Kailua-Kona Getaway

01/28/2025

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

01/22/2025

Most people don’t know about Mahai’ula Beach, a beautiful beach that’s far less crowded than other beaches on the island. That’s because it takes about 20-30 minutes to hike to Malakawena, but keep in mind that you walk through lava fields. The water is clear and clean, and has an exotic vibe that will leave you feeling like you’re on another planet.

01/16/2025

The eruption that re-started this morning at the summit of Kīlauea volcano continues this afternoon, with fountaining happening from the south vent as well as the north vent in Halemaʻumaʻu crater.

The park is very busy! Park rangers urge everyone to and stay safe:

🌋Check the park’s eruption viewing webpage for safety tips, air quality, best viewing areas, and more. https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/eruption-viewing.htm

🌋Expect crowds. Parking will be full at popular areas. The park is open 24 hours a day. Arrive after 9 p.m. or before sunrise to avoid the crowds. Bring a flashlight if you visit when it’s dark.

🌋Stay on trail! Stay out of closed areas. Avoid cliff edges and other hazardous terrain. Keep your children near you at all times.

🦆 Watch for nēnē. It is breeding season for the rare Hawaiian goose. Nēnē are often seen in parking lots and near roadways. Drive cautiously, never feed them and keep a distance of at least 60 feet (4 car lengths).

🚗 Drive safely. Drive the speed limit, heed park rangers and traffic control workers, and stay attentive.

🌋Admire with respect. Eruptions are powerful events as Pele, the elemental volcanic force, returns to Halemaʻumaʻu crater. Observe eruptions quietly to hear the sounds of lava.

NPS Photo/J.Wei taken with a phone from Keanakākoʻi viewing area the afternoon of 1/15/25.

01/15/2025

Pepeekeo scenic drive. Otherwise known as Big Island’s Four Mile Scenic Drive, this road travels along rainforest roads, traverses the coast, and crosses waterfalls. It won’t take long to drive the route, but there are so many things to stop and marvel at on the way! One of the highlights is Onomea Bay, which is full of beauty.

01/09/2025

01/02/2025

Aloha Big Island Hawaii visitors, welcome to Kona! Last minute cancellation 01/24-01/30, peak whale watching season availability. We have a 2 bedroom vacation rental walking distance to Kailua Pier and 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. We are Superhost on Airbnb but you can save the Airbnb service fee by booking with us directly via the link below. In addition, take 15% off by entering coupon code “SPECIAL15”.

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12/29/2024

A traveler Gabriella has shared her Big Island itinerary, and with her permission, we are sharing this with everyone here, it sounds like she had an absolute blast!

We went to the Big Island for a week in mid August and it was absolutely incredible! I figured I would share our itinerary and a few photos as this helped me greatly while planning our trip! We split our trip up between Kona & Hilo, stayed in two amazing airbnbs (one was on a beautiful coffee farm), and rented a jeep from Big Island Jeep Rentals! The highlights of our trip were the ocean safari and horseback riding- experiences we will never ever forget!

🤿Day 1-
-Explored Ali’i drive and farmers market in Kona
-Pu'uhonha o Honaunau National Historic Park
-Snorkeled at Two Step Beach (rented snorkel gear from Snorkel Bobs)

🏝Day 2-
-Relaxed & snorkeled at Kua Bay and Mauna Kea Beach

🐋Day 3-
-Ocean Safari with Kaimana Ocean Safari! We swam with a family of s***m whales, false killer whales, manta rays, and we saw all different kinds of fish, dolphins and a sea turtle! They were so knowledgeable, kind, very respectful of the wildlife, and put safety first! They also took these amazing photos of us and the wildlife!
-Punalu’u Bakery and Black Sand Beach

🐴Day 4-
-Waipo Valley overlook
-Tex drive in for malasadas
-Pololu Valley overlook
-Horseback riding with Kohala Na’alapa Stables! Another incredible experience! We got to see stunning views of open pastures, mountains, some cows, and the ocean on horseback! The horses seemed to be very loved and well taken care of!

✨Day 5-
-Explored Liliuokalani Gardens
-Kula shave ice and farmers market in Hilo
-Drove up to the Mauna Kea summit for sunset and stargazing (so incredible)!

🌋Day 6-
-Explored Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park!
We stopped and explored at a lot of the scenic overlooks, Thurston Lava Tube, the scenic drive down to Hōlei Sea Arch, had dinner at The Rim at The Volcano House, and after dinner we did the walked to the viewing site where we saw lava and the glow!

