Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is a vibrant seaside town on the west coast of the Big Island, known for sunny weather, historic landmarks like Ahuena Heiau, and oceanfront attractions along Ali'i Drive. Once a royal retreat, it's now a bustling destination for shopping, dining, and coastal adventures.
Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Kailua-Kona (view panorama)× , located along the shoreline of Kailua Bay on the west shore of the Big Island of Hawaii, enjoys a combination of sunny and dry weather all year round. This is where King Kamehameha the Great, the king who conquered the Hawaiian Islands and established the Kingdom of Hawaii, spent the last years of his life, worshipping at Ahuena Heiau, the temple he built in 1813.
In the 19th century, Kailua-Kona (view panorama) × was a leisure retreat for Hawaii's ali'i (royalty). Hulihe'e Palace was a favorite getaway among them, especially King Kalakaua. Since the 1970s, Kailua-Kona has been the Big Island's economic center, fueled by tourism, real estate and retail (even though Hilo is the governmental seat of the island).
Kailua-Kona is located along Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (Hwy 19). Ali'i Drive is the main road that runs through the heart of the city and is where all the main tourist attractions are located, especially at the north end of it.
Key Features of Kailua-Kona
- Historic royal significance: King Kamehameha I spent his final years here at Ahuena Heiau
- Sun-drenched location: Situated on the dry, sunny leeward side of the Big Island along Kailua Bay
- Ali'i Drive attractions: Main road lined with shops, luaus, restaurants, and cultural sites
- Modern tourism hub: Center for Big Island tourism, real estate, and retail since the 1970s
- Nearby historical sites: Includes Hulihe'e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church
- Population: 19,713 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96740
|
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kailua-Kona famous for?
Kailua-Kona is known for its sunny climate, oceanfront attractions on Ali'i Drive, and historic sites such as Ahuena Heiau and Hulihe'e Palace.
Who was King Kamehameha I and why is Kailua-Kona significant?
King Kamehameha I unified the Hawaiian Islands and spent his final years in Kailua-Kona, worshipping at Ahuena Heiau near Kailua Bay.
Where is Kailua-Kona located?
It's on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii along Kailua Bay, accessible via Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (Hwy 19).
What activities and amenities are available?
The town offers luaus, beach activities, vacation rentals, dining, shopping, and harbor excursions. Most attractions are along Ali'i Drive.