Top Rated Parks to Visit in Kailua-Kona

"This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared. A half-mile walking tour encompasses major sites – the visitor center provides a brochure map with cultural information. You enter the park in the village-like royal grounds, where Kona aliʻi (chiefs) and their warriors lived; the spiritual atmosphere is greatly enhanced by gently breaking waves and wind-rustled palms. Throughout the grounds are wooden kiʻi (deity images) standing up to 15ft high."

"After breakfast continue south to the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (also known as the city of refuge or Honaunau Bay) to learn about the ancient practices and rituals of the native Hawaiians and finish up with some snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling on the island, Two Step (at 300 ft. from the park entrance). This is a favorite snorkeling spot for many locals. This is a very culturally significant place for the Hawaiian people so remember to be respectful of both the animals and the surroundings."

"If coffee isn’t your thing, cruise down the hill to Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture on this beautiful 180-acre park, which was once a refuge for ancient Hawaiian taboo breakers."

"You’ll find this lesser-known park in between Kona City and the Kona Airport on the western side of the Big Island. It’s just across the street from the Costco and Home Depot. The park has a variety of walking trails that are perfect for a little pre-sunset stroll, and they allow you to scout the park for the most enviable sunset pics angles."

"Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is just north of Kailua-Kona near the Honokohau Boat Harbor. Along a section of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, highlights of the park include Ai'opio Fishtrap, Honokohau Beach and the impressive Kaloko fishpond."

"I love this ridiculously beautiful Maka’eo Walking Path at the Old Kona Airport State Rec Center!. If you can manage to keep walking and not take photos every 10 feet, you might even get some exercise. The loop is an easy 0.7 miles, but go ahead and take another couple laps and you’ll see even more bits of beauty that you missed the first time around."

"This modest, charcoal-colored beach is backed by a steep green hillside. When calm, the bay's waters are good for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling (although the bottom drops off quickly). Coral abounds, as do strong currents further out. When the winter surf is up, local kids hit the waves with bodyboards. You might spot dolphins and humpback whales offshore between December and April. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, drinking water, campsites, a picnic pavilion and a concession stand."

"Be sure to check out Mokuaikaua Church – the oldest church on the island, Hulihe‘e Palace (if it’s open) and its adjacent giant banyan tree, and Hale Halawai Park – a great spot for watching the sunset. You’ll also pass a plethora of souvenir shops and tour operator stands."

"Though obviously artificial (a thin layer of sand laid over concrete is hard on the feet), Kikaua Beach is also effortlessly beautiful. Palm trees do the whole sway in the breeze thing, the sand is white, and the completely protected cove that makes up the main swimming area is perfect for teaching keiki (children) to swim and snorkel. As a bonus, sea turtles frequently congregate nearby. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers and drinking water."

"Aliʻi Dr is chock-a-block with coffee shops vending 100% Kona brews from upcountry coffee plantations. This sweet spot stands out, not just for its ocean views and ice-blended espresso drinks, but also its..."

"We stopped by in the afternoon for ice cream, so I can't comment on coffee, but maybe next time. That said - the coffee ice cream we had had great f..."

"Head here for organic shaved ice, with flavors ranging from green tea to bubble gum to mango to li hing mui (sweet and salty plum). This shaved-ice spot isn't just delicious; they also have a commitment to... Hawaiian in Kailua-Kona"

"We first came here after Ironman, where we saw a wiry Italian, without an ounce of fat on his body, walk by, then walk in, saying to his partner, 'It's always a good time for gelato.' Damn right."

"This is a great place with friendly servers and good gelato!. They have exotic flavors that taste amazing. The sizing to price ratio is perfect."

"Head here for organic shaved ice, with flavors ranging from green tea to bubble gum to mango to li hing mui (sweet and salty plum). This shaved-ice spot isn't just delicious; they also have a commitment to... Hawaiian in Kailua-Kona"

"Inside a mini mall, wickedly fresh sushi and sashimi are complemented by a sake list that's as long as Honshu. Everything is good, but the grilled eel and special boats (massive sushi, nigiri and sashimi... Hawaii Regional in Kailua-Kona"

"Sushi Shiono is pretty much my go-to restaurant because of its consistently fresh, clean ingredients; attractive presentation; and the friendly and effic..."

"As the pandemic lifts we have noticed a number of restaurants have struggled with staffing and quality of service has dropped a..."

"Honestly cannot say enough good things about Seiji's Sushi - so here comes a long review!. We expected good seafood when we came to Hawaii but did not..."