Kona is known for its beautiful beaches, coffee plantations, and marine life. Visit Hapuna Beach for a swim or some sunbathing. Then, head to Kona Coffee Living History Farm to learn about coffee production in Hawaii. Wrap up the day with a sunset dinner at the ocean-front Browns Beach House.
Spend the day exploring the Volcano National Park, home to Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Stop by the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum to learn about volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Afterward, hike the Kilauea Iki Trail, or take a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road. Experience fine dining at The Rim, which offers beautiful views of the volcano.
Experience the beautiful Waipio Valley, where you can drive or hike to see a beautiful black-sand beach, vibrant waterfalls, and enjoy scenic views. Later, visit Akaka Falls State Park, where you can see a 442-ft waterfall that drops into a lush gorge. Enjoy a relaxing day with a spa treatment at the award-winning Hapuna Spa.
Visit the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, an ancient Hawaiian village that offers a glimpse into the area's rich history. Here you can see Hawaiian temples, royal fishponds and walk through the village. Relax in the turquoise blue waters of Honaunau Bay. Afterward, take a helicopter tour over the Kohala Coast.
Start the day off with a thrilling snorkeling experience at Kealakekua Bay. Later, visit the Manta Ray Snorkel Dive, where you can dive and swim with these gentle giants of the sea. A sunset dinner at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai will provide spectacular views of the ocean.
Head to Waikoloa Beach for a day on the beach or a game of golf. In the afternoon, visit Hawaii Forest and Trail for a thrilling Zipline or enjoy hikes in the nearby Pololu Valley. Indulge in a traditional Hawaiian feast at the Island Breeze Luau at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel.
Spend the last day exploring the local attractions, including the Kona Brewing Company with its famous beers, the Painted Church and the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site which is known for its ancient temple ruins. Spend a relaxing evening watching the sunset from Kua Bay Beach.
For the ultimate luxurious experience, rent a luxury car with a personal driver or hire a private helicopter or airplane to travel around the island. Alternatively, car rentals are available at the Kona International Airport. Make reservations before traveling to avoid long waiting times.
Travel costs will depend on the type of transportation you choose, but a luxury car rental with driver will cost around $600 per day. A helicopter tour with a private pilot will cost around $400 per person.
If you have more time, consider visiting the beautiful beaches of Kohala Coast, Honokohau Settlement and Beach, and Anaehoomalu Bay. Consider adding a night or two in the capital city of Hawaii, Hilo. If you have less time, select one attraction from each day.
The Kona International Airport (KOA) is the main airport on the Big Island, located in Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the island. The airport is about seven miles from the city center, and most hotels offer free shuttle service.