There's more to do than watching the sunset in Kona
In Kona, there is so much more to do than just going to the beach or lounging by the hotel pool. Kona is rich in Hawaiian culture and history. There is much to learn about ancient petroglyphs, lava flows, and churches, if you venture just a few miles from your hotel.
Discover Petroglyphs
Take a trip back in time and explore the ancient drawings of native Hawaiians. These ki'i pohaku (rock art) drawings are carved into rocks and today are known as petroglyphs. Over 1,200 petroglyphs are at the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve in Hilo, but for travelers staying in Kona, the Kona Village Resort has preserved petroglyphs on site and they are available for viewing by the public.
Drive Saddle Road
Highway 200, also known as Saddle Road, runs East to West, cutting through the valley between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Driving Saddle Road takes you on an ecological and climactic journey up 6,000 feet and back down again. Due to dangerous driving conditions, most rental car companies on the island prohibit use of their rental cars on this road, and there are no gas stations or convenience stores to stop at along the way.
See a Lava Tree
A lava flow swept through what is now Lava Tree State Monument. It engulfed wet 'Ohia trees, casting lava molds that are still standing today. Lava Tree State Monument is located off Highway 132, Pahoa-Poiki road. There is no entrance fee for this state park and it is open daily during daylight hours.
Visit Mokuaikaua Church
Mokuaikaua Church, located in Kailua-Kona town, is the first Christian church built in Hawaii. The original church was built in 1820 and was a thatch shack. In 1837, it was rebuilt with coral and lava rock and is still standing today. The inside of the church is made out of rich Koa wood. The church is located on Ali'i Drive.
Tour a Brewery
The Kona Pub and Brewery produces about 310,000 gallons of beer each year. They began brewing their own beer in 1995 and have expanded, with restaurants on both Oahu and the Big Island. Complimentary tours of the Kona Brewery operate daily between 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Tags: Lava Tree, Saddle Road, church built, Kona Brewery, Kona Kona, Lava Tree State