Things to Do

Kailua-Kona and Hawaiʻi Island offer a perfect home-base from where you can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including exploring volcanic landscapes, enjoying pristine beaches, and visiting culturally relevant areas to learn about the regionʻs history. Here are some of the top things to do:

Symposium Partner Discounts:

We are pleased to offer special discounted rates for several high-quality tour operators who share a commitment to stewardship and visitor education. These discounts are available to 44th ISTS Symposium attendees, friends, and families during the symposium travel window from February 21 to March 14, 2026.

Fair Wind Cruises
https://www.fair-wind.com/kona-snorkel-tours/

Fair Wind Cruises is a sponsor of the 44th ISTS Symposium and has connected guests with Kona’s marine life for more than fifty years. They offer daytime snorkel cruises to Kealakekua Bay and evening manta ray night snorkel experiences directly in front of the symposium hotel. Their team emphasizes reef health, environmental stewardship, and high-quality interpretation.

Discount: Fair Wind Cruises is offering a 10 percent discount on daytime snorkel tours to Kealakekua Bay from February 21 to March 14 using the code ISTS2026. Discounts do not apply to the manta ray night snorkel.

Kohala Divers
https://www.kohaladivers.com/
Stewardship: https://www.kohaladivers.com/ocean-stewardship

Kohala Divers is a highly regarded, full-service dive shop on the Kohala Coast, about 30 minutes north of Keauhou. They offer beginner and advanced scuba experiences, snorkeling tours, whale watching, and excellent rental gear. Their team emphasizes safety, ocean awareness, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them a popular option for visitors staying in the Waikoloa and North Kohala areas.

Discount: Receive 20 percent off any dive, snorkel, or whale-watching trip from February 21 to March 14 using the code ISTS2026.

Hawai‘i Forest and Trail
www.hawaii-forest.com
Stewardship: https://hawaii-forest.com/hoomalama-initiative/

Hawai‘i Forest and Trail is one of the Big Island’s most respected adventure companies, offering small group, off-the-beaten path experiences that take guests beyond the locked gates to lesser-known destinations and hidden gems. Their interpretive guides highlight the island’s natural history, geology, wildlife, and cultural landscapes. Experiences include Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, lava tubes, volcano hikes, waterfall swims, birding trips, Maunakea’s summit, and specialty excursions. Their guides are known for their expertise and their strong focus on conservation and education.

Discount: Receive 15 percent off tours from February 21 to March 14 using the code ISTS2026.

Kohala Zipline
www.kohalazipline.com

Kohala Zipline offers a canopy-style zipline course set within the lush forests of North Kohala. The experience includes multiple ziplines, suspension bridges, tree-to-tree platforms, and a rappel, all designed to showcase the beauty and history of the region. It is consistently noted for its safety, professionalism, and fun, family-friendly atmosphere. They also offer a popular waterfall adventure that pairs well with the zipline tour.

Discount: Receive 15 percent off tours from February 21 to March 14 using the code ISTS2026..

In Kailua-Kona and Keauhou:

  1. Go Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays (directly in front of the symposium hotel!) – One of the most unique experiences in Hawaiʻi and located directly in front of the symposium hotel. Several operators offer this activity, including Fair Wind Cruises, which runs evening manta trips from this bay.

  2. Visit Hulihe‘e Palace – A former royal vacation home that showcases Hawaiian history and artifacts.

  3. Tour a Coffee Farm – Kailua-Kona is famous for its coffee. Greenwell Farms and Kona Coffee Living History Farm offer great tours.

  4. Snorkel at Kahalu‘u Beach Park – A fantastic spot to see tropical fish and sea turtles

  5. Explore Kailua Pier & Ali‘i Drive – Walk along the oceanfront for shops, restaurants, and historical sites.

  6. Visit the Mokuaikaua Church – Hawaii’s oldest Christian church, built in 1837.

  7. Relax at Magic Sands Beach – A beautiful beach where the sand disappears and reappears with the tide.

  8. Check Out Kealakekua Bay – Kayak or take a boat tour to the Captain Cook Monument and enjoy world-class snorkeling. Note that only two kayak companies (Kona Boys and Adventures in Paradise) are permitted to land at Kaʻawaloa. Alternatively, symposium sponsor Fair Wind Cruises holds the only mooring in the bay and offers comfortable snorkel cruises with onboard amenities.

  9. Enjoy a Luau – Watch traditional Polynesian performances while feasting on Hawaiian cuisine at places like Island Breeze Luau.

