Kailua-Kona
Volcanic thrills, ocean magic, and luxury await your family in Kona paradise
Highlights
Witness breathtaking cosmic displays from the summit with expert-guided private tours and professional photography.
Explore vibrant reefs teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish on exclusive family charter boats.
Soar over lava fields, waterfalls, and beaches in all-window-seat luxury helicopters.
Tour award-winning plantations sampling rare Kona beans and chocolate in private settings.
Discover ancient Hawaiian sanctuaries and cultural stories at Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.
Swim alongside graceful manta rays under the stars on guided nocturnal snorkel adventures.
Where to Stay
3 picks
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Ultra-luxury beachfront resort with private pools, kids' club, championship golf, and seven pools including an adults-only infinity edge.
Royal Kona Resort
Iconic oceanfront property on Ali'i Drive with luau shows, multiple pools, and direct beach access in a lively yet family-friendly setting.
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Massive 5-star resort with lagoon, dolphin encounters, tram system, pools, and kids' activities amid golf courses and beaches.
Where to Eat
11 picks
Ulu Ocean Grill
Four Seasons' signature seafood spot with farm-to-table Hawaiian fusion; order the poke tasting and fresh lobster.
Ray's Den
Four Seasons' casual oceanfront lounge; try the Kalua pork sliders and tropical cocktails/mocktails.
Manta
Mauna Lani's award-winning seafood restaurant; signature ray-inspired dishes and wagyu.
Super J's
Authentic laulau and poke bowls; splurge on family-sized seafood platters.
Hawaiian Night Dinner
Private chef-prepared luau at resort with kalua pig, hula, and fire dancing.
Lava Rock Cafe
Volcano-side gourmet picnic with local ingredients; customized family menu.
Kona Inn Restaurant
Oceanfront classic with fresh fish specials and tropical salads.
Lemongrass Express
Kona's top Thai fusion; family platters of curries and fresh rolls.
Don's Mai Tai Bar
Resort bar with epic sunsets, pupus, and non-alcoholic specialties.
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel - Hokulea
Historical spot for upscale Hawaiian brunch with ocean breezes.
Island Breeze Luau
Premium luau with private table, top hula, and gourmet buffet.
What to Do
12 picks
Ali'i Drive Stroll
Wander the historic waterfront promenade with shops, galleries, and oceanfront vibes.
Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour
All-window-seat flight over waterfalls, lava tubes, and beaches with pilot narration.
Kahaluu Beach Park Snorkeling
Private guided snorkel with turtles; includes gear, instruction, and shaded picnic.
Award Winning Farm Tour: Coffee, Chocolate and Unique Gifts
Private tour of Kona coffee plantation with tastings, chocolate making, and family crafts.
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Private ranger-led tour of ancient refuge, temples, and cultural demos.
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
Private luxury tour to Volcanoes National Park, lava tubes, and waterfalls.
Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
VIP 4WD to summit for sunset, stargazing, and telescope viewing with photos.
Magic Sands Beach Park
Private cabana with boogie boards, paddleboards, and beach games.
Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Private boat night snorkel with gentle mantas; glow lights and wetsuits provided.
Manini'owali Beach (Kekaha Kai State Park)
Private 4x4 access to pristine cove for snorkeling and picnics.
Private Kona Coffee and National Historic Parks Tour
Custom 4WD tour blending farms, parks, and beaches with historian guide.
Resort Spa Day
Family spa treatments, pools, and kids' activities at Four Seasons.
Good to Know
7 picks
Secure Private Transportation
Hire a luxury van with driver for the entire week to navigate Big Island distances comfortably with kids and gear.
Pack Layers for Altitudes
Bring warm jackets and hats for Mauna Kea summits where temperatures drop near freezing, even in tropical weather.
Book Snorkel Charters Early
Reserve private family snorkel boats including gear, lunch, and guides for Kealakekua Bay and manta rays.
Embrace Island Time
Plan flexible schedules with buffers for traffic, weather, and spontaneous beach stops.
Reef-Safe Essentials
Use only reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and water shoes; avoid touching marine life.
VIP Luau Reservations
Opt for front-row seating at private luaus with cultural performances and premium dining.
Hydrate and Sunscreen Daily
Carry refillable bottles and apply SPF50+ hourly, especially for active outdoor days.
Map
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