Hawaii - Big Island/Kona, Hawaii
Twice the size of all other Hawaiian islands combined, the Big Island of Hawaii features striking black- and green-sand beaches, orchid farms, two active volcanoes, and a snow- covered mountain during the winter. Visit Volcanoes National Park and see preserved footprints in an ancient lava flow, and, if you're interested and lucky enough to be there when one is happening, view an active lava flow from close up. For tamer sightseeing, visit Hulihee Palace, King Kalakaua's summer palace, built in 1838, used by Hawaiian royalty until 1916, and now a museum. Or sample Kona coffee where it is grown and milled, and macadamia nuts where they are cracked and canned.
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Hawaii - Big Island/Kona, Hawaii
Twice the size of all other Hawaiian islands combined, the Big Island of Hawaii features striking black- and green-sand beaches, orchid farms, two active volcanoes, and a snow- covered mountain during the winter. Visit Volcanoes National Park and see preserved footprints in an ancient lava flow, and, if you're interested and lucky enough to be there when one is happening, view an active lava flow from close up. For tamer sightseeing, visit Hulihee Palace, King Kalakaua's summer palace, built in 1838, used by Hawaiian royalty until 1916, and now a museum. Or sample Kona coffee where it is grown and milled, and macadamia nuts where they are cracked and canned. Package Includes:- Choice of accommodations
- Hotel taxes
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should go?
Golfers
Courses cut from lava flows and shots across an inlet make golf on Hawaii’s Big Island a memorable experience
Adventurers
Active volcanoes, spectacular hiking, and a lush countryside
What's the climate like?
| Average High |
79° F |
79° F |
82° F |
83° F |
| Average Low |
63° F |
64° F |
67° F |
68° F |
| Average Rainfall |
9.9" |
4.3" |
6.2" |
9.6" |
The west side of the island is usually sunny and dry, except in January and February. Hilo, to the east, is usually rainy in the winter.
How do I get around town?
Transfers
Transfers between the airport and hotels are not included, but are available for purchase.
Car
A rental car is highly recommended.
Bus
A local bus company goes between Hilo and Kailua-Kona, in addition to offering service within each town. Another local company offers service between Waikoloa and Kailua-Kona.
Bicycle
Bicycles are an excellent way to see the island; however, many roads do not have bicycle lanes, so ride with caution. Visitors can join local clubs for their weekly rides.
Taxi
Taxis can be found at the airport, most hotels, popular resort areas, or by calling directly. Long trips can be expensive, so taxis are recommended when going a short distance or out to dinner.
What kinds of dining and nightlife are available?
Luaus are the most common form of evening entertainment and there are many to choose from. The best luaus are at the Aston Keauhou Resort, Kona Village Resort, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, and the Royal Luau at Outrigger Waikoloa. Variety is the spice of life and Hawaii’s Big Island has a broad range of tastes, price, décor, and scenery.
- La Bourgogne
Elegant yet casual, La Bourgogne is a favorite for those looking for an intimate dinner in a romantic restaurant. Enjoy an international menu highlighted by delectable French desserts. Kailua-Kona.
- Brown's Beach House
Relax with a table outside and remarkable views of the ocean while choosing from an eclectic menu and extensive wine list. Kohala Coast.
- Harrington's
Enjoy romantic, open-air dining and charming views of Reeds Pond at this restaurant serving delightful continental cuisine. Hilo.
- Hualalai Grille
Dine on Kona Coast lobster, mango-barbecue baby back ribs, sesame-crusted snapper, lamb, pizza, and more at this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant. Kaupulehu-Kona.
- Huggo's
Spectacular seafood highlights the menu while the outdoor patio allows breathtaking views of Kailua Bay. After dinner, head down to the thatch-roofed Huggo's on the Rocks for drinks and dancing. Kailua-Kona.
- Quinn's Almost By the Sea
One of the only restaurants on Hawaii's Big Island to serve dinner after 9 p.m., Quinn's is popular with tourists and locals who like to sit out on the lanai. Kailua-Kona.
Where should I go shopping?
Numerous art galleries are scattered throughout Hawaii’s Big Island, as many artists call it home. You can find original artwork, fine woodwork, and other handmade crafts at the many shops. In the small town of Hawi, there are several art galleries housed in refurbished early-1900s storefronts along the main road. Coffee connoisseurs will want to bring back some Kona coffee. Macadamia nuts are also a local specialty. Look for Hilo Hattie, Big Island Candies Inc., and Kona Coast Macadamia Nut & Candy Factory.
