Things To Do
Kailua-Kona
Kona is the main town close to the venue. While it is a little "retro", here you will find shopping, hotels, and restaurants. Kona is also the home of the Kona Brewing Co. If you choose to do any snorkeling or whale watching tours, they will likely leave from here. If you are feeling adventurous, check out night snorkeling with giant manta ray! There are beaches, but keep in mind a lot of the beaches on the Big Island are quite rocky due to the volcanic rock formations, so do your research before picking a beach to go to!
Hapuna Beach
Consistently rated one of the best beaches in Hawai'i, known for its turquoise water and stretches of white sand. Located about 40 minutes north of Kona, but may be closer depending on where you are staying. Popular tourist spot, so may be busy!
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is the tallest point in Hawai'i, and, if measured from the sea bed, is taller than Mount Everest. Standing at 13,803 ft above sea level, it is know for amazing sunrises/sunsets and stargazing. In fact, there are several observatories at the summit. There are tour companies that will take you to the summit, which is recommended because driving to the summit requires a 4x4 vehicle (not AWD), and conditions can be very cold. We have never done this, but it is definitely on our bucket list!
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
One of the main attractions on the Big Island is viewing two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. About a two hour drive from Kona. Check the National Park website for the most up-to-date information on viewing eruptions and other activities.
Hilo
About and hour and half from Kona, on the east side of the island, you will find Hilo, the other main city on the Big Island. If you don't know much about the climate of the Hawaiian islands, you'll find yourself on the wetter, "windward" side of the island compared to Kona, which is on the "leeward", or dry side. Hilo is often considered to be one of the rainiest cities in the US, and you will find lot's of rainforest hiking and waterfalls. Also, check out the Hilo Farmer's Market!
Waikiki
Main tourist area on Oahu. You will find plenty of hotels, shopping, and dining options here, as well as beautiful beaches. Keep in mind this is definitely a more touristy area, so if that isn't your vibe, maybe stay elsewhere!
Ko Olina
Beautiful resort area on the west coast of Oahu, about 45 minutes from Honolulu. There are several resorts located on man-made lagoons that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Even if you don't stay in one of the resorts, the beaches are public access, but keep in mind there is limited parking and the lots fill up early! Our favorite lagoon is the "secret beach", which is the first lagoon next to the Four Seasons. If you end up in this area, definitely check out dinner at Roy's, a Phillips family favorite!
North Shore
The historic North Shore of Oahu is a surfer's paradise. The main town here is Hale'iwa, where you will find beaches, shopping, and the famous shrimp trucks. The most well-known is Giovanni's Shrimp Truck on Kamehameha Highway, but there are also lots of other options in the parking lot. Make sure to bring cash for parking/food! Definitely make the trip up here to watch the surfing, and check out the hiking trails and waterfalls nearby.