What We Recommend
Big Island Restaurant Recommendations
Fresh fish, fine dining, local spots and more.
Waikoloa
Kuleana Rum Shack
Casual Hawaiian Eats & Rum
Location: Queen’s Marketplace
Phone: (808) 238-0786
Website: www.kuleanarum.com
Romanos’ Macaroni Grill
Lively Italian Eatery - Casual
Location: Queen’s Marketplace
Phone: (808) 443-5515
Website: www.macaronigrill.com
Roy’s Waikoloa Bar and Grill
Hawaiian Fusion Fare - Fine Dining
Location: King’s Shops
Phone: (808) 885-4321
Website: www.roysrestaurant.com
Sensei Seafood, Steak & Sushi Bar
Japanese-Pacific Rim Fare - Casual
Location: Queen’s Marketplace
Phone: (808) 886-6286
Website: www.senseihawaii.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
Big Island Beaches
The beaches on the Big Island are incredibly diverse, ranging from beautiful clear blue waters to green and black sand beaches.
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.
Hilo Day
See the beauty of the Hamakua Coast and experience the East Side of the Island.
Day Trip to Hilo
There will be a lot of driving, but it is SO worth it to see the other side of the island. And there are loads of places to stop!
Waimea
Start your day here with a coffee from Waimea Coffee Company, or a big breakfast at Hawaiian Style Café or Kamuela Kitchen & Café. If you’re in Waimea around lunch time, head to Big Island Brewhaus for margaritas and Mexican style cuisine, or The Fish & The Hog for some true Southern BBQ.
Waimea is a beautiful little town at an elevation of nearly 3,000FT. You will find green rolling hills, and a cowboy country vibe while there. On Saturday’s the town is hustling and bustling with two big Farmer’s Markets- one is located at Parker School from 7:30AM- 12:00PM, the other at Pukalani Stables from 7:30AM- 12:30PM. There is also a midweek market at Pukalani Stables from 9AM - 2PM every Wednesday.
Honoka’a
Once you are done exploring Waimea, take Highway 19 to Honoka’a. Make sure you stop at Tex Mex for a malasada. It is a deep fried sugary donut, and you can even get them filled with guava, chocolate, lilikoi, etc. They are THE BEST.
If you’d like to visit Waipio Valley lookout, you can head back into Honoka’a and follow signs to Waipio. If you are using Google maps make sure to enter the info you need before leaving Honoka’a Town as you will lose service the closer you get to Waipio.
Waipio is no longer accessible to the public, but the views from the lookout are absolutely worth the detour!
Once you are done in Honoka’a you will drive along the Hamakua Coastline on Highway 19 heading East towards Hilo.
Akaka Falls
As you approach mile marker 13.5, about 30 miles from Honoka’a, you will start to see signs for Akaka Falls. This is an easily accessible waterfall with a .5 mile loop that takes you to two waterfalls- the Kahuna and the Akaka Waterfalls. Akaka is 422 feet high! Park inside the gate if you can- the fee is $5/ car. If you park outside the gate it is not a far walk, and is $1/ person. Not much of a difference either way.
Hilo
Next stop- Hilo Town! As you get back onto Highway 19 continue heading East towards Hilo. Hilo is about 13 miles from Akaka Falls.
Once in Hilo, there are a number of things you can check out.
Rainbow Falls- only 5 minutes from downtown Hilo is another waterfall. You can see the waterfall from the parking lot, or climb some steps to get above the waterfall.
Farmer’s Market- The Hilo Farmer’s Market is one of the biggest markets on the island. Although Wednesdays and Saturdays are the big days for the market, there are still lots of vendors and stalls throughout the week. Lots of fruit and veggie stands, as well as arts & crafts. It is right in downtown Hilo, hard to miss.
Imiloa Astronomy Center- If you are into astronomy, this could be a great stop at some point in your day! This is part of the University of Hilo and is an exhibition and planetarium complex that explores the connections between Hawaiian cultural traditions and astronomy.
Restaurants- Depending on timing, you may be ready for lunch. There is a Double Tree Hotel in downtown Hilo that has a great outdoor restaurant and bar called Hula Hula’s. It is a great open-air eatery overlooking the Hilo Bay.
If you are looking for something a bit more casual and local, Pineapples Restaurant in downtown Hilo is a family- owned and operated restaurant providing fresh island cuisine. It is also an open-air restaurant. And lastly, Hilo Bay Café is a great option with seating overlooking the bay. Be sure to make a reservation though!
Return via Volcano or Mauna Kea
Once you are done in Hilo, you have a few options. If you have a few hours until sunset you may want to head to Volcano National Park, which is 40 minutes from downtown Hilo. There you can visit some steam vents, take a few shorts walks, or drive down the Chain of Craters Road- depending on your timing.
Once it’s time to head back you will want to take Saddle Road. This is the fastest way back, and takes you in between two of our beautiful mountains- Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.
Important- Saddle Road is approximately 40miles long and there is nothing the whole way. No gas stations, restaurants, bathrooms, etc.
If you have 4WD and would like to catch sunset up on Mauna Kea Summit, or do some stargazing at the visitor’s center at 9,000FT elevation, this is your time! You will lose service along Saddle Road, so make sure to look up directions if needed before leaving town.
Never hesitate to call or text with any questions along the way! We hope you have a wonderful time exploring the East side of the Beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i.
Big Island Hikes
Explore our beautiful island on foot, completely self-guided.
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.