Curator’s statement
The Big Island of Hawai‘i is a truly unique destination, with its diverse climate zones ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts. While the Hilo and Waimea (wet) sides hold a special place in my heart for their natural beauty, Kona’s sunny weather, beautiful beaches and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal spot for families. Four days in Kona is the perfect amount of time to explore the area, offering just enough to see and do without feeling rushed. It’s the bare minimum I would recommend to get a good sense of the island, from stunning beaches to cultural experiences. Here’s my four day guide to make the most of your time in Kona with kids!
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Day 1: Spencer Beach and Hawai'i Keiki Museum
Morning: Start your day at Spencer Beach and Hapuna Beach, perfect for little ones with gentle waves and soft sands. Spencer offers shaded picnic areas and tide pools, while Hapuna is great for building sandcastles. Both beaches are just a short drive north of Kona.
Mid-Morning: On your way to Spencer Beach, stop at Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, where you can explore an ancient Hawaiian temple and learn about King Kamehameha I. The site includes an open-air museum and an educational video. More info here.
Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Kawaihae Marketplace, known for fresh, locally made poke bowls.Afternoon: Visit the Hawai'i Keiki Museum in King’s Marketplace at Waikoloa. This interactive museum is perfect for younger children, offering hands-on exhibits about Hawaiian culture and science.
Dinner: Head to FORC in Waimea for an authentic farm-to-table dining experience. They serve fresh, locally sourced dishes like oysters and creative entrees.
Day 2: Akaka Falls State Park and Mauna Kea Observatory
Breakfast: Start the day with a hearty meal at 808 Grindz Café, known for local breakfast favorites like loco moco and macadamia nut pancakes.
Morning: Drive 60 minutes to Akaka Falls State Park, where you can enjoy an easy 30-minute paved loop trail leading to a stunning 442-foot waterfall.
Lunch: On your way back, stop by the Kona Farmer’s Market for fresh fruit and local souvenirs.
Afternoon: Take a short hike to discover petroglyphs at Waikoloa. This easy, kid-friendly hike offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian history through fascinating carvings.
After Dinner: Treat the family to refreshing shave ice at Original Big Island Shave Ice Co., where you can try local flavors like lilikoi and mango with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Head to Mauna Kea Observatory for stargazing. Check the weather conditions before heading up and remember to dress warmly at the summit.
Day 3: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Morning: Spend the morning exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Start at the Kīlauea Visitor Center, then check out the "Talk to a Park Ranger" session. Don’t miss the Nahuku Lava Tubes, where you can hike through cool lava caves.
Lunch: After your visit to the park, head back to Kona for lunch and dinner options.
Dinner: Enjoy a delicious meal at Teshima’s Restaurant, serving comforting Japanese classics like tempura and sashimi. Or head to Fumi’s Kitchen for a mix of Korean and Japanese dishes like saimin and kalbi ribs.
Day 4: Helicopter tour
Helicopter tour: For a thrilling adventure, take a 50-minute "Kohala Coast Adventure" helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian for stunning aerial views of waterfalls, cliffs and valleys.
Lunch/dinner: Try Emma’s Kitchen, a Filipino fusion restaurant offering unique dishes like adobo tacos and ube pancakes. Or enjoy upscale dining at Merriman’s Big Island, known for farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine and a kid-friendly menu.
Need to know
As you explore the Big Island, remember to be a respectful traveler — both to the locals and the land. The Big Island is rich in cultural and spiritual significance, so tread lightly, honor local customs and always leave natural features as you find them. Removing rocks or sand is a big no-no, as Hawaiian tradition views the land as the body of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes. Show aloha by cherishing the beauty of the island and leaving it intact for future generations. Enjoy your family-friendly adventure in Kona!
Travel Advisor
Lacey Hayes
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