Kailua-Kona Getaway

06/14/2024

Planning to spend some time in the water? Here are some of our favorite beaches on the Big Island. Are we missing anything? Feel free to chime in if we are missing any fabulous beaches on the Big Island

1. Hapuna Beach

2. Kua Bay

3. Anaehoomalu Bay or A Bay

4. 49 black sand beach

5. Punaluu black sand beach

6. Papakolea green sand beach

7. Honaunau Bay (or Two Step Beach / Pae’a)

8. Magic Sand Beach

9. Kahaluu Beach

10. Wailalea Beach or Beach 69

11. Kealakekua Bay (or Captain Cook). Not really a beach but the best snorkeling spot on the island

12. Mauna Kea Beach

13. Kiholo Bay

14. Pahoehoe Beach Park

06/09/2024

Information about car rentals on the Big Island. We’ve had good experience with Hertz’s membership. It’s free and it’s got a lot of perks. The most important feature is skipping the line.

Local guide with recommended car rental agencies in Kona + Hilo, 4 tips to help you find and book cheap rental cars + when to book your car

06/04/2024

Kilauea erupts again! After several months of no activity. Come see one of the Worlds most active (yet safe) volcanoes! This is viewable from inside Volcano National Park.

05/24/2024

40% off for stays from now through 08/06 with discount code “summer40”. No Airbnb or Vrbo service fee!

https://houfy.com/h/konad227

This spacious, townhouse style condo just steps from the ocean and within walking distance to the heart of Kona has an amazing ocean view from both floors. While it is close to town, the complex is off the main street and has a quiet, serene setting. Wake up to stunning ocean views and enjoy a cup of coffee on your private lanai off the master bedroom where you can observe humpback whales, spinner dolphins, kayakers, paddle boarders and more in your chair!

The first floor offers
-A full kitchen, the kitchen includes a gas stove, full refrigerator, coffee makers, all dishware, glassware, utensils and more.
-A combined dining/living area with smart TV
-In unit washer/dryer
-A half bathroom.
-Air conditioning is available in the living room or you can just open the sliding doors and enjoy gentle ocean breezes. -The advantage of being on the top floor is a better view and you won’t hear noise from people walking on the floor above you

The second floor includes
- A shared full bathroom with shower and tub
- With a master bedroom that provides a comfortable King size bed, ceiling fan, and AC unit.
- The guest bedroom has two Twin Beds, a ceiling fan and a portable AC for your comfort.
- The unit also comes with a queen air mattress that sleeps two people in the living room. It can be pumped within a few minutes.

This unit is 5-10 minute walk to the historic oceanfront downtown Kailua Village. Ali’I Drive is where you would find locally owned small businesses: popular restaurants and bar like “On the Rocks” and “Hugo’s”, Voyage of the Pacific Luau, surf shops, charter boat rental, shave ice store, farmers market etc with incredible sunset views into the Pacific Ocean. It's also walking distance to the annual Ironman competition. Downtown parking is very expensive, our convenient location allows you to walk to most shops and restaurants without driving.

Want to enjoy all the Kona coastal scenery without a car and burn some calories? Bikeshare is available and within walking distance ! Grab a bike from one of the Alii Drive stations, ride and dock it at the same or any another station when you are done. Easy. To get started: Arrive at one of three bike kiosks on Ali'i Drive and use a credit card to get a bike. $3.50 will get you to the most popular destinations on Ali'i drive. Return it to any kiosk within the time you selected. That's it!

Kona trolley is also walking distance from the condo, it takes you to the most popular area on Ali’I Drive along the coast for free!

Amenities on site feature a beautiful community swimming pool and BBQ area with 2 large gas grills. One assigned parking stall is provided that is conveniently located adjacent to the unit's entrance.

STVR 20-456419

05/24/2024

Looking to visit the Big Island soon? Here are some inexpensive or free spots to visit:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Address: Highway 11, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Phone: (808) 985-6000
Website: https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm
Cost: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Explore the incredible landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The entrance fee covers a whole week, so you can take your time to hike, enjoy scenic drives, and learn about the island's volcanic history.

Hapuna Beach State Park
Address: Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Phone: (808) 464-0840
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.../hapuna-beach-state.../
Cost: Free
Hapuna Beach is known for its white sand, clear blue water, and excellent swimming conditions. It's the perfect spot for a beach day, with picnic facilities, restrooms, and showers available on-site.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Address: Hwy 11, Pahala, HI 96777
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Visit the famous Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where the striking black sand is formed by volcanic activity. You might even spot green sea turtles basking in the sun!

Akaka Falls State Park
Address: End of Akaka Falls Road, Hilo, HI 96728
Phone: (808) 961-5797
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.../hawaii/akaka-falls-state-park/
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Featuring a 442-foot waterfall, Akaka Falls State Park is a must-see natural attraction. A short, paved trail leads you through a lush rainforest to the stunning waterfall.
Pololu Valley Lookout
Address: End of Highway 270, Kapaau, HI 96755
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Take in the breathtaking view of Pololu Valley from the lookout, or hike down to the black sand beach for an even closer look at this dramatic landscape.

Waipi'o Valley Lookout
Address: 48-5546 Waipio Valley Rd, Honokaa, HI 96727
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Waipi'o Valley is known for its lush greenery, steep cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. Enjoy the view from the lookout, or embark on a hike to explore the valley floor.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Address: 73-4786 Kanalani St. #14, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: (808) 329-6881
Website: https://www.nps.gov/kaho/index.htm
Cost: Free

Discover Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Address: Highway 160, Honaunau, HI 96726
Phone: (808) 328-2326
Website: https://www.nps.gov/puho/index.htm
Cost: $20 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Step back in time at this sacred Hawaiian site, once a place of refuge for those who broke ancient laws. Explore the reconstructed temple, royal fishponds, and cultural demonstrations.

Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Address: Mauna Kea Access Road, Mauna Kea, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 935-6268
Website: https://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/
Cost: Free
Visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station to learn about the mountain's cultural and scientific significance. Enjoy stargazing programs at 9,200 feet above sea level, but be prepared for chilly temperatures!

Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Dive
Address: Varies by tour operator
Phone: Varies by tour operator
Website: Varies by tour operator
Cost: Varies by tour operator, but expect around $100 per person
Experience the thrill of swimming with manta rays at night. Although not entirely free or cheap, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure is worth the splurge.

Lava Tree State Monument
Address: Pahoa Pohoiki Rd, Pahoa, HI 96778
Phone: (808) 961-5797
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.../hawaii/lava-tree-state-monument/
Cost: Free
Wander through a forest of lava molds, formed when hot lava engulfed and cooled around tree trunks. The easy, 0.7-mile loop trail takes you through this unique landscape.

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Address: 800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 959-9233
Website: http://www.hilozoo.org/
Cost: Free, donations appreciated
Visit the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States, home to over 80 animal species. Highlights include the endangered nene goose, colorful parrots, and a white Bengal tiger.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Address: 82-6199 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Phone: (808) 323-2006
Website: https://www.konahistorical.org/.../kona-coffee-living.../
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children (ages 5-12)
Learn about the history of Kona coffee farming through hands-on experiences, such as picking coffee cherries, feeding animals, and grinding coffee beans.

Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Address: Laupahoehoe Point Rd, Laupahoehoe, HI 96764
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Relax at this picturesque beach park, featuring tide pools, picnic areas, and a memorial dedicated to the 1946 tsunami victims.

Hilo Farmers Market
Address: Corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 933-1000
Website: https://www.hilofarmersmarket.com/
Cost: Free to browse
Shop for local produce, artisan crafts, and delicious treats at the Hilo Farmers Market, open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Address: Holoholokai Beach Park Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Discover over 3,000 ancient petroglyphs etched into lava rock, offering a glimpse into the lives of early Hawaiians. Follow the 1.5-mile roundtrip trail from the Holoholokai Beach Park to the preserve.
Rainbow Falls
Address: Rainbow Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Visit this easily accessible waterfall, named after the rainbows that appear in the mist when the sun shines. The best viewing time is in the morning when the sun is at the perfect angle.

Four Mile Scenic Drive (Pepe'ekeo)
Address: Highway 19, Pepeekeo, HI 96783
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Enjoy a picturesque drive through lush rainforest and scenic coastal views. Stop at the various lookout points to take in the beauty of the Big Island.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area
Address: Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: (808) 961-9540
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.../old-kona-airport-state.../
Cost: Free
Relax at this beach park, featuring picnic facilities, a walking path, and a small sandy beach. The park is situated on the site of the former Kona airport runway.

Kahaluu Bay Beach Park
Address: 78-6710 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Kahaluu Bay is a popular snorkeling spot, with calm, clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Bring your own gear or rent some nearby.

