Start the day early with a thrilling manta ray night snorkel tour. Experience the majestic and gentle giants as they glide gracefully through the water. Afterward, head to a local coffee plantation for a tour, tastings, and to learn about the history and culture of Kona coffee.
Today, head to Punalu’u Beach, the most famous black sand beach on the Big Island. You will have the chance to encounter honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) basking in the sun. Don't forget your swimsuit as the beach offers a variety of water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Spend the morning exploring the lively Kona town. There are endless options for breakfast and brunch, from acai bowls to Hawaiian-style eggs Benedict. For lunch, grab some of the famous poke bowls from Da Poke Shack or Kona Brewing Company for a beer tasting. After lunch, it will be time to say aloha to the beautiful Kona and head to the airport to fly home.
Transportation around Kona is best done by rental car, but there are also options for public transportation or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. The estimated cost for renting a car is approximately $40-$100 per day, depending on the type of car and the rental company.
With additional time, consider visiting other coffee plantations, taking a helicopter tour over the scenic coastlines, or exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With less time, prioritize which activities are most important, and choose your accommodations to minimize travel time. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable shoes for outdoor adventures.
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) is the main airport in Kona. It is located in Keahole, approximately 7 miles from Kona town. The airport code for this airport is KOA. The airport offers multiple international and domestic flights, car rental services, and airport shuttles.