The Vanillerie
Tour, Taste, And Treasure Hand-Grown Vanilla
The Vanillerie offers one of the most unique tour experiences in Kona, Hawaii., making it one of our top things to do near Kona. Perfect for all ages, you’ll discover the fascinating history of vanilla and witness the intensive process necessary to achieve the rich flavors and aromas of the world’s second most expensive spice. What starts as a vanilla orchid that needs to be hand-pollinated, it then becomes a green-colored bean which grows for 9 months until it’s ready to be harvested. Tour this small vanilla farm and learn how these green beans become the classic brown bean we all know and love. See, smell, and feel the vanilla orchids in various stages of buds, blooms, and beans in the shaded rooms. Breathe in the intoxicating smells as you tour the humidor where the vanilla beans slowly dry out; and, finally, indulge in a decadent dish of homemade vanilla bean ice cream-just one of the fruits of this labor of vanilla love.
An array of vanilla-infused artisanal foods and body products are available, as well as Kona Vanilla Beans and DIY Extract Kits, allowing you to take a piece of your experience at Vanillerie in Kona home with you. The Vanillerie Kona is 7 miles from our resort on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Other Destinations
Experiences
Island Breeze Luau
Named “Best of West Hawaii” every year since 2000, Island Breeze Lū'au is an experience you do not want to miss. Held under the stars on the shores of Kamakahonu Bay, this dramatic showcase of Hawaiian cuisine, Polynesian performances, and ancient Pacific traditions is the only lū'au which features the arrival of the Royal Court aboard an outrigger canoe. This family-friendly evening of delicious food and authentic Polynesian entertainment includes hula lessons, arts and crafts, live music, and a spectacular show. Island Breeze Lū'au is truly the most exciting way to experience the splendor and beauty of Polynesian Culture.
Learn More
Daybeds & Cabanas
Relax and rejuvenate in your own plush daybed or shaded cabana right on the shores of Kamakahonu Bay. Breathe in the salty sea air and let the swaying palms and tropical breezes lull you into a state of island tranquility. Enjoy personalized service of craft cocktails and savory bites from our Billfish Poolside Bar & Grille and make the most of your days in the sun at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resort.
Learn More
Water Sports
When it comes to water adventures, Kona Boys and its decades of experience will provide you with the equipment, expertise, and aloha spirit to make your ocean activities safe and memorable. The Kona Boys Beach Shack is conveniently located on the sand in front of our resort, delivering you effortless access to tours, lessons, gear, and even fun stories of our island’s fascinating history from their passionate crew.
Learn More
Atlantis Submarine
An unforgettable journey awaits, 100 feet below the sea, aboard the Atlantis. The Atlantis Submarine Dive is one of the most popular tours in Kona, and with good reason. You’ll witness the most captivating scenery, extraordinary habitats, and hidden treasures of Hawaii as you venture into the deep. Marine mysteries come to life in the underwater paradise of the Pacific on this exciting Kona tour below the blue. Peer through the portholes of this state-of-the-art 48-passenger submarine and behold the colorful reef, schools of vividly hued tropical reef fish, and more, as you explore the Hawaii you may have never seen before.
Learn More
UFO Parasailing
Discover Hawaii from a unique perspective when you take to the skies! Peacefully glide 1200 feet above the stunning Kona coastline and soak in the awe-inspiring, bird’s eye views of the Island of Hawaii. Delight in unparalleled panoramic views from an exhilarating vantage point; then end your flight with a quick dip in the refreshing waters of the Pacific. You’ll be set to soar into a whole different realm right from the Kailua-Kona Pier, steps from our beach resort.
Learn More