Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Shore Excursions
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 159.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves & Black Sand
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 154.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion: Volcanoes National Park Rainbow Falls
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 154.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from the Big Island
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 10 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 139.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kona Shore Excursion: Wild Dolphin Reefs Snorkel and Sea Caves
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 149.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Evening Volcano Explorer from Hilo
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 252.25
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Ultimate Circle Island Explorer From Kona Or Kohala Resorts
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 12 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 309.93
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Port of Hilo to Volcano Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 229.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Heavenly Hamakua: From Kona
Duration: 7 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 235.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Private Hilo Shore Excursion to Volcano Waterfall and Black Sand
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 - 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 1359.20
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Volcano Tour from Kona
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 9 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 1499.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
Duration: 11 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 264.60
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 84.60
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 25.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 85.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 49.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 44.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars
Duration: 7 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 289.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour
Duration: 12 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 297.82
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 329.84
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 280.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 71.10
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 189.19
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 80.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Manta Magic: Small-Group Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua Kona
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island Zipline Tour Near Akaka Falls (250-ft Waterfall!)
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 246.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: 9-Line Waterfall Zipline Experience
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 253.41
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island Highlights: Coffee, Volcano, Black Sands & Waterfall
Duration: 11 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 299.00
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 193.75
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Big Island: 8-Zipline & Suspension Bridge Waterfall Adventure
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 237.70
What should a first-time cruise passenger expect from shore excursions in Kailua-Kona?
If you are visiting Kona for the first time, expect a compact town where volcanic landscapes meet sea and local culture in easy reach. Many visitors choose short activities that showcase snorkelling, historic sites and coffee farms. Depending on time and mobility you can mix beach time with a walking tour along Ali‘i Drive or a visit to a nearby lava flow outlook. Typical Kailua-Kona shore excursions are planned as half-day experiences, allowing a relaxed pace while still sampling several highlights without feeling rushed.
Which attractions are most popular on Kailua-Kona shore excursions?
Highlights often include the lively Ali‘i Drive, the Hulihe‘e Palace and several accessible snorkel sites with colourful reefs and tropical fish. Coffee farms on the slopes above town permit short guided walks and tastings that reveal Kona’s unique agricultural history. For scenic variety visitors can add a coastal drive past lava fields or a stop at Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to learn about ancient Hawaiian sanctuary practices. Many operators advertise Kailua-Kona tours that combine two or three of these elements into manageable itineraries for cruise guests.
Should I pick a half-day or a full-day excursion?
Choosing between a half-day and a full-day option depends on priorities, stamina and ship schedule. Half-day Kailua-Kona shore excursions typically concentrate on one main activity—snorkelling, a coffee farm visit or a historical walking tour—allowing time to return to the ship comfortably. Full-day outings are better for combining activities, visiting more distant sites such as higher-elevation coffee estates or more remote snorkel reefs, and for travellers who prefer a more relaxed rhythm. Factor in travel time, local traffic and an allowance for unexpected delays when deciding which length fits your plans.
How can I learn about local culture and history during a visit?
Local history is visible in the palm-lined Ali‘i Drive, the nineteenth-century Hulihe‘e Palace and preserved sites that interpret traditional Hawaiian life. Guided walking visits often include stories about ali‘i (chiefs), missionary influence and the role of whaling-era trade in shaping the town. Museums and cultural centres offer exhibits and occasional demonstrations of hula, kapa making or canoe lore. Many visitors choose curated Kailua-Kona tours that include a knowledgeable guide to provide context, translations of place names and respectful approaches to culturally sensitive sites.
What natural scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
Volcanic landscapes dominate the outlook from town, with lava fields, black pebble beaches and abrupt lava cliffs offering dramatic photo opportunities. Nearshore coral reefs support a rich marine environment visible on snorkel outings, while coastal trails reveal endemic plants and seabird rookeries. For a broader geological perspective visitors may combine shoreline visits with drives to the Kona coffee belt on higher slopes. Many small operators frame short natural-history talks into their Kailua-Kona shore excursions to help guests recognise species and understand the island’s ongoing volcanic processes.
Where can I sample local food and Kona coffee?
Culinary offerings in Kona reflect local produce, fresh seafood and the influence of plantation-era multicultural communities. Try poke, local fish grilled with simple sauces, or visit a coffee farm for cupping sessions that explain roast profiles and acidity. Farmers’ markets along Ali‘i Drive or nearby towns showcase tropical fruits, macadamia products and artisan treats. Many food-focused Kailua-Kona tours include stops for tastings and explanations of ingredient sourcing, and they provide guidance on dietary accommodation and allergy concerns without pressuring purchases.
What activity level should I expect for typical excursions?
Activity levels vary widely, from gentle walking tours along flat, paved sections of Ali‘i Drive to moderate snorkelling swims and hikes over uneven lava or coastal trails. Operators usually grade difficulty so passengers can choose options that match mobility and fitness. Expect moderate exertion for snorkelling that requires short swims from shore or boat entry, and higher exertion for hikes that include rocky terrain. When considering Kailua-Kona shore excursions, assess your comfort with sun exposure, steps and changing surfaces, and allow extra time for transfers and safety briefings.
Are shore excursions accessible for passengers with limited mobility?
Accessibility varies by attraction and operator; much of downtown Kona is relatively flat and accessible, though historic sites may have limited ramps or uneven surfaces. Snorkelling and boat-based activities can pose challenges for passengers with mobility impairments, but some providers offer accessible vessels, transfer assistance and snorkel gear suited for different abilities. Contacting the operator before arrival helps identify necessary accommodations and confirm wheelchair access, toilet availability and transfer procedures. Clear information on Kailua-Kona tours will help ensure the itinerary aligns with individual needs and safety requirements.
When is the best time of year for shore excursions in Kona?
Temperatures are warm year-round, with drier conditions typically from April to October and slightly wetter, cooler months from November to March. Ocean conditions matter more for marine activities than seasons alone; calmer seas are common on leeward Kona coasts, but swell or winds can change snorkelling visibility and boat comfort. Whale-watching is seasonally good from late December through March, while coffee harvests and flowering have their own seasonal rhythms. Plan Kailua-Kona shore excursions with some flexibility to allow for weather-related schedule adjustments and to choose the best days for water-based activities.
Should I join a guided excursion or explore independently?
Guided options suit visitors who prefer local insight, logistical simplicity and interpretive context for cultural or natural sites. Guides handle transport, permits and local etiquette while pointing out species, history and anecdotes you might miss independently. Independent exploration offers flexibility and often lower cost for confident travellers comfortable navigating transfers and timing with cruise schedules. Both styles can be safe and rewarding, but check regulations about self-guided access to protected sites. Choosing between guided and independent Kailua-Kona tours depends on comfort with planning, interest in commentary and desire for structured learning.
Which cruise lines visit Kailua-Kona, Hawaii?
Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Oceania Cruises and Royal Caribbean International will all visit Kailua-Kona, Hawaii this year.
What cruise ships will sail to Kailua-Kona, Hawaii in 2026?
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii will be visited by Pride of America, Koningsdam, Westerdam, Zaandam, Celebrity Edge, Queen Mary 2, Coral Princess, Island Princess, Noordam, Ruby Princess, Nieuw Amsterdam, Celebrity Solstice, Oceania Riviera, Norwegian Sun, Anthem of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Norwegian Spirit, Oceania Vista, Grand Princess, Emerald Princess, Sapphire Princess, Quantum of the Seas and Crown Princess.