Kona, Hawaii
5 Days in Kona, Hawaii
Embark on an unforgettable five-day scuba diving journey in the enchanting paradise of Kona, Hawaii. This comprehensive itinerary will take you on a thrilling exploration of the vibrant underwater world, allowing you to witness breathtaking marine life, experience top-notch dive operations, and savor the local flavors of the Kona area. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Pacific Ocean as we unveil the best scuba diving spots and experiences this remarkable destination has to offer.
While Kona features many stunning and affordable AirBnB and hotel options, if it is your first time to the Big Island, you cannot go wrong with the full-featured resorts of the Waikaloa region, including the Four Seasons, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Lani resorts. While each has its own merits, we recommend Manua Lani for its central location to your dive site as well as access to the western coast.
Upon arrival in Kona, settle into your accommodations and take some time to unwind and soak in the tropical ambiance. Familiarize yourself with the dive organization of your choice—we recommend Blue Wilderness, known throughout the dive community on the Big Island for their exceptional service and expertise. Due to such a small local population, taxis and rideshare apps are sparse and expensive. We recommend renting a car for your stay.
Over the next two days, dive into the mesmerizing underwater realm alongside Blue Wilderness, the premier dive organization based in Puako Bay. With their knowledgeable and experienced dive guides, like Flipper and Chuck, you'll embark on a series of exhilarating dives, each revealing a different facet of Kona's underwater wonders. Explore renowned dive sites such as the captivating Kealakekua Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Marvel at the majestic manta rays, graceful sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish that call these waters home. After each dive, reward yourself with the delightful macadamia nut cookies provided by Blue Wilderness and made fresh daily by the outfit’s owner—a sweet treat to savor the memories of your underwater adventures. Each day on the RIB (rigid inflatable boat) includes two one-hour dives—depending on how fast you breathe your air—and the big highlight of this outfit is their white glove-style service of your gear. You simply jump into the ocean with your goggles and fins and the crew will help you get your air tank and gear on in the water. No more disorientation from falling backwards off the boat or trying to climb out of the water carrying all that weight!
For an extra special experience, book a night dive to see the manta rays close up. If you get lucky enough to spot a manta that hasn’t been observed before, you get to name it so keep your eyes peeled for their fingerprint-like unique spots on their belly.
Take a break from diving and venture out to explore the captivating landscapes of the Big Island. Start with breakfast at one of the resort's restaurants, savoring a delightful meal to energize yourself for the day. The Mauna Lani breakfast buffet is particularly well appointed with a pleasant combination of American classics like an omelet bar and Pacific cuisine. Rent a car and embark on a day trip that will showcase the island's diverse ecosystems. Drive along the scenic routes, witnessing the dramatic changes in scenery as you pass through grasslands, jungles, and volcanic hills. Stop by local landmarks like the Captain Cook monument and soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural surroundings at locations like the Kēōkea Beach Park. For lunch, head to one of Mauna Lani’s beloved restaurants such as the Surf Shack, where you can grab a quick and satisfying meal, or the Ha Restaurant and Pool Bar, offering affordable bites and refreshing drinks. Don't forget to sample the island's craft beers, sourced from local breweries like Ola Brew, Kona, and Big Island Brewhouse.
Make sure you don’t eat all your meals at the resort. After one of your dive days, make sure to visit the charming Pueo's Osteria, where you'll be transported to the heart of Italy through their handmade pastas, flavorful dishes, and warm hospitality. The restaurant is located in Waikaloa village, just a few minutes inland from the coastal resorts. Their Chicken Milanese and house-made limoncello sorbet were particularly impressive, but their real value is in their service, which can only be described as world-class. Treat your taste buds to the culinary delights of Waimea, located a short twenty minute drive from Waikoloa village. FORC—an acronym for Farm, Ocean, and Ranch cuisine—is a fabulous farm-to-table concept restaurant that features the historic Parker Ranch beef and daily fresh catches from the Pacific.
A five-day scuba diving itinerary in Kona, Hawaii offers an immersive experience in both the underwater realm and the vibrant local culture. With Blue Wilderness as your dive organization, you'll embark on thrilling dives, guided by their knowledgeable professionals. Explore Kona's stunning dive sites and encounter magnificent marine creatures. Between dives, indulge in the diverse culinary offerings, ranging from local specialties at the Surf Shack to fine dining experiences at the CanoeHouse. Take a day to explore the island's diverse landscapes and discover its natural wonders. Finally, savor the last dives and bid farewell to the underwater world with cherished memories. This scuba diving itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure in Kona, Hawaii, where the beauty of the ocean meets the flavors of the island, creating a truly remarkable experience.