Old Kona Airport State Recreational Area

Near Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, there are several excellent dining options. On the Rocks is a casual seaside lounge offering island bites and cocktails right on the water. Another popular spot is Quinn's Almost by the Sea, known for its unpretentious bar and grill serving American seafood and Hawaiian specialties. For a more upscale experience, Jackie Rey's Kailua-Kona offers seafood specials and pupu platters in a colorful, casual setting. Magics Beach Grill provides a relaxed waterfront dining experience with contemporary Hawaiian fusion fare. Lastly, Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill is a mellow spot for poke bowls and other Hawaiian favorites.

These restaurants offer a mix of casual and fine dining experiences, each with unique offerings and atmospheres that cater to different tastes and preferences.

For accommodations near Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, several hotels offer convenient and comfortable stays. The Royal Kona Resort is a laid-back seafront resort with a pool and spa, featuring a private beach and saltwater lagoon. The Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel offers modern beachfront lodging with free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and two restaurants. Another option is the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, which provides a family-friendly environment with activities like hula lessons and a waterslide for kids. The Kona Reef Resort offers condo units with kitchen facilities, ideal for groups. Lastly, the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort provides a convenient base for exploring the Big Island, though it is a bit further from Kailua-Kona.

These hotels range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious resorts, catering to different needs and preferences.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic tables, sheltered pavilions, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Additionally, there are baseball, soccer fields, a skateboarding park, and the Kona Community Aquatic Center nearby. The Maka'eo Walking Path provides a scenic route for walking and jogging. The beach itself features interesting tide pools and keiki ponds, which are perfect for exploring marine life.

The park's facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable environment for both locals and tourists. However, it's important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming or snorkeling.

For those interested in water activities, the nearby Kona Community Aquatic Center offers additional amenities like swimming pools and aquatic classes.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area offers a range of activities for visitors. Swimming and snorkeling are popular, with the best snorkeling spots found at the north end of the beach, leading into Pawai Bay. The area is also suitable for surfing, though the rocky shoreline requires caution. Fishing is another activity enjoyed here, with the opportunity to catch various species of fish.

For those interested in exploring beyond the water, the park offers walking paths, including the Maka'eo Walking Path, which provides a scenic route through gardens and lawns. The nearby Kona Skate Park and tennis courts offer additional recreational activities.

The beach is particularly noted for its tide pools, which are filled with marine life and are a delight for both children and adults to explore.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area offers some accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. The park has wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers, and the walking paths are generally flat and easy to navigate. However, the rocky shoreline and lack of ramps into the water may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

While there are no specific wheelchair rentals available at the park, the nearby facilities like the Kona Community Aquatic Center may offer additional accessibility options. Visitors with disabilities should plan ahead and contact local resources for assistance if needed.

Parking at Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area is free and abundant, thanks to the large parking lot that was once the old airport's runway. The parking area is easily accessible from Kuakini Highway and provides ample space for visitors. The proximity of the parking to the beach makes it convenient for families and those with mobility issues. However, visitors should be aware of the park's operating hours to avoid being locked in after closing time.

The parking area is well-maintained and offers a smooth transition to the beach and other park facilities.

Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area has a rich history, having been built on the site of the old Kona Airport. The airport was operational from 1948 to 1970, serving as a major hub for tourist flights before being replaced by the Kona International Airport. After its closure, the site was used for drag racing before being converted into a park in 1976.

The park is also notable for its unique geological features, including lava tunnels and spouting horns that can be explored at low tide. The area is a protected marine sanctuary, with a 217-acre marine preserve created in 1992 to protect the diverse marine life.

Visitors can enjoy watching the sunset here, which is one of the best spots on the Big Island for this experience.

Near Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, several attractions offer additional experiences for visitors. The Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is about 2.1 miles away and provides insight into ancient Hawaiian culture and history. The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is another nearby attraction, offering scenic coastal views and historical significance.

For those interested in marine life, Pawai Bay is a fascinating spot for snorkeling and diving, known for its clear waters and diverse sea life. The Kona Community Aquatic Center and the nearby Kekuaokalani Gym offer additional recreational facilities.

The area is rich in natural beauty and historical significance, making it a great base for exploring the Big Island.