colors and flowers of the Hawaiian Islands, will represent each of the eight major islands of Hawaiʻi. Each island will have its own princess, led by a regal pa‘u queen.

Expect to see:

🌸 Riders draped in stunning lei and island foliage
🐴 Traditional Hawaiian equestrian units
🎶 Cultural floats, hula dancers, musicians, and community groups

The parade is a beautiful, living tribute to the traditions and royalty of old Hawaiʻi — with the sparkling ocean as its backdrop.

🎶 Ho‘olaule‘a at Hulihe‘e Palace

After the parade, head over to Hulihe‘e Palace for a lively ho‘olaule‘a (festival) filled with live music, hula performances, local artisans, and ono (delicious) island food. It’s the perfect place to relax under the coconut palms, enjoy the view of Kailua Bay, and experience the warm aloha of the Kona community.

For all the details, visit konaparade.org

📅 Save the Date

📆 Saturday, June 7, 2025
⏰ Parade begins at 9:00 a.m.
📍 Historic Kailua Village, Aliʻi Drive

Whether you’re a visitor or a kamaʻāina (local resident), the King Kamehameha Day Celebration in Kailua-Kona is a vibrant, heartwarming reminder of Hawaiʻi’s proud history and enduring aloha spirit. We’ll see you there! 🌺🤙

The Kohala Coast is where the Big Island of Hawaii truly shines. With its sun-soaked beaches, dramatic lava rock landscapes, world-class resorts, and rich cultural history, this stunning stretch of coastline is a dream destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. As a trusted local vacation rental property manager for 19 years, Kona Coast Vacations knows exactly what makes the Kohala Coast so special.

Sunshine, Sand, and Serenity

One of the biggest draws of the Kohala Coast is its consistently sunny weather. Unlike other parts of the Big Island that experience frequent rain, the Kohala Coast boasts a dry and warm climate year-round. This means more days spent basking on the golden sands of Hapuna Beach or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Anaeho‘omalu Bay (A-Bay).

Luxury Meets Aloha

The Kohala Coast is home to some of Hawaii’s most prestigious resorts and golf courses, including the Mauna Lani Resort, Mauna Kea Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Resort. These destinations blend luxury with natural beauty, offering world-class spas, championship golf, and fine dining—all with breathtaking ocean views.

Adventures in Paradise

For those looking to explore beyond the beach, the Kohala Coast offers endless opportunities for adventure. Take a scenic drive along Kohala Mountain Road, where rolling green pastures meet the deep blue ocean. Hike into Pololu Valley to witness dramatic sea cliffs and black sand beaches. Or, experience an unforgettable horseback ride through the historic paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country of Waimea.

The Kohala Coast is deeply rooted in Hawaiian history. Pu‘ukoholā Heiau, a massive temple built by King Kamehameha I, stands as a powerful reminder of Hawaii’s past. The petroglyph fields at Waikoloa reveal centuries-old rock carvings that tell the stories of ancient Hawaiians. For a deeper dive into local culture, visitors can explore the Hawaiian fishponds of Mauna Lani, once used by royalty for sustainable fishing.

Stay with the Local Experts

Whether you’re seeking a beachfront condo, a luxury villa, or a secluded retreat, Kona Coast Vacations has the perfect property to make your Kohala Coast getaway unforgettable. With nearly two decades of experience, we provide expert local knowledge, exceptional service, and an unbeatable selection of vacation rentals.

Ready to experience the magic of the Kohala Coast? Browse our collection of stunning vacation homes and start planning your dream Big Island escape today!

The 2025 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament: A Legendary Event Returns to Kona!

July 26 – August 2, 2025

Kona’s world-famous waters are calling! The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) is making its much-anticipated return in 2025, and anglers from around the world are gearing up for one of the most prestigious sportfishing events on the planet. With its deep-rooted history, fierce competition, and breathtaking Big Island backdrop, this is an event you don’t want to miss!

The Ultimate Sportfishing Experience

Established in 1959, HIBT has long been a hallmark of excellence in the sportfishing world, attracting top anglers and international teams to test their skills in Kona’s legendary deep-sea fishing grounds. Not only is this tournament a chance to reel in some of the ocean’s most prized catches, but it also champions marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that the thrill of sportfishing can continue for generations to come.

Why You Need to Be in Kona This Summer

The 62nd edition of HIBT is set to be an unforgettable week of sport, strategy, and camaraderie, but that’s not all—Kona in the summertime is simply magical. From stunning beaches and world-class snorkeling to vibrant nightlife and exquisite island cuisine, it’s the perfect destination for both tournament participants and spectators alike.

With HIBT bringing an influx of visitors to the island, accommodations are booking up FAST. If you want the perfect place to stay, NOW is the time to reserve your summer getaway!

Book Your Stay with Kona Coast Vacations – Before It’s Too Late!

At Kona Coast Vacations, we offer an incredible selection of oceanfront villas, luxury condos, and private homes—perfect for anglers, families, and fishing enthusiasts alike. Wake up to stunning ocean views, relax in a private pool after a day on the water, and enjoy the best of island living during your HIBT adventure.

Warning: With an event of this caliber, properties are filling up quickly! Secure your stay today to ensure you have a front-row seat to all the action.

Don’t Wait—Plan Your Kona Adventure Now!

Whether you’re here to compete, cheer on the teams, or simply enjoy an unforgettable Hawaiian summer, the 2025 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is your perfect excuse to visit paradise. But don’t let procrastination leave you without a place to stay—book your accommodations now before it’s too late!

🎣 The fish are biting, the competition is fierce, and the island is waiting. Will we see you in Kona this summer? 🌴

Spring break is just around the corner, and accommodation availability on the Big Island of Hawaii is filling up quickly! With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that this destination is a favorite for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

One of the highlights for many visitors is exploring Kilauea at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Whether or not the lava is actively flowing, the park offers an awe-inspiring experience of raw, natural beauty. Meanwhile, Mauna Loa, often crowned with snow, towers at an impressive 13,681 feet, earning its name “Long Mountain” and providing an unforgettable contrast to its fiery neighbor.

What sets the Big Island apart is its extraordinary diversity of ecosystems. In just a single visit, you can experience the lush rainforests around Hilo, the towering volcanic peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, and the serene sandy beaches of Kailua-Kona. Each region offers something unique, making this island a truly special getaway.

How Many Days Do You Need to Explore the Big Island?

While you can get a glimpse of the Big Island in as little as 3 days, we recommend planning at least 5-7 days to fully immerse yourself in its wonders. From the epic views at the Mauna Kea Summit to sunbathing on pristine beaches and discovering volcanic marvels, you’ll want to savor every moment.

Don’t wait too long—your dream spring break getaway to the Big Island is calling, and the clock is ticking! 🏖️