The 17 best places to go out in Kailua-Kona

It would be easy for any restaurant to let service and quality slide when the amazing view would bring people in anyway, but On the Rocks doesn't. Instead, they go all in on creating a great experience. Great food, friendly service, quick turn-around on food and drink orders, and great food. And that's without mentioning the great Hawaiian music and hula dance performances they host, nor the perfection of the sunset view from every seat in the house.

We loved this place so much we came back twice during our week in Hawaii — and honestly, I’d go again in a heartbeat. The food was incredible (the poke nachos are a must — seriously, some of the best I’ve ever had). The first time we came was after a long day exploring Volcanoes National Park, and that meal hit the spot like nothing else. The atmosphere was perfect — ocean views, good vibes, and the friendliest service. Huge shoutout to Jhett, who was absolutely amazing — super chill, friendly, and easy to chat with. And to the girl working the front who somehow recognized us the second time we came back (even though I looked totally different — new outfit, different hair, no glasses!) — that totally made my day (so sorry I didn't grab her name). I also noticed how patient she was with older customers, even helping an older lady to the table and complimenting her bag. This place just radiates good energy — great food, great people, and great views. Easily one of our favorite spots in Hawaii!

Everything about this place was absolute perfection for our last night in Kona. The seafood chowder was made with an absolutely delicious seafood base. Believe it or not it’s hard to find seafood chowder without chicken stock in it. The sourdough bowl was fresh and decadent. My husband had the fish and chips and the flavor in the breading was so yummy! A lychee martini was the perfect addition for me and a local brew for my love. We sat at the bar. Excellent service. Awesome entertainment too! The views were spectacular even at night. 10/10 recommend!!

The location is great, on the water with beautiful views. They have a few different restaurants with different names and menus on the island. Our server was preoccupied with other details and we felt unattended. The food was good, but not great. The cocktails were good and the bar is a nice size if you just wanted to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset while listening to some music.

Unbeatable price and mixture on the Happy Hour Mai-Tai’s. Victor was our server and we had a great experience, he reads sign language well from across the restaurant (as in…..thank you may I have another😁). We sat right at the seawall and watched many who were seated in the same area ask for tables in the shade minutes after being seated. The sun does get very warm and bright mid-afternoon (we visited in October), and if you can’t handle direct sunlight due to sensitivity or if you have already been in the sun too long during the day, you may ask for a shaded table right away. I got the fresh catch, and although it was tasty, adding the mango tartar was the best thing I did. My wife got the fish tacos and was as equally impressed. The key lime pie for dessert was perfect, a touch of sweet but not too much, and if you wanted tart the drizzle that is on the plate filled that niche perfectly.

A bit expensive but you're paying for the view. I got the fish tacos and my wife got the poke bowl. Both were delicious! The fish didn't have the thick deep fry crust which you often get with fish and chips which made the taco feel a bit more refreshing than your usual fish taco. For the price, I wish they gave me 3 tacos instead of 2. Volcano fries weren't anything more than fries with some spices sprinkled on them. That's not to say they weren't good - just basic. My wife loves her poke bowl and felt all the ingredients were fresh and simple. Service and staff were wonderful. Soap dispenser was out of soap in the bathroom. I would go here again for sure!

What a great location. It’s right on the water. Tables in the sand. Beautiful views for sunsets. Loved the live music and hula dancing and lesson. Truly a memorable experience. Thank you again Charles and Joy A great find while in Kona

An iconic brewery that I was happy to visit on my trip to Hawaii. The decor was amazing and the atmosphere was great. The beer was crisp and refreshing as expected but their beer cheese nachos stole the show. Unique and tasty. So good.

Stopped into Kona Brewing during our cruise and it did not disappoint! I’ve always been a fan of their beers, but having one fresh at the source was amazing. The pizza and pizza rolls were delicious, and the staff was super friendly—top notch service all around. The whole vibe was relaxed and welcoming. Definitely a must-stop if you’re in the area, and I’ll be back for sure!

Large brewery and restaurant in a trendy new area in town. We had a Hanalei IPA brewed with POG that was refreshing but not too fruty and a Black Sand Porter. The porter was very good. We also tried the smash burger, which wasn't so much a smash burger as a pork/beef burger on an ube bun. The ube bun was interest - not the most appetizing color on the outside but super cool on the inside. The flavor of the patty, the aioli and the bun together was great. The kettle chips were good. The fish tacos with the mac salad needed a hot sauce but were tasty, if a bit small. Service here was good.

