Four-Day Itinerary for Koa, Hawaii

  1. Day 1: Explore Kailua-Kona
    Approximately 10 minutes (2.8 miles) from Kona International Airport

    Start your day in Kailua-Kona. Head to the Kona Coffee Living History Farm to learn about the history and production of Kona coffee. In the afternoon, drive further north to see the breathtaking Waipio Valley Lookout. Stop along the way for a hike at Waimea Canyon State Park and enjoy scenic views of the Waipio Valley. End the day with a refreshing swim at Hapuna Beach State Park.

  2. Day 2: Explore Hilo and Volcanoes National Park
    Approximately 2 hours (75 miles) from Kailua-Kona

    Spend the day exploring Hilo and Volcanoes National Park. Start with a visit to the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, followed by a hike to Rainbow Falls State Park. In the afternoon, head to the Volcanoes National Park to see the active Kilauea volcano. End the day by driving to the Akaka Falls State Park to see the stunning Akaka Falls set amidst lush greenery and bamboo groves.

  3. Day 3: Snorkeling and Luau
    Approximately 20 minutes (6.8 miles) from Kailua-Kona

    Go snorkeling in the morning at Kahalu'u Beach Park to see colorful marine life up close. In the evening, experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau with a delicious Hawaiian feast, hula dancing, and live music at the King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Resort & Spa.

  4. Day 4: Visit Mauna Kea Observatory and Relax
    Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes (39.8 miles) from Kailua-Kona

    Start your day early and head to the Mauna Kea Observatory to see the sunrise from the summit of the world's tallest mountain. In the afternoon, relax and unwind at the Mauna Lani Resort Beach Club, where you can snorkel, swim, or simply soak up the sun.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kona Coffee Living History Farm (2 hours, $15)
  • Waipio Valley Lookout (1 hour, free)
  • Waimea Canyon State Park (2 hours, $5 parking fee)
  • Hapuna Beach State Park (2-3 hours, free)
  • Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens (2-3 hours, $5)
  • Rainbow Falls State Park (1 hour, free)
  • Volcanoes National Park (3-4 hours, $30 per vehicle)
  • Akaka Falls State Park (1 hour, $5 parking fee)
  • Kahalu'u Beach Park (1-2 hours, free)
  • King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel Resort & Spa Luau (3 hours, $120)
  • Mauna Kea Observatory (2-3 hours, free)
  • Mauna Lani Resort Beach Club (3-4 hours, $10 parking fee)
  • Total Estimated Cost: $180 per person

Useful tips

If you have extra time, you can visit Makalawena Beach to swim and snorkel or take a boat tour to see the Kohala Coast. If you have less time, consider skipping the Mauna Kea Observatory visit or the Luau experience.

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