20 things to do in Waikoloa for an Epic Island Adventure and exploring the west side of the Big Island (updated 2023)

What’s are the fun things to do in Waikoloa Village you ask?

Located on the sunny Kohala coastline, Waikoloa Village has all the wonderful resorts and condo complexes that cater to visitors in the area. Along with beautiful beaches and outdoor water and land experiences to do in the area and other cool historic landmarks to explore.

There are so many fun things for locals and tourists alike to enjoy around Waikoloa Village outside of just staying in the resort (Which most hotels try really hard to make you stay on their grounds for buying everything) and enjoying the resort lifestyle.

Check out what to do in Waikoloa village below for more inspiration, fun things to do and some off beat things to do here. If you are looking for more Big Island itineraries, check out the link for more inspiration to visiting the island.

A History of Waikoloa Village

The resort community of Waikoloa Village started as a master planned development community in 1986 with resorts, condominium complexes, shopping centers and other services around a 35,000 square foot area of basically lava rocks created from lava intrusions into the area from Mauna Kea eruptions.

The vision of the planned community development included activities for visitors to enjoy around the area to include shopping, cultural and art activities, tennis, spa and health services and a variety of outdoor adventure experiences. The main resort originally planned was the Hilton Waikoloa Village which included large hotels, a large lagoon and waterfalls, dolphin shows, monorail system and a boat ferry ride along with a variety of high-end dining options within the resort.

Where is Waikoloa Village located in Hawaii

Waikoloa Village is located on the western side of Hawaii’s Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii. It is situated in the North Kona District, just inland from the Kohala Coast.

Waikoloa Village is approximately a 20 to 25-mile (32 to 40 kilometers) drive from Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island of Hawaii. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route you take.

How to get to Waikoloa Village

Located on the northwest section of the Big Island on the sunny Kohala coastline and accessed by Highway 19, the resort is located 28 miles from Kailua Kona and about 16 miles from the airport.

Top 20 things to do and enjoy around at Waikoloa Village and nearby areas

1. Shop, dine and hang out at the Kings and Queens shopping courts

The Kings shops at Waikoloa was the first shopping center planned in Waikoloa with unique shops and high-end galleries and international brands that fit the needs and lifestyle of visitors and locals alike in the area. There are also eateries, grocery and fine dining venues to enjoy at the Kings Shops

Exploring the Queens shops and foodie spots

2. Outdoor recreation and adventure at Waikoloa Village

Lot’s of fun outdoor venues to hang out at Waikoloa, golfing, beach time, exploring tide pools or finding an oceanside dining or drinking venue. It is all outdoors focused and enjoy time spent outside around Waikoloa area.

3. Beach time at A Bay also known as Anaehoʻomalu Bay

ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay, also known as A-Bay or Waikoloa Beach is beautiful with palm trees swaying, ocean front dining and outdoor adventures ready to explore the areas beyond. A Bay as the locals call is is always a fun and family friendly destination with sandy and shallow waters that makes it easy and safe to swim in, beach comb or do some fun water sports in the mostly calm bay.

Water sport fun at A Bay

You can rent a variety of fun watersport equipment and toys from the rental outfitters on the beach area called Ocean Sports Waikoloa. Drop by the check in desk to do by the hour sup, kayak or even water bikes that you can rent for some water fun activity.

4. Explore the ancient fish ponds at A Bay fronting the Marriott

Located between Anaehoomalu Bay and the Marriott resort, lies a remnant of an ancient fishpond that was originally built to cultivate and harvest fresh fish. In the past, fish served as a crucial source of sustenance for the high chiefs residing along the coastline. The pond’s perimeter is now adorned with lush vegetation, but in ancient times, its rock walls facilitated a steady inflow and outflow of seawater, ensuring that the fish remained within the pond’s confines. While visitors are welcome to explore the fishponds on a self-guided tour, they are advised against entering the ponds at any time.

5. Do a coastal walk along A Bay all the way to the Hilton Waikoloa Village

You can actually do a nice walk on the coast through some of the small coves all the way to the Hilton Waikoloa and see some of the amazing multi-million dollar ocean front properties which is fun for looky loo’s that love to see how the upper crust live with their pools and ocean front estates.

6. Visit the Waikoloa Petroglyphs

Located past the gas station at the Kings Shops, follow the pedestrian walkway towards the golf course and you’ll quickly find the rolling and rocky lava terrain filled with ancient Petroglyphs from the Waikoloa fields. This is an easy walk and you can see a lot of the petroglyphs from the pathways. To find out more about ancient Hawaiian Petroglyphs here on the Big Island and Hawaii, check the site for a guide and information on what the early settlers did as a way of showing their art and culture on the lava rocks in the area.

7. Golfing at Waikoloa Village

You can enjoy a day of golfing at Waikoloa Village on the Waikoloa Beach Club.

The Waikoloa Beach Club Golf Course is a scenic and challenging golf course located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course features 18 holes spread over 7,074 yards, with stunning ocean views and dramatic lava rock formations.

The course is known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and large, undulating greens. Water hazards come into play on several holes, including a stunning par-3 hole that requires players to hit their tee shot over an ocean inlet.

