The village of Waikoloa is tucked into the spectacular Kohala Coast of The Island of Hawai’i, filled with beaches, petroglyphs, state parks and hiking paths. Waikoloa is also within a few minutes of extravagant luau shows, upscale resort restaurants and some of the best waterfront golf courses in Hawaii.
Things to do in Waikoloa Village
The famous black-sand beaches of The Island of Hawai’i, formed by hardened volcanic lava, string along the coastline near Waikoloa Village. Stretch out under swaying coconut palms at Anaeho‘omalu Bay and rent some gear for surfing, body boarding, snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing. You can also take a glass-bottom boat or sunset cocktail cruise.
At Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, you’ll find white powdery sand and crystal-clear water for snorkelling and diving. Work up an appetite for enormous fish tacos at Three Frogs concession stand. Don’t miss tidepooling at Puako with live coral, sea turtles and lava-covered shores, then take the Crater Rim Drive to the summit of Kilauea Volcano.
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at the “Legends of Hawaii” luau, which tells the story of The Island of Hawai’i through dance, music and Polynesian food. At the local artisan market you can learn about coconut husking, kappa stamping and fire dancing. Check the schedule at Queens’ MarketPlace Coronation Pavilion for free hula, ukulele and Hawaiian quilt-making lessons.
Explore Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve to find ancient rock art, then get in a game of golf at outstanding Hawaiian courses, including The Beach Course, The Kings’ Course and Hapuna Bay. For shopping, dining and tiki-bar nightlife, head over to the main town of Kailua-Kona, about a 30-minute drive away.
Getting around Waikoloa Village
Public buses service the main tourist areas near Waikoloa and many vendors offer bicycle rentals for getting around. You can also rent a car at the Kona and Hilo international airports.