  10. Try Local Food – Sample poke, fresh seafood, and shave ice at places like Umekes and Da Poke Shack.

On other parts of Hawaiʻi Island:

Nature & Adventure

  1. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park – See Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, explore lava tubes, and hike through volcanic craters.

  2. Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach – A stunning black sand beach where you might spot sea turtles basking.

  3. Akaka Falls State Park – A beautiful, easy hike leading to a 442-foot waterfall.

  4. Waipi‘o Valley Lookout & Hike – Stunning views of lush cliffs and waterfalls, with a challenging but rewarding hike down to the valley.

  5. Mauna Kea Summit & Observatory – Watch an unforgettable sunset and stargaze at one of the best astronomical observatories in the world.

  6. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach – One of only a few green sand beaches in the world, reached by a 2.5-mile hike or a 4WD ride.

  7. Hāpuna Beach State Park – A large, white sand beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

  8. Pololū Valley Lookout & Hike – A breathtaking view and a short but steep hike down to a secluded black sand beach.

  9. Hilo’s Rainbow Falls – A picturesque waterfall right near downtown Hilo.

  10. Lava Tree State Monument – See unique lava-formed tree molds in a fascinating forest.

Culture & Local Experiences

  1. Explore Hilo Town – Visit the local farmers market, Liliuokalani Gardens, and the Tsunami Museum.

  2. Visit the Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park – A sacred site once used as a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

  3. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal: December–April) – See humpback whales migrating near the coast.

  4. Tour a Macadamia Nut Farm – Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm near Hilo has a visitor center and tastings.

  5. See the Painted Church – A small, historic Catholic church with beautiful murals near Captain Cook.

Visit the other Islands of Hawaiʻi

Kailua-Kona is an incredible destination with its sunny beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, but if you have the time, exploring the other main Hawaiian Islands will give you a deeper appreciation of Hawaiʻi’s diversity. Each island has its own distinct personality, landscapes, history, traditions, and attractions that make Hawaiʻi truly special, and traveling between the islands is quick and easy. Here’s why you should explore beyond Hawaiʻi Island and where to go on each island:

Oʻahu – “The Gathering Place”

Oʻahu is the most populated island and home to the state capital, Honolulu. It blends modern city life with historical sites and stunning natural beauty.
Must-See Places:

  • Pearl Harbor – Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about World War II history.

  • Waikiki Beach – Famous for its surf culture, shopping, and nightlife.

  • Diamond Head – Hike up this iconic crater for panoramic views of Honolulu.

  • North Shore – Experience legendary surf breaks like Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

  • Byodo-In Temple – A serene Buddhist temple set against lush mountains.

Maui – “The Valley Isle”

Maui is known for its breathtaking landscapes, luxury resorts, and adventure-filled activities.
Must-See Places:

  • Road to Hāna – A scenic drive with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests.

  • Haleakalā National Park – Watch the sunrise from the summit of this massive volcano.

  • ʻĪao Valley – A sacred site with a towering needle-like rock formation.

  • Molokini Crater – Snorkel in this crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater.

  • Lāhainā – A historic town with great shops, art galleries, and oceanfront dining.

Kauaʻi – “The Garden Isle”

Kauaʻi is the oldest and greenest Hawaiian island, full of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforests.
Must-See Places:

  • Nā Pali Coast – Explore this stunning coastline by boat, helicopter, or a challenging hike.

  • Waimea Canyon – Often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," with breathtaking views.

  • Hanalei Bay – A picturesque beach town with gorgeous views and surf-friendly waters.

  • Wailua Falls – A majestic twin waterfall, easily accessible by car.

  • Poʻipū Beach – Great for snorkeling and spotting Hawaiian monk seals.

Lānaʻi – “The Private Isle”

Lānaʻi offers a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Must-See Places:

  • Hulopoʻe Bay – A pristine beach with excellent snorkeling.

  • Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) – A surreal rock garden with Mars-like terrain.

  • Shipwreck Beach – A rugged coastline with a famous shipwreck visible offshore.

Molokaʻi – “The Friendly Isle”

Molokaʻi is the least developed major island, offering a look at traditional Hawaiian life.
Must-See Places:

  • Kalaupapa National Historical Park – A remote settlement with deep history.

  • Halawa Valley – A sacred valley with stunning waterfalls and ancient Hawaiian culture.

  • Papohaku Beach – One of Hawaii’s largest white-sand beaches, often empty.

By visiting the other islands, you’ll see everything from bustling city life to untouched nature, towering cliffs, and volcano summits. Each island has its own unique charm and beauty, making it well worth exploring beyond Kailua-Kona!