Big Island Cultural Experiences

The first team of missionaries to arrive in the islands sailed from Boston in a small brig called the Thaddeus. 14 New Englanders (seven couples) and four Hawaiians arrived in Hawai'i after 164 days. While at sea, King Kamehameha the Great died, his son Liholiho became ruler, and the ancient kapu system was abolished, with no belief system to take its place. This historic marker was designed for the local churches to commemorate the 195th anniversary of the fulfillment of the prophecy by Kahuna Nui Hewahewa: that a new God would come and set foot on a rock at Kailua bay. High Priest Hewahewa himself burned his own temple in faith of what was coming. The missionaries, came ashore with the Bible, first translated by Henry Opukahaia, as they stepped on the very same rock at Kailua pier, changing Hawaii forever. With the prophecy complete, many of the Ali'i royalty of Hawaii became Christians and avid readers of scripture. Many of Hawaii's churches and ministries have given generously to erect the Kailua Village historical marker that tells the story of "Hawaii's Plymouth Rock." We gratefully honor: Frank & Rosemary Miller, Calvary Church, Legacy Church, Living Stones, Kona Coast Chaplaincy, Central Kona Union Church, Holualoa Chapel, Samoan Church of Hawaii LMS, Helani Church, St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Haili Congregational Church, Kuhio Chapel, Waipahu United Church of Christ, Gospel of Salvation Church, Kahikiola Congregational Church, Kona Church of God, Family Foundations International, Corinth Reformed Church, Rev. Abraham Akaka Ministries Foundation and the University of the Nations for their generosity. The first Christian church established in the Hawaiian Islands lives on to this day in an active and caring fellowship called Mokuaikaua Church. THE NAME: There have been literal interpretations offered covering the name of Mokuaikaua. One is “The Trees Are Cut, Let Us Eat.” Another, “The Land the devours warfare.” The only acceptable origin of the name Mokuaikaua is from to the place where the timber material was obtained. It was part of the crown properties known as Mokuaikaua, and located on the western slopes of Hualalai volcano. THE ARCHWAY: In 1910, the Evangelical Association of the territory of Hawaii met in Kailua to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the coming fo the first american congregational missionaries to Hawaii in 1820. In honor of this occasion, Mokuaikaua Church was repaired and a stone arch was built to commemorate the anniversary. THE SANCTUARY: Two other structures were built prior to the present church. The first was built as the King’s home prior to 1820, and the second was built as a church in 1825. The present structure was started in 1835 and dedicated in early 1837. Find out about preserving Mokuaikaua Church

We offer the Big Island’s and Oahu's best guided tours for small groups. Reserve your amazing experience today online or by calling or emailing us. We are an award winning and permitted tour operator and a member of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. Don't settle for less! Aloha!

Kamanu Charters has been in business for over 40 years. We continue to offer guests once in a lifetime experiences where they can swim with dolphins, manta rays, and snorkel at Pawai Bay on our 24 passenger catamaran and Kealakekua Bay on our 10 passenger high speed raft.

Est. 2018, Kona Shore Divers is Kailua-Kona’s top-rated shore dive and snorkel operator, offering personalized, small-group scuba tours and PADI instruction. Our dive boat departs directly from Kailua Pier, where cruise ship tenders drop off guests — making us the most convenient choice for passengers and crew! We offer guided shore dives, manta ray night dives, private charters, and beginner-friendly experiences like Discover Scuba. Locally owned and fully insured. Book online or call to reserve your spot!

SEA PARADISE KONA, Hawaii's best snorkeling and Manta tours. Big Island Snorkel Tours on the Kona Coast & Captain Cook Monument for 40+ years. What Makes Us Unique? Sea Paradise offers the most authentic ocean adventures on the Kona Coast. Departing from Keauhou Bay, we specialize in snorkel tours to Kealakekua Bay, visits to the Captain Cook Monument, & the world-famous manta ray night snorkel. Our luxury catamaran Hoku Nui provides comfort, safety, and panoramic ocean views, while our local crew shares Hawaiian culture and marine life knowledge. Eco-friendly practices, reef-safe sunscreen, & a true aloha spirit make every trip unforgettable. Experience sustainable sailing & real Hawaiian hospitality with Sea P

Aloha and welcome to Hawaii! Are you ready to experience the beauty and culture of our islands like a local? Look no further than Hawaii Local Connection Tours! Our expert guides will take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that only locals know about. Immerse yourself in the rich history and legends of Hawaii as you explore our stunning natural wonders. From hiking to waterfalls to snorkeling with sea turtles, our tours offer something for everyone. And with our small group sizes and personalized attention, you can be sure that your experience with us will be nothing short of exceptional. Don't settle for a cookie-cutter tour experience. Let Hawaii Local Connection Tours show you the real Hawaii

Chain operation providing masks, fins & snorkels for sale & rent, plus helicopter & boat tours.

