Things to do in Kona, Hawaii

Helicopter ride over active volcanoes

Fly over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a scenic helicopter flight from Hilo. Enjoy an aerial perspective of the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes and stunning views of the most geologically active environment on earth. Ride in comfort and safety in your choice of either an ECO-Star or A-Star helicopter. You’ll hear informative commentary from your pilot as you spot the Halemaumau Crater and other sights in the national park, and pass over waterfalls and the Hamakua Coast. The cost is around $A400 per person.

Night Manta Ray Adventure

Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll take a short cruise out to the manta site, where you’ll watch the beautiful Hawaiian sunset before dipping into the water to watch the manta rays up close. All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks to enjoy on board. Your tour will conclude at its original departure point. If you don’t see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night–no charge. Snorkel with manta rays on this Big Island adventure led by an expert guide Watch the Kona sunset before dipping into the water Sit back with light refreshments and snacks on board the boat Enjoy complimentary use of all snorkel equipment Prices start from around $A95.

Visit the Royal Palace Museum

This historical residence is located right in the heart of Kona on Alii Drive. Every year IRONMAN use this beautiful Hawaiian palace to host the official welcome function for sponsors, VIP guests and past winners.

The former summer vacation home of Hawaiian royalty and former residence of Kamehameha the Great, the Hulihe’e Palace is located on famous Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona. In 1927, after years of disuse, the Daughters of Hawaiʻi (a group dedicated to preserving the culture of Hawaii) restored Huliheʻe Palace and transformed it into a museum. In 1973, the Hulihe’e Royal Palace was finally placed on the National Register of Historic Places, protecting Hawaii’s history for generations to come.

The museum showcases a variety of Victorian artifacts from the same era as King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. Items at The Palace include beautiful koa wood furniture, portraits, kapa fabric, feather work, Hawaiian quilts, ornaments and other artifacts.

Kona Trolley

The Kona Shopping Trolley from Roberts Hawaii is the hassle-free way to explore the hottest spots in town, and is the perfect way for athletes’ partners and families to get around town while their athlete is training, resting or on the Tri Travel orientations. Shopping stops include the Kailua Town Association (Old Kona Town), Walmart, Target and Macy’s. And, of course, it’s the perfect opportunity to sample local food at popular places including the beautiful Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa (the restaurant and hotel overlooks Keauhou Bay), Kona Brewing Company – the town’s first brewery, and Kona Commons, a great place to grab a quick bite.

Afterwards. the open-air trolley will pick you up at one of the many convenient locations throughout Kona. No traffic. No getting directions. No parking. No problems. Aloha indeed.

FOR ONLY $2

SHUTTLE STOPS

• Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou
• Kona Country Club
• Keauhou Shopping Center
• Kahaluu Beach Bus Kiosk
• Magic Sands Beach
• Kona Bali Kai
• Aston Kona By The Sea
• Royal Sea Cliff
• Royal Kona Resort
• Coconut Grove Marketplace
• St. Michael’s Church
• Kona Marketplace
• Kailua Pier
• Lanihau Center
• Walmart
• Macy’s
• Kona Commons Shopping Center
• Target
• Kona Brewing Company
• Ola Brew Company
• Kona Coast Shopping Center
• Kona Inn Shopping Village
• Water Front Row
• Huggo’s On the Rocks

Waikoloa Resort

Feel the spirit of Aloha at Hilton Waikoloa Village, a spectacular oceanfront playground, set on the sunny Kohala Coast of Hawaii, the Big Island. This amazing resort is the perfect place to spend the day, and visitors can take the train or boat around the grounds – such is the size of the resort! It is located about 45 minutes out of Kona but we highly recommend a visit, especially for families with children. There are dolphin shows, water slides and many different pools and beaches, along with shops and restaurants. There is also a world -famous golf course attached to the resort.