Kona is a moku (or district) and the largest town in Big Island. Its name literally translates to mean “leeward” or “dry side of the island” in Hawaiian. Kona is called as such because compared to the other places in Hawaii, it seldom rains in the area due to the mountain ranges that block the northeasterly trade winds and enjoys sunshine 300 days a year. It is internationally renowned as the home of the world famous Ironman World Championship Triathlon in Kailua-Kona every October.

Other than being popular for its sunsets, snorkeling and sportsfishing, Kona is also famous for its coffee. It is the exporter of Kona coffee, which is considered as one of the best specialty coffees in the world. Another tasty delicacy in Kona is called donkey balls. These chocolate-covered macadamia nuts have been named the number one treat in Kona for a number of years. Favored places by locals and foreigners alike to grab a bite of Kona´s local dishes include Bubba Gump´s and O´s Bistro.

Aside from being a good place to hit the beach or go on a nature hike, Kona is home to a number of historical sites that are worthy of visit. Some of these are the Honokohau Settlement and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and the Pu´uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.