Hilo International Airport (ITO)
Travelers passing through Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) on the Big Island of Hawaii can take advantage of convenient postal services located nearby for their mailing and shipping needs. While there is no full-service post office within the terminal itself, options exist both at the airport and in the surrounding area to support travelers with everything from dropping off postcards to shipping packages or obtaining postage supplies.
The closest and most practical full-service option for postal needs is the Kailua-Kona Post Office, located a short drive from the airport. This facility offers a complete range of United States Postal Service (USPS) services for both residents and visitors.
Address: 74-5577 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Distance from KOA: Approximately 7 miles (15–20 minutes by car)
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Priority and Express Mail shipping
First-Class and international mailing
P.O. box rentals (short-term and long-term)
Certified and registered mail
Flat-rate boxes and packaging supplies
Money orders
Package drop-off for prepaid labels
This facility is ideal for travelers needing to send last-minute packages, documents, or souvenirs before departure or upon arrival.
Although there is no dedicated post office at KOA, there are mail drop boxes located near the terminal area. These USPS drop boxes are best suited for:
Postcards and letters
Prepaid small parcels
General mail with appropriate postage already applied
Travelers can find these boxes near the public curbside area and near the interisland terminal entrance. Items deposited here are picked up regularly by postal workers.
Some airport gift shops and newsstands within the terminal sell basic postal items such as:
Postcards
Pre-stamped envelopes
Standard postage stamps
These are ideal for travelers wanting to send a quick note or greeting during their visit. For larger mailing needs or additional supplies like shipping tape, boxes, or padded mailers, a trip to the Kailua-Kona Post Office or a local shipping center is recommended.
For those looking for alternatives to USPS, private shipping carriers such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL operate in the Kailua-Kona area. These are especially useful for international shipping, business services, or expedited handling.
Address: 73-5611 Maiau St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Distance from KOA: Approx. 5 miles
Services: Express and Ground shipping, drop-offs, packaging supplies, document printing
Address: 75-5660 Kopiko St Ste C7, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Distance: Approx. 8 miles
Services: Shipping, notary services, printing, packaging assistance
Address: 75-6129 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Distance: Approx. 9 miles
Services: International shipping, customs documentation, specialty handling
Mail Before Security: If mailing from the drop boxes at KOA, be sure to send your item before going through TSA screening. There are no drop boxes past security.
Allow Time for Off-Site Visits: If you need to visit the Kailua-Kona Post Office or a shipping center, plan for travel time and parking.
Avoid Prohibited Items: Review USPS or private carrier guidelines if mailing liquids, perishables, or international items.
Buy in Advance: If you're mailing souvenirs, purchase postage supplies early to avoid rushing on the day of your departure.
While Kona International Airport does not house an in-terminal USPS branch, ample nearby options make mailing and shipping services easily accessible to travelers. From simple postcard mailings to full-service shipping and document handling, the area around KOA offers everything you need for a convenient postal experience. Whether you're sending a gift, returning items home, or just staying in touch, you’ll find practical and reliable solutions to support your travel needs.