Holuakoa Coffee Shack
An excellent option for a relaxing coffee break, the Holuakoa Coffee Shack serves up delicious food and drinks in a serene garden setting.
A Great Dining Lineup for a Day in Kona
Big Island Guide
Travel Guide
The biggest draw on Hawaii’s Big Island, the historic village of Kailua-Kona serves as the primary hotspot for tourists visiting the Big Island. With gorgeous beaches, historical and cultural attractions, and plenty of activities to enjoy, the little tourist town has surprises around every corner, and the dining scene is no exception. Some of the world’s finest chefs call Kailua-Kona home, offering a fantastic dining at every price point. From hole-in-the-wall local eateries to quick lunch spots and fine-dining, you could eat out every day of the week in Kailua-Kona and still not experience all the city’s chefs have to offer. But if you’re an established or aspiring foodie, you can’t go wrong with the following Kona dining lineup for a day spent wandering the streets of Kailua-Kona:
Coffee & Breakfast
Daylight Mind Coffee Company
75-5770 Ali’i Dr
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 339-7824
Website
Either Daylight Mind location in Kailua-Kona is worth a visit, but the Bayfront location offers amazing views and a full dining experience. Fiercely committed to the art and science of coffee roasting and preparation, the folks at Daylight Mind are as serious about coffee as anyone on the Big Island. With beans grown, harvested, prepared and roasted right on the island, the farm-to-cup tradition of Hawaii coffee is exemplified by the expertly-trained baristas at Daylight Mind. You won’t find a more mindful – or delicious – cup anywhere on the Big Island. Their breakfast menu is also delicious, with unique, upscale versions of many island favorites.
Breakfast/Brunch
Island Lava Java
75-5801 Ali’i Drive, Bldg 1
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
(808) 327-2161
Website
A mainstay of the Kailua-Kona breakfast scene since 1994, Island Lava Java continues to be a must-visit during a stay on the Big Island. Fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes and waffles, and delicious, local eggs and breakfast meats adorn a diverse and island-fresh menu. Fast, delicious, and perfectly situated right along breeze Ali’i Drive, there’s no better way to start your Kona dining lineup than a relaxing breakfast before a day on the town.
Lunch
Da Poke Shack
76-6246 Ali’i Drive
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 329-7653
Website
Traditionally served as an appetizer in Hawaiian cuisine, poke has experienced a resurgence as of late – especially with the trend toward food trucks and pop-up eateries that suit the preparation required for poke. Da Poke Shack has long been a favorite of Kona residents, with a wide selection of chef-supervised recipes and combos and the option to build your bowl yourself. No two poke bowls are quite alike, so visitors are encouraged to get creative and let their imagination run wild.
Afternoon Snack/Happy Hour
Kona Brewing Company
74-5612 Pawai Place
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
808-334-2739
Website
Born in Kailua-Kona and one of the most successful craft breweries in the world, the Kona Brewing Company is worth a visit to tour and taste the latest productions from the brewing facility, but the food and appetizers at their brewpub are among the best on the island. Whether you share one of their creative pizzas or a couple of appetizers, you’ll find no better place to enjoy a crisp, cold beer and a quick bite after a day of exploring.
Dinner/Cocktails
Huggo’s
75-5828 Kahakai Rd
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 329-1493
Website
One of the more memorable dining experiences in downtown Kailua-Kona, Huggo’s has everything you’d want in a tropical sunset-lit dinner: incredible craft cocktails, fresh seafood dishes, and a view to die for. As with its next-door cousin, Huggo’s On the Rocks, the flagship establishment shares its backdoor with a stunning ocean view, so even if the menu is out of your price range, a visit for a relaxing oceanside drink is well worth it. Huggo’s is a fantastic finale to your Kona dining lineup.