At Hawai'i Lifeguard Surf Instructors- Surf School, surfers of all ages have been catching waves and making memories in magical Kailua-Kona, Hawaii since 1998. A trusted and beloved Hawaiian business, they not only strive to give the best surfing experiences, but also actively support organizations like Make A Wish Foundation, and serve as co-hosts for Surf for Special Needs—a local non-profit.

Ocean Safaris Kayak Adventures offers guided ocean kayak tours along the beautiful Kona coast, launching from Keauhou Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii. Our tours are built around unforgettable experiences, including exploring a stunning ocean sea cave & snorkeling in clear Hawaiian waters. Designed for both adventure seekers & families, our tours go beyond just paddling. Guests enjoy an interactive, hands-on experience led by knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety while making the journey fun & memorable for all skill levels. Whether you're looking to explore hidden coastal features, experience Hawaii’s marine life, or enjoy a unique ocean adventure, Ocean Safaris delivers one of the most exciting & accessible kayak tours in Kona.

Our farm is up a small rural road, visitation is by reservation only. Indulge in an immersive chocolate experience at Honolii Orchards, a family-owned cacao farm nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Hawaii's Big Island, just 5 minutes outside of Hilo. Embark on a guided tour of our fertile cacao groves, where you'll witness the delicate process of cacao cultivation. Afterward, our expert chocolatier will lead you through an exquisite craft chocolate tasting, showcasing the rich flavors and intricate nuances of single-origin Hawaiian chocolate. Unveiling the nuances of chocolate, much akin to wine, this tasting invites you to refine your palate and discover the diverse expressions of Hawaiian cacao.

Award-winning Mauna Kea Stargazing Photo Tour Company. Small Group Tours with Money Back Guarantees

Private Charters, Snorkel Tours, Dolphin Tours, and Whale Watching. Our Premier Ocean Experience in Kailua-Kona will go above your highest expectations.

Specializing in fun our focus is making sure you have a great time out on the water. Featuring the world famous manta ray snorkel we also offer snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay - home of the Captain Cook Monument where we often spot the spinner dolphins - one of Kona's top activities.

Friendly little beach shack providing beach and ocean sports equipment rentals (snorkel gear, beach chairs, SUPs, kayaks) as well as paddle board lessons and Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe rides.

Casual lodgings with kitchenettes & free Wi-Fi, in an ocean-view guesthouse offering an outdoor pool.

Embark on an intimate journey with Wild Hawaii Tours. Catering to groups of up to 6, we unveil the wonders of the Big Island, Hawaii's hidden gems. Our expert guides curate personalized experiences, from volcanic landscapes to lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and cultural treasures. Discover the island's beauty at your pace, delving into its rich history and diverse ecosystems. Elevate your vacation with exclusive access and flexible itineraries. Island Explorer — Your Gateway to Big Island's Enchantment.

Executive Chef Jayson Kanekoa has unveiled a new menu for the popular Sunset Lūʻau with the freshest of ingredients harvested from Hawai`i Island farmers. Experience the ono tastes of an J.A. Farms Garden Salad, Waipi’o Valley Poi, Keahole Shrimp, Hoio fern shoots, Pulehu steaks, and grilled chicken with Hamakua mushrooms. Following dinner take a journey from Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawai`i, and Sāmoa through the songs and dances of these Pacific cultures. The spellbinding Samoan fire knife dance is a spectacular sight to see!

ハワイ火山国立公園（キラウエア）、天体観察があるマウナケア山（山頂のツアー）、マンタツアー、パワースポット・リゾートゴルフ、コナやヒロのローカルタウン、貸し切りツアーなどを含めたツアー、雄大な自然を堪能する旅、ご滞在のお手伝いを日本語でさせて頂きます。日本語スタッフが常駐。 場所はコートヤード・キング・カメハメハ・コナ・ビーチ・ホテル 1階（ロビーエリア右側）LEALEA/HIS です。 ★★★ We sell JR Rail Passes for those who want to experience Japan by train. We sell all types, anywhere from your standard 7-day All Japan pass to area exclusive passes! / The branch sells only Jr Passes. ☆☆☆ Lealea/HIS コナ支店内、店頭にてJRレールパスをご購入いただけます。 事前に予約の上でご来店をお待ちしています。

Jack's Diving Locker in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is a PADI 5 Star IDC Center offering a wide range of snorkeling and scuba diving experiences, from beginner introductory dives to Instructor training. With four custom-built dive boats and a friendly and experienced staff, Jack's Diving Locker is the perfect place to explore the crystal-clear waters of Kona and see its diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and manta rays.

Located on the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii Luxe Travel provides white-glove concierge services to those vacationing in Hawaii. We know planning a dream vacation takes a lot of time – time you probably don’t have. As residents for many years in Kona, we can suggest and help you book the best of the best Hawaii has to offer. From vehicle rentals, to adventures of a lifetime, to private chef experiences or in-home massages, allow us to take care of the details.