Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Kailua-Kona

"In the morning, catch a flight to the island of Hawaii (often referred to as “The Big Island” so as not to confuse it with the state of Hawaii) and pick up another rental car near Kona airport. The Big Island is the largest of islands (surprise!), so you’ll definitely want a car to get around."

"Start your trip by picking up your rental car from one of the car rental offices at the Kona Airport. Kona is the sunny outdoor capital of the Big Island and you will spend your first two days and nights here enjoying the beach."

"When Hurricance Iniki slammed into Hawaii in 1992, this park lost all of its sand, which is slowly returning decades later. The shoreline…"

"This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared. A half-mile walking tour encompasses major sites – the visitor center provides a brochure map with cultural information. You enter the park in the village-like royal grounds, where Kona aliʻi (chiefs) and their warriors lived; the spiritual atmosphere is greatly enhanced by gently breaking waves and wind-rustled palms. Throughout the grounds are wooden kiʻi (deity images) standing up to 15ft high."

"After breakfast continue south to the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (also known as the city of refuge or Honaunau Bay) to learn about the ancient practices and rituals of the native Hawaiians and finish up with some snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling on the island, Two Step (at 300 ft. from the park entrance). This is a favorite snorkeling spot for many locals. This is a very culturally significant place for the Hawaiian people so remember to be respectful of both the animals and the surroundings."

"If coffee isn’t your thing, cruise down the hill to Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture on this beautiful 180-acre park, which was once a refuge for ancient Hawaiian taboo breakers."

"Though obviously artificial (a thin layer of sand laid over concrete is hard on the feet), Kikaua Beach is also effortlessly beautiful. Palm trees do the whole sway in the breeze thing, the sand is white, and the completely protected cove that makes up the main swimming area is perfect for teaching keiki (children) to swim and snorkel. As a bonus, sea turtles frequently congregate nearby. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers and drinking water."

"This modest, charcoal-colored beach is backed by a steep green hillside. When calm, the bay's waters are good for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling (although the bottom drops off quickly). Coral abounds, as do strong currents further out. When the winter surf is up, local kids hit the waves with bodyboards. You might spot dolphins and humpback whales offshore between December and April. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, drinking water, campsites, a picnic pavilion and a concession stand."

"You’ll find this lesser-known park in between Kona City and the Kona Airport on the western side of the Big Island. It’s just across the street from the Costco and Home Depot. The park has a variety of walking trails that are perfect for a little pre-sunset stroll, and they allow you to scout the park for the most enviable sunset pics angles."

"Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is just north of Kailua-Kona near the Honokohau Boat Harbor. Along a section of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, highlights of the park include Ai'opio Fishtrap, Honokohau Beach and the impressive Kaloko fishpond."

"At 13,796ft in the air, you are above 40% of the atmosphere and 90% of its water vapor – apparently perfect conditions for growing the giant mushroom-like observatories that have popped up around the summit. Glistening in the sun against the desolate terrain like a human colony on an alien planet, this is the greatest collection of telescopes on earth. You can practically feel the knowledge being sucked out of the sky."

"After breakfast continue south to the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (also known as the city of refuge or Honaunau Bay) to learn about the ancient practices and rituals of the native Hawaiians and finish up with some snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling spots on the island: Two Step (at 300 ft. from the park entrance). This is a favorite snorkeling spot for many locals and a culturally significant place for the Hawaiian people. Please remember to be respectful to both the animals and the surroundings."

"After breakfast continue south to the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (also known as the city of refuge or Honaunau Bay) to learn about the ancient practices and rituals of the native Hawaiians and finish up with some snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling on the island, Two Step (at 300 ft. from the park entrance). This is a favorite snorkeling spot for many locals. This is a very culturally significant place for the Hawaiian people so remember to be respectful of both the animals and the surroundings."

"Makalawena/Pu’u Ali’i Beach is another prominent place in Kailua Kona located off the hiking trail near Kona Coast State Park. It has been called a place of nirvana. Although a bit challenging to get to, the reward far exceeds its strains. Here, you will enjoy pleasant moments while witnessing stunning views as well as the beautiful turquoise waters that are always breathtaking in Hawaii."

"Though obviously artificial (a thin layer of sand laid over concrete is hard on the feet), Kikaua Beach is also effortlessly beautiful. Palm trees do the whole sway in the breeze thing, the sand is white, and the completely protected cove that makes up the main swimming area is perfect for teaching keiki (children) to swim and snorkel. As a bonus, sea turtles frequently congregate nearby. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers and drinking water."

"Kailua-Kona is likely your introduction to the Big Island; with this in mind, let Ultimate Burger be your introduction to the wonderful world of Big Island beef. There's a big focus on organic ingredients and..."

"If it's lunchtime and you're in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii Island this is the place to be. Delicious burgers made from grass fed beef."

"75-1027 Henry St, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, HI 96740-3154Japanese, Sushi, AsianLunch, DinnerTakeout, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Table Service, Reservations+1 808-329-1888http://sakurasushi808.com"

"We happened to go on Thursday and got their Taco Thursday deal. For meat-eaters, they have chicken, and for seafood lovers, there is a fish taco. I got the three tacos for $11."