Stopped in on a Thursday afternoon with a group of 8 and seated right away. Very nice outdoor table area and cozy, tropical vibes inside (smelled amazing). Service was friendly and attentive. Enjoyed our food and cocktails! Decent prices. Daily weekday happy hour from 3-5 PM with $2 off select appetizers, cocktails, and pints. -Pepperoni Rolls (delicious!) -Captain Pizza (good) -Frozen Mai Tai (strong, good) Edamame (nice flavor) Overall, would recommend for a medium sized group to enjoy drinks and food.

We love Kona brewing. This is our 2nd visit (first in 2018). The staff are always so free, beer cold and delicious, and the food makes for happy bellies! The kalua pork nachos are the best we've had - get the large (we blew it on the size we ordered, lol).

May be the best pizza I ever had. KOHALA Garlic-infused Olive Oil, Spinach, Fresh Garlic, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, Portuguese Sausage, Roasted Red Peppers, Macadamia Nuts. Great beer too: LILIKO'I KEA Tropical Passion Fruit, Coriander with grains of Paradise.

Kona brewing has a lovely outdoor sitting area that is very large and welcoming. All the staff was very awesome and friendly. The nachos with the beer cheers were excellent. The pizza and the crust was very good and fresh. The seared ahi was also very good. The one downside was they were out of their top two beers which was disappointing but it was still a great experience.

Had a really nice lunch on the deck. Waitress was pleasant and answered questions without any issue. Drinks were great and watching the birds and the waves was so nice. Previously was Humpy's but now is Laverne's bid island alehouse but had the same great menu as 10 years ago! Waitress said the head chef is the same and it shows, great time!

Late on a Sunday and short on time to get to the airport, the staff was very accommodating! They have an upstairs and downstairs dining area overlooking Alii Drive with a great view of the ocean. I'm sure it's amazing for the famous Kona sunsets! The lilikoi drinks are good, it's very spacious and comfortable.

We visit Kona sometimes twice a year and we have a favorite oceanside eatery but this trip we tried a new place and were very pleased. There are several restaurants along the waterfront in Kona and we chose to have dinner at Humpy's (now Laverne's) Big Island Ale House. They have a downstairs seating area but we elected upstairs (there's in and outside). We were seated quickly and the server was friendly (there's validated parking at Coconut Grove Marketplace- make sure you give your license plate to the staff). We sat right along the rail and looked out over Kailua Harbor. And started with delicious cocktails - I chose the Blue Hawaii and my wife their Pina Colada. Both were tasty and refreshing (my wife loved the drink so much we came back another night). It was a late night meal so we wanted something lighter - I chose the Blue Cheese Wedge Salad and my wife ordered the Hummus Plate. It wasn't long before our plates came out (but long enough to believe they were freshly prepared). The salad was tasty and had plenty of variety in the ingredients. My wife also really enjoyed the Hummus plate with pita wedges, hummus and vegetables. As I mentioned we came another night and I enjoyed the Kalua Pork Sliders (with Likikoi Cole Slaw) while my wife really enjoyed their Aloha Spinach Salad (with goat cheese, avocado, caramelized bacon, and Pineapple chunks). The service was prompt, food was delicious, and prices reasonable compared to Kona prices. We'll be back

I ordered the fish sandwich, blackened, with a side salad. I was told the fish was fresh caught which is good. But the blackening was sparse and the fish itself was a bit dry and dense. The fries were good and crispy. The side salad and house made dressing were okay. The coffee was standard fare, not bad, not great. The best thing about this restaurant is the view and location. The ocean breeze is phenomenal.

Enjoyed a nice lunch here, just chose a bad time to visit (between 10:45a and 11:30a), as apparently it’s between breakfast and lunch and the menu is more limited. That being said, what we ordered was really good. The kahlua pork sub and the steak bomb sub were delicious. The service was top-notch and the view is hard to beat. I’m looking forward to getting there in time for breakfast one day.

I loved dining and eating here. The waiter was friendly and very knowledgeable in beers and its food menu. I asked the waiter who created the menu and she said the owner who was also a chef before! Well thought about creating the menu. The restaurant has a second open air floor where you can see the open view of the Pacific Ocean of Kona, Hawaii! P. S. Large selection of beer and cocktails.

