Manta Ray Night Dive & Snorkel

This world-famous dive/snorkel trip has been featured on numerous publications like Travel, National Geographic, and Discovery Channel. The Kona Coast is home to over 240+ resident manta rays and each has been identified and even named! Much like a fingerprint is unique to each human, manta rays have distinguishing black and white markings on their underside that are used to identify them nightly. Swim with these gentle giants for an experience of a lifetime. (See on map.)

Mauna Loa Visitor Center

This is a must! Sample and buy a suitcase full of delicious Mauna Loa and Hawaiian Host products or support local businesses of Mana Up, an incubator program for Hawaiʻi brands. You can also take a self-guided nature walk in the back or sit on the patio and enjoy the delicious macadamia nut ice cream. The beautifully painted walls are perfect backdrops for your photos. Don’t forget to tag @MaunaLoaMacnut and @HawaiianHostInc. (See on map.)

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Learn about the diverse volcanic landscape of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Here are a few activities you can do: Volcano National Park Visitor Center, Halemaʻumaʻu crater overlook, Kīlauea Iki crater + hike, Thurston Lava tube, Chain of Craters Road (scenic drive), day hikes, Volcano Art Center, the Sulphur Banks, the Mauna Loa Road Scenic Drive, The Free Junior Ranger Program + Workbook, Keanakākoʻi Crater + Halemauʻumaʻu overlook, seeing lava in the park. Question is, will you run out of time to do it all?? (See on map.)

Paniolo Adventures

Live a day in the life of a paniolo, a Hawaiian cowboy. Horseback ride through unspoiled upcountry to get spectacular views of the Kona and Kohala coastline, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai Volcanoes. A wonderful experience you won’t forget. (See on map.)

Waipiʻo Valley

Also known as the “Valley of the Kings”, it’s a spectacular and culturally significant destination renowned for its lush beauty, dramatic cliffs, black sand beach, enchanting views, and rich Hawaiian history. The views from the lookout are stunning. (See on map.)

Honomu Goat Dairy

Located on the Hāmākua Coast with nearly 15 acres overlooking the ocean, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view and baby goats to play with - free of charge! The experience is one-of-a-kind and you’ll be sure to leave with happy memories! Stop by the gift shop for a variety of hand-crafted goat milk soaps and award-winning goat milk caramels and fudge. (See on map.)

Mauna Kea Mountain

Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano and is the highest peak in the Island of Hawaiʻi, reaching an elevation of 4,207.3 meters (13,803 feet) above sea level. When measured from its base on the ocean floor, Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain in the world, standing over 10,000 meters (33,000 feet) tall. Mauna Kea, known in Hawaiian as Mauna a Wakea, is derived from the name of the sky father, Wakea. The mountain is commonly referred to as White Mountain due to the presence of snow frequently seen on its summit. Mauna Kea is regarded as a sacred site in Hawaiian culture, if visiting please respect the ʻāina (land). (See on map.)

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

The park features a reconstructed Hawaiian village that showcases traditional Hawaiian architecture, including thatched hale (houses), canoe sheds, and religious structures. You can explore the grounds and learn about the customs and traditions of the Hawaiian people. Participate in guided tours and watch cultural demonstrations. (See on map.)

Merrie Monarch Festival

The festival is named in honor of King David Kalākaua, who was known as the “Merrie Monarch” due to his love for the arts and promotion of Hawaiian culture during his reign in the late 19th century. The festival’s primary purpose is to perpetuate and showcase the art of hula, which is traditional Hawaiian dance form that tells stories through movement and music. Taking place annually in Hilo, it’s one of the most prestigious hula competitions in the world attracting hula dancers, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts from all over the world. There are also exhibitions and demonstrations of other Hawaiian cultural practices, such as traditional Hawaiian music, lei-making, and the art of Hawaiian tattooing kākau. (See on map.)

Hawaiʻi Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

So much lusciousness! Spanning over 17 acres the garden is home to a diverse collection of tropical plants (over 2,000 plant species), flowers, and trees. As you explore the garden, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, tranquil streams, and ocean vistas. There are walking trails and education opportunities to learn about conservation efforts in Hawaiʻi. (See on map.)

Liliʻuokalani Gardens

A stunning Japanese style garden named after Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi. The garden features traditional Japanese elements including serene ponds, arched bridges, koi fish, stone lanterns, pagodas, and manicured landscapes. Walk through the garden and see breathtaking views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea. (See on map.)

