Our Top Big Island Recommendations
Dining, Beaches, Hikes, & more
Best Big Island Restaurants & Local Eats
From Casual beach bars to fine dining favorites across the island.
Waikoloa
Kuleana Rum Shack
Casual Hawaiian Eats & Rum
Location: Queen’s Marketplace
Phone: (808) 238-0786
Website: www.kuleanarum.com
Marlin Bar
Lively Italian Eatery - Casual
Location: Queen’s Marketplace
Phone: (808) 865-6750
Website: www.tommybahama.com
Roy’s Waikoloa Bar and Grill
Hawaiian Fusion Fare - Fine Dining
Location: King’s Shops
Phone: (808) 885-4321
Website: www.roysrestaurant.com
Smash Daddy’s
Casual Eatery - Burgers, Fries, and Brews
Location: 68-1820 Waikoloa Road.
Phone: (808) 796-3002
Website: www.smashdaddys808.com
Lava Lava Beach Club
Beach Bar - Casual
Location: 69-1081 Ku’uali’I Place
Phone: (808) 769-5282
Website: www.lavalavabeachclub.com
Pueo’s Osteria
Traditional Italian Eatery - Resort Attire
Location: 68-1845 Waikoloa Rd
Phone: (808) 339-7566
Website: www.pueososteria.com
Mauna Lani
Tommy Bahama
Aloha-Inspired Cuisine - Resort Attire
Location: Mauna Lani Shopping Centre
Phone: (808) 881-8686
Website: www.tommybahama.com
Napua
Locally Sourced Waterfront Restaurant - Fine Dining
Location: Mauna Lani Beach Club
Phone: (808) 885-5910
Website: www.napuarestaurant.com
Juice 101
Juice & Smoothie Bar - Casual
Location: Mauna Lani Shopping Center
Phone: (808) 887-2244
Website: www.juicebar101.com
Knead & Bake
Hand-Tossed Personal Pies - Casual
Location: Mauna Lani Shopping Centre
Phone: (808) 731-4490
Website: www.kneadandbake.com
Alebrije Hawaii
Modern Mexican & Margaritas
Location: Mauna Lani Shopping Center
Phone: (808) 731-4099
Website: www.alibrijehawaii.com
Kohala Coast - Hotel Restaurants
Canoe House
Island-Inspired Cuisine - Fine Dining
Location: Mauna Lani Auberge Resort
Phone: (808) 885-6622
Website: www.aubergeresorts.com
HāLani
North American Coastal - Resort Attire
Location: Mauna Lani Auberge Resort
Phone: (808) 885-6622
Website: www.aubergeresorts.com
Hā Bar
Open Air Bar - Casual
Location: Mauna Lani Auberge Resort
Phone: (808) 885-6622
Website: www.aubergeresorts.com
Brown’s Beach House
Sophisticated Farm-To-Table Resort - Fine Dining
Location: Fairmont Orchid Hotel
Phone: (808) 887-7368
Website: www.fairmont.com
Copper Bar
Craft Cocktails & Tapas - Resort Attire
Location: Mauna Kea Hotel
Phone (808) 882-5707
Website: www.maunakeabeachhotel.com
Manta
Upscale Hawaiian Dining - Fine Dining
Location: Mauna Kea Hotel
Phone (808) 882-5707
Website: www.maunakeabeachhotel.com
Has Tree
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant - Casual
Location: Mauna Kea Hotel
Phone (808) 882-5707
Website: www.maunakeabeachhotel.com
Meridia - Mediterranean Inspired - Resort Attire
Mediterranean Inspired Cuisine - Resort Attire
Location: Hapuna Westin Hotel
Phone (808) 881-1111
Website: www.meridiarestaurant.net
Kailua-Kona
Island Lava Java
Island-Inspired Cafe - Casual
Location: 75-5799 Ali’i Drive
Phone: (808) 327-2161
Website: www.islandlavajava.com
Kona Brewing Company
Local Brewery w/ Casual Eats
Location: Kona’s Brewery Block
Phone: (808) 334-2739
Website: www.konabrewing.com
Ola Brew Co.
