Top things to do in Kona

Looking for the best things to do in Kona, Hawaii? Whether you are visiting for adventure, culture or pure relaxation, the Kona Coast offers an incredible mix of experiences just minutes from OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa.

From once-in-a-lifetime ocean encounters to immersive cultural activities, this guide highlights the top Kona activities to add to your Big Island itinerary. Here are some of the best ways to do exactly that in Kona.

Explore Hawaiian culture at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa

Start your stay by stepping into the stories of Hawaii without ever leaving the resort. The cultural walking tour at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa offers a deeper look into the traditions, history and legends of Keauhou.

Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you will learn about ancient Hawaiian sites, the significance of the land and the rich heritage that defines this special place. It is an easy, meaningful way to begin your Kona journey and connect with the destination on a deeper level.

Insider tip: Schedule this early in your stay – it will give more context to everything else you experience on the island.

Plongée avec masque et tuba avec les raies manta la nuit à Kona

One of the most unforgettable things to do in Kona is night snorkeling with manta rays. Just offshore from the resort at Keauhou Bay, you can float on the ocean’s surface as these gentle giants glide gracefully beneath you.

Kona is one of the few places in the world where this experience is consistently accessible. Calm waters and clear visibility make it ideal year-round, and the proximity to the resort makes it incredibly convenient.

This is more than an activity – it is a moment you will talk about long after your trip ends.

Tour a Kona coffee farm

No visit to Kona is complete without experiencing its world-famous coffee. Take a Kona coffee farm tour and walk through lush fields where beans are grown, harvested and roasted.

You will learn about the region’s unique growing conditions, meet local farmers and taste fresh Kona coffee right at the source. Many farms also produce macadamia nuts, giving you a chance to sample even more local flavors.

Why it stands out: Kona coffee is one of the rarest and most sought-after coffees in the world, and seeing how it is made adds a whole new appreciation to every sip.

Relax and explore Keauhou Bay

Located directly in front of the resort, Keauhou Bay is a hub for ocean activities and one of the most scenic spots on the Kona Coast.

Spend your day:

• Paddleboarding or kayaking along the coastline
• Watching spinner dolphins in the distance
• Booking ocean excursions directly from the bay

As the sun sets, the bay transforms into a front-row seat for one of Kona's most magical evenings – especially if you are heading out for a manta ray snorkel.

Visit Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

A short drive south of the resort brings you to Puuhonua o Honaunau, one of the most sacred cultural sites in Hawai‘i.

Once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians, this beautifully preserved park features:

• Royal grounds and temple structures
• Carved kii (wooden statues)
• Coastal trails with dramatic lava rock views

It is a powerful place to learn about Hawaiian history and gain a deeper understanding of the islands' cultural roots.

Tee off on the Kona Coast

If your perfect day includes ocean views and a great round of golf, Kona delivers. The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii's most scenic courses, where dramatic lava landscapes meet sweeping coastline vistas.

Just minutes from OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa, the Kona Country Cluboffers a standout experience. Set along the rugged shoreline of Keauhou, this course features wide fairways, challenging oceanfront holes and unforgettable sunset views. It is both approachable for casual players and rewarding for seasoned golfers.

For those looking to explore further, championship courses like Mauna Lani and Hualalai are within driving distance, each offering elevated play paired with luxury surroundings.

Why it is worth it: Golf in Kona is not just about the game – it is about playing through one of the most visually stunning landscapes in the world.

Plan your Kona adventure with OUTRIGGER

From ocean adventures to cultural discoveries, Kona offers something for every kind of traveler. Staying at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa puts you close to it all, while also offering signature experiences right on property.

Whether you are snorkeling with manta rays, sipping fresh Kona coffee or exploring ancient Hawaiian sites, each moment brings you closer to the spirit of the island.

Book your next Hawaii adventure today.