The course offers a variety of tee boxes to accommodate players of all skill levels, with a rating of 74.3 and a slope of 140 from the championship tees. Golfers can take advantage of a variety of practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area.

In addition to the golf course, the Waikoloa Beach Club offers a variety of amenities for golfers, including a clubhouse with a pro shop, locker rooms, and a restaurant. Golfers can also enjoy access to the resort’s spa, fitness center, and swimming pools.

Overall, the Waikoloa Beach Club Golf Course offers a memorable golfing experience on the stunningly beautiful Big Island of Hawaii, with challenging play, breathtaking views, and excellent amenities.

Other wonderful options for golfing along the Kohala coastline include the Mauna Lani Gold Club, Waikoloa Kings Course and the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course.

8. Go to a Luau at the Legends Waikoloa

Go do a fantastic luau at the Legends of Hawaii at the Hilton Waikoloa featuring a variety of fun interactive activities like tapa stamping, coconut husking and watching local artisans create along with the fabulous traditional foods of Hawaii and then followed by performance of music, dance and oral story telling at the Hilton Luau grounds. Check the details above for time, prices and availability.

9. Do a Kohala coast Helicopter tour

If you are looking for a once in a lifetime experience from above, consider doing this helicopter tour of the gorgeous Kohala coastline. This 50 minute tour takes you along the majestic Kohala mountain and skirting the gorgeous cliffs and coastlines of the Kohala area with towering sea cliffs, stunning waterfalls, lush valleys and scenic places you can only see from above on this fantastic tour of the area.

10. Waikoloa Dolphin Encounter

Located at the HIlton Waikoloa is the Waikoloa Dolphin Encounter which is a twenty minute program to immerse and be with dolphins at their lagoon location which allows you to feed, touch, play and even swim. Each program is unique and one of a kind to experience with all age groups.

11. Do a fun Kohala coast Zipline Experience

This fun four hour Zipline tour around the Kohala area is the adventure experience to do in the region with the Kohala Canopy Company. You get to do a 9 line canopy tour, suspension bridges, tree platforms and beautiful views around the Kohala mountain range. Includes pick up/drop off, snacks and drinks on the tour.

12. Do a Glass Bottom Boat Experience

This fun glass bottom boating experience on a 26 foot boat in Waikoloa with expert guides that will share the marine and coral life in the area for your viewing. With full sized windows and a nice scenic cruise in the area, this touring experience is easy for all age groups to enjoy.

13. Gorgeous sunset sail

What a better way to experience end of day here at Waikoloa than a sunset sail right off Anaehoomalu Bay. This catamaran experience on a 53 foot catamaran includes cocktails, snacks or non alcoholic drinks on board. Check out the details here for availability and prices.

14. Where to eat at Waikoloa Village

There are plenty of fantastic dining options around Waikoloa Village from fast to do and dining venues, oceanside bar and restaurants to beautiful fine dining venues around the area to enjoy some delicious food and presentations. Check out all these favorite places to dine below.

Lava Lava Beach Club – ocean front dining and drinks in a colorful open air and funky seating and play areas around the property with mostly outdoor seating right on the beach and delicious food and beverages or just pupu fair for their happy hour time frame.

Roy’s Waikoloa – beautifully appointed and modern comfort in this farm to table fresh cuisine, innovative and modern that you will enjoy.

Sansie Seafood and Sushi Bar – Contemporary Japanese and Asian inspired dishes in this Japanese inspired restaurant in a modern setting at the Queens shops

Kuleana Rum Shack – Rum inspired drinks to go with some local style and Asian inspired dishes with a twist – a popular place to enjoy in the Queen’s Shops

Island Fish and Chips – Tempura style fish and chips with local fish, take out but with outdoor seating with lake views. Easy, cheap and good service.

Kamuela Provision Company – excellent indoor and outdoor dining experience with quality service, impeccable food and presentation at this Hilton Waikoloa establishment.

15. Sunset time at Waikoloa Village

Whether you want to enjoy sunset at a tropical restaurant or bar fronting the ocean,strolling A Bay or some of the historic trails or ocean front areas, sunsets are the perfect time to unwind and just enjoy the end of day here and even try to spot that elusive green light along the horizon before the sun actually goes down. Sunset times are popular so make sure to get there early and claim a parking spot so you don’t miss out on this time.

16. Go for a drive down the Kohala Coast

Road trips were made to exploring the Kohala coastline and the many beaches and historic sites you can visit along the way. Stop by popular Hapuna beach or grab a nice meal oceanside fronting the gorgeous Hapuna bay and enjoying some locally grown and prepared foods at the signature restaurants there or the other local hotels in the area.

Or you can continue on to Kawaihae harbor and check out the many restaurants, stores and galleries in this small village area.

17. Beach time fun along the Kohala Coast

The entire Kohala coastline is dotted with hidden beaches, small coves and gorgeous white sand beaches from A Bay, 69 beach, Puako, Hapuna to the Mauna Kea beach. If you are into camping you can actually camp oceanside right on the beach or shoreline at Spencer’s Beach close to the harbor area at Kawaihae.

