Southwest® flights from Phoenix to Kona (Island of Hawaii) from $186

Island Hopping from Kona (KOA)

A flight to Kona is many travelers’ starting point for exploring the rest of the Aloha State. Flying is the primary way between islands for both travelers and locals, and you can easily catch Hawaii inter-island flights to beautiful destinations like Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. For more details to help you plan your multi-island getaway, see our Hawaii page.

Getting From KOA to Kona and Nearby Areas

The Big Island is (you guessed it) big, and public transit is limited. Limited rideshares and private shuttle services are available, but most people get around by renting a car. We recommend booking your rental car in advance, then picking it up outside the terminal. Here’s the drive times you can expect after leaving Kona International Airport:

• Kailua-Kona: About 15 to 20 minutes from the airport, making it an easy first stop for hotels, dining, and waterfront views.
• Kohala Coast: Usually 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on your resort area and traffic.
• Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Plan for a drive of around two hours each way, so consider staying somewhere closer if this is on your agenda.

How to Find Cheap Flights from Phoenix (PHX) to Kona (KOA)

With a little flexibility and planning, it’s relatively straightforward to find cheap flights from Phoenix to Kona. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Check the season: Hawaii routes see their strongest demand during winter, or during school summer holidays. You’ll find better rates and avoid peak holiday crowds if you fly during the spring and fall shoulder seasons.
• Use the Low Fare Calendar: If your travel dates are flexible, the Southwest Low Fare Calendar is the easiest way to spot deals across multiple dates.
• Book early: Booking your flight in advance is essential for locking in a price that fits your budget. If you see a fare you like, grab it!
• Sign up for emails: Sign up for our email alerts so you're always the first to know about promotions and deals from Southwest.

What’s the Best Time to Travel from Phoenix to Kailua-Kona?

• Consider the climate: Kona has a humid, tropical climate, while Phoenix has a dry desert climate. Plan for a lot more rain and humidity, especially during the wet season (October through April).
• Winter warmth: Peak season in Kona is from December through February. It’s a popular time to trade Phoenix's mild winter for Hawaii's warmth, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices.
• Find deals in spring and fall: For fewer crowds and better flight deals, plan your trip during the shoulder seasons. April, May, September, and October usually have great weather.
• Pick the right time for you: Coffee lovers might want to visit during the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November, while sports fans can catch the IRONMAN World Championship in October.

What to Do in Kona After You Land

Once you’ve grabbed your rental car, it’s time to explore the Big Island. Kona is a playground for active travelers who love the outdoors. Here are a few ideas to get your itinerary started:

• Hit the beach: Spend your days relaxing on the sand, or take a scenic drive along the coast to soak in the views.
• Tour a coffee farm: Caffeine lovers will want to go straight to Kona’s legendary coffee farms, where you can drink some of the world’s best (and freshest) coffee.
• Explore the ocean: Check out the snorkeling in the clear blue waters or take a thrilling manta ray night dive.
• Hike a volcano: It's not every day you get to hike a volcano, so spend some time exploring the incredible volcanic landscapes at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.