Let us discover some of the best free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii which includes Waikoloa and Waimea Town.
Kohala in the Big Island of Hawaii includes North Kohala and South Kohala. North Kohala is the birthplace of King Kamehameha I while South Kohala is more touristic where most of the resorts are located.
Kohala is filled with natural beauty including dramatic cliffs, lush green pastures and rainforests, breathtaking coastal views, and magnificent sunset by the beach. It is also home to the renowed Mauna Kea Volcano which houses a observatory atop the mountain.
Here are the best Free Things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii, Waikoloa and Waimea.
Free Things to do in Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa , Big Island Hawaii
Hapuna Beach State Park is one of the best free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii.
Visit Hapuna Beach and enjoy the stretch of white sand beach while laying down to get a tan. Dip in the water to cool down and enjoy yourself a nice cold drink to freshen up.
Hapuna Beach State Park is one of the best beaches in Hawaii ideally located in the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. It is a popular beach destination known for its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters which stretches about half a mile.
It offers a beautiful setting for relaxation and recreational activities. Wether you are looking for beautiful scenery or just soak up the sun, Hapuna Beach in Kohala coast is definitely worth the visit.
2. Visit Queens Marketplace and Kings Shops in Waikoloa Hawaii (Kohala Big Island Hawaii )
Another free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii is a stroll to Queens Marketplace and Kings shops.
Enjoy outdoor shopping mall while checking out boutique shops that have unique styles and products just for you. At the Queens Marketplace there is a food court and if you see a long line around 5pm at Sensei Restaurant, it is because sushi is 50% off for their early bird special.
Queens or Kings Shops is a premiere shopping destination in Waikoloa offering a variety of boutique stores, restaurants, services and high end shopping. It also hosts live music performances and cultural activities .
There is also a nice grocery store Island Gourmet where visitors can find essential items.
3. Anaeho'omalu Beach (A-bay ) Waikoloa Hawaii
Anaehoomalu beach otherwise known as A bay is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike . This public beach is another cheap or free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii.
A gorgeous stretch of beach where you can dip in the water, great for snorkeling , swimming, sunbathing and picnicking.
The best part is that it is hidden where you can have your own privacy on the beach surrounded by lush Kiawe trees.
It is situated within the Waikoloa Beach Resort area known for its crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand, palm trees and calm waters. The beach also offers various activities like kayaking, sunset sail or paddle boarding.
4. Watch dolphins splash and perform a show ( Dolphin Quest )
Visit Hilton Waikoloa Village and walk towards Dolphin lagoon. Watch as the dolphins show off their skills. Here you will find trained dolphins as their trainers play with them.
If you would like to get up close and learn more about these beautiful creatures, Dolphin Quest provides programs where participants interact with the dolphins and learn more about their behavior and conservation.
5. Visit Hawi Town and Pololu Valley Lookout (Kohala Big Island Hawaii )
Hawi Town is known for its charming, laid-back and relaxed atmosphere rich in Hawaiian and cultural history. Aside from its historical significance, it is home to breathtaking rugged coastlines, beautiful scenery and dramatic cliffs.
You can explore and enjoy a relaxing walk of Hawi’s quaint art galleries, stores, and local eateries.
Also free things to do in Kohala, Big Island Hawaii is a short drive from Hawi where you reach Pololu Valley. It offers expansive views of the lush tropical valley , cliffs and the ocean from the lookout. There is a steep hike down to the valley floor where a spectacular black sand beach awaits.
The waters can be rough and there is no lifeguard , so be extra careful when you decide to swim.
6. Visit Waimea, Kamuela
Waimea Town is known for its beautiful rolling hills, lush panoramic green pastures and majestic view of Mauna Kea mountain. With higher elevation of 2670 ft above sea lea level , it offers cooler and misty climate.
As you visit Waimea town, you will feel a distinctive upcountry feel. Its surrounded with lots of cattle because its home to Parker Ranch.
Additionally, Waimea is the gateway to Mauna Kea Observatory , located atop Mauna Kea Mountain which is known for its top of the line telescope in the world. A wonderful cheap and free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii.
7. Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival
If you happen to visit Waimea during February, stop by to see the Cherry Blossom Festival. You will get to see multi-cultural performing arts, along with food booths and local crafts.
8. Whale Watching, Kohala Coast
An excellent free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii. Drive along the Kohala Coast and watch Humpback whales jump and show off just for you. Humpback whales typically migrate to Hawaii between November and May. The Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places to spot humpback whales . It offers scenic lookouts, elevated areas as well as beach parks for the best views of watching whales. It is also one of the best places to enjoy a relaxing sunset in the Big Island.
9. Rubber Duckie Race on July 4th and Fireworks show
Visit King’s shops during July 4th and participate in the rubber Duckie race to help benefit United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawaii. Sponsor a duck but get a chance to win a prize such as free hotel rooms, free flights, or dinner at one of the prized restaurants on the island.
Also enjoy a Fourth of July fireworks display at Queens Market Place .
10. Watch Ironman Triathlon
When visiting in October, watch as the triathletes bike a grueling 112 mile race through Kohala. They start and end the traithlon in Kailua-Kona swimming and finish the race with a marathon.
The Ironman World Championship is one of the most prestigious and endurance events in the world where athletes races for 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon.
Wether you would like to enjoy nature, immersing yourself with unique and captivating experiences, this guide on free things to do in Kohala Big Island Hawaii hope help you in in any way.