Lili'uokalani Gardens
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 961-8737
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Stroll through this beautiful Japanese garden, featuring pagodas, koi ponds, and stone lanterns. The 30-acre park offers a peaceful respite and lovely views of Hilo Bay.

Coconut Island (Moku Ola)
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
A short walk across a footbridge from Lili'uokalani Gardens, Coconut Island is a perfect spot for a picnic, swimming, or simply enjoying the views of Hilo Bay.

Kalapana Lava Viewing Area
Address: Highway 130, Pahoa, HI 96778
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Experience the power of nature at the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area. While lava flow is not guaranteed, when conditions permit, you can witness the incredible sight of glowing lava making its way to the ocean.

05/22/2024

Have you been to Kauai aka the Garden Isle? A 45 minute short flight from the Big Island for under $100.

05/15/2024

05/13/2024

Rainbow Falls on the Big Island

05/08/2024

Have you considered island hopping from the Big Island to our sister island Kauai? 45 minute airplane ride (Southwest or Hawaiian Airlines from $50-$90). It is the smallest island of the 4 major Hawaiian island and the whole island is within driving distance. Much more lush, green vs Kona and majestic canyons.

Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort

A full-service 4-star resort, escape to paradise at our tropical oasis nestled directly on Nukolii Beach on the Garden Isle's East shore. Experience the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality across 25 lush tropical acres, centrally located between Kauai's North and South shores. Your Hawaiian home away from home, the premium hotel room features a pool ocean view, bright island decor and a private lanai.

Step into an oceanfront escape, Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort is an upscale family-friendly resort near Lydgate Beach, escape to the beauty of Kauai and find your home in paradise. Located in Lihue, this resort is a great place to bask in the sun with a beachfront location and beach massages. Treat yourself to reflexology, a body wrap, or a Thai massage at the onsite spa. At the 3 on-site restaurants, enjoy lunch, dinner, and a poolside location. Yoga classes are offered at the gym; the property also has a coffee shop/cafe, a garden, and a playground. Free in-room WiFi is available to all guests, along with dry cleaning/laundry services and 2 bars.

Additional perks include:
4 outdoor pools and a children's pool, with a waterslide and pool umbrellas
Valet parking (surcharge), bell desk service (you can store your luggage for early arrival or late flight)
Wedding services, vending machines, elevators, a banquet hall, a business center and a gift shop

Room features
This is a Pool Ocean View category room, with laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning, in addition to thoughtful touches like free WiFi, separate sitting areas, and a lanai with a pool and ocean view. The room is located in building 2, the most convenient building where the hotel lobby/concierge/restaurant/lounge/spa are located. walk to the elevator and get to your room.

Extra conveniences in the rooms include:
King bed
An air mattress for one additional person. Plug to the outlet and it will be ready in a few minutes
Down comforters
Bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and free toiletries
TVs with cable channels
Wardrobes/closets, and separate sitting areas
Mini fridge

20 percent Airbnb new listing discount for the first 3 reservations.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/kbr2536

05/07/2024

Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. 2 bedroom vacation rental 5-8 minutes walk to downtown Kona village hotspots ( luau, restaurants, bars, shaved ice, surf shops, charter boat pier, farmers market etc ) 2 floors over 1000 sqf of living space, sleeps up to 6, lanai with views, AC, full kitchen, free parking, in unit laundry, fast Wifi, community pool and BBQ area.

30% off from now through end of August, type in coupon code “summer30” at checkout. In addition, no Airbnb or Vrbo service fee through direct booking.

https://www.houfy.com/89814

05/06/2024

📌 Located in North Kohala, ⛰️ the Pololu Valley Lookout provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the lush, green Pololu Valley, and the island's northeastern coast✨

📷:

05/02/2024

Carlsmith Beach Park on Hilo side of the Big Island

04/28/2024

Loco Moco, a traditional Hawaiian cuisine.

04/22/2024

Kahana black sand beach in the Puna district of the Big Island. Have you been there before?

04/17/2024

One of the most popular destinations on Hawaii Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which sprawls over 333,308 acres from the top of Mauna Kea to the ocean. It’s also home to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. While it’s not erupting right now, meaning no lava fountains, flows or glow are visible this can change at any moment.

