Southwest® flights from Dallas (Love Field) to Kona (Island of Hawaii) from $279

Island Hopping from Kona (KOA)

Kona is also an ideal starting point for a multi-island Hawaii itinerary. After you fly from Dallas to Kona, you can catch interisland flights to Maui (OGG), Oahu (HNL), or Kauai (LIH)—three bucket-list destinations with totally different vibes, all accessible with a flight that’s often an hour or less. Check out Southwest’s Hawaii interisland flights to start planning your island-hopping itinerary.

Getting From KOA to Kona and Nearby Areas

Once your flight to Hawaii from Dallas arrives, downtown Kailua-Kona is about 8 miles from the airport — usually a 15–20-minute drive, depending on traffic. Getting there is straightforward, but travel comes with some extra considerations on the Big Island, where attractions are spread out, and public transportation is limited:

• Rental cars: Renting a car is the most practical and flexible way to explore the island, especially if you want to see farther-out attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Skip the wait by reserving a car in advance, then pick up your vehicle at the rental lot near the airport.
• Rideshares and taxis: Available at the airport, but costs can climb quickly if you plan to explore beyond Kona, and taxis may not be available in all areas and at all times.
• Hotel shuttles: Some resorts offer complimentary shuttles from the airport, so check times and availability when booking your stay.

How to Find Cheap Flights from Dallas (DAL) to Kona (KOA)

Scoring cheap flights from Dallas to Kona is all about starting early and knowing what to look for. Here are a few tips that can help you get there for less:

• Book early: Hawaii flights tend to sell at a premium as travel dates approach, so get ahead of demand and book as early as you can.
• Use the Low Fare Calendar: If you haven’t committed to travel dates yet, the Southwest Low Fare Calendar makes it easy to spot the most affordable flights at a glance.
• Travel during shoulder seasons: The “shoulder seasons” of spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) can offer lower fares and fewer crowds than peak summer and winter holiday periods.
• Set fare alerts: Sign up for Southwest email alerts to hear about deals and promos as soon as they drop.

What’s the Best Time to Travel from Dallas to Kona?

• Whale watching: Humpback whales visit from December through March, and the island’s famous whale-watching makes it one of the busiest seasons. If it’s on your list, plan ahead and book early.
• Summer travel: June through August is a favorite for families, thanks to consistently great weather and lots of kid-friendly activities.
• Quieter visits: For a more laid-back experience, consider the spring and fall shoulder seasons, when crowds tend to be lighter.
• Best value: Traveling midweek or during less busy months can mean lower fares and better availability.

What to Do in Kona After You Land

• Kona coffee farms: Visit local coffee farms to see how the famous Kona coffee is grown and enjoy tastings right at the source.
• Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay: Witness the vibrant colors of Hawaii’s marine life in some of the island’s clearest, calmest waters.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Take in striking volcanic scenery, including craters, lava fields, and ever-changing landscapes.
• Manta ray night dives: Head out after dark for a guided experience watching manta rays move gracefully through the water.