Kona to Hilo
 

How long is the drive between these two and is it winding and twisting or fairly straight? Thanks, Larry

There are two ways to go, depending if you want to take the highway up around the top of the island or go around via South Point. They're almost equidistant. Both ways travel across some mountain territory and are a bit winding and twisting in spots. The direct route across the island via the Saddle Road is much rougher (although faster) and the rental car companies won't let you travel on the Saddle Road. We've done the round trip all in one day easily, staying in Kona and visiting Hilo; we did a circle all the way around the island so we could see everything. It takes maybe 2-3 hours, depending on stops.

Thanks. Appreciate the advice.

You're welcome! And just to clarify: that's 2-3 hours one way, not round trip. Have a great holiday!

Thanks again. I assumed it was one way. As they say Melikaleekimaka! (pardon the spelling)

Though it can be done in a day (long day), I suggest staying at least one night on the hilo/volacano side of the island. The Hilo side is so extremely different than the Kona side and there is so much to see that I really feel you do yourself an injustice by trying to see it all in a day.

Something to consider. Thanks!