Aloha, adventurers! Are you ready to pick some activities to add to your trip to the Big Island? Dive into the best Kona Coast tours with us (our picks) and see just which ones we love, we have done multiple times, and what we think are great for families when they’re visiting Kona. We’ve done many more than just the tours and luaus we’ve included here, so keep in mind that not all tours make the cut.
If you’re unsure what you want to do when you’re visiting the Big Island, read on and please let us know if you have any questions. We’re always happy to talk through plans and trip ideas with people, so please leave a comment or send us a note if you would like more info or more depth in our opinions. We feel like these are the best Kona Coast tours, but as we enjoy more over time we’ll update our list.
Snorkeling Tours from Kona
You can drive to many great snorkeling spots all along the Kona Coast, but often you’ve got to deal with the incoming swell or you don’t have your own gear, and that’s when a snorkeling tour from Kona comes in handy. There are lots of snorkeling companies and we’ve been out with quite a few (but not all). We’ve picked our number 1 favorite daytime snorkel trip from Kailua-Kona and our top 2 picks for manta ray snorkeling. As we continue going out with different guides, we’ll add onto this list if somebody offers a different type of trip or destination that’s unique, but for now, these are our favorites, the best Kona Coast tours.
Eka Canoe Manta Ray Snorkeling
Let’s start with manta ray snorkeling, as this always requires a tour to experience. Are you ready for a nighttime adventure like no other? Join Eka Canoe for an small group manta ray snorkeling experience that will leave you breathless. Imagine gliding through the moonlit waters in a traditional outrigger canoe (with a motor), then slipping into the ocean to witness graceful manta rays dancing beneath you. With small groups and expert guides, this tour offers a personal touch that’s perfect for families with older kids. It’s a much shorter boat ride than tours from the Kailua Pier, but what you save in travel time you gain in fun. Really, this is such a unique way to do it!
Book Eka Canoe Manta Ray Snorkeling here!
Super Raft Safari Snorkeling with Body Glove Hawaii
Prepare to be amazed by the Super Raft snorkeling safari with Body Glove Hawaii. What makes this snorkeling tour so special is that it’s a combination of open water safari and snorkeling. Picture yourself zooming across crystal-clear waters on a nimble zodiac-style boat, getting up close and personal with marine life (while adhering to animal protection laws) and then snorkeling at a beautiful underwater site. From spotting playful dolphins to snorkeling in the legendary Kealakekua Bay (or wherever is best that day), this tour is a marine life lover’s Hawaii adventure dream. From humpback whales tail-slapping just off the boat to listening to dolphins underwater while you snorkel, it’s amazing. Hands down, this is one of the top Kona Coast tours!
Book the Super Raft Snorkeling Safari here!
Kona Style Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel
I’ve done this tour several times because it’s so much fun. Looking for the perfect blend of wildlife encounters and party vibes? Kona Style’s Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel tour is great, whether you’re adults or a family wanting to experience the giant mantas. Start your adventure before sunset, enjoy a chill boat ride on the Kona Style catamaran, and then calmly head into the water to witness these gentle giants up close. After your magical manta encounter, unwind with cocktails and conversation as you sail back to port. Even though this is a larger group for snorkeling, the boat is plenty big and there is enough staff that it feels small and friendly.
Book Kona Style Manta Ray Snorkeling here!
Boat Tours from Kailua-Kona
I know that not everyone is into snorkeling (although I don’t know why not) but I think most people do enjoy getting to spend time on the water. I love it all! When you’re picking your Kona tours, especially if you’re visiting in the winter months, these choices are great for getting to see wildlife from a boat and enjoy the Kona Coast from a new perspective.
Kona Whale Watching Tour
Calling all whale enthusiasts! If you’re visiting the Big Island during winter, you can’t miss the chance to witness humpback whales in their happy place. Hop aboard Body Glove Hawaii’s double-decker catamaran and enjoy a stable, comfortable journey filled with awe-inspiring wildlife and landscape sights. Keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales, tail slaps, and spouts as you cruise along the coastline and into open waters. With a whale sighting guarantee, you’ve got nothing to lose and every story to tell afterwards. As a bonus, watch for dolphins, manta rays, flying fish and more, because the ocean has more to it than just the whales!
Book the Body Glove Hawaii Whale Watching here!
Historic Dinner Cruise from Kailua-Kona
I love this Kona tour because it’s everything I enjoy about whale watching but with dinner and storytelling added. History buffs and foodies who love Hawaii, this is for you. Body Glove Hawaii’s Historic Dinner Cruise is hosted by a great local storyteller who knows all about both the ancient and modern history of the Island of Hawai’i. And there’s a great musician onboard who keeps the Hawaiian vibe going between stories and meal courses. Keep your camera ready for surprise wildlife sightings, from dolphins to whales. We even saw a giant manta ray when we were out on this Kona dinner cruise. Sunset catamaran sailing is the perfect way to satisfy your hunger for knowledge and a great meal.
