Key Highlights
- See the charm of Kona International Airport. It is easy to spot because of the open-air design and roofs that look like tiki huts.
- The airport’s real name is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. It is named after a local hero who became an astronaut.
- Many airlines fly here. You can find big names like Hawaiian, United, and Alaska Airlines at kona airport.
- There are lots of ways to leave the airport and get to your spot on the Big Island. You can check what works best for you.
- This guide will help you know about everything at kona airport, from places to eat to services for all. It will give you a good start for your trip to Hawaii Island.
Introduction
Aloha and welcome to the guide for Kona International Airport (KOA)! This is the main airport on the west coast of the Big Island. Kona International gives you more than just a spot to land. You feel the easy and warm mood from the start with its open-air spaces and helpful staff. If you want to try snorkeling, go deep-sea fishing, or have the famous Kona coffee, it all starts here at this friendly and smooth-running airport in Hawaii.
Overview of Kona International Airport
The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole is about seven miles northwest of Kailua-Kona. This is the main airport on the west side of the island. Many people like this Kona International airport because it is easy to get around and has a special pavilion look. That look helps you get into the quiet and easygoing mood of the island right away. The Hawaii Department of Transportation runs the Kona airport, so you can expect things to go smoothly when you travel.
The full name of the airport means a lot to people in this area. It remembers a local hero and shows the deep history and culture here in Hawaii. The airport is not just a travel spot. It is about the story of Kona, its growth, and the spirit of people who inspire us all. We will talk more about how it got its name and how the Kona airport at Keahole grew over time.
History and Significance of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport
The story of kona international started in 1949 with just a small airstrip. Over the years, more and more people came to visit the Big Island. So, the airport grew too. It moved and became bigger. Now, it is the primary airport for that part of the island. The runway is special because it is set on a relatively recent lava flow, which shows how much this place is part of Hawaii.
In 1993, the Hawaii State Legislature changed the airport’s name. It became Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. They did this to honor Ellison S. Onizuka. He was from Kona and was the first Asian American from the United States to get into space. Sadly, he passed away in 1986 during the Space Shuttle Challenger accident.
To remember what he gave us, you can see the Ellison Onizuka Space Center. It is near the baggage claim area. This space center is full of things you can touch and try out, and it also has some of his personal items. It stands as a way to honor an inspiring person and it gives people a special visit while they are at the airport.
Airlines and Popular Destinations Served
Kona International Airport connects the Big Island to the world, serving interisland, domestic, and international flights. Several major airlines operate out of the Kona airport, making it a convenient hub for travelers from across the globe. You can easily find flights for your island-hopping adventures or your long-haul journey home.
Carriers like Hawaiian Airlines provide frequent interisland flights, while Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta offer numerous routes to the U.S. mainland. For international travelers, carriers such as Japan Airlines provide direct connections, linking Hawaii to Asia. This variety of airlines ensures you have plenty of options when planning your trip.
Here are some of the key airlines you will find at KOA:
| Airline | Common Destinations |
|---|---|
| Hawaiian Airlines | Interisland (Oahu, Maui, Kauai), U.S. Mainland |
| Alaska Airlines | U.S. West Coast |
| United Airlines | U.S. Mainland Hubs |
| Delta Air Lines | U.S. Mainland Hubs |
| American Airlines | U.S. Mainland Hubs |
| Air Canada | Canada (Seasonal) |
Facilities and Amenities for Travelers
Kona International may look small and old, but it has a lot to offer for a good trip. The terminal is open-air, so you can feel the warm air of Kona right when you leave the plane. From the baggage claim area to the gates, the airport has all the things you might need.
Before you go on to your next stop, you can eat a meal, pick up last-minute gifts, or just rest for a bit. Now, let’s see what the terminal has and how it can help you travel in comfort.
Terminal Layout and Accessibility Features
The Kona International terminal has an open-air pavilion style. There are no indoor jetways. To get on and off the plane, you will use portable stairs. This special design gives the airport a real island feel. You can start enjoying the nice weather as soon as you arrive.
Kona International makes it easy for people with disabilities to travel. The airlines will help with boarding if you need it. They have lifts for people who have trouble using stairs, but you should ask for this service before your flight. The terminal also has parking spots for people with disabilities, curbside areas for easy loading and unloading, and restrooms for families who need extra help.
