Southwest® flights from Honolulu (Oahu) to Kona (Island of Hawaii) from $69

Inter-Island Travel for Hawaii Residents

Hawaii locals rely on flights from Honolulu to Kona every day for family visits, local events, and quick weekend trips. If you’re eligible, Ohana Rewards can add extra flexibility and perks to your interisland travel—find out more on our inter-island flights page.

Getting From KOA to Kona and Nearby Areas

Once your flight from HNL to Kailua-Kona lands, you'll want a reliable way to get around. Public transit is extremely limited on the Big Island, so if you want to explore at your own pace, booking a rental car in advance is usually the move. Typical travel times from KOA include:

• Kailua-Kona: 15 to 20 minutes
• Kohala Coast: 30 to 45 minutes
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 2+ hours

How to Find Cheap Flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Kona (KOA)

Looking for cheap Southwest flights to Kona? Traveling between the islands is usually more flexible than booking a long-haul flight, but it’s still subject to demand during holidays and events, as with any other flight. These tips can help you find the best fare for your budget:

• Book early: Inter-island flights are popular, especially during holidays and local events. We suggest booking in advance if you're traveling during peak season, especially around holidays.
• Check the Low Fare Calendar: The Southwest Low Fare Calendar is the number one fare hack for travelers with flexible plans.
• Sign up for alerts: Remember to subscribe to our fare alerts. We’ll send our latest promotions and deals on cheap flights to your inbox.

Why Visit Kona from Honolulu?

Adding Kona to your itinerary is a great way to balance out a Hawaii vacation, as the Kona side of the Big Island offers a totally different experience from the urbanized Oahu and Honolulu. It's a more spacious and relaxed vibe, focused heavily on nature, beautiful beaches, and outdoor exploration—in other words, the perfect change of pace.

What to Do in Kona After You Land

• Hit the beach: Spend some delightfully lazy days on the beautiful beaches of the Kona or Kohala Coast.
• Get in the water: The Big Island is known for world-class snorkeling and nighttime dives with majestic manta rays.
• Explore local flavors: Visit local coffee farms for a fresh cup of world-famous Kona coffee.
• Take a scenic drive: Hop in your rental car and check out the incredible landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.