Travelers can easily fly directly into Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island. Alternatively, the Hilo International Airport (ITO) is on the eastern side of the island about 1½ hours away. If flying to Honolulu International Airport, you will need to connect to a short 40 minute flight to the Big Island.

High season in Kona tends to be from December to March as people look to escape colder regions. This also coincides with the wetter season, providing occasional rain showers. The spring and fall shoulder seasons, April to May as well as September to October, are ideal times to visit for beautiful weather and fewer crowds.

Kona is a region on the western side of the Big Island. Kailua-Kona is the biggest town within that district, though frequently referred to itself as Kona - so when people mention Kona they could be talking about the town or the entire district.

From Keauhou Bay just south of Kona to the renowned snorkeling paradise at Kahalu’u Beach Park and beaches located north of the Kona Airport, there are numerous swim-friendly spots to choose from. Magic Sands is a popular central area, though the beach is somewhat smaller. Check out Manini or Hapuna, or even near the Kailua Pier. Don’t forget to pack your reef shoes as some access points can be rocky, and keep in mind some waters are purely for surfers.