Don't get me wrong. Love this place. It's a great atmosphere. Usually great service. But. this night, the service was subpar. If that. Our waiter seemed like he didn't want to be there. Never checked on us. Never smiled. Our drink glasses were dirty. And his band-aid was gross and loose. Could have worn a glove. But like I said. He just looked like he didn't want to be there. No Aloha. Other than his service, the night was fantastic. The food. Adult drinks. But the view of the bay and my companion stole the night. It was a hard night for service. But I'm sure he bounced back with a smile and Aloha. Love this place. Well be back🤙🏾

The best place I ate while on the Big Island for one week!! I am gluten and dairy intolerant and my server was so knowledgeable and was able to help me identify what I could eat. I got the fresh catch which was Ono and so delicious! And the zucchini was prepared to absolute perfection. They have lots of gluten free options that are also marked on their menus. Great vibe and has ocean views 🌊

Foster’s Kitchen Kona – A Culinary Gem on the Big Island! 🌺 Hands down, one of my favorite restaurants as a vegetarian in all of Big Island. I visited this place thrice in 1 week. Foster’s Kitchen Kona sets the bar with its commitment to fresh, organic ingredients and a menu that blends island flavor with gourmet finesse. Every bite was a burst of freshness—elevating even simple dishes to something unforgettable. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, perfect for soaking in the Kona vibe. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or settling in for dinner with a view, the staff’s warmth makes the experience feel personal and welcoming.

Food, service and ambience were great! Views of the sea and the street adds to the experience. The cajun fish tacos were spot-on. We ordered fresh catch of the day, which was Ono and tasted delicious. After the fish arrived, we saw it wasn’t fully cooked in the center, which they agreed, took back and brought fully cooked and it tasted better than before. The cajun fries were delicious! Overall, it was a good experience and we had a good time. Would recommend this place!

I had to wait 30 minutes to get a table just for myself but I can honestly say it was worth the wait. I had the Chicken pesto pasta and it was delicious. The Mai Tai was insanely good as well. My server was super friendly and nice my only minor critique is that she didn't ask me if I wanted another Mai Tai before handing me my check. Otherwise this place was great I can't imagine how good the rest of the food must be.

Food was really good and fresh! Me and my husband loved the atmosphere, the vibez was really nice. Ribs was falling off the bone, pasta was well seasoned!

If you’re in Kona, do yourself a favor and visit Foster's Kitchen – it’s a hidden gem! 🌺 The food here is absolutely amazing, and what makes it even better is that everything is made from scratch. You can really taste the freshness in every dish, from their delicious seafood to their unique island-inspired specials. The fish tacos are a must-try – they’re perfectly seasoned, fresh, and packed with flavor! 🌮 The views from the restaurant are also incredible! 🌊 With the ocean right there, you can enjoy your meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The atmosphere is so relaxed and welcoming, and the staff is super friendly – they make you feel like you're at home. Can't wait until my next meal there!

I had an exceptional dining experience at this beach-facing restaurant. The mushroom appetizer was a delightful start, bursting with rich flavors and perfectly cooked. The shrimp & grit main course was a symphony of tastes, with succulent shrimp complementing the creamy grits flawlessly. Another main course Ahi tuna served with rice and veggies was a highlight, impeccably seared and served with precision. The stunning view added to the overall ambiance, making it a must try five-star experience

We had a fantastic Monday night dinner at Oceans Sports Bar and Grill in downtown Kona, right next to the volleyball courts. It was fish and chips night, and the meal did not disappoint—the fish was fresh and perfectly cooked, the fries were crispy, and everything was served hot. Service was friendly and attentive, (thank you Michelle V) and since Mondays are a bit quieter, we got to pick any table we wanted. The $6 Mai Tais were a nice bonus and added to the laid-back island vibe. If you're looking for great food at a great value in a relaxed atmosphere, this spot is a must-visit!

Stopped in Kona on our way around the island for a quick 24hr experience on Hawaii’s big island. It was 8:40p by the time we made it to Oceans Sports Bar. We chose it because it serves food so late - which is so difficult to find in Hawaii. Everything closes or stops food service at 8:30-9p. By 9P it held more of a club scene with DJ, dancing, young adults, and a full bar. We got seated right away, had fantastic service by our waitress and were satisfied with the food options, taste and draft beers. It made for a fun and entertaining experience to the end of the night.

Stopped in for a snack received great service and the food was delicious. Prices were friendly also .

Great place, people there are friendly and so cool. Will definitely go again specially since they have 2 pool tables

Friendly service…. Fast and attentive. The food was average for even bar food! We got fries and mozzarella sticks. The marinara had a weird taste and consistency. The mai tai is $5.00 all day everyday, but I would not recommend them.

This is a legitimate bar, with two pool tables. The food isn’t anything stellar, which is why it only gets 4 stars. Seems like the food is frozen and not exactly fresh. This bar is located right next to several other restaurants, so it’s not “off the beaten path”, it’s right in the middle of your face if you’re looking around. Come here if you don’t want to spend forever waiting in line at a restaurant next door. Drinks and service are good.