Shopping areas include Keauhou Shopping Center in Keauhou; King Kamehameha Mall and Kona Inn Shopping Village in Kailua-Kona; King’s Shops in Waikoloa; and Prince Kuhio Shopping Plaza, Hilo Shopping Center, and Waiakea Center in Hilo.
When are the local events?
Annual Western Weekend in Honoka’a
May. Three-day event featuring a Hawaiian country-style dance party, paniolo parade, paniolo film night, rodeo, and block party.
King Kamehameha Day Celebration Floral Parade
June. Floats, marching units, Pa’u riders, bands, and more. Parade begins in downtown Kailua-Kona.
Waiki’i Music Festival
June. Two days of entertainment by Hawaii’s top music groups, cultural exhibits, food, crafts, and children’s games. On the Saddle Road at Waiki’i Ranch.
Dolphin Days Summer Fest
June. A 3-day extravaganza including a charity golf tournament; tropical heat wave pool party; and the Great Waikoloa Food, Wine, and Music Festival featuring 20 of Hawaii’s best chefs and concerts with top jazz musicians. Held at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.
Parker Ranch 4th of July Horse Races and Rodeo
July. Includes action-packed rodeo events, horseracing, food, and more. The rodeo provides visitors a rare glimpse at real-life paniolo in action. Held at Parker Ranch in Waimea.
Aloha Festivals Hawaii
September. Experience the very essence of Hawaiian customs, cultures, and tradition. An abundance of activities and events are held throughout the island, including the Royal Court investiture, a hulafest, paniolo parade, live music, arts and crafts, food, and more.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
November. Hawaii’s oldest food fest features more than 30 events, including art exhibits, tastings, sporting events, contests, and a parade.
What are my golf and recreation options?
Golf
Hotel-Affiliated Courses
Francis H. l'l Brown Golf Course
- The South Course
This course snakes through stark, rugged lava and offers a range of mountain and ocean views. Designed by Ray Cain, Rodney Wright, and Robin Nelson.
- The North Course
This course is characterized by rolling terrain, mesquite groves, and many trees. Designed by Ray Cain, Rodney Wright, and Robin Nelson.
The following hotel has use of this courses:
- The Fairmont Orchid
Includes 2 rounds of golf with 2-night stay.
Independent Course
Kona Country Club
One of the most scenic courses on Hawaii’s Big Island, offering 36 championship holes of golf.
Sportfishing
There’s no better place for sport fishing than Hawaii’s Big Island’s Kona Coast. Home of the annual Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, Hawaii’s Big Island boasts some of the finest marlin fishing grounds in the world. Daily fishing charters depart from the harbors at Keahou, Kailua Bay, and Kawaihae.
Snorkeling + Scuba Diving
Snorkel the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, or along the Hapuna Beach and Honaunau shorelines to view some of Hawaii’s Big Island’s favorite snorkeling spots. Since sun block (and bug spray) are toxic to all marine life, remember to wear a T-shirt to prevent sunburn while snorkeling. Hawaii’s Big Island offers a variety of dive adventures and scuba certification courses and has been named the #1 dive destination in the world by Scuba Magazine.
Travel tidbits
First Trip to Hawaii's Big Island
For first-time visitors to Hawaii's Big Island, the sites and activities not to miss include stargazing from atop Mauna Kea at the W. M. Keck Observatory, a visit to Volcanoes National Park, and a stroll on a black-sand beach.
Quick Facts
Hawaii's Big Island is more than twice the size of all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, plus it's still growing due to the active volcanoes. King Kamehameha the Great was born and raised on Hawaii's Big Island. Hawaii's Big Island is home to Parker Ranch, one of the largest cattle ranches in the country. On Hawaii's Big Island, you'll find 11 of the world's 13 climactic zones, everything from a snowcapped mountain to tropical beaches.
Craft Shopping
Take time to notice the architecture of downtown Hilo when you're perusing the shops. Many of these charming old wooden buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. And, every Friday night the doors open wide to welcome art lovers and collectors to their exhibits. Visit with the artists and enjoy the music, wine, and hors d'oeuvres.
Beaches
Visitors to Hawaii are usually well aware of the many spectacular white-sand beaches. Some visitors even know about the majestic black-sand beaches. What many do not know is that Hawaii's Big Island is also home to a green-sand beach. To see the green-sand beach, take your four-wheel-drive vehicle or hike six miles from South Point, Ka Lae, to Puu Mahana.
