Exploring Kona: A Perfect Getaway with Great Friends
Last April 2024, my wife Chelsi and I set off on an unforgettable adventure to Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, with some of our closest friends, my college roommate and his girlfriend. The trip was everything we could have hoped for: beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and unforgettable moments with people who made every experience that much more special.
Sunset at the Volcano: A Chill at the Top
One of the standout experiences was driving up to the summit of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to watch the sunset. To reach the summit of Mauna Loa, we had to take a 4x4 vehicle up the steep and winding road. It wasn’t a hike, but it was an adventure in its own right! The park’s elevation stretches from sea level to a jaw-dropping 13,678 feet at the summit, which means the air gets thin and the temperature drops fast.
Along the way, we had to stop at a checkpoint halfway up for a mandatory hour-long wait, allowing us to acclimatize to the altitude. It was chilly, to say the least, definitely a surprising change from the tropical warmth of Kona. But once we reached the summit, the view was well worth it. As the sun began to set, the sky erupted into shades of orange, pink, and purple, casting a magical glow over the landscape. We were cold, we were tired, but the moment was pure magic.
The Roadside Horses and Cliffside Views
Driving around Kona, we were lucky enough to stumble upon a herd of wild horses grazing peacefully by the side of the road. The sight was so serene and unexpected, just one of those magical travel moments. We pulled over to take it all in, the horses grazing against the backdrop of the island’s rugged beauty.
Later on, we ventured to a cliffside spot known for cliff jumping. While we didn’t leap into the water ourselves, we spent some time hanging out, watching others take the plunge. The adrenaline and excitement in the air were contagious, and we enjoyed cheering on those brave enough to jump while soaking in the stunning view of the ocean below. It was one of those moments where just being there, taking in the energy of the scene, was enough to make it memorable.
Exploring Ranches, Beaches and Enjoying the Food
Beyond the adrenaline, we spent plenty of time just enjoying the beauty of Kona’s beaches and ranches. The beaches were like something out of a dream, black sand, turquoise waters, and perfect waves for swimming and snorkeling. We spent our days soaking in the sun, exploring hidden corners of the island, and relaxing at the beaches.
And of course, the food was incredible. From fresh seafood to tropical fruits, Kona offered a culinary experience that matched its natural beauty. Whether we were dining at a local restaurant by the beach or grabbing something quick from a market, each meal was a treat.
The Best Travel Partners: A Trip to Remember
One of the most rewarding parts of the trip was traveling with people who made the experience even more special. Finding good travel partners can be a challenge, it’s almost like dating in a way! But with my college roommate and his girlfriend, it felt effortless. We had so much fun together, sharing laughs, getting lost in the beauty of the island, and just enjoying each other’s company. We can’t wait to travel with them again.
Why Travel with Friends Makes All the Difference
What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the places we saw, but the people we were with. Good travel partners make all the difference. We shared every adventure together, whether it was the surreal experience of watching the sunset from the top of a volcano or hanging out by the cliffs, watching the jumpers. Traveling with great friends created lasting memories that will stick with us forever.
Take a look at the gallery below to see some of our favorite moments from Kona, wild horses on the roadside, cliffside views, breathtaking sunsets from the volcano, and the beauty of the Big Island. It was a trip we’ll always remember, and we can’t wait to make more memories like this.
