Kailua-Kona event weekends: what to do between sessions
The Big Island's dry west coast: lava fields, coffee farms, manta rays at night and the Ironman World Championship.
Events we cover in Kailua-Kona
Arriving
Kona International (KOA) is 15 minutes from town.
Where to stay
| Budget | Where | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Kailua-Kona town | Condos and older hotels on Ali'i Drive. |
| Mid-range | Keauhou | Resorts south of town. |
| Splurge | Kohala Coast | Big resorts 30 minutes north. |
Three hotels we would book
- Budget: Kona Seaside Hotel
- Mid-range: Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa
- Splurge: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Tours
Where to eat
With kids
- Kahaluu Beach snorkelling.
Rainy-day backups
- Hulihee Palace.
Free things to do
- Kahaluu Beach Park turtles.
- Watch the Ironman swim start at the pier.
Getting around
- You need a car; roads close on race day.