Farther along the sunny Kohala Coast is Waikoloa, which is a place with world-renowned resorts, great beaches, and a fascinating cultural history. Swimming in clear water, hiking ancient paths, or enjoying fresh food from the islands are just some of the experiences you can relish in this tropical paradise. Waikoloa is known as one of the best holiday spots and it offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. No matter the type of traveler you are, there’s always something to do.
This guide will tell you all the exciting things you can do while in Waikoloa, Hawaii. It’ll guarantee that your whole trip is packed with memories. But first, let’s focus on what Waikoloa has to offer; be it adventure, relaxation or culture, it brings something new to the table every time.
Best Beaches of Waikoloa
One simply cannot skip the astonishing beaches during their trip to Waikoloa and these beaches range from gold sand to unique black lava shores. Believe it or not, the coastline here is very diverse and beautiful.
Anaeho‘omalu Bay (A-Bay)
Known colloquially as A bay or A Bay, Anaeho‘omalu Bay is a go-to destination for the locals due to its serene waters, soft sands, and especially during sunset. In addition to this, A-Bay is also home to some ancient Hawaiian fishponds which enhance the beauty of the area and gives insight to the island’s rich history. The location is ideal for snorkeling, paddle boarding, or just chilling after wandering the lush A-Bay.
Hapuna beach state park
Hapuna has one of the best white beaches in all of Hawaii. It’s also just a short drive from Waikoloa. Swimming and boogie boarding is perfect at this beach due to the crystal clear water. Visitors have a chance to see humpback whales swimming offshore during winter.
Māhukona Beach Park
This park used to be a sugar mill port. It’s now a public park, so while there is not exactly a beach with sand, there is a playground for kids and fantastic snorkeling. The old pier and other machinery submerged under the clear waters add a nice twist to the whole experience.
Outdoor Adventures in Waikoloa
The natural scenery of Waikoloa isn’t limited to only the beaches. People who like to be outdoors will have plenty of opportunities in the rugged landscape, lush valleys, and ocean views on the island.
Hiking the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
This coastal path crosses through lavascapes, petroglyphs, and remarkable views of the ocean. With this hike, one is also able to walk the same routes that Native Hawaiians used to walk, making this hike both a natural and historically rich experience.
Helicopter Tours Over the Kohala Coast
If there is any place where one should use a helicopter to catch a bird’s eye view, Kohala Coast is the place. The wideness of the cliffs, valleys, and numerous waterfalls makes this an experience of a lifetime. Some even have the chance to see the Kilauea Volcano from a distance.
Golfing in Waikoloa
For golfers, Waikoloa offers both kings’ and beach courses which are some of the greatest on the globe. These picturesque fairways are set in and amongst ocean views and lava rock landscapes to create a good challenge for golfers.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Excursions
Near Waikoloa, there is an abundance of wildlife like coral fish and turtles. The two most famous snorkeling areas are A-Bay and Puako Reef. For the more adventurous, scuba diving tours take you through volcanic tubes underwater and coral reefs too.
Cultural & Historical Experiences
Hawaii is extensively part of the history of Waikoloa with its fascinating roots and its tourist sites and experiences.
Petroglyph Fields at Waikoloa
Waikoloa is known for having some of the best petroglyph fields in all of Hawaii. These ancient carvings on the rocks display different historic parts of Hawaiian life, capturing life from centuries ago. The Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve is a site that has hundreds of these engravings and is extremely easy to access.
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
Hawaiian unification would not have been possible without this temple. Visitors can now explore the site and learn about its historical significance and the spearheading role it played in Hawaiian history. This temple was constructed by King Kamehameha I and has created a lasting impact on the religion throughout Hawaii.
Hawaiian Luaus and Hula Shows
Alongside traditional Hawaiian delicacies, Waikoloa resorts offer fire dancing, hula shows, and luaus. One of the best of these shows is the Legends of Hawaii Luau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. At this tropic, guests will enjoy sweet Hawaiian cuisine, music, as well as bright storytelling.
Kahua Ranch
Kahua Ranch situated at Kohala Mountains is the place to go for those want to get a taste of the cowboy lifestyle in Hawaii. There, visitors are encouraged to ride horses, partake in Hawaiian barbeques, and learn about the history of Hawaiian paniolos, also known as cowboys.
Shopping and Dining in Waikoloa
While visiting Waikalo, visitors have an option to choose from dining and shopping experiences from high-priced boutiques to farmers markets.
Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace
Both shopping areas at Waikoloa Village have high-end and local handmade products. People are able to shop for Hawaiian souvenirs like jewelry or even stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants for a meal.
Best Local Dining Spots
- Merriman’s Café – Offers locally sourced fresh Hawaiian food.
- GJ’s Huli Huli Chicken – Road side – Pork Ribs, Deep Fried Banana Egg Rollls
- Pueo’s Osteria – An Italian restaurant with a Hawaiian touch that is in the heart of the area.
Farmers Markets and Local Treats
The Waikoloa Village Farmers Market is the spot to grab fresh island fruits and locally crafted headgears. Shoppers can enjoy the flavored honey made in Hawaii.
Relaxation & Wellness in Waikoloa
Waikoloa is not just a place to have fun. It is also a destination to relieve stress and refresh.
Luxury Resort Spas
Most of the resorts in Waikoloa provide spa services with volcanic mud and tropical lotions. For people wanting the most pampering, Mandara Spa in Hilton Waikoloa Village is a good idea.
Yoga with Ocean Views
For those looking for something truly calming, there is yoga on the beach. A number of resorts and wellness centers offer classes on the shore with views of the Pacific Ocean.
Nearby Natural Hot Ponds
The natural hot ponds are just a quick drive from Waikoloa. These soothing, mineral-rich waters are a unique spa experience.
Waikoloa Vacation Activities
Waikoloa’s warm dry climate and beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot for various vacation activities.
Waipiʻo Valley
Also known as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipio Valley is renowned for it’s dramatic cliffs, myriad waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna. With guided tours and horseback rides, the depths of this sacred valley can be explored.
Mauna Kea Summit
For those star enthusiasts out there, a visit to Mauna Kea is a must! This dormant volcano that reaches nearly 14 thousand feet is host to some of the best observatories in the world.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Seeing the famous volcanoes of the Big Island is a must and the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the best spot for it. You will see lava fields, craters, steam vents, and so much more that tell the tale of the island’s constantly changing surface.
Final Thoughts
Waikoloa is a place where people can do plenty of activities. You can relax on beautiful beaches, hike on historical koko trails, or learn about Hawaiian heritage and culture. There are lifelong memorable experiences for everyone. Everything about Hawaii is captivating, from the top notch golf courses and traditional luaus to the lavish spas. Every single visitor is surely going to love this piece of heaven on earth.
Now is the time to book your trip if you want to see the magical side of Waikoloa for yourself. Get started with our interactive Trip Planner Now!