Just gonna say wow. I've enjoyed this location as a bar. Fun friendly service. With a good selection. Today I ordered the Fish n Chips. It was so yummy. Light and crunchy without being greasy. Weird for me to review tartar sauce, but it was light and briny. So good.

Off the beaten path, brew pub. It’s has a large dining area. Place your order at the bar and then pick your seat. The staff is friendly, they take time to talk with you and socialize. By the time you sit and get comfortable your food is delivered. They were fast with their service. Burgers are juicy and flavorful. We enjoyed our lunch

We experienced both the Hilo and Kona locations - loved them both! We enjoyed lunch and beers in Hilo, the service was great! We were running errands stopped in the Kona location - industrial park, and service was great again! Locals or not - treated the same! Mahalo!

Great beer - we especially loved the porter. This place has a ton of outside space but we were here when it rained so this inside was crowded, hot and loud. There are some cool counter seats where you can see the tanks. The beer is great, definitely give it a try.

The Best Beers We Had in the Entire State! 🍺🌋 Ola Brew Co. is a local gem that absolutely lives up to the hype. Hands down, these were the best beers we had during our entire time in Hawai'i, fresh, flavorful, and brewed with serious craft. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with a convenient menu of classic favorites: burgers, wings, fries, and pizza. We tried the Pestoroni with its house-made red sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and pepperoni topped with a pesto drizzle, and it was delicious. We also grabbed a traditional cheese pizza, which hit the spot. Add in an erupting volcano playing on the TV, and you've got a uniquely Hawaiian experience that’s hard to beat. We later found out it’s a local favorite, and for good reason! That’s your cue to pop in, grab a cold one, and show some love to this awesome spot. Pro tip: Don’t sleep on ordering a side of ranch for your pizza crust. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.

Great beer and their lau lau pork dish was the best thing I ate on the island in my entire visit and we went to several higher end spots, this simple dish blew everything out of the water in terms of taste. So much flavor!

Great brews and friendly service Watch sports on several TVs and different streaming services Street parking Inside seating at tables and bar Also Patio but it seems you need to come inside to order No happy hour

Chris had the MA'A Lager. I had the A'A IPA. Very nice. The Ola Burger was one of Best I've ever had. Chris ordered the Cobb. We shared. Dessert was the delicious Kiawe Vanilla Porter. Service was great. Mahalo!

I so wish I lived here. If I did I’d hang out at Huggo,s every day and eat like a king. Just had a perfectly cooked swordfish in a wonderful sauce. Watched a beautiful sunset as I ate. Live guitar music pacing the time as the meal unfolded. Life is good!

The food is very good but it was a little over-salted and over-sauced for our tastes. My husband’s lamb shank was cooked perfectly. We had the Brussels sprouts appetizer (which they were very accommodating to make them veggie) but the skillet was too hot so they got overcooked/burned. The specialty cocktail was delicious and all the staff were amazing! Can’t beat the location on the water.

What a beautiful spot to over look the ocean and watch the sunset while having cocktails or supper. We only had drinks. I couldn’t taste the alcohol in mine ( mezcal) even with all the ice, but the server offered to add more. Perhaps for $15 or more a drink they could make sure the drinks are proper portions of alcohol. The gentleman that served us was great! Funny, kind and attentive. Lots of parking and with validation from the restaurant it’s free. The restaurant & washrooms were clean & the atmosphere was great.

Had an amazing dining experience! After a 10 hr flight, we were just looking for a light dinner with sunset views to cap off our day. Started with the Arugula salad. The strawberries tasted like they were just picked. So fresh! The bread basket was so good! Really loved the garlic hummus and asiago slices. We split the Shrimp Capellini. All the flavors were so fresh and delicious. The shrimp was perfectly cooked. Our server Ashley was wonderful and Brent our wine server was too! We didn't order dessert, however saw a few being served. All looked amazing. Of course, the view was beautiful. This is a "must do"when in Kailua Kona!

We ordered the Kanpachi o Kenai and the Sesame Crusted Ahi and it was incredible. The wait staff was very attentive and kind. All seats were on the water and have great views. There was a resident kitty who enjoyed some petting which was the best ending. Thank you again.

Very welcoming and fun atmosphere the moment we walked in the door. The hostess was very warm and kind. We enjoyed our table by the oceanfront and our waitress was knowledgeable and nice as well. Be ready to spend some $$$ because it is not cheap so would not recommend for a casual eat out unless got the lower items on the menu and no drinks. More of a place you clean up real nice after a day at the beach to have luxury food. A reservation is a must. Both of us got fish or catch of the day - me Opa and him Swordfish. Both were great but we both liked the Opa best! We both got out fish with the Kahakai.

