Summer in Kona, without the fuss
The Big Island in summer runs warm, slow, and wide open. Long days, calm water, and everything worth doing within a short drive of your room. Book a summer stay and save up to 30%.
➔ See Summer Offers.
Why summer in Kona
Kona’s west side sits in the rain shadow of Hualālai and Mauna Loa, which means summer here is drier and sunnier than most of the state. Trade winds keep afternoons from getting heavy. The ocean settles into its calmest stretch of the year, and the island’s calendar fills with the kind of events locals actually show up for.
A few things we like about this season:
- Glassy mornings on the Kona coast. Best snorkeling window of the year.
- The Queen Lili’uokalani Canoe Race over Labor Day weekend. Largest long-distance outrigger race in the world, right out our front door.
- Warm evenings that make beach sunsets feel like the main event.
- Lower crowds at the trailheads and coffee farms than you’ll find in winter.
Things to do
You don’t need a packed itinerary here. Pick two or three things and leave room for the rest to happen.
Beaches and sunsets. Magic Sands for a quick swim after check-in. Kua Bay when you want that postcard water. Hāpuna up north if you’re making a day of it. For sunset, walk down to the Kailua Pier or post up at Huggo’s on the Rocks.
Hikes and the volcano. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is about two hours south and worth the drive, especially now that Halema’uma’u has been active again. Closer to home, the Captain Cook Monument trail drops you into one of the best snorkel spots on the island.
Coffee country. The Kona Coffee Belt starts fifteen minutes uphill. Small farms, working mills, and tastings that are actually about the coffee. Greenwell and Hula Daddy are both worth the morning.
Your summer base camp
Pacific 19 sits in the heart of Kailua-Kona, walking distance to the pier, the seawall, and the restaurants worth eating at. Rooms are quiet and design-forward. Local photography on the walls, good linens, a curated macro bar so you can settle in without a grocery run.
Everything you need to rest well. Nothing you don’t.
Summer stays are up to 30% off when you book direct. Rates vary by date and room type.
“They do a great job here. I’ve stayed several times, usually for a week each, so I’ve experienced multiple rooms. First, thank you so much for being pet friendly. It’s a huge reason I stay in addition to the great price and location.”
A few travel notes
Kona International (KOA) is a ten-minute drive from the hotel. Rental cars book up fast in summer, so reserve early. If you’re flying inter-island from Honolulu, Maui, or Kauai, plan for the short hop and you’re here before lunch.
Pack lighter than you think. Reef-safe sunscreen is required by Hawai’i state law. Water shoes help on the rocky entries at places like Kahalu’u and Two Step. A light layer for upcountry nights if you’re heading to the volcano or Mauna Kea.
Good summers start with a good base. Stay here, go beyond.
Kona Restaurant guide
Where to eat in Kona
From local favorites to hidden gems, this guide will help you navigate Kona's culinary scene.
Brewed at 19°44'14"N
P19 Cafe
Before heading out, stop by our on-site cafe for a caffeine boost or a quick bite on-the-go. Or stick around and enjoy a peaceful morning on our beautiful property. You are on vacation, after all.
This season at Pacific 19
P19 Offers
Upgrade your experience with one of our package offers. We’ve handpicked our favorite local experiences, from the best outfitters on the island, so you can plan less and enjoy more.