5 Fun Things to Do in Kona and On the Big Island This Summer

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kona hawaii summer

It’s summertime in Hawaii, and that means warm temperatures and plenty of fun things to do on the big island. From checking out the ancient Puako Petroglyphs to visiting the tranquil Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, there are ample activities for kids and adults of all ages.

We’ve created our top five list of fun things to do in Kona and the surrounding areas in the summertime. Keep in mind that if you’re planning on partaking in outdoor activities, it can get a little warm at this time of year. Be sure to bring a few bottles of water and some sunscreen to ensure you’ll have a safe and memorable time!

Kona Coffee Tasting

Due to the fertile volcanic soil, ample sunshine, and ocean breeze-kissed hillsides, Kona produces some of the best coffee you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting. There are around 650 farms scattered along 20 miles of scenic roads that offer views of the lush green landscape that surrounds this area.

Carta Coffee Merchants offers visitors a guided tour into how they grow and process their delectable beans. Your tour guides will walk the farm with you and explain how the coffee is tended, dried, and roasted to perfection. Many tours will end with a free coffee tasting that will delight your taste buds.

What: Kona Coffee Tours

Location: Various plantations in Kona. Google search to find one you like.

Cost: Some tours are free, others cost money.

Puako Petroglyphs

Dating back to 1200 A.D., ancient Hawaiians carved beautiful images of daily life and their deities into the soft volcanic rock. These petroglyphs stood unchanged for thousands of years where the public can now view them at the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve.

Located just north of the Mauna Lani Resort, the Puako Petroglyphs are a fantastic sight to behold. The area is unpaved but easily accessible for children and older adults. The area can heat up during the hottest parts of the day, so be sure to bring some hydration and sunscreen while you visit various parts of the 163-acre park.

What: Puako Petroglyphs

Location: 1 N Kaniku Dr, Waimea, HI 96743

Cost: Free! (Paid tours are available via internet websites)

Oceanfront Luau

The Voyagers of the Pacific at the Royal Kona Resort put on a spectacular Luau four nights a week starting at 5 pm. Come celebrate and learn about Hawaiian culture on the shores of the ocean in Kailua Bay. When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed in traditional Hawaiian style with music and a shell lei greeting.

Once the festivities are underway, guests will enjoy a roasted pig that’s been unearthed from the underground oven in the Imu ceremony. As you’re enjoying the feast, skilled dancers will perform the dangerous fire knife ritual for your entertainment. 

The Oceanfront Luau is truly an amazing cultural event that all visitors to Kona should experience at least once in their lives.

What: Voyagers of the Pacific Luau

Location: 75-5852 Ali'i Drive Kailua-Kona, Kailua, Hawaii 96740

Cost: Children are $40.73, and adults are $77.55

Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens

Located just a short 7-minute drive from Kona, the Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens is a non-profit botanical garden that features many plants that are native to Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. They’re arranged in wedge-shape layers that showcase each of 11 geographical areas that they represent.

Located within a 2-minute walking distance from the gardens is the Kona Educational Foundation Center. The main attraction is a historical site called Kealakowaʻa Heiau. Ancient Hawaiians used to come here to get a blessing for their canoes before they set sail on the ocean. Self-guided tours are available, inquire inside for more information.

What: Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens and Kona Educational Foundation Center

Location: 76-6280 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua, HI 96740

Cost: Free (donations accepted)

Rainbow Falls

Located on the other side of the island, and about 1-1/2 hour’s drive from Kona, Rainbow Falls is an absolute must-see. It features an 80-foot tall natural waterfall that cascades down from the pristine Wailuku River.

The waterfall is aptly named due to the multi-colored rainbow effect it makes when it hits the water. The rainbow can only be seen around 10 am daily; this is due to the position of the sun needing to be just right for the rainbow to occur. Bring your camera or smartphone as you won’t want to miss out on some excellent photo opportunities!

What: Rainbow Falls

Location: 2-198 Rainbow Dr Hilo, HI 96720

Cost: Free!

Fun Things to Do in Hawaii in the Summertime!

From the lush tropical rainforests where delicious Kona coffee is grown and prepared, to beachfront luaus, there’s something for everyone on the big island of Hawaii. If you’re lucky enough to live here or are just stopping by for a few days to say Aloha, be sure to check out one of the above five fun places in and around Kona Hawaii!

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