The view was amazing. We were there for anniversary and we got a really good table next to the sea. We thank a lot Christie for her kindness and attention. We strongly recommend the NY steak and the teriyaki beef !

What an Awesome Dining Experience. The open air design allowed for Beautiful Views of the Ocean Waves Crashing upon the Beach. It had a Feeling of Elegance. The Food was Delicious and Fairly Priced for this type of Venue. Our Sever was Very Polite and Professional. A Very Enjoyable Meal.

During my experience, the food and service does not align with the price. To begin, as we walked in two servers approach the hostess and asked to pass us to someone else (Family of 5, 3 are kids). All the food is a la carte, and sides are additional. ***I’m ok with this if the service meets the price. Server seemed overwhelmed and the restaurant was not busy. The stuff ono was dry, the scallops were flavorless, and calamari was all breading. My eldest did enjoy his fish tacos, but his brothers ordered from the keiki menu and received one ladle of Mac and cheese no sides. One plus from this was the view of the beach.

After reading some reviews we decided to give this place a try. We were able to get seating quick on a weeknight for a late dinner. Entrance was nice and inviting and views with nice ocean breeze was great. That said, the food was just average, and the overall interior felt a bit dated. I wasn’t a fan of the old furniture and dark carpets—removing those could really freshen up the space.

I came to the Kona Inn Restaurant twice while visiting Kona, and both experiences were absolutely spectacular. The service both times was phenomenal — friendly, attentive, and welcoming. Would definitelyyyyy recommend the Tuna Stack … our server recommended it to me and she was right, it’s incredible. The calamari is also a great appetizer to share with your table and absolutely worth ordering. On top of the great food and service, this is hands-down one of the best places in Kona to watch the sunset. Perfect atmosphere, amazing views, and an overall fantastic dining experience. Can’t wait to come back next time I’m on the island!

We've been here 5 years & enjoy viewing all the Sunsets. The View from Kona Inn Restaurant was EXCEPTIONAL!! The relaxed atmosphere, ambiance & authenticity was also the Best. Hosts and Servers provided exceptional service and offered to take photos of their Guests. Parking is terribly expensive and will limit our number of repeated visits but our enjoyment will keep us coming back.

Totally amazing. The food was top notch, the venue was top notch. A beautiful place to have dinner. I 100% recommend the filet mignon and scallops

This was our third visit to the Kona Inn over a 22 year period, and while the unbeatable oceanfront setting still delivers that classic Big Island charm, we couldn’t help but notice a little decline in overall quality this time around. Let’s start with the positives: the atmosphere is still one of the best you can find in Kona. Sitting out on the open-air lanai, watching the waves roll in with a mai tai (or my go to- a Diet Coke) in hand—it’s hard to ask for a better view. The historic feel of the building, the tropical landscaping, and the relaxed pace all contribute to that old-school Hawaiian vibe that’s becoming harder to find…. Especially now as it seems as more and more storefronts are vacant. That said, while still good, the food and service didn’t quite live up to our previous experiences. Dishes that once felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared now felt a bit more harried and inconsistent. It’s not that it was a bad meal—it just wasn’t up to the standard that made us want to return a third time. We left wishing the experience had matched the beauty of the setting. We’re hopeful this was just an off night, and we’d love to see Kona Inn return to the high quality and warm hospitality that made it a favorite of ours. Here’s hoping it finds its groove again, because that view is still worth coming back for. We love this spot! When you go, we recommend trying the stuffed Ono! That dish is rich and delicious!

The food was phenomenal! If only the service was too. We arrived about 15 minutes before happy hour and sat at the bar. After placing our order, a cocktail and 2 appetizers, we overheard the bartender asking the woman next to us if she would like another cocktail. She declined and wanted to wait 10 more minutes so she could get the happy hour price. He shrugged it off and said, "I'll put it in as happy hour." Looking out for your patrons should be a service standard. Happy hour was not even mentioned when we sat down. Support locals, shade the tourists. Aloha.

Awesome place ! Great food, atmosphere and service! First time ever menu that had a you choose 4 flavors “flight” of poke appetizer! I had it for my meal and it was so generous that I took half of it home! Hubby’s teriyaki beef short ribs were delicious! Their fish marketplace had poke flavors for takeout! I highly recommend it!

The best, and I am not kidding, the best fish tacos on the island. We came for lunch and my husband ordered the tacos while I ordered the seafood pasta. The pasta was not great (pretty bland) but the tacos were so good that they eclipsed that and make this restaurant still deserving of five stars. Get the Cajun seasoning on the fish and you will thank yourself. They were so good we came back for our final meal prior to our flight a few days later and ordered - yes - fish tacos (both of us this time). Their cocktails and calamari appetizer were also good! But I am still dreaming about the tacos.

