Must See Sights and Landmarks in Kailua-Kona Area

"Ahuena Heiau is an ancient temple recognized for peace, prayer, and its divine position to the sun. It is a "chosen place" that rests prominently behind the King Kamehameha Hotel. Like any other historical edifice, it has survived various circumstances over the years. However, it has been restored to ensure that its true essence remains intact."

"In the early 1800s, King Kamehameha the Great built a royal compound at Kamakahonu, the bay fronting what is now the Courtyard King Kamehameha…"

"A pulpit with a view, gravestones cradled by tropical blooms and a little chapel with floor-to-ceiling 'outsider art' make this church a picturesque side trip. A self-taught artist and Catholic priest, John Velghe, came to Hawaiʻi from Belgium in 1899 and he modeled the vaulted nave on a Gothic cathedral in Burgos, Spain. His trompe l'oeil art work merges European structure with Polynesian scenery, such as Jesus casting out the devil in front of what looks like the Pololu Valley."

"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."

"We stumbled upon this place after being disappointed by Uluani's in the Marriot but it was refreshing discovery. Awesome signature shaved ice and gr..."

"We went there to get some of the "you are here" Starbucks mugs and a bag of 100% Kona Coffee...."