🌈Day 7-
-Rainbow Falls
-Kaumana Caves lava tubes
-Akaka falls
-Relaxed at Carlsmith Beach

Restaurants we tried-
Island Lava Java
Pine Tree Cafe
Kona Brewing co
Kai Eats + Drinks
Papa Kona
808 Grindz
Kens House Of Pancakes
Huggo’s On The Rocks
Lava Rock Cafe
The Rim at The Volcano House

12/23/2024

Great time to check out the volcano ! If you’re looking for a tour, check out our previous post 5 days ago about volcano tour operators.

A new eruption at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is drawing thousands of visitors to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park eager to see new erupting lava by day and the lava glow after dark. This new eruption is viewable from almost all open areas around the caldera.
While the park remains open 24 hours a day, some areas may close to protect breeding and nesting nēnē. While an eruption is an exciting experience, keep in mind you are observing a sacred event. The summit of Kīlauea volcano is a wahi kapu (sacred landscape) surrounded with storied places and a delicate ecosystem.
The public is reminded to stay safe and help protect park resources by following these precautions:

🌋 Volcanic eruptions can be hazardous and change at any time. Stay on marked trails and overlooks and avoid earth cracks and cliff edges.

🚫 Do not enter closed areas.

💨 Hazardous volcanic gases are billowing out the crater and present a danger to everyone, especially people with heart or respiratory problems, infants, young children and pregnant women. Check the park air alert web page before and during your visit.

🚩 Slow down and drive safely. Expect long waits for parking spaces at popular vantage points like Uēkahuna (formerly the Jaggar Museum) and Devastation Trail parking area.

🐣 Do your part to help protect nēnē by keeping your distance, at least four car lengths away, and never feed nēnē or wildlife. Handouts make nēnē seek out people and cars, putting them in great danger.

🥶 At 4,000 feet, the summit of Kīlauea can be chilly at any time. Bring a rain jacket, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Bring a flashlight if visiting at night.

So what can visitors expect to see? It depends on when they arrive, and the weather. In the Dark. A magnificent reddish orange glow fills the dark sky. Lava flows have covered much of Halemaʻumaʻu crater floor.

The best eruption viewpoints day or night are along Crater Rim Trail, and include Uēkahuna, Kīlauea Overlook, Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff), Kūpinaʻi Pali (Waldron Ledge), behind Volcano House, Keanakākoʻi and other overlooks.

https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/eruption-viewing-caldera.htm

Image of bright orange lava fountains inside a dark crater at night. NPS photo/Janice Wei

12/17/2024

If you’re looking for a volcano tour, here is a list of options

12/12/2024

Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona. This charming seaside road winds its way along the coast and delivers abundant ocean views, boutique shopping, and a unique way to experience the Big Island.

12/07/2024

Top 12 Spots for Snorkeling on the Big Island!

The Big Island of Hawaii offers a wealth of snorkeling opportunities, with its clear waters, abundant marine life, and scenic shorelines. Here are the top 12 snorkeling spots you won't want to miss, each featuring unique underwater ecosystems and breathtaking views.

1. Kealakekua Bay
Address: Nāpō‘opo‘o Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704

Description: Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Kealakekua Bay is a must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts. The bay is a marine sanctuary home to colorful corals, tropical fish, and occasional dolphins. Access by boat or kayak is common, and the bay’s calm waters make it ideal for all experience levels.

2. Honaunau Bay (Two Step)
Address: 84-5571 Honaunau Beach Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704

Description: Popularly called "Two Step" for its natural lava rock steps, Honaunau Bay boasts easy water access and calm conditions. Snorkelers can explore a healthy coral reef teeming with fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays. The bay is adjacent to Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, adding a historical backdrop.

3. Kahaluu Beach Park
Address: 78-6710 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Description: Kahaluu Beach Park offers accessible snorkeling right off the beach, with a reef sheltering the area from strong currents. Known for its sea turtles, vibrant fish, and calm waters, this spot is excellent for beginners and families.

4. Mauna Lani Beach
Address: 68-1292 S Kaniku Dr, Waimea, HI 96743

Description: Located within the Mauna Lani Resort area, this beach provides sheltered snorkeling with abundant marine life, especially around the historic fish ponds and rocky outcrops. The sandy entry and shallow waters make it great for beginners.