Book the Kona dinner cruise here!
Guided Hiking Tours from Kona
Not enough people consider hiking tours when they’re planning travel, to Hawaii or anywhere. Guided hiking is awesome because it gets you out into nature and being active, and in addition to the physical act of hiking, you’re usually learning the whole time. Build onto all of this beautiful views and unique experiences in the outdoors and now you understand why guided hiking tours from Kona are so great.
Kohala Waterfalls Hiking and Swimming
Ready to chase waterfalls? Plan a guided hiking day with Hawaii Forest & Trail to the stunning Kohala region on the northernmost part of the Big Island. Hike through lush forests and by historic sugar cane flumes, and cool off in Hawaiian waterfall pools. Led by knowledgeable guides passionate about Hawaiian culture and nature, this tour is perfect for curious minds and active bodies. Another bonus to this particular hike is that it’s not covering ground that’s open to the public, so your hiking journey is sure to be just your small group. Waterfall swimming, hiking and NOT being in crowded touristy places make this day trip one of the best Kona tours.
Book the Kohala waterfalls hiking here!
Hiking Hualalai Volcano
This was the first tour I ever did with Hawaii Forest & Trail and it sold me on guided hiking in Hawaii. For an exclusive hiking tour of the Hualalai Volcano, the tour leaves from Kona and accesses private land that is really incredible. Traverse through lush cloud forests, explore fascinating volcanic features, and even venture into a mysterious lava tube. This tour is a perfect blend of science, nature, and fun ideal for families looking to add an educational twist to their Big Island adventure. Spot colorful native birds (I love the i’iwi) and learn about the island’s unique geology. These Kona hiking tours are done in small groups, making it a great family activity.
Book Hualalai Volcano hiking here!
Kona Coast Luaus You’ll Love
Luaus are a great addition to any trip through the Hawaiian Islands, and the Kona Coast actually has quite a few to choose from. We’ve been to many luaus over the years, and these one stand out as some of our favorites. They may not be Kona tours like you’re expecting, but due to costs and time, you could consider swapping in a luau to add a fun cultural element to your time on the Big Island.
Island Breeze Luau at King Kamehameha Hotel
I’m starting here because this is my favorite Kona Coast luau. The Island Breeze Luau is set against the backdrop of Kamakahonu Historic Site at the King Kamehameha Hotel. This beautiful evening celebrates Hawaiian culture through music, dance, and delicious food. From the moment you’re greeted with a traditional lei (for purchase or included with Ali’i seating) to the final notes of the show, you’ll be transported to a world of island culture, both of Hawaii and other Polynesian countries. There isn’t a part of the show or Hawaiian experience here at the Island Breeze Luau that I don’t love.
Get Island Breeze Luau tickets here!
Hawai’iloa Luau at Fairmont Orchid in Waikoloa
Foodies and history enthusiasts, this one’s for you! On the grounds of the beautiful Fairmont Orchid Resort, the Hawai’iloa Luau is exceptional. Hawaiian cuisine meets captivating storytelling with a great progression through instrumental music, then songs and dancing, ending with an awesome fire knife performance. Dishes from kalua pork, poke, and lomi lomi salad are all a part of the feast you’ll enjoy while learning about the legendary voyager Hawai’iloa and the settlement of the Hawaiian Islands. You can’t go wrong with adding the Hawai’iloa Lua to your trip.
Book the Hawai’iloa Luau here!
Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at Royal Kona Resort
While each luau brings in elements from the many different Polynesian cultures, The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at Royal Kona Resort is your ticket to a night of fun performances, delicious food, and flowing drinks (much more so here than other luaus we’ve attended). I really like the stories of the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands told through dance, music, and storytelling. With attentive table service and a prime oceanfront location, this luau offers a perfect blend of entertainment and a celebration of Hawaii.
Book the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau here!
With these awesome Kona Coast tours at your fingertips, it’s time to start planning your dream Big Island getaway. Consider factors like start times, departure points, included meals, and budgets as you craft your perfect itinerary. Remember, all of these tours are family-friendly, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun – even the nighttime manta ray snorkeling. If you’re concerned about doing one of the manta ray trips, please check out our full article specifically about that adventure.
We’re here to help you make the most of your Kona Coast experience. If you have questions about these tours or need more recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out! Leave a comment below or send us a message. We’re always excited to share our love for Hawaii and help fellow travelers create unforgettable memories for your Aloha trip.
