Planning what to do in Waikoloa? This guide ranks the highlights by what visitors actually come for, with practical notes on timing and how to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Waikoloa is a resort community on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, known for its sunny, dry climate, black lava fields and white-sand beaches. It is a convenient base for beach days and for exploring the island’s volcanoes, mountains and coffee farms.
1. Snorkel at Anaehoomalu Bay
This sheltered bay, called A-Bay, is a popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding and sometimes spotting turtles. The water is calm in the morning.
2. Relax at Hapuna Beach
Just up the coast, this wide white-sand beach has gentle waves in summer and is among the best on the island. Come early for parking.
3. See the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve
A short trail across lava fields leads to ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. It is best in the cooler hours, with a hat and water.
4. Walk the Ala Kahakai Trail
An old coastal trail runs along the shore past fishponds and historic sites. Wear sturdy shoes.
5. Visit the shops and cafes at Kings’ and Queens’ Marketplaces
Open-air shopping centers have restaurants, galleries and live music. They are also a good place for lunch.
6. Try a manta ray night snorkel
About 30 to 40 minutes south in Kona, guided night tours let you see manta rays feeding under lights. Book in advance.
7. Stargaze at Mauna Kea
The summit is about 1.5 hours away and is one of the world’s best places to look at the stars. Go with a guided tour or the visitor center and be prepared for cold temperatures and altitude.
8. Take a drive to Pololu Valley
The lookout on the north end of the island gives views over green cliffs and a black-sand beach. The trail down is steep.
Waikoloa Quick Facts
- Location: Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii, United States.
- Type of place: Leeward resort coast with beaches and petroglyphs.
- Best time to visit: Waikoloa sits on the dry, sunny Kohala Coast, so the weather is warm and mostly clear all year. Winter (December to March) brings humpback whales offshore, while summer has the calmest seas and best snorkeling. September and October often have warm water and fewer visitors, though the area stays pleasant year-round.
- Suggested time: 4 to 7 days, or 2 days if you are short on time.
- Busiest: Christmas, New Year and spring break. Quietest: May and September to early November.
What to Eat in Waikoloa
Local seafood, poke bowls, loco moco and shave ice are popular, along with Kona coffee and tropical fruit. The resort restaurants offer fine dining, while casual cafes and farmers’ markets serve local produce. Look for fresh fish such as ahi and mahi-mahi.
Getting Around
Kona International Airport is about 25 to 30 minutes by car, and a rental car is the easiest way to explore the island. The resort area has shuttles and some free trams, but a car is helpful for trips beyond. Distances are long, so plan driving time.
Money-Saving Tips
The Kohala Coast is one of the pricier parts of Hawaii, so save by booking vacation rentals, cooking some meals and visiting free beaches. Resort fees and parking can add costs, while snorkeling and hiking are mostly free.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Planning to see the entire island in a short trip without allowing for long drives.
- Underestimating the sun and heat on lava fields.
- Touching or standing on turtles and coral, which are protected.
- Going to Mauna Kea without warm clothes and considering altitude.
Best Time to Do These Things
Waikoloa sits on the dry, sunny Kohala Coast, so the weather is warm and mostly clear all year. Winter (December to March) brings humpback whales offshore, while summer has the calmest seas and best snorkeling. September and October often have warm water and fewer visitors, though the area stays pleasant year-round. The sun is intense and the lava landscape is dark and hot, so wear reef-safe sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially on exposed trails and at midday.
Top-Rated Tours in Waikoloa
These are the best-reviewed options currently listed for Waikoloa, based on traveler ratings and review counts on Viator. Prices are starting prices and change with date and group size.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise from Waikoloa — rated 4.6 from 276 reviews, from $50.
- Volcano National Park Adventure from Waikoloa — rated 4.9 from 229 reviews, from $259.
How to Fit It All In
Most visitors need 4 to 7 days to cover the highlights without rushing, and 2 days is enough for the essentials. Our Waikoloa trip-length guide shows how to split the days, and the best time to visit page helps you choose the season. The sun is intense and the lava landscape is dark and hot, so wear reef-safe sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially on exposed trails and at midday.
Plan Your Trip
More Waikoloa planning help: best tours and experiences in Waikoloa, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay and how many days you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one thing to do in Waikoloa?
Snorkel at Anaehoomalu Bay tops most lists. This sheltered bay, called A-Bay, is a popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding and sometimes spotting turtles.
What can I do in Waikoloa in one day?
Snorkel at Anaehoomalu Bay while the water is calm and clear.
Is it worth booking a guided tour in Waikoloa?
Tours save time on logistics and often include entry or transport. Listed tours start around $50 with a typical price near $95. The most-reviewed option we list is Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise from Waikoloa, rated 4.6 from 276 reviews and starting around $50.
Are there good day trips from Waikoloa?
Stargaze at Mauna Kea and Take a drive to Pololu Valley are popular add-ons. See our trip-length guide for how to fit them in.
Plan Your Tours in Waikoloa
Ready to book? See our full roundup of the best tours and experiences in Waikoloa for guided options, skip-the-line tickets, and day trips.
