Traveling to Kona, for the first time

Question

I am traveling with my husband and adult children and a couple teens, as well as the-year-old grandson. This is our first time to Hawaii we’re staying in a house Near Magic sands beach … Looking for suggestions of things we should do,, tours, luau, sail charter, hike ? Will be there the beginning of March

Answer

How exciting! Kona is a fantastic place for a family trip with plenty to offer for all ages. Since you’ll be staying near Magic Sands Beach, you’re already in a great location to explore the best that the Big Island has to offer. Here are some suggestions for family-friendly activities and tours that everyone will enjoy:

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay - This bay is famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish. It's a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, and you can take a guided boat tour to make the most of the experience. You can also visit the Captain Cook Monument, which is accessible by boat or via a challenging but rewarding hike.
Visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - While you may already have some beach time planned, a trip to this incredible national park is a must. You can explore the volcanic landscapes, see active lava flows (if conditions allow), hike the Kīlauea Iki Trail, and visit the Jaggar Museum for stunning views of the caldera. It's an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.
Royal Kona Luau - A luau is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture, music, and dance. The Royal Kona Luau is a popular choice, offering an oceanfront setting with traditional Hawaiian food, hula performances, and fire dancing. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that provides a great introduction to Hawaiian traditions.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel or Dive - For an unforgettable experience, consider a manta ray night snorkel or dive. This activity is one of Kona’s unique attractions where you can get up close with giant manta rays as they feed near the surface. The experience is safe, incredible, and perfect for adventurous teens and adults (and suitable for children over 5 years old, depending on the tour). If you’re not into diving, the snorkel version is just as amazing.
Hiking at Pololu Valley Lookout and Beach - For a scenic hike that isn’t too strenuous, take the trail down to Pololu Valley. The views are breathtaking, and while the hike down is easy, be prepared for a bit of a climb back up. At the bottom, you can explore the black sand beach and take in the beauty of the valley.
Sailboat Charter or Sunset Cruise - For a relaxing and scenic day on the water, consider booking a sailboat charter or a sunset cruise. You’ll have the chance to see the coast from a different perspective, and many of these tours offer snacks, drinks, and even snorkeling opportunities. A sunset cruise is particularly special for watching the Hawaiian sunset with the family.
Kona Coffee Tour - Kona is famous for its coffee, and a visit to one of the local coffee farms is a fun and educational experience. Many farms offer tours where you can see how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed, and you can sample some of the best coffee in the world. This can be a relaxing and informative outing for adults and older kids.

Since you’ll be there in March, it’s a great time for whale watching as well! You might consider taking a whale-watching tour, where you can spot humpback whales migrating through the waters off Kona.

In terms of restaurants, there are plenty of casual and family-friendly spots around Kona, such as the Kona Brewing Company, Huggo’s On The Rocks (great for a sunset view), or the Fish Hopper for fresh seafood. For lunch or snacks, you could check out some of the local food trucks, which are a fun and affordable way to sample Hawaiian cuisine.

I hope these suggestions help you make the most of your trip to Kona! It sounds like it’s going to be an unforgettable vacation with your family.