The west coast of Hawaii is know as the "Kona Side". Due to the local weather conditions this side of Hawaii is almost always dry and sunny, and there are numerous white sand beaches perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling and swimming! The Kona side of the Island is also known for its lush green golf courses that form an unearthly contrast with the black lava they are build upon, and attract top-players from around the world.
While you are in Kona, don't forget to stroll up the "see-and-be-seen" Ali'i Drive, and see the many fish in the bay.
In the middle of the Kona coast, a few miles south of the Kona International Airport (KOA), lies the historic seaside town of Kailua-Kona. In the last couple of decades, this formerly sleepy coffee and fishing village has transformed into a hustling and bustling city with a thrilling atmosphere!
Kailua Kona (also referred to as "Kailua" or "Kona") has shops of every description and restaurants for every taste! It is the perfect home base to explore this side of the island. Relax and look at the waves crashing over the black lava rocks while sipping from a cup of the world-famous Kona coffee, or have some freshly caught ahi (tuna) while recovering from your busy day.
If you are staying in Kona, don't forget toget up early one day to go for some sunrise-snorkeling at King Kam beach on Ali'i drive.
Ali'i Drive in Kona takes an important part in the Ironman Triathlon World Championship
Kailua Bay in Kona is a good place for all outdoor water activities such as snorkeling, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing
There are no white Christmases in Kona!
Suns rises are spectacular in Kona as the sun rises about the Hualalai Volcano!
Some residents say these fish used to be so abundant, that Kona was called the "Gold Coast".
This sight is common in Kona. Thanks to the local micro-climate, the volcano behind Kona is covered in clouds, while Kona itself bathes in sunshine!
Ali'i Drive is a great place to take a stroll and watch the ocean.
Sunset at Kona. Every evening, the sun dips in the ocean and colors the sky red.
While you are in Kona, don't forget to stroll up the "see-and-be-seen" Ali'i Drive, and see the many fish in the bay. End at the Kailua pier or any of the restaurants along the seaside to see the perfect sunset. Why not also take a mai-tai, or one of the many local specialities, the Kona Brewing Company's handcrafted ales? (back to top)
Directions to Kailua Kona:
Kailua-Kona is the landing place for most visitors to the Big Island through the Kona International Airport. The hele-on bus can deliver you all over the island for free if you have the time. Hilo (86 miles, 2 hr 20 min), Waimea (40 miles, 1 hr 10 minutes), and Volcano Village (95 miles, 2 hr 15 min) are all easily reachable by car. (back to top)
Practicalities:
Kona is the hot side of the Island, so do not forget to wear plenty of sunscreen while visiting Kona. If you venture out to one of the many beaches or hikes, remember to take plenty of water! (back to top)
This is out map of Kailua Kona with clickable icons. The icons denote information on this website about local activities, shops and vacation rentals. Clicking an icon will display more information. (back to top)
Are you looking for the map of another part of the Big Island? We also have interactive maps of Waimea, Volcano Village and Hilo!
Big Island might be "big" compared to the other Hawaiian islands, but in reality it is quite small. From the southern tip to the northern tip the distance is 95 miles. From east to west it is 80 miles.
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