Kohala Coast Tours and Activities

Tracing the northernmost portion of the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kohala Coast boasts Hawaii’s most desirable characteristics, from white-sand beaches lined with resorts to lush mountains bursting with wildlife and waterfalls. Go beyond nature to explore the island’s culture and history at restored temples and ancient villages.
The Basics
You can choose to see the Kohala Coast by land, water, or air, with an array of tour options as diverse as the surrounding environment. A drive or hike along the coastal cliffs is perfect for taking in the scenery. Increase your access to the remote attractions by joining an ATV tour that traverses rugged terrain and stops at waterfalls.
To see the dramatic coastline from above, book a helicopter tour that provides stunning views of the ocean and mountains along with displaying Hawaii’s famous volcanoes. For a full immersion experience, join a snorkeling tour that cruises the coastline and stops at picturesque bays along the way for a chance to swim with sea turtles and tropical fish.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Kohala Coast offers everything you need for a classic tropical vacation.
- Climate and scenery vary drastically on the Kohala Coast peninsula as the northeast side is wet, while the southwest side is dry.
- Accommodations on the Kohala Coast range from resorts to beach camping.
- There are ample dining and shopping opportunities on the Kohala Coast.
How to Get There
The Kona International Airport is the gateway to the Kohala Coast. Rent a car to travel the coastal roads (Highway 19 and Highway 270) throughout the peninsula, book a sightseeing tour that stops at top regional attractions with included transport, or take the island-wide shuttle service.
When to Get There
Known for having the best climate on the Big Island, the Kohala Coast is an ideal vacation spot in any season. To avoid crowds, visit in spring and fall and steer clear of winter holidays and summer break—when most families tend to visit the island.
The Rich History of the Kohala Coast
The Kohala Coast has attracted people long before the presence of modern-day resorts and restaurants, which now dot the coastline. Ancient Hawaiian royalty once lived along the sunny coast, leaving behind temples, petroglyphs, historic villages, and ceremonial sites. Many of these relics, such as Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, have been restored and are now popular attractions for Hawaiian culture enthusiasts and archeology buffs.
Address: Big Island of Hawaii, USA
7 Tours and Activities to Experience Kohala Coast
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Big Island Snorkel Cruise Along Kohala Coast
27
On this Big Island snorkeling cruise, experience the beauty of the Kohala coast from its colorful reefs to its beaches, as you scan the horizon for splashing dolphins or, in winter, humpback whales. In addition to colorful reef fish, there’s always the chance you could find Hawaiian green sea turtles while snorkeling the pristine coves. Enjoy the attentive, personalized service from your professional captain and crew, who also help serve you lunch, and run the boat’s open bar.
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From
$159.00
From
$159.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
240
Fly above Hawaii's spectacular peaks, coasts, and valleys on this helicopter tour of the Big Island. Watch lava bubble up out of volcanoes, fly over the lush rain forests of the Hamakua Coast, and complete your trip with views of the waterfalls lining the Kohala Mountains. Only a helicopter tour lets you see so many of Hawaii's charms on a single ride and from an unforgettable perspective.
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From
$638.94
From
$638.94

Pau Hana Sunset Cruise with the Whales
11
Set sail into the Pacific Ocean on this Big Island whale-watching cruise that takes you out into the open waters and along the gorgeous Kohala Coast. Onboard naturalists help you spot migrating humpback whales and learn about their amazing behavior, while an open bar serves up tropical cocktails and appetizers for a festive Hawaiian voyage.
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From
$139.00
From
$139.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Kohala Waterfalls Small Group Adventure Tour
87
Delve into Hawaii’s history and prepare to get wet on this full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Island’s Kohala coast. Begin with a drive up the Kona coastline past lava flows, and take in sweeping views from the old Kohala Mule Station lookout. Rumble through the rugged landscape in an off-road vehicle and hike along the tunnels and aqueducts of a historic sugar plantation. Admire the seven Kohala waterfalls and cool off with a dip under the final cascade. A picnic lunch and hotel transport are included.
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From
$198.95
From
$198.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Volcano and Kohala Landing Helicopter Tour on the Big Island
35
Soar over the rugged coastline, active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls of the Big Island on this unforgettable helicopter tour. Listen to expert narration from your pilot while soaking up incredible aerial views of smoking Kilauea Volcano and the magnificent mountains and sea cliffs of the Kohala Coast. Touch down on a lush and remote part of the island that most visitors never get to see, and enjoy your own private slice of paradise before taking to the skies again.
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From
$725.00
From
$725.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Mid-Morning Whale Watch
6
Spot humpback whales in their natural habitat on this whale-watching tour from Kawaihae Harbor. Hop on a catamaran, and learn all about humpback whales from an onboard naturalist. Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks throughout your cruise, as your group tries to see the big mammals swimming through the nearby waters. As well as getting great photo opportunities, you’ll also be able to hear the whales’ songs by using an underwater hydrophone.
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From
$107.00
From
$107.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Helicopter Sunset Experience Tour from Kona
10
If ever there were a place to see by helicopter it’s the spectacular Big Island of Hawaii. Here on America’s largest island, the landscape ranges from snowcapped summits to crashing waves on the coast, and thundering falls through rich green rainforests to black-sand beaches and lava. On this VIP Big Island helicopter tour, which can only be booked on Viator, experience jaw-dropping aerial views and sip Champagne before soaring over the Big Island shoreline until sunset.
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From
$700.00
From
$700.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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