Kona International Airport (Kona Airport - KOA)
Arriving at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport is your first step into the heart of the Big Island—and there’s no better way to begin your visit than with a traditional Hawaiian lei greeting. This warm, personal welcome is a timeless symbol of aloha, offering travelers a heartfelt introduction to Hawaiian culture as soon as they step off the plane.
Whether you're visiting for a honeymoon, family celebration, romantic getaway, or simply exploring the natural beauty of the Big Island, receiving a fragrant, handcrafted flower lei at KOA is a memorable way to begin your Hawaiian journey.
Unlike the busier terminals in Honolulu, the Kona Airport provides a more relaxed and open-air environment, where personalized lei greetings feel even more intimate and meaningful. Several local companies offer lei greeting services right at the arrival gates or baggage claim areas at KOA.
Upon arrival, your greeter—often dressed in traditional aloha attire—will be waiting with a personalized sign and a beautifully arranged lei. As they place the lei around your neck, they’ll offer a warm greeting and a smile, setting the tone for your time on the island.
Choose a Service Provider
Trusted companies such as:
Alii Greeting Service – Kona
Big Island Lei Greetings
Hawaii Flower Lei – Kona Location
Select Your Lei Type and Package: Choose from traditional orchid leis, fragrant plumeria, or elegant maile-style garlands. Packages may include upgrades, keepsakes, or group bookings.
Enter Arrival Information: You’ll need to provide your flight number, arrival time, and passenger names so the greeter is ready when you land.
Customize the Greeting: Many services offer personalization, such as welcome signs with your name, custom lei colors, or options to include greetings for multiple guests.
Receive Confirmation: After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, including your greeter’s contact information in case of flight delays.
Orchid Lei: Durable, elegant, and available in white, purple, or mixed hues. Perfect for first-time visitors or casual celebrations.
Plumeria Lei: Known for their tropical fragrance and vibrant petals, plumeria leis symbolize joy and new beginnings.
Tuberose Lei: Sweet-smelling and delicate, tuberose leis are often used for romantic occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries.
Ti Leaf or Maile-Style Lei: These green leafy leis represent peace, respect, and friendship. A popular choice for men or ceremonial events.
Child and Specialty Leis: Smaller leis are available for children, and specialty designs can be customized with a blend of flowers or colors to match a theme.
Your Greeter Meets You: After disembarking, you’ll find your greeter near the arrival gate or at the designated baggage claim area, holding a welcome sign.
The Lei Presentation: The greeter will place the lei around your neck, offer a heartfelt “Aloha” or “E komo mai” (welcome), and share a few words about the tradition.
Photo Opportunity: You’ll have time for a quick photo with your lei and greeter—an excellent way to capture the memory.
Optional Assistance: Some services offer light assistance with directions or answering questions to help you settle in smoothly.
Honeymoons and Anniversaries: Celebrate your romantic getaway with fragrant leis for both partners.
Family Vacations or Reunions: Welcome your loved ones with matching leis as they reunite on island time.
Birthdays or Graduations: Honor a milestone with a custom lei in a favorite flower or color.
Group Travel or Tours: Book coordinated greetings for corporate retreats, group tours, or spiritual journeys.
Weddings and Vow Renewals: Start your wedding celebration at the airport with traditional leis for the couple and guests.
Reserve Early: Lei services can sell out, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Book at least several days in advance.
Communicate Delays: If your flight is delayed, most companies will track your flight status, but it’s helpful to notify them directly.
Select Light Scents if Sensitive: Orchid or ti leaf leis are less fragrant than tuberose or plumeria, which may be better for those sensitive to floral scents.
Dry and Save Your Lei: Many flowers, especially orchids, dry well and can be kept as a memento of your trip.
A lei greeting at Kona International Airport is more than just a flower garland—it’s a time-honored Hawaiian custom that reflects the love, hospitality, and warmth of the islands. Whether you're welcoming a first-time visitor, reuniting with family, or marking a special celebration, this gesture makes your arrival on the Big Island unforgettable.
For a true sense of aloha and an elegant start to your Hawaiian adventure, consider booking a lei greeting at KOA—where your journey begins with a flower and a smile.