Nothing like fresh poke as a first on-island meal. We chose 1 fish and 2 sides with brown rice. Service was nice and efficient. Good selection of poke.

Omg the best poke I’ve ever had - we had the poke nachos and the tuna on it was absolutely mind blowing. We also got Korean chicken which was so so good. I got a coolada and it was delicious. Favorite place we’ve been to in Kona! Our waiter was also so so helpful and had the best energy. Shout out to Isaiah for being amazing!!

There’s a restaurant side and a to go window. It’s a very popular local spot so reserve ahead of time. We opted to get it to go. The garlic shrimp was okay and the poke was very good. Priced good and portion size is good. Would definitely stop by.

05/10/2025 (Sat) We chose Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill for the final dinner of our trip, as it’s said to be a popular local spot known for its fresh seafood. When we arrived around 7:00 PM, the restaurant was packed, and we were told there would be a 40–50 minute wait. Thankfully, we were seated in under 40 minutes. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a bar area. On that evening, the indoor seating was already full, and the outdoor area was lively despite the rainy weather. A tent covered the terrace, but rain from earlier had blown in from the sides, leaving some tables and the ground damp. Since we had already had a heavy meal earlier in the day, we weren’t very hungry. So we decided to share the Big Boy Plate ($32) and Poke Nachos ($24), along with two iced teas ($4.50 each). Despite the crowd, our food came out in about 20 minutes, which felt fairly quick. The staff were polite and friendly, though it was a bit difficult to get their attention when we wanted a refill on our drinks — understandably, as they were very busy. As for the food, everything seemed fresh, but we felt that the different scoops of marinated tuna on the Big Boy Plate, while seasoned individually, lacked distinct flavors and came across a bit too similar to each other. The natural quality and freshness of the tuna didn’t quite shine through as we had hoped. The poke nachos were decent, though the chips were slightly soggy. One of the highlights of the evening was the live band playing outside — they had a great sound and really lifted the atmosphere. They even extended their set, which made for an extra enjoyable vibe. By the time we left, the rain had cleared, and overall, it was a fun and memorable way to wrap up our trip.😊✨

We visited this palace on a Friday in early March and had no crowd problem. It was a very interesting look at how the Royal family lived. The museum was very well done and you could walk around the whole grounds. It took us about 2 hours to see and read everything. Very nice.

We had an amazing experience here, we booked the docent guided tour for about 20 bucks and it was absolutely worth it. Our tour guide had so much knowledge, down to the lineage and relationships of every member of the royal family whose portraits are on the upstairs walls which was very interesting. The tour was just over an hour, and we learned so many things. The upstairs room that houses the dresses shows what incredible style the royal family had. We would absolutely recommend doing the tour instead of the self-guided.

Hulihe'e place is located downtown Kona. It pro ides an historic look at the summer home of the past royalty of Hawaii. Very intriguing furniture and clothing the royalty wore and used. I enjoyed walking through the palace.

Hulihe‘e Palace is a beautiful historic site in Kona with well-preserved artifacts and stunning oceanfront views. It’s a peaceful place to learn about Hawaiian royalty and culture—worth a visit if you enjoy history and local heritage.

Loved the palace, we had a friendly welcome and took the self guided tour by scanning the QR how ever a lady was there to provide more information, I was impressed by the history and the view from this point, we also went during the weekend of the King Kamehameha's parade and there was live music, really enjoyed the visit

Wonderful cultural site in downtown Kailua-Kona. We booked the docent guided tour and we were glad we did. Sunshine was our guide and did an excellent job especially with our oversized group. Sunshine answered all our questions and added anecdotes about each room. Not a big palace but significant in Hawaiian history and culture.

What a refreshing change of pace from all the retail and food choices here on Alii Drive. So worth your time to stop in here and witness first hand the history, koa furniture, architecture, interior design, artifacts, historical photography, and pics of Royalty, (ask about Princess Ruth) throughout both floors of this well kept Palace. But first, you'll need to head towards the ocean and stroll around to the back, through the wonderfully manicured grounds to enter. The sounds, fragrance, and rhythms of the water, immediately relax you for your journey back in time. The best part... You are asked to take your shoes off and wander about barefoot, yes barefoot! If that doesn't sound appropriate for you, they will provide you with slippers for over your shoes. We absolutely chose barefoot 🤙 The flooring is immaculate and made with local materials, so the feel is incredible. The "Daughters of Hawaii" currently run the Museum and offer tours if you like. Small donation fee at the back door, and it's definitely worth every dollar.

