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Kona Hop-on Hop-off Tour: A Shore Excursion from Kailua-Kona Pier

a group of people on a beach

Aloha,

My name is Toshi, and I’m a staff member with LeaLea on the Big Island of Hawaii. I had the pleasure of participating in the Kona Hop-On Hop-Off tour in November 2024, which departs from Kailua Pier. I’d like to share my experience and insights from the tour.

a group of people standing in a parking lot

This Hop-On Hop-Off tour takes you to seven popular destinations around Kailua-Kona, with the shuttle making stops at key spots like Kahalu’u Beach—known for its incredible snorkeling opportunities—Magic Sand Beach, a popular white sand beach, and Alii Gardens Marketplace, a vibrant market offering local crafts, souvenirs, coffee, and much more. The shuttle stops at each location for approximately 90 minutes, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

a man standing in front of a car

The tour began at 9:15 AM. Upon arriving at Kailua Pier, I was greeted by two minibuses. After introducing myself to the driver, I boarded the bus, where our guide shared fascinating details about the island. We learned about the history of Kailua-Kona, including King Kamehameha the Great’s connection to the area, Hulihe’e Palace (Hawaii’s first palace), and Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in the state with a history spanning over 200 years. Our guide also highlighted key attractions, shopping spots, and recommended dining options throughout the Big Island.

The guide was exceptionally knowledgeable, offering intriguing trivia about Hawaii’s geography and culture. We learned about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, Kona and Kau coffee, the significance of Hualalai Mountain, Waipio Valley, macadamia nuts, and much more. It was a great opportunity to immerse myself in the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

a train is parked on the side of a building

We started our journey heading south along Ali’i Drive. Our first stop was at Hulihe’e Palace & Mokuaikaua Church, followed by the Kona Farmers Market, Alii Gardens Marketplace, Magic Sand Beach, and Kahalu’u Beach. The shuttle then took us to the turnaround point at Keauhou Shopping Center, about 25 minutes from Kailua Pier. After a brief 10-minute stop at the shopping center, we retraced our route, visiting each location again before returning to Kailua Pier.

Here are three must-see stops I highly recommend:

an empty park bench next to a palm tree on a beach

Kahalu’u Beach:

This is one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island, with calm waters that make for a relaxing experience. The beach gets busy during the day, but it’s worth it. Amenities include restrooms and a snack bar, and local volunteers offer fascinating information about the tropical fish you might encounter while snorkeling.

a group of people on a beach

Magic Sand Beach:

A popular white sand beach, which is a rarity on the Big Island. The beach is ideal for bodyboarding due to the waves, and there are lifeguards and restrooms available. Nearby restaurants and cafes make it a great spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

a sign on the side of a road
a group of people in a garden

Alii Gardens Marketplace:

A charming marketplace featuring local artisans, coffee vendors, snacks, and souvenirs at reasonable prices. It’s a perfect place to pick up a unique gift or treat.

I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience the sights of Kailua-Kona in a short amount of time. Since the shuttle stops every 90 minutes, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary accordingly. If you’re visiting from a cruise ship, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore the beaches and enjoy some snorkeling. Once you return to Kailua Pier, there’s still plenty of time to explore the nearby area.

Mahalo!

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