The Big Island of Hawaii is divided in half by three volcanoes, Hualalai, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa. To the east is the Hilo side which is the windward side of the island, and to the west is the Kona side which is the leeward side of the island.

Kona is famous for sportfishing, snorkeling, sunsets and coffee. It means “leeward” in Hawaiian. The northern portion of the Kona side of the Big Island is also known as the Kohala district. The weather and ocean conditions can be vastly different on each side of the island depending on the time of year and the predominant trade winds. The Big Island is large and diverse, boasting 11 of the world's 13 climate zones. Because the mountains block the northeasterly trade winds, the Kona side of the island gets very little rain and enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Check out our detailed Big Island Travel Planner with articles and resources to help you plan your next Hawaiian vacation.

Kohala Coast

Up north, the scenery on the Big Island is dominated by arid dried lava beds. Little rain and plenty of sun add to this landscape making it the spot for hotels, championship golf courses and Hawaii resorts. Starting at the Port of Kawaihae, you will find the beautiful Big Island beaches dotting the entire coastline. There are dozens of beautiful beaches throughout the Kohala Coast - many are surrounded by large resort hotels with the majestic Mauna Kea volcano as a backdrop. Some of the world's best beaches reside on the Big Island of Hawaii, including Hapuna Beach State Park and Mauna Kea Beach. The Hawaiian waters are clear, and full of corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Check out our Kona Snorkeling Guide for the best snorkeling locations. At the northern tip of the island is North Kohala. Follow the road as it winds its way up the lush green mountainside to the quaint town of Hawi and eventually to the scenic Pololu Valley. On a clear day you can see the volcano of Haleakala on the Island of Maui.