I'm going to split this very good question from a thread in the Hawaii-based Airlines Forum so others can help this poster and offer their suggestions.
Mahalo,
FlyinHawaiian
Hawaii-based Airlines Co-Moderator
Originally Posted by zzyzx
Yes, I was talking about driving from Hilo airport where I am to arrive at. Is it worth driving from Hilo to Kona? If yes, which route offers the best scenery? And how long it normally takes?
The drive from Hilo to Kailua-Kona takes about 2.5 hours without stopping if you drive counterclockwise along the coast. It's a very scenic drive up the Hamakua Coastline, just North of Hilo. I'd make a point to stop and visit Akaka Falls on the way if I had time.
You might want to try some searches of the FT archives on any of the following terms for more information: "Hamakua", "Tex", "Akaka", "Waipio", "Kamuela", and "Waimea"
Originally Posted by zzyzx
Also, if any it is possible to spot the vocano activities where the 'Go' plane approaches the Hilo airport?
Not really.