5. Waialea Bay (Beach 69)
Address: Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 96743

Description: Often referred to as “Beach 69,” Waialea Bay offers varied snorkeling terrain, including rocky ledges and coral patches. Known for its calm waters in the morning and rich marine life, this beach is a secluded gem for snorkelers seeking peaceful exploration.

6. Puako Bay
Address: Puako Beach Dr, Waimea, HI 96743

Description: This bay features tide pools and coral reefs just offshore, making it ideal for both snorkeling and tide-pooling. Puako Bay is known for its diverse fish populations, occasional turtles, and tranquil atmosphere, offering a more secluded snorkeling experience.

7. Honokohau Harbor
Address: 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Description: Snorkeling near Honokohau Harbor’s breakwater gives visitors the chance to spot sea turtles, reef fish, and sometimes even eagle rays. This location combines easy access with vibrant underwater life, making it a local favorite for shore-entry snorkeling.

8. Richardson Ocean Park
Address: 2349 Kalanianaole Ave, Hilo, HI 96720

Description: Richardson Ocean Park is a prime snorkeling spot on the east side of the Big Island, offering black sand beaches and calm waters protected by a reef. Known for its green sea turtles and colorful fish, this park also has picnic areas, making it perfect for a day trip.

9. Leleiwi Beach Park
Address: 2243 Kalanianaole Ave, Hilo, HI 96720

Description: Just a few minutes from Richardson Ocean Park, Leleiwi Beach Park offers calm lagoon-like waters filled with fish and other marine life. The rocky shoreline provides a stunning backdrop and an ideal habitat for exploring coral formations and spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles.

10. Makako Bay (Pine Trees)
Address: Off OTEC Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Description: Known locally as "Pine Trees," Makako Bay features clear waters with coral and rocky formations. Snorkelers here often spot an array of fish species, and the bay’s calm conditions make it a good option for all experience levels, though visibility is best in the morning.

11. Ho‘okena Beach Park
Address: 86-4322 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704

Description: Ho‘okena Beach Park combines scenic beauty with excellent snorkeling. Dolphins are frequently seen here, along with a wide variety of fish and corals. This beach park has basic facilities, making it suitable for a full day of water activities.

12. Kapoho Tide Pools (Temporarily Closed)
Address: Kapoho Kai Dr, Pahoa, HI 96778

Description: Although the Kapoho Tide Pools are currently closed due to lava flow changes, they remain one of the Big Island’s iconic snorkeling spots. Before the closure, the tide pools offered intricate reef structures and marine life in a calm, protected environment, providing a unique snorkeling experience unlike any other on the island.

12/02/2024

Cyber Monday deal! Type in coupon code “Cybermonday” to save $$ on your next Big Island vacation rental.

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This is 2 bedroom vacation rental minutes to beaches, water activities, restaurants, shops, beach volleyball courts, and the historic Kailua Kona Village. A pathway across the street provides direct access to Honl's Beach. Enjoy year-round sunsets, spinner dolphins, and seasonal whale-watching from the comfort of your home, 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.

11/27/2024

What’s your favorite hotel on the Big Island?

Looking for great Big Island of Hawaii hotels? From boutique hotels to beachfront resorts, these are the 15 best hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii for every budget.

11/22/2024

Hawaii is the happiest state in America, according to research.

Lucky we live in Hawaii! A new 2024 study revealed that the Aloha state has been ranked the “Happiest State in the Nation.”

11/19/2024

Top 25 Most Popular Tours on the Big Island of Hawaii:

Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Tour

Kilauea Volcano and Waterfalls Tour

Big Island Grand Circle Island Tour

Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

Hamakua Coast Waterfall Hike

Zipline Adventure through Kohala

Waipio Valley and Waterfall Tour

Kona Coffee Plantation Tour

Captain Cook Monument Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory Tour

Puna Hidden Beaches and Lava Flow Tour

Sunset Cruise along the Kohala Coast

Submarine Underwater Adventure

Kohala Coast ATV Adventure

Historical Kona Walking Tour

Kilauea Volcano Lava Viewing Hike

Horseback Riding in Waimea

Volcanoes and Waterfalls Combo Tour

Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden Tour

11/13/2024

Southwest Airlines sales

11/09/2024

Aloha! Costco is having an great deal on southwest gift cards. Spend $430 for $500 gift card. Great way to save and hop to Hawaii! Mahalo!