Things to Do
🌺 From ocean adventures to cultural treasures, the Kona Coast offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Spend your days snorkeling in crystal-clear waters alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and playful spinner dolphins, or embark on a boat tour to witness majestic humpback whales during the winter months. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Hawai‘i at a traditional lū‘au, where you’ll enjoy authentic food, music, and hula under the stars. For those who love the outdoors, world-class golf courses, lush hiking trails, and kayaking adventures in calm bays are all within easy reach. If relaxation is more your style, you can simply stroll along the shoreline, sip a cup of locally grown Kona coffee, or watch the sun dip into the Pacific in a blaze of color.
We’ve highlighted just a few things here—three or four activities we think you’ll really enjoy—but there are countless more to discover. Beyond the well-known attractions, the Kona Coast is also full of hidden gems: farm tours where you can sample fresh macadamia nuts or chocolate, historic sites that share stories of Hawai‘i’s past, and local markets overflowing with island crafts and flavors. These favorites, along with many more, are waiting to help you experience the very best of Kona during your stay.
Ironman 2025
Only the women’s championship will be in Kona this year. The world’s most prestigious triathlon returns to Kailua-Kona in October 2025, bringing together elite athletes from around the globe to test their limits on Hawai‘i Island’s stunning but challenging terrain. The race features a 2.4-mile ocean swim, a 112-mile bike ride across lava fields, and a 26.2-mile marathon run ending on Ali‘i Drive, cheered on by thousands of spectators. More than just a competition, the Ironman World Championship captures the spirit of endurance, determination, and aloha—making it one of Kona’s most iconic and inspiring annual events.
🌿 2025 Hawaiʻi Island Festival of Birds
Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Grand Naniloa Hotel, Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island
Address: 93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720
Celebrating native birds, biodiversity, and conservation successes. This year’s focus is on highlighting stories of species recovery (e.g. Nēnē) and motivating ongoing conservation efforts. Bird Fair with artisans, nonprofit booths, and educational displays conservehawaii.org+3Eventbrite+3Laulima Nature Center+3
– Guest speakers / presentations on birding, ecology, community science. Cultural elements (e.g. hula) integrated into the day’s events.
Presale tickets are available (around $15) – There is a free Public Hour from 4:30 to 5:30 PM
🌺 Kokua Kailua Village Stroll & Art Fair
On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Aliʻi Drive in Kailua Village becomes a lively, pedestrian-only street festival from 1:00–6:00 PM. More than 100 local vendors and artists showcase handmade jewelry, island-inspired art, crafts, clothing, and unique gifts. As you stroll the oceanfront, enjoy live Hawaiian music, hula performances, and delicious food from local cafés and restaurants. This free, family-friendly event is one of Kona’s most popular monthly traditions — the perfect way to experience the heart of the village.
