Southwest® flights from Sacramento to Kona, Hawaii from $169

Island hopping from Kona (KOA)

KOA is also the perfect connecting point for a jaunt across multiple Hawaiian islands. From the Big Island, it’s easy to work your way across Maui, Kauai, and Oahu via short connecting flights, which are the standard way to travel for both visitors and locals.

The takeaway: If you’ve been dreaming of a multi-island itinerary, it’s easy to make it real with our convenient Hawaii inter-island flights. Check out all of our flights to Hawaii and start building your dream island vacation.

Getting from KOA to Kona and nearby areas

Once you arrive at KOA, it’s just 15 minutes by car to downtown Kailua-Kona or the Kohala Coast resorts. Be aware that it’s best to make your transit arrangements in advance when you’re headed to the Big Island, since public transportation is limited. Here are the basics:

• Rental cars: Most visitors to the Big Island end up renting a vehicle. It’s the most convenient way to get around, especially if you’re headed out to attractions like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Book your rental vehicle in advance, then pick it up when you land.
• Rideshares and taxis: It’s generally easy to find a rideshare or taxi from KOA, but be aware that availability might be limited at night or in remote areas.
• Shuttle service: If you’re staying at a resort, they might provide airport shuttle service for guests. Check before you fly to verify times and availability.

How to find cheap flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Kona (KOA)

Finding a low fare on your flight from Sacramento to Kona is one of the easiest ways to save on your trip. Here are some tips for finding the most affordable fares:

• Use the Low Fare Calendar: For a trip with flexible dates, the Southwest Low Fare Calendar gives you an easy way to spot great fares on SMF to Kona routes.
• Book early: Prices tend to rise as travel dates get closer and flights fill up, so book your flight as early as you reasonably can.
• Travel off-season: Spring and fall are often less busy and more affordable seasons for travelers to visit Hawaii.
• Connect with Southwest: When you sign up for Southwest email alerts, you’re always the first to know about new fare sales and promotions.

What’s the best time to travel from Sacramento to Kona?

• Peak season: Winter is one of the most popular times to visit the Big Island, thanks to humpback whale watching, warm weather, and holiday travel. If you're planning a trip between December and March, book flights, accommodations, and tours well in advance.
• Best value: For lower fares and greater hotel availability, consider traveling outside major holidays and peak vacation periods. Flexible travel dates can often help you find better value while enjoying a quieter experience on the Big Island.
• Surf season: Summer brings gentler waves to the Kona coast, while winter draws experienced surfers to Hawaii's larger swells on the northern shores of the islands.
• Outdoor adventures: The Big Island offers year-round opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, exploring volcanic landscapes, and visiting coffee farms. Plan your itinerary around the experiences that matter most to you, as conditions can vary across the island's diverse climates.

What to do in Kona after you land

• Kona coffee farms: Taste this world-famous coffee on the local farms where it’s grown.
• Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay: Explore a pristine marine sanctuary, where you can see thousands of colorful fish and corals up close.
• Manta ray tours: Enjoy a nighttime dive or boat ride with these majestic giants of the sea.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Take a day trip to this unearthly volcanic landscape, where you might even get to see an active lava flow.