Kailua-Kona

Not to be confused with Kailua on the eastern side of O’ahu, Kailua-Kona is a town on the west side of the Island of Hawaii. It’s commonly referred to as Kona and is served by Kona International Airport. Kailua-Kona is best known for it’s white-sand beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling.

Hostels in Kailua-Kona are exactly what you’d hope for when looking for a beach hostel. They have clean, relaxing décor with large windows and plenty of outdoor space for you take a breath in the fresh sea air. They offer a mix of female dorms, mixed dorms, and private rooms to suit anyone’s preferences; and they’re willing to lend you beach equipment so that you don’t need to haul your own around!

All the Kona hostels are minutes away from the beach and other relaxing outdoor spaces. Staying closer to Kailua Kona’s town centre will mean easier access to restaurants, bars, and nightlife. As you move away from the town centre you’ll find that the vibe of the hostels becomes more chill, but you’ll still be able to get out and let loose!

While in Kailua-Kona you absolutely need to go snorkelling or scuba diving in the warm, clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. There are also tons of natural attractions such as volcanos, star gazing, and wildlife tours. If you’re looking for something really special, look into a submarine tour to see all sorts of marine creatures. Once you’ve had your fill of sun, fun, and excitement, you’ll love the selection of pubs and restaurants to chill out in - after all, it’s hard work being on vacation!

Getting around Kailua-Kona is best done by car, taxi, bike, or foot. There is no public transportation except for a shuttle that runs along Ali’i Drive into the centre of town, but other trips will require wheels of your own. Taxis and rideshare service are an option, but the price will add up quickly. Alternatively, getting around by foot or bike will give you some exercise around Kona before taking a bus to the next city.