If you're planning a vacation to the Big Island of Hawaii, you've probably heard about the famous attractions—Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, manta ray night snorkeling, and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. While these iconic destinations are well worth visiting, some of the island's most unforgettable experiences are tucked away in quieter corners that many visitors overlook.
Whether you're staying at our ocean-view vacation rental on Aliʻi Drive in Kailua-Kona or relaxing at our peaceful Keauhou property, these hidden gems are all within an easy drive and offer a chance to experience the authentic beauty of Hawaii.
1. Makalawena Beach
Often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, Makalawena Beach requires a short hike across lava fields, keeping crowds away. Crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling make the effort worthwhile.
Drive from our properties: About 30 minutes.
2. Kua Bay at Sunrise
Most visitors arrive in the afternoon, but sunrise transforms Kua Bay into a peaceful paradise. Calm water, colorful skies, and very few people make this one of Kona's best-kept secrets.
3. Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Just north of Kailua-Kona, this historic park features ancient Hawaiian fishponds, petroglyphs, and one of the easiest places to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the shoreline.
4. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Known as the Place of Refuge, this beautifully preserved Hawaiian cultural site offers stunning ocean views, ancient temples, and peaceful walking paths. It's also located next to Two Step, one of Hawaii's top snorkeling locations.
5. Kealakekua Bay Scenic Overlook
Many visitors kayak to Captain Cook Monument, but the overlook above the bay provides breathtaking panoramic views without getting on the water.
6. Greenwell Farms Coffee Tour
Take a complimentary tour of one of Kona's oldest coffee farms and discover how world-famous Kona coffee is grown and roasted.
7. Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
Higher on the slopes of Hualālai, this quieter plantation offers beautiful scenery, coffee tastings, and fascinating volcanic history.
8. Hoʻokena Beach Park
A favorite among locals, Hoʻokena offers excellent snorkeling, calm swimming, and occasional dolphin sightings without the crowds found at more popular beaches.
9. Puʻuhonua Tide Pools
Near the Place of Refuge are beautiful lava tide pools filled with colorful tropical fish and fascinating marine life. They're perfect for exploring during low tide.
10. Holualoa Village
Only minutes above Kailua-Kona, this charming artist community features local galleries, coffee shops, and small boutiques surrounded by Kona coffee farms.
11. Mauʻumae Beach (Locals' Favorite)
This small beach is easy to miss but offers excellent snorkeling and peaceful ocean views away from the busiest beaches.
12. Old Kona Airport Beach Park
Although close to town, many visitors overlook this shoreline park. It's a wonderful place for sunset walks, morning jogs, picnics, and watching local surfers.
13. Paleaku Peace Gardens
High above Keauhou sits one of the island's most tranquil spots. Beautiful gardens, meditation areas, and panoramic coastline views make it perfect for slowing down and enjoying Hawaii's peaceful spirit.
14. Keauhou Bay at Sunrise
Guests staying at our Keauhou vacation rental are just minutes from this beautiful bay. Early mornings often bring calm water, paddlers, dolphins offshore, and spectacular sunrises.
15. Aliʻi Drive's Hidden Sunset Pullouts
One of our favorite recommendations for guests staying at our Aliʻi Drive property is simply taking an evening stroll. Along Aliʻi Drive you'll discover several small shoreline parks and lava rock viewpoints where you can enjoy spectacular sunsets without the crowds found at larger beaches.
Stay Close to the Best Hidden Gems
One of the biggest advantages of staying with us is our convenient locations.
Our Aliʻi Drive Vacation Rental
Perfect for guests who want to walk to restaurants, beaches, shopping, and the famous Kona coastline while remaining close to many of these hidden treasures.
Our Keauhou Vacation Rental
Ideal for travelers looking for a quieter Hawaiian experience surrounded by golf courses, snorkeling, manta ray adventures, and easy access to South Kona's most beautiful scenic spots.
Whether you're visiting for adventure, relaxation, snorkeling, or simply to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, both of our vacation rentals place you within easy reach of some of the Big Island's most memorable experiences.
Plan Your Authentic Big Island Adventure
The Big Island is full of remarkable places beyond the guidebooks. We love helping our guests discover these hidden gems so they can experience the island like a local and create memories that last a lifetime.
When you book one of our Kona vacation rentals, you'll not only enjoy comfortable accommodations and beautiful ocean views—you'll also have a great home base for exploring the very best that Hawaii Island has to offer.
We look forward to welcoming you to paradise!