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center

This center integrates Hawaiian culture and knowledge with astronomy. The center celebrates the indigenous Hawaiian understanding of the sky and celestial navigation. Exhibits and programs highlight the importance of astronomy in Hawaiian culture and showcase the connections between the heavens and the land. View the exhibits and planetarium to gain a deeper understanding of the celestial world and learn about the universe. (See on map.)

Kealakekua Bay

Explore the ocean world and visit one of Hawaiʻi’s top snorkeling destinations, Kealakekua Bay with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem. Go dolphin and whale watching, sightsee lava tubes and sea caves, and view the stunning Kona coast. This is one adventure you won’t forget! (See on map.)

Hāpuna Beach

The calm waters and long stretches of soft sand make this a prime beach spot. Surrounded by lush, beautiful greenery, this beach has great swimming conditions. It’s also perfect for bodyboarding, sunbathing, snorkeling, picnicking & barbequing, watching the sunset after a long beach day, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. You’ll want to spend all day here! (See on map.)

Maniniʻōwali Beach also known as Kua Bay

Sometimes called “The Caribbean of Hawai‘i”, the vibrant, turquoise-colored waters, colorful fish, and reef come together for one magical experience. The reef is teeming with an array of tropical fish including the parrotfish, surgeonfish, and butterflyfish and the native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. Go for a swim, kayak, bodyboard, or snorkel! If you’re lucky you might see spinner dolphins playing in the distance. (See on map.)

Punaluʻu Beach

Famous for its jet-black sand, the contrast between the dark sand, deep blue ocean, and lush green palm trees creates a striking and otherworldly landscape. The black hue of the sand on the beaches is derived from the lava emitted by Kīlauea Volcano, which flows into the ocean and rapidly solidifies due to the forceful waves. As a result, the lava fragments transform into minuscule particles that gradually accumulate, ultimately forming the black sand beaches. It’s also resident to the native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle that come ashore to bask in the sun or feed on seaweed along the shore. (See on map.)

Carlsmith Beach Park

Known for its calm and clear waters and protected by a natural rock barrier creating a shallow lagoon, the water is perfect for families with children. You’ll also find a great picnic and BBQ area so gather everyone for some fun in the sun! (See on map.)

ʻAkaka Falls

This pleasant 0.4-mile hike will take you through a lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves, and draping ferns. As you follow the paved footpath, you’ll first see 100-foot Kahuna Falls. Continue to follow around the loop bend and you’ll find Hawaiʻi’s most famous waterfall ‘Akaka Falls. Look out for the educational elements along the trails and pathways. (See on map.)

Kona Brewing Company

It has become an iconic brand in Hawaiʻi's craft beer scene, offering a taste of the islands with its distinct flavors and commitment to quality. Check out their breweries, brewpubs, or simply enjoy their beers in a tropical setting. It'll be a unique experience that combines the essence of Hawaiʻi with the art of craft brewing. Try their flagship beer- the Big Wave Golden Ale. (See on map.)

Huggo’s On the Rocks

Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a place to relax with a tropical drink, Huggo's on the Rocks will be a memorable experience with its delicious food, truly stunning views, and laid-back island vibes. Try the Hawaiian Rainbow, it’s not just pretty, but also delicious! (See on map.)

Merriman’s

As Chef Peter Merriman’s flagship restaurant, Merriman’s Waimea is the original home of Hawaiʻi regional cuisine, with an extensive wine list and fruity cocktails for every dining occasion. If you want to try something other than the famous Merriman’s Mai Tai, order the She’s so Manhattan. (See on map.)

Malasadas

You’ll never forget these! Portuguese style donut without a hole, covered in sugar, and can be served without or with a delicious filling like haupia or guava! Tastes best hot & fresh.

Our top pick: Punaluʻu Bakery! (See on map.)

Poke

This is the freshest you’ll ever eat! Poke is diced raw fish (traditionally ahi tuna) cut into cubes and available in many variations. Popular types of poke include shoyu (soy sauce), spicy, and limu (seaweed).

Our top pick: Suisan Fish Market (See on map.)

Shave Ice

That’s right, there’s no D in shave. Made by shaving down a block of ice, then adding sweet syrup flavoring like strawberry, banana, and blue raspberry. Add other sweet ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, azuki beans (red beans), even ice cream! Shave ice is as refreshing as it sounds and is the perfect treat after a long beach day.

Our top pick: Scandi’s Shave Ice & Coffee Shop (See on map.)

Kona Coffee

Calling all coffee-lovers! The beloved and popular Kona Coffee is a favorite of people around the world and it’s harvested right in Kona. Take a coffee tour and try the freshest cup of coffee ever!

Our top pick: Mountain Thunder Coffee