Local Tips

Get practical local advice for enjoying Kailua-Kona, including transportation, parking, weather, packing, shopping, etiquette, and ways to make your stay easier.

White Jeep parked on a sandy Hawaiian beach with palm trees and the ocean in the background in Kona, Hawaii.

Do You Need a Rental Car in Kona? A Practical Guide to Getting Around

Wondering if you need a rental car in Kona? Here’s what’s walkable from downtown Kailua-Kona, when a car is worth having, and the best way to explore Hawaiʻi Island.

Michael Ransom

3 days ago6 min read

Sunny Aliʻi Drive waterfront in downtown Kailua-Kona, with palm trees, ocean views and shops along the historic coastal road.

Where to Stay in Kona: Kailua-Kona, Keauhou or the Kohala Coast?

Downtown Kailua-Kona, Keauhou or the Kohala Coast? Each offers a very different Big Island experience. Here's how to choose the right home base for your trip.

Michael Ransom

Aug 83 min read

Seaside market promenade in Kailua-Kona with white vendor tents, shoppers strolling along Aliʻi Drive, a large shade tree overhead, and calm blue water beside the curved waterfront walkway.

Kailua-Kona Farmers Market Guide: Fresh Produce, Local Food & Island-Made Goods

Explore recurring farmers markets around Kailua-Kona, beginning with the walkable Kona Farmers Market near Kona Vista Paradise and continuing to Keauhou, Hoʻoulu, and South Kona.

Michael Ransom

Jul 2912 min read

Golden sunset over Kona’s black lava shoreline, with palm trees, calm ocean water, and people watching from the beach.

Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Kona: Beaches, Viewpoints & Waterfront Spots

Compare Kona’s best sunset spots, from Kailua Pier and Aliʻi Drive to sandy beaches, quiet lava shorelines, Keauhou Bay, and ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay.

Michael Ransom

Jul 2914 min read

Kona coffee farm tours, with a cup of 100% Kona coffee, ripe coffee cherries, blossoms, and a hillside plantation overlooking the ocean.

Kona Coffee Farms Worth Visiting: Tours, Tastings & Authentic Farm Experiences

Compare Kona coffee farms offering free tours, historical experiences, tastings, scenic cafés, cloud-forest walks, and hands-on roasting classes.

Michael Ransom

Jul 2815 min read

Seasonal scenes showing the best time to visit Kona, with whale watching, tropical flowers, paddling, and evening events.

Best Time to Visit Kona: Weather, Crowds & Events by Season

Wondering when to visit Kona? Compare weather, crowds, whale season, and signature events to choose the best time for your Hawaiʻi trip.

Michael Ransom

Jul 226 min read

Sunrise over Kailua-Kona from the private lanai at Kona Vista Paradise

First Time in Kona? A Practical Guide for New Big Island Visitors

Planning your first trip to Kona? Learn what to expect on Hawaiʻi Island, including rental cars, weather, packing, ocean safety, island distances, and respectful travel.

Michael Ransom

Jul 214 min read

Aerial view of Kailua Bay and downtown Kailua-Kona near Kona Vista Paradise

Things to Do in Downtown Kailua-Kona—Steps from Kona Vista Paradise

Discover beaches, historic landmarks, shopping, dining, and the farmers market—all within an easy walk of Kona Vista Paradise in Kailua-Kona.

Michael Ransom

Jul 193 min read