It was just okay. Seems like this place is only popular because it is popular. Food is pretty coming out, ambience is nice (but only partial ocean view at an angle), and staff are attentive. But the “famous” fried fish was very dry (see pictures) and low on flavor. My mom liked the November special though - a chicken sandwich with sweet butternut squash soup. Again, this was just okay. I would not write home about it or recommend it except for the sheer convenience, which isn’t special either - there are a lot of other options nearby.

The best food in Kona! Really, I ate there my 6 days on the island. Great service with a smile. Portions are big and oh so tasty. Try the chicken enchilada omelet its Fantastic

The first thing my wife complain is that it is not handicap friendly. Those of you can't climb stairs, forget about this place. Like everyone else comments, the servers are friendly. I give it a four stars given the location, food, service and ambience. Food wise: BBQ Ribs and Chicken The BBQ ribs are quite tender and fall off the bones easily which I like. I have to admit the BBQ sauce is a bit too overwhelming and sweet for me and the chicken a bit too dry and tough. I gave up eating the chicken after chewing and chewing each bite. Those who have weak teeth, beware! Grilled Chicken: My wife said, "It is okay. Don't trust the reviews you read when it said five stars, it is not true." Each person have their own personal preference. I took a piece of her chicken, I find it a bit bland and not to my taste. Her piece of chicken is slightly more tender. White Chocolate Lilikoi Cheesecake with Macadamia Nut Crust: Pleasing to the eyes and taste quite delicious. The combination of chocolate, macadamia nuts and cheese cake is pretty good. It is good with coffee.

A really nice restaurant, with friendly staff and a good happy hour menu. The burgers are huge and priced very well. At this restaurant, keep it to traditional bar food and you won't be disappointed. There are separate breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, so I cannot speak to them all. It is in central Kona and has pretty good views of the water.

We went for breakfast, and the food was great! We got seated quickly, and our server was pretty nice and stopped by often to ask if we needed anything. They give you a lot of food as well, and it comes rather quickly.

Two words. Calamari strips. So tender. So delicious. Friendly staff. Nice location. Good beers. Fish was great and crab cakes actually contain crab (you know how many do not.. ). They SHOULD warm guests about the parking. They have free parking and if their lot is full there's an arrangement with the hotel for overflow. We got stuck paying the next lot over a fortune. Avoid that. About 10$ an hour. Ugh. Will go back :-)

Great food and a beautiful open view of the ocean! They have some refreshing flavoured teas as well! Fresh fish and quick service! They also have a 10 percent off coupon if you register on their website

I hate speaking ill of a restaurant, I truly do. I couldn't justify giving this place a 5, it wasn't horrible but left a lot to be desired. We went about 3pm so not much a crowd and it was not our 1st choice, actually 2nd because I didn't want to wait for a table across the way at On the Rocks. Needless to say, I probably should have waited for that table. We got a much better view and service as well as drinks at a hole in the wall bar right after this. Drinks were eh to be honest, service was not spectacular ant the food was not something I could get elsewhere or from the grocery store besides the house made pickles. I don't know you be the judge from the pictures. I used to come here when it was Lulu's and that place was awesome! I miss it!

We definitely wouldn't be back at this place if we were in Hawaii again. Had SOME tables but was not nearly as busy as other places and just pretty dead. A sign. Was going for a specialty pizza and was all set when, nope, pizza making ends at a certain time. Pizza becomes to hard to make after 9 p.m.... So went with a quick choice while dude stands there and get bland sliders. Will remember to skip this place next time that's for sure. My own reviews often help me down the road.. Not friendly at all here either.

Chicken Caesar salad was incredibly delicious and filling! Service was great and they have a broad menu that will please everyone. Seating up on the second floor provides great views of Kona, especially at night for the best vibes. I recommend!

Google doesn't have the correct hours - Laverne's is open for breakfast every day from 7:30-10:30. We loved the breakfast here! I got the Hawaiian French toast but asked them to add the sliced bananas and macadamia nuts to kick it up a notch. That plus coconut syrup and maple syrup and it was the BEST! My husband had the eggs, Portuguese sausage and toast, with potatoes. Everything was great, and our server/bartender Matt was very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!

We tried the nachos and fried pickles. I was disappointed with both. Not a lot of flavor. Presentation was decent and from the ingredients, youd expect them to taste so good but quite flavorless. As for the fried pickles, I was excited they were in spears but the batter they used to fry just left them simple and also unsatisfying. Our bartender/waitress was awesome and fun to talk to. Lived her easy going way and was happy to have a conversation.