18. Luxury Stay in Waikoloa Village

With a variety of resorts and condo complexes located in Waikoloa Village, you’ll still find a variety of fantastic Waikoloa accommodates that may fit your needs for an overnight stay or a longer getaway here.

Hilton Waikola Resort

One of the most expansive resorts with boat ferries, a train monorail, gorgeous gardens, water slides and huge pools, lagoons and inside beaches and more. There are many nice restaurants also in the resort to cater to all different foodie types on site to enjoy.

Check out the availability and prices here

Marriott Waikoloa Resort

The other large resort area located across from the Kings shops has beautiful ocean view rooms, large pool areas and outdoor spaces and a beach area and seating for those that want the option to be on the beach. You’ll enjoy more of the adult friendly accommodations in this Waikoloa resort property.

Check out the availability and prices here

Kohala Suites by Hilton Grand Vacations

Next to the gold course with shuttle service around Waikoloa and nice amenities and access to the Hilton Waikola resort facilities.

Check out the availability and prices here

Check out all these top review sites in the Waikoloa beach resorts through Booking.com here with current prices, availability and booking calendar.

19. Visit Waikoloa Village

Further inland is the cooler subdivision at Waikoloa Village with shopping center, golf and other condo and housing developments that are affordable for those on a budget. There’s also easier access to outdoor adventure, visits to Waimea and Wapio and other areas in the upland areas to explore.

20. Explore historic and cultural sites around Kohala area

Just a short drive from Waikoloa you can visit so many amazing historical sites like the Pu’ukohola Heiaui, Petroglyphs of Puako, Lapakahi State park and even Kamehameha’s birth place and the statue at kapaau. This is a fantastic way to explore and enjoy all these cultural treasures in the area.

Check out my post on visiting the Kohala Region here for more images and inspiration.

Weather and best time to visit Waikoloa Village in Hawaii

The best time to visit Waikoloa Village, Hawaii, is during the dry season, which generally spans from late fall to early spring. This period, from November to April, offers more consistent sunshine and lower chances of rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach-related pursuits.

Here’s a breakdown of the weather and what to expect during different seasons:

Fall (November – December): Fall is a great time to visit Waikoloa Village. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C). It’s an excellent time for golfing, exploring, and enjoying the area’s natural beauty.

Winter (January – March): Winter continues to offer pleasant temperatures and sunny days. It’s a popular time for tourists, so expect more crowds. Be sure to book accommodations and activities in advance.

Spring (April – May): Spring marks the transition to warmer temperatures. It’s a quieter time for visitors, making it easier to find deals on accommodations and activities. The average temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C).

Summer (June – October): Summer is Waikoloa Village’s wetter season, with higher chances of rain and occasional showers. However, rain usually comes in short bursts, and the area remains warm. If you don’t mind brief rain showers, you can still enjoy your visit during this time.

Overall, Waikoloa Village offers a pleasant climate year-round. The dry season is the best time for outdoor adventures, beach outings, and exploring the island’s attractions. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest tourist season, so plan accordingly. If you prefer a quieter experience and don’t mind a few rain showers, the off-season can be a more budget-friendly option.

10 Other inside tips and advice visiting Waikoloa on the Big island

Absolutely, here are some inside tips and advice for your visit to Waikoloa on the Big Island of Hawaii:

1. Best Time to Visit: The Big Island has pleasant weather year-round, but consider visiting during the dry season (April to October) for the best beach days and outdoor adventures.

2. Beach Bliss: Waikoloa offers beautiful beaches, like Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay). Don’t forget your snorkel gear; the underwater world is breathtaking.

3. Explore Puako Petroglyph Park: Discover ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs etched into the lava rock. It’s a unique historical site and excellent for photography.

4. Hawaiian Luaus: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy delicious island cuisine.

5. Stargazing at Mauna Kea: If you’re into astronomy, Mauna Kea is one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. Join an organized tour to witness the incredible night sky.

6. Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the local dishes like poke (raw fish salad) and loco moco (rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy). These flavors are a true taste of Hawaii.

7. Coffee Plantations: The Big Island is famous for its Kona coffee. Take a tour of a coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy some of the world’s finest brews.

8. Respect the Land: Hawaii’s natural beauty is its greatest asset. Be respectful of the environment and follow “Leave No Trace” principles when exploring the outdoors.

9. Lava Viewing: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a lava boat tour to witness the awe-inspiring lava flow into the ocean. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

10. Water Activities: Waikoloa offers various water sports, from snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and paddleboarding. These activities will make your outdoor adventure-loving heart sing.

Opinion: Waikoloa is a tropical paradise where you can enjoy the best of Hawaii’s natural beauty and culture. It’s an excellent location to capture the beauty of the Big Island through your photography and explore the unique flavors of Hawaiian cuisine for your travel blog. The mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences will undoubtedly provide rich content for your readers. Have a fantastic time on the Big Island!

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Conclusion of the top 20 things to do around Waikoloa Village

In conclusion, Waikoloa Village is a true tropical paradise that offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and fun. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil moments by the ocean, this destination has something for everyone. From exploring ancient Hawaiian culture to soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, you’ll never run out of things to do in Waikoloa Village. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable island experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

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