Kailua-Kona Travel Information
Kailua-Kona is a charming sea-side oasis of green amidst a volcanic
and relatively barren landscape. With a population of little more
than 10,000, Kailua-Kona is only a quarter the size of comparatively
lush and urban Hilo on the opposite coast. Yet this city, home to
the Ironman Triathlon, numerous historical sites, tidepools and
a quaint down-town area is a character-rich mix of modern and
natural. Snorkelers can explore the waters around White Sands Beach
County Park when there is enough sand to get down past the coral to
the water, or Honokohau Beach and nearby Kaloko Beach north of
Kailua-Kona's city center. Honokohau Harbor is where fishing boats
come at night to roost. Pick up the latest gossip dockside before
jumping aboard and heading out to see first-hand how the marlin are
biting. Optionally, take a submarine cruise on the Atlantis
and watch streaks of color flash past the windows as you descend to
120 feet—not quite Verne's 2,000 leagues under the sea but about
as close as you can get in one morning. Wander the small down-town
area for your chance to buy macadamia nuts, snorkeling equipment and
other souvenirs before relaxing with a cup of Kona coffee, locally
grown and brewed. Thus invigorated, take a quick look at Mokuaikaua
Church and Hulihee Palace or join a historical walking tour and leave
the navigation to someone else. If you're not in the area to
participate in the Ironman yourself, rent bikes and spend a day
exploring the environs before washing off with a swim, running to
catch the sunset and celebrating your day with a Polynesian luau
feast. Kailua-Kona is due west of Hilo, though Saddle Road winds
circuitously around for 55 miles before joining Route 190 for the
33-mile stretch to the city, making the actual driving distance longer
than the physical distance.
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