Hawaii’s Big Island is filled with supremely satisfying sights, but none is quite equal to Kailua Kona. Nestled at the bottom of Hualalai volcano and tucked along the picturesque shoreline of Kailua Bay, this stretch of vacationing heaven is just what you need to replenish your energy and recharge your soul.

Not to be confused with Kailua of Oahu, Kailua Kona is an attractive locale sometimes referred to only as Kona. If you can keep all of that straight (it’s really not too hard), you’ll be free to discover everything offered here, and we promise it’ll be worth it.

Start out by exploring the main street, Ali’i Drive, where you’ll get a taste for the history of this region as a playground for kings and later on, a site for sea fishing and missionary work. Modern conveniences now add to the flavor, so be assured that you’ll see plenty of grocery stores, shopping opportunities, and restaurants. The Ali’i Gardens Marketplace is the location for all the Hawaiian arts and crafts, Kona coffee, and fresh produce that you’ll want to sample while you’re here, so make some time to soak it all in.

Kailua Pier is a must-see in order to gain a true perspective of your surroundings. Watch the sunset from your perch on the seawall, or charter a boat for some angling in what are supposedly some of the best game-fishing waters around. In fact, every summer this is the site of the International Billfish Competition, so grab a rod and reel if this is your kind of thing.

From the pier, you might have caught a glimpse of an interesting landmark; further investigation will reveal to you that this is King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, a place that is available for a closer look. Head over there to see the well-restored religious site that now exists on the grounds of the hotel and is open to the public on a daily basis. Historical walking tours will reveal to you the secrets of this worshipping site and explain the significance of the tall statues. Luaus are also held nearby, so make this the spot to uncover Hawaii’s authentic past.

If you’d like a calm beach to enjoy some leisurely activities upon, look no further than Kamakahonu Beach right next door. Go for a swim, rent some snorkel gear, or guide a canoe down the sandy slope and into the waves for an adventurous tour of the shoreline. Shallow waters and soft sand make for great conditions for all sorts of activities, but don’t be surprised if you end up sitting back for a long-overdue snooze in the sun. Bring the sunscreen and a towel, and the rest will take care of itself.

If your rest amps you up for a bit more historical sightseeing, then you’ll want to check out Hulihe’s Palace just down the road. Built in 1838 by Governor John Kuakini, this long-ago vacation home now operates as a museum. The interior has been restored to its original state, and several artifacts are under display. Free monthly concerts are also held here, so it’s really quite the place to continue to educate yourself about Hawaii while having fun as well.

To round out what is looking to be a distinctive vacation, be sure to plant yourself in the kind of lodgings that will increase your pleasure factor rather than bring it down. You might not realize it, but this cozy area of the Big Island is packed with vacation rentals that range from luxury condos to romantic, beach side villas. Choosing a rental property over a hotel usually means that you’ll have access to a greater supply of amenities and probably a bit more privacy, so it’s worth looking into.

Whatever you decide to do, you’ll surely be enjoying yourself in Kailua Kona. Improve your knowledge of Hawaiian history, stroll the beach with some delicious shaved ice in hand, or reconnect with that special someone as you recline on your lanai while the sun goes down. This is the kind of escape you’ve probably been dreaming about, so get the planning process started today.

Go online to check out all the Kailua Kona Vacation Rental options, and prepare to say goodbye to the mainland for a few precious, rejuvenating days.