Town · Kona, Big Island

Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona
Photo: Robert Linsdell from St. Andrews, Canada, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Kailua-Kona was a royal retreat before it became the island's visitor hub. The historic waterfront is compact and easy to walk in a morning.

Updated November 11, 2026On day 1 of Big Island in 5 Days

Visiting Kailua-Kona: what to know

Tickets
Free
Time needed
2–3 hours
Best time
Early morning, before the heat
Getting there
Short drive from Kona International Airport

Big Island itineraries with Kailua-Kona

Day 1 of Big Island in 5 Days

Kona and the coast

How Kailua-Kona fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Kailua-KonaKona
  2. 10:30Huliheʻe PalaceKailua-Kona
  3. 12:30Lunch on Aliʻi DriveKailua-Kona
  4. 15:00Kahaluʻu Beach ParkKeauhou
See all 5 days
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Kailua-Kona FAQs

Is Kailua-Kona walkable?

The waterfront is. Beaches and farms further out need a car.

Where do you park in Kailua-Kona?

There are public lots near the pier; check signs for limits.

Is Kona a good base?

Yes, for beaches and South Kona history.

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