The sunny Kona District stretches almost two-thirds of the entire West side of the island of Hawaiʻi —from just south of ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay (Waikoloa Beach Resort) to Manukā Park (Kaʻū). Along this expansive area, you’ll find everything from coffee farms to historic Hawaiian landmarks.

Located just 15 minutes south of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) is a lively seaside town in the heart of the sunny Kona Coast.

The island of Hawaiʻi is the largest island in the Hawaiian chain with climatic contrasts across its 6 main districts: the Hāmākua, Hilo, Puna, Kaʻū, Kona and Kohala. The island is 4,028 sq. miles, which is so big that the other Hawaiian Islands could fit on it nearly twice.

There are hundreds of coffee farms in Kona, from the small art town of Hōlualoa to Kaʻawaloa (Captain Cook), and many offer tours to the public. Visit thriving coffee orchards and learn about the meticulous harvesting process.

Just south of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, is Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Explore this coastal park and discover how an early Hawaiian settlement survived on the rugged Kona coast.

Major resort destinations on the island of Hawaiʻi include the Kohala Coast and Kona area (Keauhou, Historic Kailua Village). There are also hotels and accommodations in Hilo and Puna on the east side closer to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The upcountry Waimea area also offers charming getaways.

Most visitors arrive in Kona. There is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oʻahu first and then taking a short, 35-40 minute flight to the island of Hawaiʻi . Because the island is so big, consider arriving on one side of the island and departing from the other.

The local beans are so good, you might want to consider a tour and tasting at one of the nearby coffee farms in Kona or Kaʻū. Video: Food in Hawaiʻi Take your taste buds off the beaten path with the flavors of Hawai‘i.

Located at Hōnaunau Bay in South Kona, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau immerses you in Hawaiian culture. This 180-acre national historic park was once the home of royal grounds and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

Located about 12 miles south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) in South Kona, Kealakekua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. The bay's brilliant waters are filled with coral and schools of tropical fish.