Your 5-Day Itinerary in Hawaii
I used to live on the Mainland, so I understand that Hawaii can feel like it’s oceans away. And that may be technically true. But it’s becoming increasingly easy and fast to fly from the Mainland to Kona.
A non-stop flight from LAX to Kona takes less than six hours. Not to mention it’s only a 20-minute drive from the airport to downtown Kona.
With this in mind, even if you can only get away for one workweek, it’s worth giving us a visit. Here’s my 5-day itinerary for the best of the Big Island.
Day 1: Get Your Caffeine Fix
When you’re visiting Hawaii, there’s one obvious cure for jetlag. Kona coffee.
The slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa offer the ideal conditions for growing coffee beans. The resulting brew is world-famous for being rich, creamy, and very high-quality.
But don’t just sip on freshly brewed espresso. Tour a working coffee plantation.
And if all that caffeine is keeping you up, enjoy a late dinner, live music, and sunset views at Huggo’s On the Rocks – one of my favorite places for outdoor dining in Kona.
Day 2: Ride the Waves (Three Ways)
Sports enthusiasts need to try surfing at least once while in Hawaii. If you’re a beginner, I recommend heading to Kahualu’u Bay for some private lessons. Pros (and people who like to watch pros from the comfort of a beach blanket) should head to Honolii Beach Park.
Surfing works up an appetite. Fortunately, the Big Island knows a thing or two about grindz (aka tasty food).
Eat your weight in poke, have a nap, and then head back to the water. This time, to snorkel with manta rays at twilight.
Want to explore the ocean without getting wet? No problem. Atlantis Submarine Kona Adventure will tour you along the Kona coast 100 feet below sea level.
Day 3: Climb a Volcano
Today is for land lovers. You can’t really say you’ve visited Hawaii without spending a day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Offering over 123,000 acres of legally designated wilderness, this park gives you plenty of opportunity to explore volcanic terrain.
All of that hiking definitely deserves pizza and a few beers.
To enjoy that irresistible combination, do yourself a favor and go to Kona Brew Pub. Kona coffee isn’t the island’s only world-famous beverage. Kona Brewing Company made an early splash on the craft beer scene and now pours in over 35 states and 10 countries.
Day 4: Explore the Kona Coast
Downtown Kona is an enjoyable place for locals and visitors alike to spend a sunny afternoon.
Sample fresh tropical fruit at a farmer’s market. Browse local shops featuring handmade artisan crafts. Nibble your way through Hawaii’s famous foods and snacks (shout out to shaved ice!). Or simply sit on the beach.
Prefer a more active vacation? Walk along the Ala Kahakai National Trail and learn about Hawaii’s history and beautiful wildlife. (If you find yourself here next winter, you can even go whale watching from north Kona.)
Day 5: Tour Your Future Home
By your final day, I’m positive you won’t want to leave. So you’d better schedule in time to tour your future Hawaiian home. Whether you’re actively searching for waterfront property or just curious about your options, contact me. I’ll help you find your very own piece of paradise.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.