Kona

Stretching across almost two-thirds of the entire West side of the island of Hawai’i lies the region of Kona. Known for its relaxed, historical town, spectacular resorts, sandy coves and beautiful beaches, it also plays host to the islands’ biggest airport.

Once the home of the legendary King Kamehameha, who unified the islands under one kingdom, Kona is now filled with cultural landmarks (across Historic Kailua Village), local boutiques and galleries, and oceanfront cafés – casually blending Hawaiian history with contemporary life.

Walk along Ali’i Drive to see Moku’aikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawai’i; Hulihe’e Palace, which chronicles the lives of Hawai’i’s royalty known as Ali’i; and visit reconstructed heiau (temples) that speak to the area’s sacred past. Other significant historic places include Kealakekua Bay, where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island in 1778, P’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, which is exceptionally well restored, and Kaloko-Honokōhau, a 1160-acre park that lets you explore early heiau, fishponds and petroglyphs.

Historical prominence aside, Kona is renowned across the Hawaiian Islands for its beautiful shores. Largely sheltered from any winds by the Maunaloa volcano, Kona’s tranquil beaches have crystal clear water perfect for snorkelling, diving and spotting marine life like dolphins, manta rays and green sea turtles.

On land, travelling up the slopes into the interior of the island, one can visit locally-run coffee plantations that grow the distinct Kona coffee, which the region is famous for. Subtly sweet and uniquely smooth, the coffee beans grown on the island of Hawai’i are well worth sampling and even taking back home as a treat.