Information
Landmark: Ali'i DriveCity: 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
- Parking: Limited in busy areas; use public lots or street parking near attractions.
- Timing: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of sacred sites and marine life.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Bring water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat.
- 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.