Kona Shore Excursion: Sea Turtles, Historic Kona & Coffee Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers of all fitness levels; requires short, easy walks on uneven ground and minimal elevation change.
Overview
Step off your ship and follow a single coastal ribbon from lava to surf to highland coffee farms. This five‑hour Kona shore excursion pairs turtle watching and cultural sites with a hands‑on coffee stop — an efficient, sensory introduction to the Big Island.
Kona Shore Excursion: Sea Turtles, Historic Kona & Coffee Tour
Select participants and date
The pier smells like diesel and salt, but the air quickly trades metal for warm, volcanic breeze as you step off the tender into Kailua‑Kona. Guides unfurl laminated maps, the minibus hums, and within minutes you’re slipping down the coast where lava fields gesture toward the sea and ironwood trees lean into trade winds. This five‑hour shore excursion stitches together three of Kona’s defining claims to fame: Hawaiian green sea turtles that sun on the shore, century‑old cultural sites, and the highland farms that produce Kona coffee.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The tropical sun is strong and much of the tour involves exposed shoreline and coffee farm stops; choose reef‑safe products to protect reefs.
Wear sturdy sandals or light hikers
The Honokōhau Turtle Trail is about 100 yards of uneven dirt and sand — footwear with grip and closed toes helps you navigate comfortably.
Carry small cash for lunch and souvenirs
Lunch is purchased from a local vendor on route and some farm stands only accept cash.
Mind the turtles — keep distance
Hawaiian green sea turtles are protected; remain 10 feet (3 meters) back and avoid blocking their path to the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- Native shorebirds such as the ʻūlili and noddies
History
Kaloko‑Honokōhau preserves coastal fishponds and cultural features tied to centuries of Native Hawaiian coastal life; Captain Cook’s landing and missionary influences are visible in local churches and place names.
Conservation
Turtle habitats and coastal archaeology are fragile — stay on marked paths, pack out trash, and use reef‑safe sunscreen to lessen impacts on coral and marine life.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy sandals or light hiking shoes
Grippy footwear helps on the dirt and sand sections of the turtle trail.
summer specific
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the marine environment during exposed shoreline stops.
summer specific
Wide‑brim hat and sunglasses
Shade and glare protection for the sunny coastal stretches and coffee farm visits.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Guides provide bottled water, but a refillable bottle reduces waste and keeps you hydrated.