Chris and Masha's Guidebook for Kailua-Kona
Arts & Culture
Hulihe'e Palace
Shows the history of the island.
Sightseeing
Great source of information on the history of the island and Hawaiian culture. The structures are really fun to walk around, and you might even see a turtle. "2 step" has amazing snorkeling and is just next door to it. Just 30 minutes south of us!
270 locals recommend
Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park
State Highway 160 Great source of information on the history of the island and Hawaiian culture. The structures are really fun to walk around, and you might even see a turtle. "2 step" has amazing snorkeling and is just next door to it. Just 30 minutes south of us!
Essentials
Target
74-5455 Makala BlvdThey have everything, decent prices and familiar options.
Good prices, limited produce section. Just 10 minutes away, and usually has everything you need.
72 locals recommend
Walmart
75-1015 Henry StGood prices, limited produce section. Just 10 minutes away, and usually has everything you need.
Parks & Nature
Magic Sands Beach Park
Ali'i DriveClose by, good waves.
Great for families, beginner snorkelers, and just dipping your toes in the water.
20 locals recommend
Kamakahonu Beach
Great for families, beginner snorkelers, and just dipping your toes in the water.
Great beach for kids, or just people who want calm water. Snorkeling here can be great at high tide, parking is limited so go early.
10 locals recommend
Kikaua Point Park
Great beach for kids, or just people who want calm water. Snorkeling here can be great at high tide, parking is limited so go early.
Amazing views, sunsets, stargazing, information about the geology of the island, it's freezing cold though!
33 locals recommend
Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station
Mauna Kea Access RoadAmazing views, sunsets, stargazing, information about the geology of the island, it's freezing cold though!
Gorgeous, white sand, great waves for boogie boarding, not too far from town, unlimited parking, decent snorkeling on north side.
159 locals recommend
Kua Bay
Gorgeous, white sand, great waves for boogie boarding, not too far from town, unlimited parking, decent snorkeling on north side.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
It's a volcano! Lava is amazing.
Kahaluu Bay
Ali‘i DriveGreat snorkeling, very close by.
Great sandy beach with plenty of room for everyone. Good waves for boogie boarding and occasional turtles.
174 locals recommend
Hapuna Beach State Park
Old Puako RoadGreat sandy beach with plenty of room for everyone. Good waves for boogie boarding and occasional turtles.
Kahaluu Bay
Ali‘i DriveShopping
Great prices and quality, membership required. Best gas prices too.
153 locals recommend
Costco Wholesale
73-5600 Maiau StGreat prices and quality, membership required. Best gas prices too.
Food Scene
Scandinavian Shave Ice
75-5699 Ali‘i DrThe best "shave ice" on the island, hands down.
Holuakoa Gardens and Cafe
765897 Kona Belt RdAmazing desserts, sandwiches, drinks. The ground are very peaceful and the bread is amazing.
185 locals recommend
Punalu'u Bake Shop
95-5642 HI-11Amazing desserts, sandwiches, drinks. The ground are very peaceful and the bread is amazing.
Foster's Kitchen
75-5805 Ali‘i DrGreat food and drinks.
Big Island Grill
75-5702 Kuakini HwyLots of locals pack this place for their consistently good food.
Amazingly fresh and tasty food, Mexican/Hawaiian fusion that you must try at least once!
26 locals recommend
Loko Wraps
82-6066 Mamalahoa HwyAmazingly fresh and tasty food, Mexican/Hawaiian fusion that you must try at least once!
Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Kona
75-5995 Kuakini HwyAmazing food with great ambiance!
Black Rock Pizza
82-6127 Hawaiʻi Belt RoadEntertainment & Activities
Manta Adventures Inc.
74-429 Kealakehe ParkwaySee the Manta rays up close with a night snorkel.