If you’re looking for an activity that offers a different kind of adventure while exploring Kona’s vibrant streets, the Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt might just be what you need. This experience promises a playful, family-friendly way to get to know the area, all from your phone and with an interactive host guiding you along. It’s not your typical sightseeing tour—it’s more about connecting with the town through creative challenges and stories, rather than static landmarks.
What we particularly like about this experience is its flexibility and focus on social interactions. The game is designed to be adaptable to your pace and preferences, making it suitable whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. Plus, the fact that it’s hosted via WhatsApp allows for real-time communication, which can add a personal touch.
On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this isn’t a traditional sightseeing tour—there are no guided bus rides or landmark visits with detailed historical narration. Also, it requires some walking, so it’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues or those expecting a more relaxed, sit-down activity.
This scavenger hunt is best suited for travelers who want an engaging, interactive experience that combines exploration with fun challenges, especially if you enjoy social activities and are comfortable using your phone for navigation.
Key Points

- Interactive virtual game that connects you with your host via WhatsApp.
- Flexible start times allow you to fit the activity into your schedule.
- Creative challenges and clues provide a fun way to explore Kona beyond typical sightseeing.
- Moderate physical activity involved—roughly two hours on foot, suitable for most with decent fitness.
- Cost-effective at $35 per person, offering a unique experience for the price.
- Not a traditional tour—more of a social, puzzle-solving activity emphasizing local stories and creativity.
What to Expect from the Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt

This experience is designed as a two-hour journey through downtown Kailua-Kona. Instead of a traditional guided tour, you’re given clues and creative challenges that lead you to discover local stories, murals, statues, and hidden gems. The entire experience revolves around interaction, storytelling, and a bit of detective work. The game is played on your phone, with the host guiding you in real-time via WhatsApp, adding a personal touch that can make the activity more engaging.
You’ll choose between two game options—Team Turtle or Eagle—depending on your preferred level of challenge. This choice allows you to tailor the experience whether you’re looking for a relaxed, social game or something a little more demanding. The game’s design encourages social interaction, making it especially appealing if you enjoy talking to locals or want to meet new people through a shared activity.
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Meeting Point and Logistics
The starting point for the scavenger hunt is in Kailua-Kona, where your phone and WhatsApp are essential. You won’t need to worry about transportation since the game involves walking around downtown Kona, taking in the sights at your own pace. The flexible start time is a plus, allowing you to plan the activity whenever it fits your schedule.
You do need to bring a fully charged phone with WhatsApp—no exceptions here, as all communication and clues are handled through the app. The game was designed for a moderate level of physical fitness, so expect to be on your feet for around two hours, walking on flat surfaces. It’s worth noting that the experience isn’t recommended for solo travelers who might feel they need team support, as the game is meant to be played in groups.
The Experience: Fun Challenges and Stories
What makes this scavenger hunt stand out is the focus on creative challenges and local stories. Instead of traditional landmarks with straightforward facts, you’ll be encouraged to engage with the environment in more imaginative ways—perhaps creating something from natural items or engaging with locals.
One review highlighted the experience of creating a decorative piece from natural objects as a memorable part of their adventure. Such activities foster a sense of participation and connection to the local culture, which can be much more meaningful than just ticking off landmarks from a list.
Authenticity and Social Interaction
Several participants appreciated the opportunity to talk to strangers and locals, which adds a human element to the experience. The guide or host helps facilitate this interaction, making it more than just a scavenger hunt—it’s a chance to learn snippets of local lore and stories through engaging prompts.
However, some reviews pointed out that the experience is very non-traditional, with no GPS points or math puzzles. Instead, it’s more about social experimentation, storytelling, and creativity. That might be a plus or a drawback depending on what you’re after. If you enjoy puzzles, this might feel less like a typical scavenger hunt, but if you appreciate a more relaxed, story-driven activity, you’ll find it rewarding.
Authentic Perspectives from Participants
A few reviews shed light on what you can genuinely expect:
- One guest shared their enjoyment in finding local murals and statues, describing the activity as a fun challenge that pushed them creatively—”Creating a decoration out of natural items was a challenge!”
- Another appreciated the local lore and stories, noting it was a great way to get acquainted with Kona’s history beyond just tourist spots.
- On the downside, a review pointed out some miscommunication, where a participant booked the wrong date and struggled to get assistance at 2 AM. This highlights the importance of clear communication and adhering to the booking instructions.
Price vs. Value
At $35 per person, this experience is quite affordable for a two-hour activity. It’s not a guided tour with transportation or museum entries but offers an engaging, interactive way to learn about Kona while having fun. If you value social interaction, creativity, and local stories over traditional sightseeing, it’s a good bang for your buck.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Since this is a scavenger hunt, the “itinerary” is flexible and depends on how you and your team decide to explore the downtown area. You can start at a central location in Kailua-Kona, where your host will send your first clue or challenge.
From there, your journey might include:
- Finding and interpreting murals or statues, such as the local murals or a notable statue, based on clues.
- Engaging with specific landmarks, but with a twist—perhaps creating a natural art piece or taking a photo with a local story.
- Following hints that lead you to hidden or lesser-known sites, encouraging a deeper connection with the town rather than just the obvious tourist stops.
Each challenge is designed to spark creativity, conversation, or observation—like identifying a mural based on a provided story or collecting natural items to craft a decoration. The clues are crafted to highlight the local culture, making the activity both fun and educational.
What Participants Say
Many reviewers enjoyed the setting and the chance to explore areas they might not see on a typical tour. One expressed satisfaction in learning about the Palace, statues, and murals, emphasizing that the game added an extra layer of discovery. Others appreciated the flexibility, mentioning they were able to start at a time that suited their schedule.
Challenges and Downsides
Looking at the reviews, some noted that the game can feel a little disconnected from traditional sightseeing. It isn’t about ticking off landmarks, but rather about social challenges and storytelling. Plus, one review mentioned some miscommunication regarding booking, which underscores the importance of confirming details beforehand.
Who Is This Experience Best For?
This scavenger hunt is ideal for travelers who want more than just a passive sightseeing experience. If you enjoy interactive activities, socializing, and creative challenges, you’ll likely find this fun and rewarding. It’s perfect for those who are comfortable with walking and using their phones as a guide.
It’s also suitable for small groups, friends, or families who want a memorable way to explore downtown Kona through stories and challenges rather than a standard tour. However, if you prefer more traditional sightseeing or are traveling solo without a team, you might find this less engaging or challenging.
The Sum Up

The Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt offers a playful, engaging way to get to know Kona’s downtown area. Its strength lies in the personalized, interactive nature—guiding you through local stories, murals, and landmarks with a creative twist. The flexibility of start times and affordability make it a convenient choice for many travelers seeking a different kind of activity.
While it’s not a traditional sightseeing tour and involves some walking and creativity, those who thrive on social interactions, storytelling, and cultural insights will likely find this experience charming and meaningful. Be prepared for some walking, a fully charged phone, and a willingness to engage in fun challenges.
For travelers who love to explore with a bit of a puzzle and enjoy connecting with local stories, this scavenger hunt could be a highlight of your Kona visit.
Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt( Kona Big island Hawaii)
“The lady in charge of the scavenger hunt started off strong with contacting us the day before; asking to use WhatsApp. Through app texted us prior …”
FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
While it’s family-friendly in terms of content, it requires walking for two hours and a moderate level of physical activity, so ensure your kids are comfortable on their feet for that duration.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made on average 44 days ahead, and you’ll want to confirm your start time in advance to ensure availability.
What should I bring?
A fully charged phone with WhatsApp is essential. Also, consider bringing water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for the activity.
Can I change my booking time?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if done more than 24 hours in advance. For adjustments, it’s best to check directly with the provider.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s not specifically designed for solo travelers seeking team support, as no team mates are provided. It works best if you’re comfortable playing in a small group or with family/friends.
What if the weather is bad?
The activity requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
How many people can participate?
The maximum group size is 100 travelers, so it’s suitable for small groups or larger parties.
If you enjoy creative challenges, storytelling, and exploring local culture in a fun, social way, the Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt offers a pretty unique twist on sightseeing in Kona. Just remember to bring your phone fully charged and keep an open mind for some unexpected discoveries along the way.
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