Southwest® flights from San Francisco to Kona (Island of Hawaii) from $198

How to Find Cheap Flights from San Francisco to Kona, Hawaii

It's easier to find cheap flights from San Francisco to Kona, Hawaii when you’ve got a few travel secrets in your back pocket. Keep these tips in mind to get the best value:

• Book early: Flights to Hawaii are always popular, so try to book your San Francisco to Hawaii airfare as soon as possible.
• Check the shoulder seasons: You can often find better pricing flights from SFO to Kona, HI in the spring and fall compared to peak-demand summer and winter holiday periods.
• Stay flexible: If your travel dates are flexible, check out the Southwest Low Fare Calendar, where you can compare dates to easily spot the lowest-priced airfare from San Francisco to Hawaii.
• Get updates: Sign up for Southwest email alerts to get notified first about promos and special offers in your inbox.

What’s the Best Time to Travel from San Francisco to Kona?

Anytime's a great time to trade San Francisco's fog for Kona's sunshine, but the best time to visit Kona depends on your travel style.

• Winter & Summer: These are peak seasons, so expect larger crowds and higher flight demand.
• Spring & Fall: These "shoulder seasons" are ideal if you're looking for fewer crowds and better deals.
• Summer Waters: The ocean is typically calmer in the summer, so it's great for anybody who's drawn to swimming and snorkeling.
• Winter Waves: The winter months bring bigger ocean swells, which are a major draw for the surfing crowd.

Getting From KOA to Kona and Nearby Areas

Public transit is extremely limited on the Big Island, so for most travelers, booking a rental car in advance will give you the most freedom to access beaches, scenic drives, and outdoor activities. Rideshares and taxis are options, but availability may be limited, especially if your flight from San Francisco to Hawaii arrives at night. Some hotels and resorts may offer shuttle service, but make sure to check arrival schedules and pre-book if needed.

Depending on traffic and weather conditions, these are some common travel times:

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

What to Do in Kona After You Land

• Beach Day: Spend an afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the Kona or Kohala Coast, or grab some gear and go for a snorkel.
• Manta Ray Night Dive: For a truly unforgettable experience, book a night dive to see manta rays up close.
• Kona Coffee: Visit local coffee farms to taste the world-famous Kona coffee right from the source.
• Explore the Island: Take a scenic coastal drive in your rental car or explore the otherworldly landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.