Even without an active flow, there’s a lot you can do in this park, from exploring lava tubes to hiking through historic lava flows. The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, which can keep your kiddos engaged too. The park is open 24 hours year-round, so you can visit the park after nightfall and witness some of the clearest, starriest skies in the world.

04/12/2024

A few reasons why we love Hawaii

04/09/2024

7 day sample itinerary on the Big Island:

Day Trip: travel north turn right toward Waimea. First stop was at Tex’s Malasada shop in Honokaa. Did not disappoint. A quick trip from there up to Waipo Valley lookout. Another must if a clear day. Now head south toward Hilo. Visit Laupāhoehoe. Great place to see waves crashing against the lava rocks. Akaka falls state park. Morning is definitely better than evening.
Onto Hilo: picture with King Kamehameha statue, Rainbow falls, and more. Took the saddle road back to Waikola. About 6 hrs.

Swam with the Manta Rays. A must do! Used a Groupon with My Kona Adventures. Was very smooth. Short boat ride - 25 minutes in the water (which was plenty of time). Amazing gentle creatures of the deep up close and personal.

Luau at Waikola Marriott Resort. This was anew one for us. We have gone to Royal Kona before. This was just as good or better. Didn’t need the preferred seating. Drinks and entertainment were great.

Snorkeling adventure with Ocean Encounters with Groupon. Was good. The snorkeling was not in a protected bay, but felt safe near the boat. Might be tough if you are new to snorkeling. Fairly deep water, but did see plenty of fish.

Dinner at Harbor House. Amazing food and atmosphere. The best fish and chips I have had in quite some time. Also happy hour steak was amazing. Beers were huge and reasonable.

Beach day at Kahalu’u beach. Surfing and snorkeling. This snorkeling is great for new snorkelers and lots of fish. Protected bay. Definitely will go back here next time

Lunch was at Shaka Tacos in Kona. Ono fish tacos were outstanding. Steak quesadillas very good. Unfortunately for us, they ran out of pork.

Golfing at Waikola. Was good golf and reasonable. Buy some golf balls before you get there.

Dinner at Lava Lava. Amazing as usual. Ribs were outstanding, steak tender, and the hamburger very tasty.

One last thing, while driving on the island we use an app called GuideAlong. Hooked into you car via Bluetooth and for less than $20 you have a guide to give you history and information about the island as well as places you should stop. Highly recommend “him” as your guide.

Hope your upcoming vacation is wonderful. Get out and explore the island .

04/04/2024

Only in Hawaii

03/29/2024

I don’t watch reality TV but good looking couple in Kona Hawaii.

Discover Big Island paradise at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Resort. Beachfront location near downtown, our Kona Hawaii hotel has it all.

03/28/2024

Popular Hawaiian casual food

03/23/2024

03/14/2024

How long should you stay when you plan your visit to Hawaii? Well this decision is completely up to you, but the average stay in Hawaii is about 7 days. We think this is a good minimum time for a trip, although 10-14 days would work best if you want to visit multiple islands.

Some people do choose to visit Hawaii for only 4-5 days, but it’s a long way from the U.S. mainland (or anywhere!) for a short trip. You will spend the first day or two adjusting to the time zone change too.

If you have a week to plan for your Big Island vacation, I recommend that you split your stay between Kona and Hilo, 5-6 days in Kona and 1-2 days in Hilo.

03/04/2024

The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is a short hike for families on the Big Island. It’s located near Hilo and the paved path meanders past a waterfall, tiki statue, a wishing well, a reflection pond, and so many amazing Hawaiian flowers.

02/27/2024

A sample 5-day Big Island itinerary:

Day 1- Arrive at 2pm and get a rental car. Had a late lunch/early dinner at Umeke’s. Got light groceries at Costco and Foodland. Checked in at the resort.
Day 2- breakfast in the hotel room, went to 49-Black sand beach, and walked a little of fisherman’s trail. Had lunch at Surf Burger and walked around the surrounding shops. We were supposed to have gone Manta Ray snorkeling but at this point in the day, they called to reschedule for the next day due to high winds. Went to Waialea Beach and just enjoyed the scenery. Found lots of shells. The water was not safe to swim.
Day 3- breakfast at the resort and went to Volcanoes National Park. Enjoyed the sights along every scenic stopping point on the drive and then had lunch at the Lava Rock Cafe. Highly recommend. Then hiked down to the Kīlauea Iki Crater, stargazed from in the crater, and hiked up in the dark. We only had our iPhone flashlights and made it back but would bring better flashlights next time. Explored the lava tube and then went back to the resort.
Day 4- we slept until 10 and then had breakfast at the resort. Then visited the 12 Hawai’i Distiller for tastings. Great experience. Willie’s hot chicken for lunch. Delicious. Parked at Huggo’s and walked around the shops in the area. Gupton’s gallery is amazing. Our Manta Ray snorkel experience got canceled again so instead of doing that we enjoyed some live music and pupu’s at Huggo’s. We got a $50 ticket on our car with an hour left on the meter but the hostess was able to cancel the ticket. Watched the sunset from Honokohau Harbor and watched other boats come in.
Day 5- breakfast at the resort and snorkeling at Kealakekua Cove with Seaquest at 8:45. Super fun and we saw whales. Had lunch at Magic’s Beach Grill. Good food. Great views. Then drove to the green sand beach. Took a local shuttle down to the beach and spent an hour. On the way back, blew a tire and walked 26 minutes back to our vehicle. Watched the sunset (during the walk) and drove back to the resort for a small dinner and bed.
Day 6- sleep in a little, pack up soak in the views of the property. Check out at 11 and rental car turn-in at 12. Sat in the warm sun at the airport until we boarded our flight at 2. Please do not be on your phone on the flight if you’re flying to another island because if you’re flying to another island (like Oahu for us) you will see Maui, Kaho’olawe, Moloka’i and Lana’i. It’s amazingly beautiful.

02/23/2024

Perfect for snorkeling at Two Step Beach or Captain Cook.

02/19/2024

The summit of Mauna Loa, seen here at sunrise from ʻĀpua Point, is open again to backcountry overnight use with a permit.

Visit the park website to learn about his grueling yet beautiful and remarkable experience to the top of the mauna:

https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/hike_maunaloa.htm

Photo/J.W. Frank

02/19/2024

Why Hilo Should Be On Your Hawaiʻi Travel Bucket List!This sleepy town on the east side of Hawai‘i Island is often overlooked—and really shouldn’t be.

The light rain, the cozy gray mornings, the old buildings and shops that haven’t changed in decades. Everything in Hilo is a little slower, a little

12/20/2023

Sample itinerary for a 10 day trip

Day 1: Arrive in evening, pick up car rental, check into vacation rental
Day 2: Breakfast at Lava Java, buy groceries, walk Hilton Waikoloa hotel to watch sunset, Dinner at Tropics Ale house
Day 3: Hawi, Polou overlook, Waipio overlook, Lapahoehoe, Dinner/Lunch at Tex Drive in
Day 4: Hapuna Beach, Kona
Day 5: Hilo Bay shops, Akaka falls, rainbow falls, Boiling pots, Mauna Kea summit for sunset and VIS for stargazing, Fosters Kitchen for dinner
Day 6: Parker Ranch school farmers market, volcano national park, Hiolo sea arch, dinner at Volcano house
Day 7: Hike to Kiholo, Spencer Beach and walk to mau’mae beach, Island Hoppers for dinner
Day 8: A-Bay, Thai dinner in kona, 1030pm Snorkel with manta rays
Day 9: Kekaha Kai state park- hike to Mahai’ula Bay, A Bay for dinner
Day 10: Coffee tour, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Park, Kona brewing for dinner, return car, catch flight home

12/16/2023

Kona

12/12/2023

Looking to keep the little ones entertained on your Big Island trip? Here are some ideas:

Kid friendly activities on the Big Island

1. Swim with dolphins Hilton
https://www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com/resor.../dolphin-quest

2. Atlantis Submarine
https://atlantisadventures.com/kona/?gclid=CjwKCAjw7eSZBhB8EiwA60kCW1RuCVJxgmeMQcmji2IwJ8rZSfeeHSO0xlf0SSD5hPwpuRZN0CSQyxoCjGsQAvD_BwE&fbclid=IwAR0lJEI1vfEO10DVyGQzkpkGsc2crqGwGVh2edp0j5FY5a_ddthX3hnHG7c

3. Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
https://seahorse.com/?fbclid=IwAR3ALWvNpde53pi0FS-zirz3OmYre5orNNJbvqv3Sk1QHWy4YinlROqfnSg

4. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
https://hilozoo.org/

5. Honomu Goat Dairy Farm
https://www.honomugoatdairy.com/

Hilton Waikoloa Village