Kohala
Everything you need to know about visting Kohala.
Feature Photo: HTA Tor Johnson
- Wamia is known as paniolo (hawaiian cowboy) country
- The parker ranch in Waimea is the largest privately owned cattle ranch in the united states
- Waikoloa Village covers 35000 acres
- Waikoloa Village hosts the Big Island Film Festival
- The Hilton at the Waikoloa Village has the world’s first rotating barrel ride named FishPipe
- Mauna Kea, the dormant volcano is just 30 miles from Waikoloa Village
The Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii is a stunning and luxurious destination that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This picturesque region is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, making it a popular vacation spot for travelers seeking sun, sand, and sea.
If you’re planning a trip to the Kohala Coast and are looking for the ultimate in luxury accommodations, you’re in luck. This region is home to a number of world-class hotels and resorts, each offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and style.
History:
The Kohala Coast was first settled by ancient Hawaiians over 1,000 years ago, who recognized the region’s natural beauty and fertile lands. These early settlers built complex irrigation systems to cultivate crops, including taro, sweet potatoes, and other staple foods. They also established a thriving fishing industry, using traditional methods to catch a wide variety of fish and shellfish.
Hot List
We are so excited to share content from our valued partners that we put them at the top of the page, hence the Hot List!
Best Restaurants in Kohala
Best Things to Do Near the Kohala Coast
Big Island's Annual Events
JANUARY: Check out the latest films, relevant exhibits, and special events highlighting the ocean experience, ocean environment, island culture, inspirational stories, and epic adventures at the annual Waimea Ocean Film Festival. View the latest surf films at the Kona Annual Surf Film Festival and pay homage to the state’s official sport.
FEBRUARY: Japan isn’t the only place known for its cherry blossom trees. Visit the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival to see these famous flowers in full bloom.
MARCH: Celebrate Hawaii’s favorite music and instrument at Great Waikoloa Ukulele Festival with artists from all around the world.
APRIL: Want to learn more about Hawaiian culture? Explore and honor native traditions, language, and arts at the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo. For chocolate lovers, the Big Island Chocolate Festival features the best chocolatiers on the island with tastings and celebrations.
MAY: The official symbol of Aloha, the Lei welcomes guests to the islands and represents love, friendship, and celebration. See some of the best Lei sewers at the May Day Lei Day Festival.
JUNE: A state-wide celebration, the Kamehameha Festival celebrates the Hawaiian King who united all the islands under one reign. Expect parades, shows, and celebrations surrounding King Kamehameha Day.
JULY: At the annual Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race witness 10,000 rubber ducks compete for a chance to be crowned fasted duckie on island. Before the race, participate in the official Big Island watermelon and Shave Ice Eating competitions. At the annual Experience Volcano Festival, celebrate the culture, people, and traditions of the Volcano Area.
AUGUST: At the annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival bartenders from around the world compete for the title of “World’s Best Mai Tai.” This all-day event features a battle of the BBQ cook-off, a marketplace for local goods, live music, and the Mai Tai Mix-Off.
SEPTEMBER: Celebrate Hawaii’s most famous piece of clothing, the Aloha Shirt at the Aloha Shirt Festival. Expect vintage Aloha Wear exhibits, second-hand collections, and see the best styles from contemporary designers.
OCTOBER: Dive into the ways of traditional sea navigation at the Hilo Wayfinding Festival where you can learn wayfinding and navigation skills, knot tying, see planetarium shows, cultural exhibits, documentaries, and speakers.
NOVEMBER: Witness some of the best hula dancing in the world at the Moku O Keawe International Hula Festival.
DECEMBER: Celebrate the holidays at the Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade. In addition to festive and expertly decorated floats, there are plenty of holiday-themed activities for kids and adults.
