Hapuna Beach is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches on the Big Island. The beach offers great swimming and snorkeling opportunities. There are also lifeguards on duty, making it a safe place for families with children to enjoy the water. You can also rent umbrellas, snorkeling gear, and boogie boards.
Puukohola Heiau is an ancient temple that played a significant role in Hawaiian history. It was built by the powerful King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. The park features well-preserved ruins and an interactive visitor center.
Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve is a fascinating ancient site with over 5,000 petroglyphs. It provides a unique glimpse into Hawaiian culture and history. Visitors can see and learn about rock art created by the native people between the years 1200 and 1450.
The Mauna Kea Observatories are a set of astronomical observatories located at the summit of Mauna Kea, the highest point in Hawaii. The telescopes provide unparalleled views of the stars and planets. The visitors center offers a wealth of information about astronomy and the history of the observatories.
During your stay, a rental car is recommended to explore the island. The distances between sites can be quite far, so having your own vehicle is convenient. Ride-hailing services are also available for shorter distances. Taxi services are also accessible but may be more expensive.
Estimated travel costs: car rental $40-60 per day, ride-hailing $20-30 per trip, taxi $80-100 to airport (9.5 miles).
With more time, it would be worthwhile to explore nearby towns such as Kailua-Kona or Hilo. Snorkeling at nearby beaches, such as Honokohau Harbor and Kahaluu Beach Park, is also recommended. With less time, consider visiting just one or two sites from the itinerary. Keep in mind that some places, such as the Mauna Kea Observatories, may require reservations in advance.
The nearest airport to Hapuna Beach is the Kona International Airport (KOA), located approximately 26 miles away in the city of Kailua-Kona. The airport code is KOA. It is the largest airport on the Big Island and is served by several airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.