Children's Activities
Though you may be perfectly happy to spend your entire vacation soaking up the sun on a gorgeous beach, sometimes the kids have a different idea. A fun activity for the whole family is a visit to the Parker Ranch Center in Waimea. Here, the Visitor Center and Museum provide a glimpse into both historical and modern-day life at Parker Ranch. Enjoy wagon rides and learning the ways of the paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy.
Good to Know:
Kailua-Kona
KOA |
| April – November |
| Spring and Autumn |
| U.S. Dollar |
| English |
| Kauai is four hours behind Central Standard Time and five hours behind Central Daylight Time |
| None needed for U.S. citizens |
| Leave 15% or 20% if the service was excellent. |
| Hawaii is very casual. Shorts are allowed at most restaurants, except fine dining establishments. |
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Hawaii - Big Island/Kona, Hawaii
The following options are available when you book your vacation package to Hawaii - Big Island/Kona:
Car Rentals
We feature rental cars from both Alamo Rent A Car and National Car Rental, offering you the flexibility and convenience to travel when and where you want. Plus earn 50 bonus miles per rental day with every qualifying paid rental at participating locations. Also available is National Car Rental's Premium Package option, which allows you to check-in online and bypass the rental counter, go directly to a special rental lot and choose your vehicle, and get going on your vacation faster than ever. This option has all the inclusions of a standard package plus no surprise fees when you pick up your vehicle, zero deductible damage and liability coverage, no charge for additional drivers, and more. The Premium Package is available at select Hawaii rental locations.
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Transfers - Private Limo Transfer
Roundtrip, private limousine transfers between Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) and hotel. All limousines are Lincoln limousines. Includes meet and greet service, baggage handling. Maximum five passengers. Gratuity not included.
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Transfers - Private Sedan Transfer
Roundtrip, private sedan transfers between Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) and hotel. All sedans are Lincoln Town Cars. Includes meet and greet service and baggage handling. Maximum three passengers. Gratuity not included.
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Transfers - Roundtrip Transfers
Transfers are available between airport and hotel by SpeediShuttle. Upon arrival, proceed to the SpeediShuttle courtesy desk located in the center of the baggage claim area. You should reconfirm your return transfer at least 24 hours in advance. Phone number is (808) 329-5433. Kailua-Kona - minimum two passengers Keauhou Area - minimum two passengers Waikoloa area - minimum two passengers Hapuna area - minimum two passengers Hilo area - not available Choose Kailua-Kona transfers for the following hotels:- ResortQuest Kona by the Sea
- King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
- Outrigger Kanaloa at Kona
- Outrigger Royal Sea Cliff Resort
- Royal Kona Resort
Choose Keauhou transfers for the following hotels:- Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa
- Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort
Choose Waikoloa transfers for the following hotels:- ResortQuest Shores at Waikoloa
- ResortQuest Waikoloa Colony Villas
- The Fairmont Orchid
- Hilton Waikoloa Village
- Mauna Lani Point
- Outrigger Fairway Villas
- Waikoloa Beach Marriott
Choose Hapuna transfers for the following hotels: Transfers are not available to the Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. A rental car is suggested.
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Flower Lei Greeting
Upon arrival at the Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA), passengers are greeted with a fresh flower lei.
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Luau - Gathering of the Kings Luau
Prepare yourself for an evening of cultural theater, contemporary dance, and an expansive feast. The Gathering of the Kings retells the story of the settlement of the Pacific. Dine on culinary specialties from the islands of Hawaii, New Zealand, and Tahiti. Luau is approximately 4 hours (check-in begins at 4:30pm) and is held at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel located in Waikoloa/Kohala Coast area. The Gathering of the Kings Luau is held on Saturdays only. Transportation is not provided. Passengers should call 808-326-4969 to re-confirm their date at least 48 hours prior to reserved date. Above telephone number will be included on travel documents/itinerary.
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Luau - King Kamehameha Luau
One of Hawaii's most authentic luaus. Includes shell lei greeting, rum punch drink, dinner, and a spectacular Polynesian show. Luau is available Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Approximately 3 hours, beginning at 5:00 pm. Transportation to the luau is not included. 24 hours prior please call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm your reservation.
