Kona is rich in history and Hawaiian culture. Planning
your Kona vacation can be a fascinating way to spend a few hours in this
wonderful island. The Kona coastline on the western shore of Hawaii’s “Big
Island” stretches from the town of Kailua-Kona to beyond the marine
conservation area of the Kealakekua Bay. World renowned by beach goers, Kona
offers a strong persistent sun, very little rain and calm Pacific waters
together with swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Kailua-Kona was a trade
hub for the ancient Hawaiians and there is much history to ponder on while you
are there. You can visit the former home of Hawaiian royals at the Hulihe’e
Palace. Walk along the town’s main thoroughfare, Ali’i Drive, to reach the
oldest Christian church in the state, the Mokuaikaua Church. The historic
village can be explored with a tour guide that can be contacted from within
town. Puuhonua-o-Honaunau is one of Hawaii’s most sacred historic sites and you
can learn about Hawaiian culture and history as you take a self-guided tour of
this deeply spiritual site. Highlights of your visit will include the Great
Wall, which is up to 17 feet thick in places and the fierce-looking Kii, the wooden
totem-like images of the gods who protects the sacred temple (Hawaiian beliefs).
You will also be able to see the royal canoe landing beach and ancient fishing
pools in the area. The park offers daily ranger talks, which will greatly
expand your visit and deepen your understanding of the history and culture that
surrounds you. Hiking at Puako where it is a relatively flat terrain isn’t very
difficult to hike on, but this area can get very hot most of the time. The
Puako Petroglyphs are in the historical park at the Mauna Lani Resort. Some
petroglyphs are outside, while others are in a cave, and there are plenty of
them, so you can check out most of these at least an hour to explore. Keauhou
Bay is located a short drive south of Kailua Village and is another of Kona’s
cultural areas, having formerly been a favorite Kona vacation destination for
Hawaiian taste. Besides enjoying a multiple of watersports on the calm,
protected waters of the bay, you can also take a cultural tour of all the
historical sites, including several restored Hawaiian temples. The fun and
exciting way of any visit to the Keauhou coastline is the opportunity to swim
and snorkel with the many giant manta rays that are attracted close to the shore
to feed on microscopic plankton during at night. During the day you can enjoy
snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking or try your hand at fishing with the
locals.
You can try also the famous 100 percent pure Kona coffee,
grown only on the Kona Coast. The region’s environmental conditions conspire to
make one of the world’s best-loved cup of coffees. There are numerous cafes and
shops around Kona to try. Also, you might want to tour a Kona coffee plantation
which is really a nice way to spend your Kona vacation.