Local Brewery w/ Casual Eats
Location: 74-5598 Luhia Street
Phone: (808) 339-3599
Website: www.olabrewco.com
Huggo’s
Seafood Bar & Restaurant - Casual
Location: 75-5828 Khaki Road
Phone: (808) 3290-1493
Website: www.huggos.com
Papa Kona
Waterfront Bistro - Casual
Location: 75-5770 Ali’i Drive
Phone: (808) 300-0044
Website: www.papakonarestaurant.com
Umeke’s Fishmarket Bar & Grill
Poke Bowls & Fresh Fish - Casual
Location: Kona’s Brewery Block
Phone: (808) 238-0571
Website: www.umekesrestaurant.com
Willie’s Hot Chicken
Nashville Hot Chicken - Casual
Location: Kona’s Brewery Block
Phone: (808) 796-3088
Website: www.willieshotchicken.com
The Temple
Modern Craft Food & Drinks Bar
Location: 75-5799 Ali’i Drive
Phone: (808) 331-2606
Website: www.thetemplebar.com
Jackie Rey’s Kona
Open Air w/ Steak & Seafood
Location: 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy
Phone: (808) 327-0209
Website: www.jackiereyskona.com
Waimea
Merriman’s
Locally Sourced Regional Cuisine - Fine Dining
Location: 65-1227 Opelo Road
Phone: (808) 885-6822
Website: www.merrimanshawaii.com
FORC (Farmer Ocean Rancher Cook)
Resort Casual
Location: 65-1214 Lindsey Rd
Phone: (808) 731-4656
Website: www.forchawaii.com
Big Island Brewhaus
Local Brewery & Mexican Food - Casual
Location: 64-1066 Mamalahoa Hwy
Phone: (808) 887-1717
Website: www.bigislandbrewhaus.com
The Fish & The Hog
Slow Cooked BBQ Rustic Cafe - Casual
Location: 64-957 Hawaii Belt Road
Phone: (808) 885-6268
Website: www.fishandthehog.com
Red Water Café
Inventive Global Cuisine - Resort Casual
Location: 65-1299 Kawaiahe Road
Phone: (808) 885-9299
Website: www.redwatercafe.com
Hawaiian Style Café
Hawaiian Diner w/ huge plates! - Casual
Location: 65-1290 Kawaihae Rd.
Phone: (808) 885-4295
Website: www.hawaiianstylerestaurants.com
Waimea Coffee Company
Locally Sourced Café for Breakfast & Lunch - Casual
Location: 65-1279 Kawaihae Road
Phone: (808) 885-8915
Website: www.waimeacoffeecompany.com
Moa Kitchen - Japanese Style Cuisine - Casual
Location: 65- 1298 Kawaihae Road |
Phone: (808) 339-7887
Website: www.moakitchen.net
Pau Pizza / Taco Rosa
Homey Pizzeria & Tacoria
Location: 65-127 Opelo Road
Phone: (808) 885-6325
Website: www.tacorosahawaii.com
Kawaiahae
Kohala Burger & Taco
Locally Sourced Burgers & Fish Tacos
Location: 61-3665 Akoni Pule Hwy
Phone: (808) 880-1923
Website: www.Kohalaburgerandtaco.com
Hale I’a Da Fish House
Fresh Caught Fish & Poke daily!
Location: 61-3659 Kawaihae Rd
Phone: (808) 882-1052
Seafood Bar & Grill
Seafood Tiki Lounge - Casual
Location: 61- 3642 Kawaihae Rd
Phone: (808) 880-9393
Website: www.seafoodbarandgrill.com
Cipriano’s Kitchen - Authentic Italian Lunch Spot - Casual
Authentic Italian Lunch Spot - Casual
Location: 61-3642 Kawaihae Road
Phone: (808) 657-4700
Website: www.ciprianoskitchenhawaii.com
Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic MusiQuarium
Seafood & Global Coastal Cuisine + Live Music Under the Stars
Location: 61-3616 Kawaihae Rd.
Phone: (808) 882-7771
Website: www.bluedragontaven.com
Hilo
Hilo Bay Cafe
Bayfront Views & Craft Cocktails - Resort Casual
Location: 123 Lihiwai Street
Phone: (808) 935-4939
Website: www.hilobaycafe.com
Pineapple Restaurant
Island Cuisine - Open Air Casual
Location: 332 Keawe St.
Phone: (808) 238-5324
Website: www.pineappleshilo.net
Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay
Wood-fired Pizzas & Island Cuisine - Casual
Location: 308 Kamehameha Ave
Phone: (808) 969-6640
Website: www.cafepesto.com
Hilo Burger Joint
Signature Burgers & Beers - Casual
Location: 776 Kilauea Ave
Phone: (808) 935-8880
Website: www.hiloburgerjoint.com
Temple Bar (Hilo)
Upscale Craft Tapas & Cocktail Bar
Location: 64 Keawe Street
Phone: (808) 491-2337
Website: www.thetemplebar.com
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill (Hilo)
Steak, Seafood & American Classics in a Historic Landmark
Location: 64 Keawe St.
