Updated January 8, 2026

Kona, on Hawaii’s Big Island, isn’t just a destination—it’s a call to the wild. From the fiery heart of active volcanoes to the electric blue depths of the Pacific, this slice of paradise beckons adrenaline junkies, nature worshippers, and anyone ready to trade their comfort zone for a story they’ll tell forever.

If you’re ready to get your heart racing and your soul stirred, here is your ultimate bucket list for outdoor activities in Kona.

Before we dive in, I want to be transparent! You’ll find affiliate links in this guide. Booking through them sends a little support my way for the work I put into this site (at zero extra cost to you!), allowing me to go on more adventures and share them with you. Thank you for being here!

1. Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

Imagine floating in the pitch-black ocean, the only light coming from the glow of your raft, when suddenly, a prehistoric shadow glides beneath you. This is the Manta Ray Night Snorkel—arguably the most surreal experience you can have on the Big Island. These gentle giants, with wingspans up to 16 feet, perform an underwater ballet just inches from your face as they feed on plankton attracted by the lights. It’s not just snorkeling; it’s an alien encounter in the best way possible.

• Book Your Adventure:Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel
  • Why we love it: With a “free re-ride” guarantee if you don’t see them, this tour is low-risk and high-reward. It’s a short boat ride, safe for most skill levels, and absolutely unforgettable.

2. Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)

You haven’t seen blue until you’ve seen the waters of Kealakekua Bay. This protected marine sanctuary offers visibility so clear it feels like swimming in high-definition. The bay is also the historic site where Captain Cook first landed (and met his fate). The coral here is vibrant, the fish are plentiful, and if you’re lucky, Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins might just crash the party.

• Book Your Adventure:Captain Cook Snorkel on a Power Catamaran
  • The Vibe: Speed out on a catamaran, dive into pristine waters, and enjoy a provided lunch on the waves. In winter, you might even spot whales on the way out!

3. Hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Ready to walk on land that’s still being born? Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a geological wonderland where you can hike across solidified lava lakes, through steaming vents, and into lush rainforests—all in one day. It’s raw, it’s primal, and it’s a reminder of the Earth’s power.

• Book Your Adventure:Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing & History
  • Pro Tip: This small-group tour hits the park’s highlights plus Rainbow Falls and Black Sand Beach, taking the stress out of driving so you can focus on the views.

4. Birdwatching in Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

For the true nature enthusiast, this is the holy grail. Hidden high on the slopes of Mauna Kea, the Hakalau Forest is a misty, magical realm of ancient Ohia trees and rare, endemic birds like the crimson ‘I’iwi. It’s a restricted-access refuge, meaning you need a guide to enter, which keeps it pristine and quiet.

• Book Your Adventure:Hakalau Forest Reserve Exclusive Bird Watching Adventure
  • The Reward: This is one of the last places on Earth to see these native honeycreepers in their natural habitat.

5. Hiking Along the Kona and Kohala Coast

The diverse terrains of the Kona and Kohala coasts offer numerous hiking opportunities that are nothing short of spectacular. You can traverse rugged coastal trails with panoramic ocean views where black lava meets deep blue water, or venture inland onto lush forest paths that lead to hidden, cascading waterfalls. It’s a chance to see the island’s contrast up close—from arid volcanic rock to verdant jungle.

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6. Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Kailua Bay

Glide silently over the water and watch the reef pass beneath you. Kayaking and SUP are the perfect ways to explore the calm bays of Kona at your own pace. It’s an intimate way to see the coastline, and you’ll often find yourself paddling alongside sea turtles (honu) who pop their heads up to say hello.

• Book Your Adventure:Kailua-Kona Ocean Kayak and Snorkel Tour
  • Get Active: Paddle out, jump in for a snorkel, and soak up the sun from the best seat in the house.

7. Whale Watching Tours (Seasonal: Dec–March)

From December to March, the ocean giants return. Humpback whales migrate to these warm Hawaiian waters to mate and give birth, and witnessing a 40-ton creature breach the surface is a spiritual experience. The sheer power of a tail slap or the sight of a calf swimming alongside its mother will leave you breathless.

• Book Your Adventure:Whale Watch in Kona
  • Don’t Miss: Look for a tour that uses hydrophones! Hearing their haunting songs vibrate through the boat hull is magic.

8. Visiting a Kona Coffee Farm

You can’t start a day of adventure without high-octane fuel. Kona’s volcanic soil produces some of the smoothest, richest coffee on the planet. This isn’t just a quick stop; it’s a deep dive into the craft. You’ll walk beneath the canopy of coffee trees, learn the delicate art of processing the cherries, and end your journey in the tasting room where the magic happens.

• Book Your Adventure:Kona Coffee Farm Tour: From Tree to Tasting Room
  • The Taste: Go straight to the source. Experiencing the journey from “crop to cup” gives you a whole new appreciation for your morning brew—and the samples are unbeatable.

Kona isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to do. Whether you’re plunging into the depths or climbing to the clouds, adventure is waiting around every lava rock. Pack your gear, book your tour, and live Aloha!

Discover More with Kona Travels

Planning your perfect Big Island getaway? We’ve got you covered with deep dives into the best experiences the island has to offer. Check out these other essential guides on our site:

• Chasing Fire: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Volcano Tours in Kona – Don’t just see the volcano; experience it. We break down the best ways to witness the power of Kilauea.
• Sip in Paradise: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Coffee in Kona – From hidden farm stands to world-famous roasters, here is where to find your perfect cup.
• Navigating Paradise: Your Guide to Transportation in Kona, Hawaii – Don’t let logistics slow you down. Whether you need a rental car or want to hop on the open-air trolley, we break down exactly how to get around so you don’t miss a single adventure.