Kona: Cruise Ship Beach Excursion with Tastings

Kona: Cruise Ship Beach Excursion with Tastings — An Authentic Slice of Hawaii

If you’re visiting Kona and want a taste of the island’s natural beauty, history, and flavors rolled into one relaxed outing, this 5-hour cruise ship beach excursion might be just what you’re looking for. Starting from Kailua Pier, this tour takes you along the scenic Kohala Coast, past volcanic lava fields, to the soft sands of Hpuna Beach, with a few delicious stops along the way. The experience is guided by friendly local experts who share stories and insights, making it more than just a beach day.

What we love about this trip are two things: first, the way it balances scenic drives with time to actually enjoy the beach — no rushing here. Second, the inclusion of food tastings, especially the local macadamia nuts, which give you a genuine taste of the islands’ flavors. The only consideration is that if you’re nut-allergic, this might not be the best fit, since nuts are a highlight of the tasting stop.

This tour suits travelers who want a laid-back, informative day outdoors without straying far from Kona’s cruise port. It’s perfect for those interested in Hawaiian history, volcanic landscapes, and local snacks, all wrapped into a manageable half-day outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic coastal drive along the Kohala Coast with volcanic vistas
• Visit to Puukohol Heiau, a sacred Hawaiian temple built by King Kamehameha I
• Relaxing time at Hpuna Beach, with provided chairs, umbrellas, and ample time to swim and sunbathe
• Sampling local macadamia nuts at a popular Hawaiian processing site
• Optional stop at Kona Brewing Company for local craft beer and casual bites
• Includes entrance fees and all necessary amenities, making it a hassle-free experience

Exploring Kona’s Coastal Charm

This cruise ship excursion begins at Kailua Pier, a hub for travelers arriving on the island. As we board the bus, the anticipation builds for a mix of nature, history, and indulgence. The journey starts with a scenic drive heading north along the legendary Kohala Coast, where the landscape shifts dramatically from lush greenery to stark lava fields. It’s a reminder of the island’s volcanic roots, and the views are stunning whether you’re peering at rugged coastlines or imagining the fiery eruptions that shaped this terrain.

Visiting Puukohol Heiau — A Sacred Hawaiian Site

Our first stop is the Puukohol Heiau, a sacred temple built by King Kamehameha I in the late 1700s. We hear stories about how this site was vital in uniting the Hawaiian Islands, making it an important cultural landmark. The site’s stone walls and the surrounding landscape offer a quiet, reflective pause. It’s a real treat to see a place that played such a pivotal role in Hawaiian history, and it’s an opportunity to understand a bit more about the islands’ royal past.

Macadamia Nuts — A Taste of Local Flavor

Next, we visit the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s fascinating to watch the nuts being processed and to sample a variety of flavors — from classic salted to honey-roasted and spicy. As one reviewer puts it, “The nuts are a true taste of Hawaii, fresh and flavorful.” The gift shop offers a range of products, making it a perfect stop for souvenirs or a tasty snack for the beach.

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Hpuna Beach — Pure Beach Bliss

After the cultural stops, it’s time to unwind at Hpuna Beach State Park. Known for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, this spot is a slice of paradise. The tour includes Tommy Bahama beach chairs and an umbrella, so you can relax comfortably. We loved how the tour gives you about two hours here — plenty of time to swim, soak up the sun, or walk along the shoreline.

One traveler noted, “The chairs and umbrella made it easy to settle in, and the water was so clear I could see fish swimming below.” Be aware that you might need to carry your chair a short distance to the beach, so packing light is advisable.

Lava Fields and Scenic Drive Back

As we head back toward Kona, the landscape shifts to volcanic lava fields from Hualalai and Mauna Loa, some just 200 years old. These stark, rugged terrains are a testament to the island’s fiery origins. The drive offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the power of nature that shaped this landscape.

Optional Stop at Kona Brewing Company

If time permits, there’s an optional stop at the Kona Brewing Company. Here, you can enjoy a local craft beer or a bite in a lively, casual setting. It’s a popular choice among travelers who want to wind down with a local brew after a day of exploring.

The Practicalities — What to Expect

This tour starts at Kailua Pier, with pickup in a large shuttle van marked “Hawaii Island Time.” The itinerary is straightforward: about an hour on the bus, a quick food tasting at the macadamia nut farm, then a scenic drive, followed by two hours at Hpuna Beach, and a short drive back with an optional beer stop.

The duration is five hours, making it a perfect half-day activity, especially if you’re on a cruise ship schedule. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and guides speak English, Polish, and Spanish, adding an international touch.

The prices include entrance fees, chairs, umbrellas, and snacks. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, water, a swimsuit, towel, camera, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. The tour advises against bringing alcohol in the vehicle, and if you’re visiting Kona Brewery, you’ll be dropped off there, with a short 5-10 minute walk to the tender boats.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed day with a mix of culture, natural beauty, and local flavor. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, beach lounging, and snacking on local treats. If you’re interested in Hawaiian history or volcanic landscapes, the stops at Puukohol Heiau and the lava fields will add depth to your visit.

However, it’s less suitable for those with nut allergies or travelers seeking an activity with more adventure or snorkeling. The focus here is on scenic and cultural highlights rather than aquatic exploration.

Final Thoughts

This Kona beach excursion offers a well-rounded taste of the Big Island’s highlights in a manageable, comfortable package. The combination of beautiful scenery, cultural insight, and local food tastings provides good value for a cruise-day activity. The tour’s relaxed pace and inclusive amenities mean you can truly unwind and enjoy the moment, rather than rushing from one attraction to the next.

For those who want a glimpse of Hawaii’s volcanic origins, a touch of royal history, and a break on the beach with some tasty snacks, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially appealing for travelers looking for a low-key, authentic experience without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

To sum it up, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and flavorful taste of Kona in just a few hours, this tour makes for a memorable and worthwhile addition to your island adventures.

FAQ

Is transportation provided from the cruise ship?
The tour departs from Kailua Pier in a large shuttle van, so you’ll need to walk there from your cruise ship. The pickup point is clearly marked, and it’s only a short walk.

How long is the drive along the Kohala Coast?
The scenic drive to the stops takes about one hour each way, offering plenty of stunning views and volcanic landscapes.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the beach and other stops are included in the tour price.

What should I bring for the beach?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and water. It’s also helpful to have a change of clothes if you plan to swim.

Can I buy food or drinks at Hpuna Beach?
The tour includes a snack stop at the macadamia nut farm, but you may want to bring additional snacks or drinks if desired. Food at the beach is not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly, but keep in mind the drive duration and physical activity levels.

What if I have a nut allergy?
Since tastings feature macadamia nuts, this tour may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Whether you’re after a scenic drive, a relaxing beach afternoon, or a taste of local flavors, this Kona cruise ship excursion offers a balanced and authentic slice of Hawaiian life in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby