Kona

Kona

Kona is a moku or district on the Big Island of Hawaii in the State of Hawaii. In the current system of administration of Hawaii County, the moku of Kona is divided into North Kona District (Kona `Akau) and South Kona District (Kona Hema). The term "Kona" is sometimes used to refer to its largest town, Kailua-Kona. Other towns in Kona include Kealakekua, Keauhou, Holualoa, Hōnaunau and Honalo. In the Hawaiian language, kona means leeward or dry side of the island, as opposed to ko`olau which means windward or the wet side of the island. In the times of Ancient Hawaii, Kona was the name of the leeward district on each major island. In Hawaii, the Pacific anticyclone provides moist prevailing northeasterly winds to the Hawaiian islands, resulting in rain when the winds contact the windward landmass of the islands - the winds subsequently lose their moisture and travel on to the leeward (or kona) side of the island. When this pattern reverses, it can produce a Kona storm from the west. Kona has cognates with the same meaning in other Polynesian languages. In Tongan, the equivalent cognate would be tonga; for windward, the associated cognate would be tokelau.

Attractions

Kealakekua Bay, where Captain James Cook lost his life, is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The area is a state park and conservation site, teeming with undersea life. It's a great place for both experienced snorkelers and novices to explore the marine world.

Activities

Explore the underwater world of Kona's reef on an adventure to a realm once explored only by Jacques Cousteau and other skilled divers. At depths of 30 to 75 feet, you'll travel along a natural coral reef bed that is home to a multitude of tropical marine life. Look closely and you may catch glimpses of moray eels. Take a walking tour of dozens of Kailua-Kona's charming and fascinating historic sites. Enjoy stories of Kona's colorful characters and the places they inhabited. Experience the treasures of the King's summer palace as well as the beautiful palace grounds. Soar over the west side of the Big Island via helicopter and discover the lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and rugged shorelines around Waipio Valley. Tour the historic plantation town of Kohala, then hike the Pololu Valley where you'll experience the breathtaking Kapoloa Falls. Take a 51-foot motor-sail trimaran to beautiful Pawai Bay, where you'll snorkel in a protected marine preserve.

Food

Hawaii is famous for its Kona coffee. Just one taste of this rich, smooth coffee and you'll want to bring some home with you.

Currency

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency. Traveler's checks and credit cards are also widely accepted.

Weather Forecast

Sailing Calendar

Click to view sailings.