Kiholo Bay

Begin your day with a sweeping view of Kiholo Bay from the scenic viewpoint along the road.

This pristine white sand beach along the Kona Coast is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling or kayaking--making it great for the whole family!

Lava Tube Cave

The Huehue lava tube is an enormous and ancient lava tube formed from Hualalai Volcano. Have a look for it on your left-hand side as you’re driving down Mamalahoa Highway. Please note: This lava tube used to be accessible to the public but has been closed off to visitors for safety reasons. So drive-by only.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Check out goat pens constructed out of stones, fishponds and fish traps, petroglyphs, altars, and even a heiau!

Kailua-Kona

We will pass through Kailua-Kona on Ali’i Drive. You are welcome to stop here now to grab a bite to eat, walk around this quaint seaside town, or pick up snacks for the road. Or, feel free to return at another time.

Magic Sands Beach Park

The beach is also known as “La’aloa,” White Sands, or Disappearing Sands, and it got the name from the sand that is pulled off from the beach during the winter or early spring, leaving the lava rock exposed.

Have you ever seen a church on the beach? Well, here you can! Look out for a small white church perched right on the beach. This beach is also a popular surf spot and also a great place to snorkel. In fact, the rock structure to the right of the church is a one-of-a-kind heiau or temple thought to be dedicated to surfing.

Kamehameha III Birthplace

Take a walk to learn a bit about Hawaii’s history and the story of one of its most famous kings, Kamehameha III. The walking area has historical signs and markers along the way explaining how Kona has been home to important royal sites since the 1600s.

Pull over for a look at an ancient battlefield and burial ground. While you’re stopped, we’ll tell you the story of this historic spot.

Big Island Bees makes honey from all sorts of flowers that are grown on the island. With over 2,500 hives and 125 million bees, they know their stuff. Stop by to walk through the museum, look at the shop (which has body care products, too!), and sample some of their locally-produced honey -- for free!

Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is a marine life conservation district. Because the water here is usually calm, underwater life thrives making it a great spot for snorkeling. While you’re there, look out in the distance for a white structure -- that’s the Captain Cook monument commemorating the death of the British sea captain and first European to discover the islands.

Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Within the park are several historical landmarks like the grounds where the ali’i (royalty) lived within the Pu'uhonua.

Two Step Beach got its name from the lava rock steps you can use to enter the bay. You can access the beach on Honaunau Beach Road, just before the entrance to the Pu'uhonua.

St Benedict’s Painted Church

This historic church was built in 1899 by Father John Velghe of Belgium. Unlike the typical stained glass windows that you’ll find in churches, this religious site is completely painted on the inside.

Kealakekua

At this point in the tour, you might be feeling a little hungry. As we drive back along South Kona Belt Road, we’ll mention some great lunch options along the route between Honaunau and Kealakekua.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm

Kona coffee is one of the most renowned java in the world. Here’s your chance to learn about the famous brew and what it takes to fill a mug. At this living history museum, you can take a self-guided tour through the orchard, farmhouse, and coffee mill.

Another great spot to learn about coffee and its importance to this region of Big Island is the Greenwell Farm and Museum. This is a multi-faceted agribusiness using modern farming practices. In addition to growing their own coffee plants, they also buy and process coffee beans from over 300 farmers in the Kona District.

Aloha Theatre

As you drive down the road, you’ll see the Aloha Theatre -- a historic site that was once the place to go in the 1930s for live shows and entertainment. Fortunately, the community has helped to preserve it, and today they still have live performances.

Kailua-Kona

Once you arrive back in Kailua Town, we suggest you hang out for a bit. Stop for a bite to eat overlooking the ocean.

Waikoloa

After a full day of exploring, we'll enjoy a leisurely drive back to Waikoloa with more fascinating stories to keep you entertained. When we reach Waikoloa, you'll have the option of visiting a few cultural sites with ancient petrogylphs or rock drawings.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Check out goat pens constructed out of stones, fishponds and fish traps, petroglyphs, altars, and even a heiau!