Phone: (808) 961-2572
Website: www.Jackiereyshilo.com
Suisan Fish Market
Fresh Poke Bowls & Seafood Straight from the Boat!
Location: 93 Lihiwai St.
Phone: (808) 935-9349
Website: www.suisan.com
Volcano
Lanikai Brewery
Innovative & Island Inspired Brewery
Location: 19-4005 Haunani Rd.
Phone: (808) 339-7865
Website: www.lanikaibrewing.com
Kilauea Lodge Restaurant
Cozy, Locally Sourced Dining
Location: 19-3948 Old Volcano Rd
Phone: (808) 967-7366
Website: www.kilauealodge.com
The Rim at Volcano House
Park-side Dining w/ Caldera View & Live Music
Location: 1 Crater Rim Drive
Phone: (808) 930-6910
Website: www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com
Uncle George’s Lounge-Bar (Volcano House)
Casual Bar & Lounge Fare Overlooking the Caldera
Location: 19-3820 Old Volcano Road
Phone: (808) 930-6910 (same as above)
Website: www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com
***FESTIVE SEASON DISCLAIMER***
During the festive holiday period (mid-December through early January), many resort restaurants restrict reservations to in-house guests or release very limited availability to outside visitors, often only a day or two in advance. As a result, securing fine dining reservations can be especially challenging for guests staying in private vacation homes. We recommend planning well ahead and considering select non-resort restaurants that remain open to the public year-round.
The Best of the Big Island’s Beaches
Explore white & black sand beaches, pristine snorkeling, and a variety of marine life.
Spencer Beach Park
North Kohala, just south of Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
A local favorite for family-friendly beach days, Spencer offers calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming, especially with kids. It’s well-equipped with pavilions, BBQ grills, restrooms, and showers—making it perfect for a full picnic or beach BBQ.
Tip: With soft white sand and a protected bay, this is a great spot to unwind after visiting the nearby cultural sites.
Kaunaʻoa Bay (Mauna Kea Beach)
Accessed through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel entrance (limited public parking)
This crescent-shaped white sand beach is one of the most picturesque on the island. Sheltered and typically calm, it’s perfect for swimming and lounging. The beach is fronted by the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, but public access is allowed—just arrive early, as the small lot fills quickly.
Tip: Stick around for sunset and, after dark, check out the hotel’s underwater lights that attract manta rays—there’s a viewing platform at the far north end of the beach.
Mau’u Mae Beach
South of Mauna Kea Resort, accessed from Spencer Beach Park or Mauna Kea Resort gate
This lesser-known gem is rustic, quiet, and beautifully secluded. Park at Spencer and enjoy a short scenic 0.25-mile trail to reach it. The walk leads along a rocky shoreline before opening to a peaceful white sand cove.
Good to Know: There are no facilities or shade—so bring water, reef-safe sunscreen, and maybe a beach umbrella. Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
South of Mauna Kea Beach, off Hwy 19
Arguably the Big Island’s most famous beach, Hapuna stretches across a wide half-mile of soft white sand and is fantastic for boogie boarding, body surfing, and sunbathing.
Facilities include lifeguards, restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic pavilions.
Tip: This beach is ideal for long walks or runs at sunrise or sunset, when the light hits the ocean just right.
Wailea Bay (Beach 69)
Just south of Hapuna, near utility pole #69
Waialea is a relaxed and shady cove with scattered trees, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling. The name “Beach 69” comes from the number on the nearby utility pole where you turn in.
Why It’s Special: With coral reefs close to shore and plenty of quiet nooks separated by driftwood and kiawe trees, this is a great beach to explore and unwind. Facilities include restrooms and showers.
49 Black Sand Beach
Located inside the Mauna Lani Resort, off the 3rd exit at the roundabout
This striking black sand beach features vivid blue water and fine volcanic sand that gets very hot in the midday sun. While it’s not ideal for sunset due to its position, it’s a top pick for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking on calmer days.
Tip: Visit earlier in the day and bring reef shoes for comfort. Showers and restrooms are available.
‘Anaheo’omalu Bay (A-Bay)
In Waikoloa Beach Resort, near Lava Lava Beach Club
A-Bay is a classic west coast beach known for calm waters, scenic sunsets, and its easy-going vibe. Shallow and reef-protected, it’s perfect for families and beginner paddleboarders.
