Southwest® flights from San Diego to Kona (Island of Hawaii) from $188

How to Find Cheap Flights from San Diego (SAN) to Kona (KOA)

Looking for cheap flights from San Diego to Kona? A few simple strategies can help you get to the islands on a budget:

• Check fare calendars: If your travel dates are flexible, check out the Southwest Low Fare Calendar and scope out the best prices available.
• Book ahead: Flight prices to Hawaii tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so it pays to reserve early.
• Travel midweek: Look at flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as there's often less demand for San Diego to Kona airfare on these days.
• Sign up for alerts: Sign up for Southwest email alerts to get automatically notified about price drops and special offers.

What's the Best Time to Travel From San Diego to Kona, Hawaii?

Much like San Diego, Kona's warm climate makes it a great destination year-round, and there's really no bad time to visit. If you're hoping to avoid crowds and find deals, try traveling in spring or fall when the island is a bit quieter and prices can be lower.

For surfers, however, there is a best time to visit the Big Island: Surf season peaks in winter, bringing larger waves and plenty of excitement to the beaches. Summer is popular for family trips, with calmer ocean conditions that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. No matter when you go, you'll find something special waiting in Kona.

Traveling With Surfboards and Sports Equipment to Kona

Great news for surfers, divers, fishing lovers, and other outdoor enthusiasts: Generally, you can check surfboards, SCUBA gear, fishing rods, and other large sports equipment on Southwest Airlines flights from San Diego to Kona, Hawaii. However, review our special baggage policies before you pack so you know what to expect, and don’t forget the free checked bag that comes with your Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards credit card.

• Surfboards
• SCUBA gear
• Fishing rods and tackle
• Windsurfing boards
• Other sports and outdoor equipment

What to Do in Kona After You Land

You've probably already got some ideas about how to spend your time in Hawaii, but there's always more to discover. Here's a quick look at top things to do once you land in Kona:

• Beach time: Relax on the beautiful beaches along the Kona and Kohala Coast—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a sunset stroll.
• Snorkeling and manta rays: Snorkel at top spots like Kahalu'u Beach Park or go for a nighttime manta ray dive for a true island adventure.
• Coffee farm visits: Visit a local coffee farm and sample famous Kona coffee right where it's grown.
• Explore Volcanoes National Park: Spend a day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and experience one of Hawaii's most unique national treasures.
• Catch waves or paddleboard: Try surfing or paddleboarding—the area's surf scene is easy to reach, especially if you rent a car.