Kona Adventure Travel: Weekend Itinerary
The district of Kona, on the west side of Hawaiʻi Island, is rich in cultural history and offers plenty of adventure travel. Keauhou Bay, where King Kamehameha III was born, is now known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, particularly for those hoping to spot manta rays. Kahaluʻu Beach is a popular spot for novice surfers to catch their first wave. For more intense adventure, the End of the World — located near ancient battlefields and burial grounds — is a dramatic cliff-diving location. Parasailing excursions can take you 1,200 feet above sea level, where you can soar with the birds and take in views of the region where King Kamehameha the Great spent his final years.
Weekend Adventure Kona Itinerary
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Check into Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa and dive right in.
Cliff jumping
Along Lekeleke Bay, you’ll find the historic Kuamoʻo burial grounds, where warriors who fought in the 1819 battle that ended Hawaiʻi’s kapu system are buried. The outcome of this battle marked the end of many traditional Native Hawaiian practices, paving the way for the islands to become more Westernized. Stroll down to The End of the World at Kona Point, where locals and adventurous visitors line up to dive off a 40-foot cliff above the ocean. It’s strongly recommended to participate only when the water is calm and with guidance from an experienced local. Stick around afterward to catch the sunset.
Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Courtesy of Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa.
Nighttime Manta Ray Snorkel Tour
Courtesy of Shutterstock. Photo by Matej-Kastelic
Day 2 – Surf’s up.
Catch Your First Wave at Kahaluʻu Beach
Take a surf lesson at Kahaluʻu Beach, where the gentle, rolling waves make it an ideal spot for beginners. The real adventure is learning how to catch a wave and ride it all the way to shore—without wiping out. Afterward, grab a snorkel set from the resort and dive back in for a swim alongside colorful reef fish.
Take a Break at The Temple Craft Beer, Cocktail & Wine Bar
Locals love The Temple, originally founded in Hilo on the east side of the island. Its second location in Kona is a completely open-air, oceanfront gem with an impressive beverage program and a menu designed for perfect pairings. The chef blends global flavors—think Mediterranean flatbreads, Spanish-style steamed clams and Lebanese baba ganoush—with local ingredients like kalo (taro), ʻulu (breadfruit) and kanpachi (amberjack). Whatever you do, always order the special.
Parasailing over Kona
Parasailing. Courtesy of Shutterstock. Photo by Epic Stock Media.
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