With the loosening of travel restrictions last month, we are seeing more visitors arrive on island. It’s easy to see more people walking around Ali’i Drive, and more visitors enjoying sunset mai-tais and dinner at some of our favorite oceanfront spots like Fosters Kitchen, Lava Java and Papa Kona’s.
We are also seeing more tour and activity companies dusting off their reservation books and re-opening their doors. For visitors and residents alike, this is a great time to book fun adventures that are usually booked far out in advance or sometimes too crowded to fully enjoy. Many companies are also offering good kama’iana discounts for residents. While a lot of companies are offering risk-free cancelations during COVID-19, be sure to check the cancellation policy. We love to support local companies across the island and wanted to bring you a list of some of our favorite ways to experience Big Island!
Historic Kona Dinner Cruise – Go back in time and learn about ancient times in the Hawaiian islands when Kings ruled the Hawaiian islands on this three-hour sunset cruise where you will venture to Kealakekua Bay and enjoy an evening on water with pupus and cocktails.
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Kona Whale Watching Tour – Whale Season in Hawaii is arriving soon, and a few whales have already been spotted off the Kona Coast. Whales travel 3,000 miles south ever winter to breed, have calf, and to nurse their young. We love taking a winter whale watching tour for a unique and exciting experience.
Parasail Boat Tour – Panoramic views and tropical ocean views, it doesn’t get much better than soaring 1,200 feet above the Kona Coast on a parasail tour! Be sure to ask UFO Parasail about their great kama’aina discounts when booking your reservation.
Private Kona Coast Helicopter Tour – Taking a helicopter tour is one of the absolute best ways to see the Big Islands. Soar above lava fields, picture perfect coastline, waterfalls, and volcanoes. You can choose from a few different tours and also have the option of cruising with the helicopters on or off for an extra dose of adventure!
Deep Sea Fishing Tour – Some of the best deep sea fishing can be found right off the Kona Coast, be sure to put this on your to-do list whether you live here or are just visiting. Most tours leave from Honokohau Harbor and head out to sea for big game like marlin, ahi, and ono!
Check out our island resource guide for more inside tips on living or visiting the Hawaiian Islands.