Information
Landmark: Kailua PierCity: Kailua Kona
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America
Kailua Pier, Kailua Kona, USA Hawaii, North America
Overview
Kailua Pier sits at the northern tip of Ali‘i Drive in downtown Kailua-Kona, right on Hawaii’s Big Island, where the air smells faintly of salt and sunscreen.It opens onto the ocean, where fishing boats bob in the harbor and history, culture, and leisure meet in a single, scenic spot.For centuries, Kailua Pier has stood at the heart of Hawaiian culture and history, once alive with the creak of wooden boats, the chatter of traders, and the salty scent of fresh-caught fish.The pier once stood at the heart of Hawaiian royalty’s daily life and the local economy, with Kamakahonu-King Kamehameha I’s later-year royal compound-just steps away, and a bronze statue nearby paying tribute to the ruler who united the islands.Around Kailua Pier, the calm, glassy water is perfect for swimming or floating with a snorkel, while anglers-locals and visitors alike-cast for everything from papio to yellowfin.Rent a kayak or paddleboard just steps away, and you can glide across the bay in minutes.Every October, the pier bursts with energy as athletes dive in for the start, and later cross the finish, of the world‑famous Ironman World Championship; on quieter days, you might spot a lone swimmer slicing through the morning light.Boat tours launch here too, offering nighttime dives with manta rays, seasonal whale watching from December to April, playful dolphin encounters, and deep‑sea fishing for marlin or ahi.Next door, Kamakahonu Beach’s soft sand and shallow water make it a go‑to for families and beginner snorkelers.Just beyond, history lingers at Kamakahonu, the restored final home of King Kamehameha I, and at Ahu‘ena Heiau, a sacred temple to Lono visible from shore.Parking’s limited, but public lots and meters are close by.Get there early-parking disappears fast when the crowds roll in.Restrooms and showers are open to everyone, and just steps away you’ll find shops renting snorkel gear, kayaks, and all the beach basics.Hungry?Walk to a café for a poke bowl or fresh-caught mahi mahi.The pier buzzes with events year-round: October’s Ironman World Championship draws athletes from around the world, the King Kamehameha Day Parade fills the air with drums and hula, and sport fishing boats line up for tournaments.In the water, colorful reef fish dart past, sea turtles glide by, spinner dolphins leap in the bay, and humpback whales visit each winter.Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water, towels, and snorkeling gear, and book tours ahead if you’re visiting in high season.Respect sacred sites like Ahu‘ena Heiau-look, but don’t climb.Nearby, stroll Ali‘i Drive’s shops and galleries, tour the historic Hulihe‘e Palace, or relax at the quiet beaches of Old Kona Airport Park.Kailua Pier blends history, culture, and ocean adventure in one unforgettable place.You can stroll through its storied past, paddle across the glassy water, or head out to sea for a thrill-whatever you choose, Kailua Pier belongs on every Big Island itinerary.