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Tour - Atlantis Kona Submarine Dive
Explore a 25-acre, beautiful, natural, coral reef and its marine inhabitants at depths up to 100 feet aboard Atlantis 48-passenger submarine. Check-in at Atlantis Submarine Retail Store located on Alii Drive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled submarine tour time. Departures seven days a week from Kailua-Kona Pier hourly from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Actual underwater time is 35 minutes. Transportation not included. RESTRICTION: Submarine passengers must be at least 36 inches tall and capable of ascending & descending a near vertical ladder. Please advise passengers to call 808-955-5900- or 800-367-6701 to re-confirm their date, time, etc. (You may request your time of choice when confirming date.) Telephone numbers are included with documents/itinerary.
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Tour - Big Island Spectacular Helicopter
Discover both The Big Island's beauty and its volcanic fury. Experience all the awesome spectacle of Madame Pele's lava and volcanic badlands, then explore lush rainforests and the Hamakua Coast. Finally, dozens of cascading waterfalls, provide the perfect finish to the ultimate Big Island adventure. Departs from Waikoloa Heliport. 2 hours. Please advise passengers to call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 24 hours prior to requesting day of your flight for re-confirmation and directions. (Clients will need to advise body weight and height when confirming date.) (Transfers are not provided.)
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Tour - Grand Circle Island Volcano Tour
Begin aboard a spacious, air-conditioned deluxe mini coach equipped with large windows for exceptional viewing. Fully narrated tour includes stops at Jagger Museum, the Macadamia Nut Factory, Nani Mau Gardens, Thurston Lava Tube, Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcanoes National Park (admission to park included), and a no-host lunch at Volcano House. Tour lasts approximately 10 hours and departs daily from Kailua area and Waikoloa area. 24 hours prior please call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm your reservation.
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Tour - Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Cruise
This 4-1/2 hour cruise departs daily and includes 2-1/2 hours of snorkeling, snorkel gear, and instruction. Guests are served a Tropical breakfast of muffins, danish, fresh organic fruit, 100% Kona coffee, herbal tea, and juice. Lunch includes BBQ cheeseburgers or garden burger, complete condiments, pasta salad, fresh pineapple, Kona-cooked potato chips, and fruit juice. A no host bar is open during the cruise and one-tank scuba dive is also available for optional purchase. Departs daily from Keauhou Pier at 9:00am. Return 1:30pm. Transportation not included. 24 hours prior please call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm your reservation.
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Tour - Mauna Kea Summit & Stars
Go on a provocative journey through space and time. From sea level to the high alpine, witness the dramatic diversity of The Big Island's landscape. After a hot, picnic-style dinner you will make your way to the summit of The Big Island's most sacred mountain for a sensational sunset amidst the largest collection of telescopes on earth. As daylight fades we descend to a lower elevation where your Interpretive Guide will reveal the wonders of Hawaiian night skies. Approximately 7-8 hours. Tour time changes seasonally with sunset times (1:55pm - 3:30pm). Pick-up at Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters in Kailua and the King's Shops in Waikoloa. Hooded parkas are provided, however be sure to bring a light sweater or jacket, wear long pants and covered walking shoes. Note: Because of the high altitude this tour is not advised for those with poor health, respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, those who are pregnant, or children under 16. Scuba divers should also be aware of altitude dangers. All optional add-ons purchased are 'open' reservations; please advise passengers to call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm their date, time, etc. (You may request your parka size and your choice of grilled chicken, grilled fish, or baked tofu for dinner when confirming date.) Telephone numbers are included with documents/itinerary.
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Tour - Pawai Bay Snorkel Cruise
Cruise boat includes upper and lower sundecks and men's and women's changing facilities. Snorkel for two and a half hours at Pawai Bay, a protected marine preserve north of Kona. Snorkel gear and instructions provided. Freshly baked pastries, island fruits, and Kona coffee for breakfast and buffet-style deli lunch are included. Departs daily from Kailua Pier at 9:00 am. Return at 1:30 pm. Transportation not included. 24 hours prior please call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm your reservation.
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Tour - Secrets of Puna Tour
The Secrets of Puna Tour, aboard a luxury tour vehicle (van or suburban), offers a memorable and exciting adventure to Puna, home of the spectacular volcanic and natural sights of The Big Island. Private destinations filled with natural wonders and volcanic formations await as you experience the power and beauty of The Big Island in a way reserved for a lucky few. (Molten lava will not be seen on this tour). Bring comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes and a camera. Includes all entrance fees, snacks and beverage service throughout the day, and a picnic-style deli lunch with choice of beverage including chilled champagne and cold, locally brewed beer. 7:00am - 5:00pm. 24 hours prior please call 808-955-5900 or 800-367-6071 to re-confirm your reservation.
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HAWAII - BIG ISLAND/KONA
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