Bonus: Walk the shoreline trail or stop at Lava Lava Beach Club for sunset drinks. Facilities include restrooms and showers.
Kua Bay (Maniniʻōwali Beach)
Part of Kekaha Kai State Park, off Hwy 19 north of Kona
This picture-perfect beach boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. There’s little shade, so plan to swim and seek relief from the sun in the water.
Good to Know: In winter, the surf can be strong. Turtles are sometimes spotted near shore—admire them from a distance. Facilities include showers and restrooms.
Magic Sands Beach (Laʻaloa Beach Park)
In Kailua-Kona town
Also called White Sands Beach, Magic Sands gets its name from how the sand can “disappear” during high surf. This compact but lively beach has strong waves, soft sand, and great people-watching.
Sunset Scene: Although crowded, it’s a fun, energetic spot to end your day. Facilities include restrooms and showers.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Located off Hwy 11 between Volcano and Nā‘ālehu
One of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii, Punaluʻu offers a dramatic setting with coconut palms, crashing waves, and frequent visits from Hawaiian green sea turtles basking onshore.
Best For: Photography, turtle watching, and enjoying a scenic stop on your way to or from Volcanoes National Park. Swimming is possible but often rough.
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available.
Tips for Exploring Big Island Beaches:
Sunsets: Best viewed from A-Bay, Hapuna, Kua Bay, or Magic Sands.
Early Starts: Arrive early to find parking, calm conditions, and quieter beach vibes.
Pack Accordingly: Many beaches lack shade or amenities, so bring water, sun protection, and snacks.
Ocean Safety: Always check surf conditions and watch for posted warnings—especially in winter months.
A Rainy Day in the Tropics
From tasty treats to immersive adventures, here are top suggestions that keep you dry and entertained:
The Vanillerie
Taste, Tour & Learn on a Vanilla Farm
This working vanilla farm offers guided tastings and tours of its lush vanilla orchards — perfect for an indoor‑friendly, sensory experience. Learn how vanilla is grown and processed, then enjoy artisanal treats infused with tropical vanilla.
Great for: families, foodies & anyone seeking a delicious cultural experience.
Flight of Aloha
Immersive Flying Ride Experience
Step into a climate‑controlled adventure simulator that takes you soaring over Hawaii’s landscapes with stunning 8K visuals, motion effects, and sensory thrills — a great way to see the islands without getting wet.
Great for: kids, couples, and adventure lovers alike.
Atlantis Submarines Kona
Undersea Exploration
Below the Rain
Dive beneath the surface in an air‑conditioned submarine and witness vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and marine life up close — a truly unique ocean experience sheltered from the weather.
Great for: families and ocean enthusiasts.
Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
Up Close with Seahorses & Sea Dragons
Discover the fascinating world of seahorses and marine conservation on this educational farm tour. Highlights include interactive exhibits and opportunities to see (and sometimes hold!) seahorses and sea dragons.
Great for: animal lovers and curious kids.
Kona Sea Salt Farm
Salt Harvesting & Tasting Tour
Rain doesn’t dampen the fun here — explore the covered salt harvesting process, enjoy tastings of flavored and smoked salts, and learn about Kona’s traditional salt production.
Great for: food lovers, culture seekers, and shoppers.
Kona Brew Tasting & Brewery Tour
Behind‑the‑Scenes Brewery Experience
For beer lovers looking to spend a cozy afternoon indoors, a brewery tour and tasting at Kona Brewing Company is a fantastic choice. This guided experience takes you behind the scenes of one of Hawaii’s most iconic craft breweries. Learn about the brewing process, sustainability practices, and local beer styles, then enjoy flight tasters of freshly brewed beer in the tasting room — all in a rain‑friendly environment.
Great for: adults, beer enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys local flavors and craft brews.
Top Self-Guided Big Island Hiking Trails
Scenic trails for all skills levels, from coastal views to volcanic landscapes.
Self-Guided Hiking Recommendations
Explore the Big Island’s natural beauty on your own terms with these stunning self-guided hikes. Whether you're looking for lush valleys, coastal lava landscapes, or historic trails, these top picks offer an unforgettable glimpse into Hawaii’s diverse terrain.
