We’re planning a 4-day, 3-night anniversary trip to the Big Island, specifically focusing on the Kona area. We’ve put together an itinerary, but we’re looking for input, especially since one of us really dislikes driving long distances. The goal is a relaxing trip, so any suggestions for low-key activities around Kona, or pleasant drives within an hour of the town, would be great.
Day 1: Arrival and Volcano Adventure
Our arrival in Kona is scheduled for 10:30 AM on Friday. We’re hoping to pick up our rental car by 11:00 AM. We won’t need a 4WD, as we’re not planning a trip to Mauna Kea, and neither of us is particularly experienced with that type of vehicle. We’re looking for recommendations for reliable car rental companies.
After getting the car, our first stop will be for brunch in the Kona area. Once our bellies are full, we have a few options for the afternoon. Option 1 is to rent snorkeling gear from a place like Kona Boys Surf Shop and head out for some self-guided snorkeling, perhaps at a spot like Two Step. Option 2 involves renting beach towels and chairs from the same shop and simply enjoying a relaxed beach day at Two Step or another nearby beach. One of us is keen on sunbathing, while the other loves to swim. A third option we’re considering is a coffee farm tour. We’re curious if these typically require reservations or if it’s possible to just show up and join a tour.
Before heading to our next destination, we’ll make a quick supply stop. We usually hit the first ABC store we see to grab snacks and any forgotten essentials. Then, it’s off to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! We’re open to suggestions for any interesting stops along the way from Kona to the park. We already have a reservation at Volcano House and plan to check in once we arrive. Dinner is booked at Volcano House for 7:30 PM, and in the evening, we’re hoping to catch some lava viewing. If that’s not possible, stargazing would be a wonderful alternative.
Day 2: Volcanic Landscapes and Kona Comforts
Saturday will start early with a sunrise hike along the Kilauea Iki and Crater Rim Trail. We’ll be sure to check with the Volcano House concierge closer to the date to confirm that current volcanic activity allows for hiking. We’re aiming to start by 5:00 AM and finish by 8:00 AM, just in time for breakfast back at Volcano House. Breakfast is first-come, first-served, so we’re hoping to snag a spot.
For the morning, we have an optional drive along the Chain of Craters Road, which is estimated to take about two hours. Our main interest here is to visit the petroglyphs and the Holei Sea Arch. We anticipate that the one of us who dislikes driving might not be thrilled about this, but if it’s a relatively easy drive, we think it will be manageable and worth it. By 11:00 AM or noon, we’ll begin our journey back to Kona, where we’ll be staying at the Marriott King Kamehameha Beach Hotel for the rest of the trip.
On the way to Kona, we plan to stop at a black sand beach, hoping to spot some turtles. This stop might take two to three hours. We’re also wondering if there are any good restaurants nearby for lunch. We’ll likely need a gas stop before arriving at the hotel around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. For the afternoon, Option 1 is to simply relax by the hotel pool. As for Option 2, we’re looking for suggestions for something equally relaxing, as the designated driver will likely need to recover from the day’s driving. Dinner will be in downtown Kona. We’re curious if most restaurants in this touristy area require reservations on a Saturday night or if walk-ins are generally accommodated.
Day 3: Kona Exploration and Relaxation
Sunday begins with a leisurely breakfast in Kona. For our morning activity, we have a few choices. Option 1 is kayaking, and we’d love recommendations for a reputable company to coordinate this with. Option 2 is a hike along the Ala Mauka Makai trail in Kaloko Honokohau National Historic Park, which is a mere 10-minute drive from our hotel. We’re also open to other morning activity suggestions. Afterward, we’ll have lunch back in Kona, though we’re also open to suggestions for other dining spots. The rest of the day will be dedicated to relaxation, either at a beautiful beach or by the hotel pool. We have dinner reservations at Fish Hopper for 6:30 PM.
