Owais Crawford
The Big Island, or the Island of Hawaii, has two main airports: the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side and the Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side. Most visitors fly into Kona International Airport due to its easy access to beaches and resorts. However, Hilo International Airport is also an option, especially if you're looking for a more laid-back and casual atmosphere. Both airports offer public transportation and car rental services, making it convenient for travellers to explore the island's various attractions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of the airport | Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole |
| Accommodates major air traffic | Yes |
| Location | Kailua-Kona, west side of the Big Island |
| Other airports | Hilo International Airport (ITO) in Hilo to the east |
| Resort experience | Yes |
| Hotels in vicinity | Yes |
| Other airports | Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oʻahu |
| Time taken to Mauna Kea Visitor Center | Over an hour |
| Nearest village | Waikoloa Village |
| Nearest resorts | Waikoloa Village, Kohala Coast, Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) and Keauhou, both in Kona |
| Nearby attractions | Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, night diving with manta rays |
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What You'll Learn
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA)
The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) is one of the two main airports on the Big Island of Hawaii, the other being the Hilo International Airport (ITO). KOA is located in Kailua-Kona on the west side of the island, serving the western region of the Big Island. The airport is named after astronaut Ellison Onizuka, who was born and raised in Kona and died in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.
The airport covers 4,204 acres (1,701 ha) of land and sits at an elevation of 47 feet (14 m) above mean sea level. It has a single runway that is 11,000 feet (3,400 m) long, making it the second-longest runway in the Hawaiian Islands after Honolulu. The runway can accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A321, A330, and Boeing 717, 737, 757, 767, 777, and 787.
The commercial passenger facility at KOA consists of three terminals. Terminal 1 includes gates 1 through 5, Terminal 2 includes gates 6 through 10, and Terminal 3 caters to smaller commuter flights. Kona International is an open-air airport, and passengers board and disembark using mobile stairs or ramps rather than jet bridges. The airport also features an outdoor restaurant.
KOA provides easy access to the beaches and resorts on the west side of the Big Island. Popular destinations near the airport include Waikoloa, known for its resorts and activities like golfing and night diving with manta rays, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the most popular attraction on the Big Island.
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Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Hilo International Airport is the smallest of Hawaii's five major airports in terms of passenger arrivals and departures. In 2008, the airport saw 1,352,808 passengers, down from 1,357,818 in 1973. Traffic at the airport peaked in 1997 with 1,669,314 people, with an almost identical number of passengers (1,667,163) passing through in 2007.
The airport was originally known as General Lyman Field. In 1968, an interim overseas terminal was built to accommodate the growing number of overseas passengers until a new terminal complex could be constructed. The new terminal was designed to accommodate the largest passenger airliner in service at the time, the Boeing 747. The first 747 landed at the airport in 1971, operated by Braniff International Airways. A new, modern terminal was completed in 1975, and a new air traffic control tower was opened in 1979 to better serve the airport and its lengthened runway.
Hilo International Airport does not have non-stop flights to North America, and most visitors to the Big Island end up flying into Kona International Airport due to its easy access to the beaches and resorts. However, some visitors choose to stay in Hilo or Volcano for a few nights to explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is the most popular attraction on the Big Island.
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Waikoloa Village resorts
The Big Island, Hawaii, is served by two airports: Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). The former is located on the west side of the island in Kailua-Kona, while the latter is situated in Hilo Town on the east side. If you're looking for easy access to the beaches and resorts, flying into Kona International Airport is your best bet.
Now, let's focus on Waikoloa Village resorts. Waikoloa is north of Kailua-Kona and is known for its luxurious resorts and hotels, including the ever-popular Waikoloa Village. Here are some details about this resort and others in the area:
Hilton Waikoloa Village
The Hilton Waikoloa Village is a well-known resort located on the Kona Coast of the Big Island. While I wasn't able to find extensive details about this specific resort, reviews mention its beautiful property and rooms, as well as its toddler-friendly environment. It seems to be a popular choice for families.
Waikoloa Beach Resort
The Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a range of free entertainment and cultural activities throughout the month. One of their highlights is the Waikoloa Lei Day Festival, a family-friendly celebration of Hawaii's lei-making traditions. This event features cultural performances, hands-on activities, and a vibrant marketplace showcasing local artisans, food, and vendors. The resort also provides free hula events and other fun activities, ensuring that guests are immersed in Hawaiian culture.
Other Waikoloa Resorts
Waikoloa is home to several other resorts, including luxury options with excellent food and swimming pools. These resorts often provide spacious rooms, fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers, and stunning views. The area is also known for its range of activities, from golfing to night diving with manta rays.
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Car rentals
Kona International Airport (KOA) is the main airport on the Big Island of Hawaii, and there are plenty of car rental options available. The airport is located in Kailua-Kona on the west side of the island.
Car Rental Companies
Several car rental companies operate out of Kona International Airport, including Thrifty, Dollar, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, Payless, Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and National.
Rental Rates and Vehicle Types
Daily rental rates at Kona International Airport start at \$34, and the lot is easy to find on the right-hand side as you approach the airport. The most popular choice for visitors to the island is the Jeep Wrangler, which is ideal for exploring the many outdoor routes and destinations that the Big Island offers, such as the Kekaha Kai State Park, just 2.6 miles from the airport.
If you're looking for a more relaxed beach vacation, any sedan model will do. For those seeking adventure, an SUV or a Jeep is a good option, and if you're travelling with a large group or family, a van rental is a great choice, accommodating up to 12 or 15 people.
Reviews
Reviews for car rental companies at Kona International Airport are mixed. Some travellers have praised the excellent customer service, friendly staff, and smooth experiences, while others have complained about issues with cleanliness, hidden charges, and uncooperative staff.
Insurance and Payment
When renting a car at Kona International Airport, it's important to note that a major credit card is typically required for the deposit. Additionally, renters and additional drivers may need to provide proof of liability insurance. At airport locations, debit cards are generally only accepted if accompanied by a ticketed return travel itinerary, and the renter's driver's license must match their current home address.
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The Big Island has two main airports: Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). Most visitors fly into Kona International Airport, thanks to its easy access to the beaches and resorts. The airport is located in Kailua-Kona on the west side of the island. If you're looking for a resort experience with ocean views, this is the best airport to fly into.
Hilo International Airport is situated in Hilo Town on the east side of the island and provides access to the eastern part of the island. The drive between Kona and Hilo takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, so it may be worth breaking up the journey with stops at attractions along the way.
Once you're on the island, a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must. The park encompasses 335,259 acres or about 523 square miles and climbs from sea level to more than 13,000 feet. It is home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, and six of Earth's climate zones. The park offers a range of activities, from wilderness adventures to short walks and scenic drives. The Kīlauea Iki lava field, the Nahuku Thurston lava tubes, and the Chain of Craters Road are all popular attractions within the park. The park is open 24 hours daily, year-round, and the Kīlauea Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit, with rangers on hand to recommend the best routes.
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Frequently asked questions
The Big Island has two main airports: Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side. Most visitors fly into Kona International Airport, as it offers easy access to the beaches and has more accommodation options. However, Hilo International Airport is a good option if you want a more relaxed, local experience.
Aside from their locations, the most significant difference is that Kona International Airport tends to have more flight options and can sometimes be cheaper to fly into. Additionally, Kona is more of a resort town, while Hilo offers a more local, hometown experience.
The drive between Kona and Hilo takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 2 hours and 40 minutes. You can rent a car, use public transportation, or join guided tours that offer transportation.
