Kona, nestled on Hawaii’s Big Island, is a sightseeing paradise and a photographer’s dream destination. Its diverse landscapes range from pristine beaches to lush rainforests and rugged volcanic terrain, offering endless photo opportunities. From historic sights to picturesque towns, vibrant marine life to glowing sunsets, there is no shortage of subjects and scenery to capture. Kona’s scenic drives, coffee plantations, and panoramic vistas create an ever-changing backdrop, ensuring that every angle tells a unique story, making it perfect for sightseeing and photography enthusiasts. This itinerary will highlight Kona’s top attractions, ensuring you leave no stone uncovered on your sightseeing journey to Kona.
Day 1: Colorful Beaches
The Big Island’s beaches are not only beautiful, but they are also unique in color. Spend your first day in Kona exploring the island’s unique and vibrant beaches, each offering a distinct beauty. Begin your adventure at Papakolea Beach, renowned for its rare green sand, which gets its hue from olivine crystals eroded from the nearby cinder cone. This secluded beach requires a scenic hike but rewards you with stunning, otherworldly landscape. Next, head to Punaluʻu Beach, famous for its striking black sand created by volcanic activity. Here, you can often spot Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore, adding to the beach’s natural beauty. A visit to Kaunaʻoa Beach will reward you with the soft, white sand and clear turquoise waters that create a picture-perfect setting. This crescent-shaped beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.
Day 2: Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
On your second day in Kona, immerse yourself in the area’s rich history at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Start with a self-guided walking and audio tour to explore this sacred site. The tour provides fascinating insights into traditional Hawaiian culture and the park’s historical significance. While onsite, engage in hands-on activities to learn traditional Hawaiian craft techniques. Try your hand at weaving baskets from coconut fronds, or create beautiful bracelets from lauhala, the dried leaves of the hala tree. These activities offer a deep connection to Hawaiian heritage as well as a fun hands-on activity. Spending the day at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park will provide an enriching journey into Hawaii’s past, making it an unforgettable part of your Kona adventure. Afterwards, enjoy inventive local cuisine at the nearby Sunset Kai Lanai. This eatery offers upscale local dishes with serene views over the ocean.
Day 3: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Dedicate day three of your Kona vacation to exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Begin your visit at the Visitor Center to get an overview of the park’s geological wonders. Then, take a drive along Crater Rim Drive for breathtaking views of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, a fascinating tunnel formed by flowing lava. Hiking trails such as the Devastation Trail will allow you to witness the uniquely stark landscapes left by past eruptions. Explore the Jaggar Museum to learn more about volcanic activity and its impact on the island. After a day of adventure, refuel at the historic Volcano House, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in stunning crater views through its large wall of windows.
Day 4: Stargaze on Mauna Kea
Spend a relaxing day exploring the many shops and eateries along Kona’s picturesque Ali’i Drive. Then head up to Mauna Kea, the highest point in Hawaii, for an awe-inspiring evening of stargazing. Journey to the Maunakea Visitor Information Station (VIS), situated at 9,200 feet, where you’ll find ideal conditions for observing the night sky, thanks to its high elevation and minimal light pollution. Here, astronomers and knowledgeable guides provide high-quality telescopes to view distant galaxies, nebulae, and planets. The clear, dark skies of Mauna Kea offer unmatched views, perfect for witnessing constellations and learning about Hawaiian navigation traditions.
Day 5: Helicopter Tour
For your final day in Kona, embark on an exhilarating helicopter tour to experience the island from a breathtaking and unique vantage point. Companies such as Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offer unforgettable flights that showcase the island’s diverse landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs. Marvel at the active volcanoes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with a bird’s-eye view of lava flows and craters. Your tour will also provide stunning views of secluded beaches and vibrant coral reefs, offering a unique glimpse of the island’s natural beauty. A helicopter tour is the perfect way to conclude your Kona trip, leaving you with lasting memories of Hawaii’s awe-inspiring scenery.
Still in search of a Kona vacation rental? Our Kona vacation rentals are situated in scenic locations and offer easy access to the area’s top sightseeing destinations. Contact our Kona Coast Vacations team today for more information!