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Ali'i Drive | Kailua Kona


Information

Landmark: Ali'i Drive
City: Kailua Kona
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America

Ali‘i Drive: A Comprehensive Guide

Location:
Ali‘i Drive is a scenic coastal road stretching approximately 7.5 miles through Kailua-Kona on the western coast of Hawaii's Big Island. The route begins near Kailua Pier in the north and runs south toward Keauhou Bay, serving as a hub for tourism, culture, and recreation.

Overview

Ali‘i Drive is one of the most popular and historic roads on the Big Island, offering a combination of:

  • Vibrant town life with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
  • Cultural landmarks that provide insight into Hawaiian history.
  • Breathtaking ocean views and beach access points.
  • Recreational activities including snorkeling, surfing, and sunset walks.

Key Attractions Along Ali‘i Drive

1. Kailua Pier

  • The northern starting point of Ali‘i Drive.
  • A hub for water activities like snorkeling, diving tours, and deep-sea fishing.
  • Hosts the Ironman World Championship start and finish line.

2. Hulihe‘e Palace

  • A historic royal residence built in 1838, showcasing artifacts from Hawaii’s monarchy era.
  • Now a museum managed by the Daughters of Hawaii.
  • Offers beautiful oceanfront views and insight into the lives of Hawaiian royalty.

3. Mokuaikaua Church

  • The oldest Christian church in Hawaii, established in 1820.
  • Features traditional Hawaiian architecture and missionary-era artifacts.

4. Magic Sands Beach (La‘aloa Beach Park)

  • A small, lively beach known for its soft white sand and good bodyboarding conditions.
  • The sand "disappears" during high surf seasons, revealing lava rocks beneath.

5. Kahalu‘u Beach Park

  • One of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island.
  • Home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including colorful fish and green sea turtles (honu).
  • Facilities include parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.

6. Keauhou Bay

  • The southern end of Ali‘i Drive.
  • A serene bay perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin-spotting.
  • Historically significant as the birthplace of King Kamehameha III.

Dining and Shopping

Ali‘i Drive is lined with a variety of options for dining and shopping:

  • Local Cuisine: Restaurants offering Hawaiian favorites like poke, kalua pork, and loco moco.
  • Seafood: Fresh catches served at oceanfront eateries with sunset views.
  • Coffee Shops: Sample Kona coffee at local cafés.
  • Art Galleries: Discover works by local artists, including traditional Hawaiian crafts.
  • Boutiques and Souvenir Shops: Find everything from handcrafted jewelry to Hawaiian shirts and ukuleles.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Ali‘i Drive has been a vital part of Hawaiian history:

  • Ali‘i means "royalty" in Hawaiian, and the road traces areas historically used by Hawaiian chiefs and royalty.
  • Numerous heiau (temples) and ancient archaeological sites can be found along or near the road.

Recreational Activities

1. Water Sports

  • Snorkeling: Best at Kahalu‘u Beach Park.
  • Surfing and Paddleboarding: Popular spots include Kahalu‘u Bay and Keauhou Bay.
  • Boat Tours: Departures from Kailua Pier for manta ray night dives, dolphin excursions, and whale watching.

2. Walking and Jogging

  • Ali‘i Drive’s flat terrain and oceanfront views make it ideal for leisurely walks or morning runs.

3. Sunset Viewing

  • Numerous pull-off spots and restaurants along the road offer stunning views of Hawaii’s famous sunsets.

Tips for Visiting Ali‘i Drive

  1. Parking: Limited in busy areas; use public lots or street parking near attractions.
  2. Timing: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  3. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of sacred sites and marine life.
  4. Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Bring water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat.
  5. Plan for Traffic: Ali‘i Drive can become congested during peak times.

Nearby Attractions

  • Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: A cultural site south of Keauhou, featuring ancient Hawaiian temples and royal grounds.
  • Kona Coffee Living History Farm: Learn about coffee production in Hawaii through interactive exhibits and tours.
  • Captain Cook Monument: Accessible by boat or hike, a memorial to the British explorer with excellent snorkeling nearby.

Ali‘i Drive is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying water sports, or simply soaking in the aloha spirit, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Big Island.


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