Day 4: Departure Day
On Monday, our final day, we’ll ensure the driver gets to sleep in while the other enjoys the hotel gym. We’ll have breakfast in Kona before checking out by 11:00 AM. Before heading to the airport, we plan to visit the King Kamehameha statue. Our flight home is scheduled for 3:00 PM, so we’ll aim to arrive at the airport by 1:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kona and Big Island Travel
What are some relaxing activities in Kona for someone who dislikes driving?
Kona itself offers a variety of relaxing options that require minimal driving. You can spend time on the beautiful beaches right in town or a short drive away, like Magic Sands Beach or Kamakahonu Beach. Many hotels have excellent pools and amenities for lounging. Exploring the shops and restaurants in downtown Kona on foot is also a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Boat tours, such as snorkeling or sunset cruises, depart directly from the Kona pier, eliminating the need for driving once you’re there. Spa treatments, leisurely meals with ocean views, and simply enjoying the atmosphere from your hotel balcony are also great low-key activities.
Are coffee farm tours on the Big Island accessible without reservations?
While some smaller coffee farms might accommodate walk-ins, it is generally recommended to make reservations for coffee farm tours on the Big Island, especially for more popular or larger operations like Greenwell Farms or Kona Coffee Living History Farm. This ensures your spot, particularly during peak tourist seasons, and allows the farm to manage guest flow. Checking their websites or calling ahead is the best way to confirm their specific policies.
What are some good snorkeling spots near Kona and do I need my own gear?
Some of the most popular and accessible snorkeling spots near Kona include Kealakekua Bay (often accessed by boat tours due to limited shore access) and Two Step (Honaunau Bay), known for its easy entry and abundant marine life. Kahalu’u Beach Park is another excellent choice, especially for beginners. You don’t necessarily need your own gear as many shops in Kona, like Kona Boys Surf Shop, offer daily rentals for masks, snorkels, and fins. Some boat tours also include gear as part of their package.
Are there any natural attractions within an hour’s drive of Kona that are worth visiting?
Absolutely! Within an hour’s drive north or south of Kona, you can find several beautiful natural attractions. To the south, Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, which includes Two Step, offers a rich cultural experience alongside the excellent snorkeling. Further south, but still within an hour, are beautiful beaches like Manini Beach. To the north, you can explore the stunning coastal landscapes and historical sites at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, which is very close to Kona. The scenic drive alone can be enjoyable without requiring extensive hiking or long stops if you prefer.
What is the typical dining scene like in downtown Kona – do I need reservations?
Downtown Kona is a vibrant dining area, and whether you need reservations depends on the restaurant, the size of your group, and the day of the week. For popular restaurants, especially those with ocean views or fine dining establishments, and particularly on weekend evenings (like Saturday), making a reservation is highly recommended. Many casual eateries and bars might accommodate walk-ins, but there could be a wait. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about their reservation policy, especially when planning a special anniversary dinner.
Are there restaurants near the black sand beaches on the Big Island?
While the most famous black sand beach, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, is somewhat remote, there are typically food trucks or small snack stands that operate nearby, especially during daylight hours. These often offer convenience store snacks, sandwiches, and local treats. For more substantial restaurant options, you would likely need to drive a bit further to the nearest larger towns, which might be a 15-30 minute drive depending on your exact location along the coast. It’s advisable to pack some snacks and drinks if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there, or check recent reviews for current food options.
References List
- Kona Boys Surf Shop
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Marriott King Kamehameha Beach Hotel
- Fish Hopper Restaurant
- Greenwell Farms
- Kona Coffee Living History Farm
- Magic Sands Beach
- Kamakahonu Beach
- Kealakekua Bay
- Two Step (Honaunau Bay)
- Kahalu’u Beach Park
- Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
- Manini Beach
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
We invite you to share your experiences and insights to help us fine-tune this anniversary getaway. Your advice could be the key to making this trip truly unforgettable for both of us!
