Logistics · Destination Guide
Year-round mantas, lava-formed reefs, and easy access to deep blue water
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 20 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Fly direct from the mainland US to Kona International (KOA), or connect via Honolulu. Hilo (ITO) serves the east side with interisland links. Most dive operations depart Honokohau Harbor near Kailua-Kona.
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole
KOA • PHKO
12 km • 20 km drive
Primary Big Island gateway with transpacific and interisland flights. Closest to the Kona dive corridor.
Transport: Rental cars at terminal, Rideshare and taxis, Limited Hele-On bus service
Hilo International Airport
ITO • PHTO
125 km • 150 km drive
East-side airport serving interisland flights and access to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Transport: Rental cars, Taxis, Limited Hele-On bus service
Renting a car is the norm. Rideshare operates in Kona and Hilo with variable coverage. The Hele-On bus runs limited routes. For Maunakea summit, high-clearance 4WD and acclimatization are required; many visitors opt for guided tours.
USA entry rules apply. Domestic travelers from the mainland do not clear immigration. International visitors follow U.S. visa or ESTA requirements.
Most boats provide AL80 yoke tanks. DIN adapters are available by request. Bring SMB and whistle. Night dives require a primary plus backup light. Booties help with lava entries. Shops rent full kits and run same-day multi-tank schedules.
United States Dollar (USD)
USD cash and cards are widely accepted. Small vendors may prefer cash.
ATMs in Kailua-Kona and resort areas. Withdraw before rural drives.
120V • 60Hz • A, B
Standard North American sockets. Most dive electronics charge directly from USB or universal adapters.
Communications
Major carriers cover the Kona coast well, with patchy service in remote lava fields and valleys. eSIMs work on recent phones. Public Wi-Fi appears in cafes and some parks.
Language
English is primary. Hawaiian words and place names are common. Learn basics like aloha and mahalo. Respect cultural sites and protocols.
Insurance
Carry DAN membership and trip insurance that covers dive, night, and boat activities. In an emergency, contact local EMS first, then DAN for coordination.
Packing list