Kailua-Kona, also known simply as Kona, has a rich history. Nestled at the bottom of the Hualalai Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, this area was considered the premier place to live in ancient times due to the excellent weather and water. British explorer Captain James Cook first spotted Hawaii off the coast of Kailua-Kona. Kona is also where King Kamehameha the Great died and where the ancient kapu (taboo) system was discarded.

Kona is considered by many to be the center of the visitor industry on the Big Island. The main street, Alii Drive, runs along the oceanfront through the heart of the city from Kailua Pier to the Kuamoo Battlefield, where many lives were lost in fighting over the value of the kapu system. The charming town mixes numerous historical sites with modern tourist attractions, restaurants, shops and hotels. The heartbeat of Kona is the village of Kailua where stores and restaurants on Alii Drive weave among impressive historical landmarks. Kona is home to the Kona Coast's world-famous Kona coffee.

Today, Kona, meaning leeward in Hawaiian and stretches along the isle's west side, is famous for sportfishing, snorkeling, sunsets, coffee and is home to the annual Ironman Triathlon. The Ironman athletes have to run and cycle in late summer, when temperatures may still hit the thirties - and there´s black lava, reflecting the heat. Tourists have discovered the uniqueness of Kona and made it a popular destination.