Inside the terminal, you will find TTYs for people who have trouble hearing. If you need a porter, you can set this up ahead of time with your airline. Service dogs are welcome here, too. The Hawaii Department of Transportation and the department of transportation make sure this Kona terminal follows all rules for accessibility. Many ground transportation options also give you vehicles that are easy to use if you need help.
Dining, Shopping, and Comfort Options
While you wait for your flight at Kona Airport, there are many places to eat and shop. You can get a quick bite to eat, a full meal, or buy a last-minute souvenir. Kona Airport has got you covered. The choices here show off the local Hawaii culture. Before you leave, you get one final taste of Hawaii.
There are lei stands with fresh flowers, and gift shops that sell local crafts. If you need cash, there are ATMs. Visitor Information Program booths are there to answer any last questions you have. All these things help make travel through KOA easy and relaxed.
Here are some of the things you will find:
- Dining: You can relax and eat a meal or enjoy a drink at the airport’s restaurant and bar, Laniakea by Centerplate.
- Shopping: Shop for gifts and souvenirs at Tiare’s Gift Shop, or grab something to read at the newsstand.
- Flowers: Buy a nice, fresh lei at Cho’s Lei & Flowers if you want to take some aloha with you.
Ground Transportation and Parking
When you get to Kona Airport, it is easy to go to your hotel or resort. You can find many ground transportation options right outside the baggage claim area. It does not matter if you want a private car or a shared shuttle, the airport has a ride that works for you and your budget.
You can pick from shuttle services, taxis, car rentals, or public parking at Kona. With so many choices, you should find one that is good for you. If you plan your way from the baggage claim ahead of time, your trip will be even smoother. Now, let’s take a look at how to get around from the baggage claim area at Kona Airport.
Shuttle Services, Car Rentals, and Getting Around the Big Island
Getting around from Kona International Airport to places like Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, and Mauna Lani is simple. There are many shuttle services. SpeediShuttle is one company that can help you get a ride. You can book a shared ride or a private car. Their greeters wait for you in the baggage claim area to help. You will also see taxis waiting for you right outside. You can get a taxi when you need one.
If you want to see the Big Island and have more freedom, there are many car rental companies at Kona International. Their shuttle buses pick you up just across the street from baggage claim. The shuttles will take you to their offices close by. It is a good idea to rent a car because the public bus does not go to many places.
Here are your main ways to get to and from the terminal:
- Car Rentals: Big companies have spaces close by. Shuttle buses come often and pick you up near the Kona International terminal.
- Shuttle Services: Book a shared ride or a private ride. They will take you right to your hotel.
- Taxis: Taxis wait outside the Kona terminal, ready to give you a ride.
- Public Parking: You will find a parking lot right across from the baggage claim area. It is good for pick-up or if you need to park your own car.
Conclusion
To sum up, Kona International Airport is more than just a place to catch a plane. It gives you a gateway to the beautiful views of Hawaii and is ready for all kinds of travelers. There is a lot of history in this place, and many airlines take you to big, popular spots. At Kona International, you get a nice, smooth trip every time.
You will see there are many places to eat and shop, so your waiting time before you take off feels good. There are good ways to get on the road, park, and get around the Big Island. You do not have to worry about trouble getting in and out of Kona airport.
If you want a new trip or you are going home, Kona International Airport helps start your trip the right way. It makes each journey one you remember. If you want to know more about travel or need a little help, feel free to ask for your free consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the parking options and fees at Kona International Airport?
There is a big public parking lot right across from the terminal at Kona International Airport. If you are waiting to pick someone up, you can use the cell phone lot. The Hawaii Department of Transportation handles these parking areas. You will see the fees posted when you get to the lot entrance.
How early should I arrive before my flight at Kona International Airport?
It is best to get to Kona International Airport at least two hours before your flight if you are flying to another island. If you are going to the mainland or flying out of the country, you should arrive three hours early. Check with your airline about what time you need to be there. Sometimes, security lines and check-in times can change, especially when there are a lot of people traveling on the Big Island.
Are there car rental services available at Kona International Airport?
Yes, there are a few car rental companies at Kona International Airport. Their offices are not far from the terminal. You can get on their free shuttles right across the street from the baggage claim area. These shuttles will take you straight to their lots. This way, you can pick up your vehicle and start your Big Island trip right away.