Hawaii, USA
Kona International Airport (KOA) at Keāhole is the main airport for the west side of the Big Island. Its open-air design offers an immediate taste of Hawaii upon arrival. Major U.S. Carriers like Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines all serve KOA. Direct flights are available from major West Coast U.S. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and San Diego. Some direct flights also operate from East Coast hubs like Chicago, Dallas, and Denver.
Flight prices are highest during peak tourist seasons: mid-December to April, and June to August. You often find cheaper flights during shoulder seasons (May, September, and early December). Flight frequency may decrease slightly in the low season, but service remains robust enough for travelers. Book flights well in advance for the best rates, especially for peak travel periods. Consider resources like Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.
Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) is an open-air airport. Facilities include rental car counters, food concessions, gift shops, ATMs, and baggage claim areas. The airport is relatively small and easy to navigate compared to larger international hubs.
Taxis are available outside baggage claim. Uber and Lyft services also operate from KOA. Fares to Kailua-Kona town center typically range from $30-$50, depending on traffic and exact destination.
Some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services to and from KOA. Check with your accommodation in advance to see if this service is available and to arrange pickup.
Kailua-Kona functions as a tender port for cruise ships. Passengers are ferried from their ship to Kailua Pier in the heart of town via smaller tender boats. This allows direct access to the downtown area.
No inter-island ferry services to the Big Island for general passenger transport. Inter-island travel is completed by air.
U.S. Immigration procedures for cruise passengers typically occur at the first U.S. Port of entry (often Honolulu) before arriving in Kona. From Kailua Pier, taxis, ride-share, and local bus stops are within walking distance.
There are no specific exit fees or taxes for departing from Kona International Airport (KOA) that you pay separately; airport taxes are typically included in your airfare. For domestic flights, arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure. For inter-island flights, arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before departure. TSA PreCheck is available at KOA. Lines can be long during peak travel times, so allow extra time for security screening.
KOA has limited dining options and gift shops past the security checkpoint. Before security, you will find more choices for food and last-minute souvenirs. Always check your flight status before heading to the airport. Traffic conditions on the Big Island can be unpredictable, so plan your drive to KOA with ample buffer time.
Plan your route to KOA with ample time for traffic and the agricultural inspection. Arrive earlier if you have special needs or larger groups.
TSA PreCheck is available at KOA, often expediting the security screening process. Consider enrolling if you travel frequently. Clear is also available for members for even quicker identity verification.
Always check your flight status before heading to the airport. Traffic conditions on the Big Island can be unpredictable, so plan your drive to KOA with ample buffer time.
