Discover Kona International Airport: Gateway to the Big Island

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

   • Kona International Airport and its significance

2. About the Big Island of Hawaii

   • Official name and two major airports

3. Location and Transportation

   • Kona Airport vs Hilo Airport
   • Distance and travel time between the two airports
   • Kona Airport's official name and location
   • Direct trans-pacific flights to Kona

4. Arrival Experience at Kona Airport

   • Arrival time and first impressions
   • Outdoor airport terminal and facilities
   • Restroom availability and operating hours

5. Immigration and Customs

   • Domestic vs international arrivals
   • Separate section for direct flights from Japan
   • Baggage claim for domestic arrivals

6. Exiting the Secured Area

   • Restrooms for changing and freshening up
   • Doors leading to baggage claim area
   • Information counter at the airport

7. Ground Transportation Options

   • Proximity to Kailua, North Kona, South Kohala, and Waikoloa
   • Share ride shuttle and prearranged rides
   • Public transportation options
   • Taxi services and fare information
   • Car rental options and recommended 4x4 vehicles

8. Conclusion

   • Summary of Kona International Airport experience
   • Additional resources for more information

📢 Kona International Airport: A Gateway to the Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii, officially known as the Island of Hawaii or simply Hawaii, is a popular destination for travelers seeking tropical bliss and natural beauty. Before embarking on your Hawaiian adventure, you'll likely arrive at Kona International Airport (KOA), the major airport serving the Big Island. In this travel guide, we'll take you through our own experience at Kona Airport and provide you with useful tips and information for navigating this unique airport experience.

1. Introduction

Kona International Airport holds a special place among the Hawaiian Islands as the only major airport that still uses a mobile ramp to board and deplane passengers. As we dive deeper, let's first establish some key facts about the Big Island of Hawaii and its two major airports.

2. About the Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island, renowned for its diverse landscapes and volcanic wonders, is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It is home to two major airports: Kona Airport and Hilo Airport. While Kona Airport takes the lead in terms of passenger volume, both airports play a significant role in connecting travelers to this tropical paradise.

3. Location and Transportation

Kona Airport, officially known as Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), is located in the town of Keahole on the west side of the Big Island. In contrast, Hilo Airport is situated on the east side. Despite being approximately 80 miles apart, the journey between the two airports takes around one and a half to two hours by car. Kona Airport serves as the primary gateway for trans-pacific flights from cities on the West Coast of the United States, Vancouver in Canada, and Tokyo in Japan.

4. Arrival Experience at Kona Airport

Upon arriving at Kona Airport, we were greeted by the balmy Hawaiian air, permeated with the scent of pikake flowers. The airport's outdoor terminal, known as Terminal One, features a spacious courtyard with facilities such as restrooms, a restaurant, and shops. It's important to note that most of the shops and the restaurant close by 10:30 p.m. For domestic arrivals, there is no immigration or customs process, but if you're arriving from Japan, a separate section in Terminal One handles those formalities.

5. Exiting the Secured Area

After passing through Terminal One's gate, we proceeded towards the left side, walking through the doors that led to the baggage claim area. Before reaching the baggage claim, there is an information counter, available from 7:45 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Despite its relatively small size, Kona Airport's open-air arrival area provides a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

6. Ground Transportation Options

Once we collected our luggage, we followed the signs for ground transportation, which conveniently led us right in front of the area where various transportation options were available. If you prefer share ride shuttles or prearranged rides, companies like Global Rider, Gold Coast Town Car Service, Hawaii Executive Transportation, and Speedi Shuttle offer convenient services that can be booked online or at their counters in the airport. Public transportation is limited, with the Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency operating a bus service between the airport and Kailua Kona.

7. Taxi services and Car Rentals

For those who prefer taxis, the taxi stand is located on the left side of the curbside. Taxis operate under independent companies, servicing specific areas without crossing boundaries. It's advisable to inquire about the fare before entering the taxi. Car rental is a popular choice for most visitors due to the island's vast attractions and the flexibility it offers. Rental car companies have their centers located away from the airport, accessible by shuttle services dedicated to each company.

8. Conclusion

The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport provides a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers arriving on the enchanting Big Island of Hawaii. Its open-air terminal and convenient ground transportation options make it an excellent starting point for exploring the island's natural wonders. So pack your bags, soak up the Hawaiian vibes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise.

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Highlights:

• Kona International Airport: The only major airport in Hawaii still using mobile ramp boarding.
• The Big Island of Hawaii: Diverse landscapes, volcanoes, and two major airports - Kona and Hilo.
• Kona and Hilo Airports: Located 80 miles apart, serving as gateways to different sides of the Big Island.
• Arrival Experience: Outdoor airport terminal, restrooms, and facilities at Terminal One.
• Ground Transportation: Share ride shuttles, public transportation, taxis, and rental cars available.
• Car Rental: Recommended for exploring the island's attractions and flexibility.
• Kona Airport's Convenience: Proximity to Kailua, North Kona, South Kohala, and Waikoloa.
• Unique Kona Airport Features: Open-air arrival area and small, efficient facilities.
• Happy Travels: Final reminder to visit hipfig.com or subscribe to the Hipfig Travel Channel for more information.