One Hawaiian word everyone seems to know is Kona, probably because it's synonymous with great coffee and big fish—both of which are found in abundance along this 70 miles long stretch of black lava-covered coast.

Kona means "leeward side" in Hawaiian- and that means full-on summer sun every day of the year. It's an affordable vacation spot. Here are just a few of the area's attractions.
Ellison S. Onizuka Space Center
This small museum has a real moon rock and memorabilia in honor of Big Island-born astronaut Ellison Onizuka, who died in the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster.
Hulihee Palace
The largest, most elegant residence on the island when it was erected, Hulihee (it means "turn and flee") was the gracious summer home of Hawaii's royalty.
Kona Brewing Co.
This microbrewery is the first of its kind on the Big Island. Spoon and Pops, a father and son duo from Oregon, brought their brewing talents here and produce about 25 barrel (about 775 gallons) per year.
Kona Pier
Outside of Honokohau Harbor, this is action central for water adventures. Fishing charters, snorkel cruises, and party boats all come and go here.
Whale Watching
Take an ocean safari and bag a look at one of the seven species known to frequent Hawaii waters. The animals range in size from the 50-ton Sperm Whales to smaller Pygmy Killer and False Killer Whales. Kona whale watching is great all year long because the water is usually calm, and the ocean gets very deep right offshore, so access to the whales may take only minutes.
Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park
The park encompasses nearly 218,000 acres and ranges from sea level to the summit of the earth's most massive volcano, Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, offers scientists insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unique hiking and camping opportunities.
Ironman Triathlon
It started as a dare 20 years ago and today the challenge attracts thousands who earn their spot on the starting line through qualifiers. The 1,500 athletes who qualify must endure a 2.4 mile ocean swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon.The course winds along the lava fields of the Kohala Coast.