Pololū Valley Lookout & Trail
Located at the northern tip of the island, the Pololū Valley Overlook offers sweeping views of the dramatic cliffs and lush coastline of the Hamakua Coast. Adventurous hikers can follow the short but steep trail down into the valley for a more immersive experience. The trail is approximately 0.6 miles each way, with a descent of about 400 feet. The average grade is around 25%, which makes for a challenging but doable hike for most visitors. While the distance is short, the steep incline and uneven terrain—often slick with mud or loose rock—can make the return climb quite strenuous. At the valley floor, you'll be rewarded with a peaceful black sand beach framed by ironwood trees and a freshwater stream winding through the valley. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water. There are no restrooms or water at the trailhead or beach.
Tip: If conditions are clear and timing is right, consider staying at the overlook for sunset—it's one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the island. Just be cautious if hiking down late in the day, as the trail gets dark quickly and is not recommended after dusk.
Kīholo Bay Coastal Walk
For a serene, otherworldly coastal experience, the walk into Kīholo Bay is a must. This beautiful area is home to lava rock shorelines, turquoise waters, tide pools, and often, resting green sea turtles. Park along the highway near mile marker 82, then follow the dirt road down to the shoreline (about 1 mile each way). Once you're at the bay, you can explore further along the coast, finding scenic coves and a peaceful lagoon.
Please Note: The area is ecologically sensitive and partially on private land—please respect posted signs and leave no trace. There are no restrooms, shade, or facilities, so plan accordingly.
Captain Cook Monument Trail (Ka‘awaloa Trail)
This 4-mile round-trip hike leads you down a steep trail to the historic Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay. The trail begins off Napo‘opo‘o Road and descends roughly 1,300 feet through dry forest and rugged lava fields. The payoff is access to one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, with clear waters and vibrant marine life surrounding the monument.
Be prepared for a challenging return climb, especially in the afternoon heat. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and reef-safe snorkel gear if you plan to swim.
Tip: Go early in the day for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Helpful Reminders
Always check weather conditions before setting out.
Start hikes early in the day to avoid peak sun and crowds.
Pack out everything you bring in.
Respect local wildlife, land, and cultural sites.
Cell service may be limited—download maps beforehand.
These three hikes are just a small sample of the incredible trails the Big Island has to offer. From lush rainforests and lava tubes to coastal paths and volcanic craters, the island’s landscapes are as diverse as they are beautiful.
For more self-guided hiking we recommend visiting www.bigislandhikes.com — a great resource for exploring even more of Hawaii Island on foot.
Big Island Coffee Farms & Tastings
Discover the heart of Kona coffee country — from lush volcanic slopes to the cup in your hand.
The Big Island is famous for Kona coffee, grown on rich volcanic soil with perfect rainfall and sunlight. Visiting a coffee farm isn’t just about tasting coffee — it’s about seeing the process from bean to cup, learning local history, and experiencing some of the island’s most scenic farming regions.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a coffee aficionado, these farms offer tours, tastings, and immersive experiences you won’t want to miss.
How Coffee is Grown in Kona
Kona coffee thrives on sunny slopes between 500–3,000 feet elevation. Farms here combine traditional and modern cultivation. Beans are washed, dried, and roasted on site at many farms, giving visitors a chance to see the full lifecycle.
Fun fact: Kona coffee accounts for less than 0.2% of the world’s coffee production — making it rare and highly sought after.
Must-Visit Coffee Farms
Greenwell Farms: Historic plantation with daily tours. Learn about the history of Kona coffee, see the roasting process, and enjoy complimentary tastings.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm: Hawaii’s only living history coffee farm. Step back in time and explore how coffee was grown and processed in the 1920s.
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee: Modern farm with small-batch focus. Free tours of the orchard, plus tasting of premium estate coffee.
Mountain Thunder Coffee: Easy-access farm with self-guided tours. Walk through lush coffee orchards and enjoy free tastings; no reservation needed.
Kuaiwi Farm (Coffee + Cacao): Specialty tours featuring both coffee and chocolate. Hands-on experience with roasting, chocolate making, and tasting flights.
Holualoa Kona Coffee Company: Charming boutique farm offering self-guided tours and curated tastings of single-origin coffees.
Tips for Visiting Coffee Farms
Plan Ahead: Some farms require reservations for guided tours.
Time of Day: Mornings are cooler and less crowded, perfect for photography.
Bring Cash: Some farms offer tastings, gifts, and merchandise that are cash-friendly.
Combine Farms: Group farms along a single route to make the most of your day.
Making the Most of Your Coffee Experience
Try different roasts and processing methods (washed, natural, honey-processed) to notice subtle flavor differences.
Pair your tasting with local chocolate or snacks to enhance flavors.
Ask about the farm’s sustainability practices — many are certified organic or practice eco-friendly farming.