Very average nothing to write home about a solid 3 stars !!! Beer was cold and food was hot but very basic. Bartender did his job but not friendly never said hi or anything other you want another one. If you’re looking for just basic food and flat service come here you will never have to tip over 20 percent because there is nothing they do that’s worth a larger tip!!

Everyone ends up in this place since there are 3 bars in Kona. This is the worst of all 3. Eat before you go there. And don't expect any service. You will be ignored multiple times but eventually you will get a drink. It becomes local night club on Saturdays if you want to do some dancing at your own risk.

This place is lovely. Right on the ocean. Very "touristy", but a really great view. I had the chef's special pasta with vodka sauce, and it was delicious. They have a kids menu, and an extensive drink menu. They may have been light on staff, as our server was VERY busy and had a lot of tables to cover. He was good though, his name is Gabriel. The atmosphere alone at this place was great. Highly recommend.

I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great dining experience paired with stunning views. The service was exceptional, the staff was attentive and welcoming and the food was absolutely delicious. We had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to our next visit!

Our first time in Hawaii, and this was the first place we ate lunch at. I ordered a poke nacho dish that was super fresh and the crunchy wonton chips held up their crisp until the very last bite. My fiance ordered the Guava BBQ bacon cheeseburger that he crushed. Our server Derrick made delicious mocktails for my aunt and I. He also gave us wonderful suggestions for island activities, per our request. My aunt ordered the pork BBQ sandwich amd her bf ordered the teriyaki burger. All were delicious. And the VIEW off the patio was just breath taking. We all highly recommend this restaurant. (The prices were reasonable!)

Great spot overlooking the water. Felt like an old time Hawaiian restaurant, nothing fancy. The food was excellent. We had the fish sandwich and 2 different types of hamburgers… all delicious. We also ordered the avocado fries which were so good. The Mai Tais and piña coladas were also excellent.

Recommend this place! Was there in September 2025, the service was really nice and the food was good, portions are big, cocktails are tasty! View is great and sunset table sitting is also available!

We loved this place so much that we came three days in a row during our trip. The food is absolutely delicious, but the real star is their homemade peanut butter cheesecake — it’s unforgettable. If I could give this place more than 5 stars, I would. We also got lucky to have the same server, Bri, each time. She remembered us, knew exactly what I was coming back for (the cheesecake!), and made us feel so welcome. She truly goes above and beyond and absolutely deserves all the tips you can give her! A must-visit restaurant — don’t leave without trying the cheesecake!

In February, I went to Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar with my mom and dad, and we had a wonderful dining experience. The oceanfront setting was beautiful, especially with the breeze and views of the water. We enjoyed the island-inspired dishes and fresh flavors, and the service was friendly and attentive. The atmosphere felt lively yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal together as a family. Watching the sunset from our table made the experience even more special. 🌅🍹🌺

We went here last night! We had so much 😊 FUN! Great for kareoke! Small audience! No books. Dollar per song. You have to know the song you want to sing. Atmosphere was definitely lively😸. Drinks were good. You have to go up to the bar to order. No waiters/waitresses. Parking: make sure to secure vehicles. Don't leave valuables in your car. 🤗👍💗💗💗💗

We came there specifically for karaoke. I'm only giving 2 stars because the drinks were really good. As someone who attends & hosts karaoke frequently, I love trying new spots when I travel. This is the WORST karaoke experience I've ever encountered. First, we have to pay-per-song. That is a really sneaky way to force tips for the KJ (Karaoke DJ). Second, he was SO lazy that if someone were to sign up for 5-10 songs in a row, they could sing every single one in a row. A true KJ makes sure a singer doesn't sing two songs in a row if there is a long list with multiple singers. It takes attention & common sense. It doesn't seem as if he incorporates either. Third, even when we spoke to one of the people with 5 songs in a row in the queue and she said we could jump our song before one of hers because someone was leaving early & we had to drop them off at the airport, he STILL didn't move my song up. All in all, the customers were fun & energetic, but the KJ was lazy, rude, unprofessional, & unaccommodating, even when all the other parties involved already agreed before approaching him. We ended up taking our money back & leaving early. KJ's are some of the kindest & most professional people I've had the pleasure of meeting no matter where I am in the world. This was an extremely jarring & unpleasant experience. I won't be going back for the rest of my trip. I'll try to find a more welcoming karaoke bar.

Delicious drinks! Wonderful bartenders and validated parking.

Great 49er Game!!! No Food!

Hubbies stumbled on this incredible gem looking for a bar while us girls shopped and were not disappointed! Not only is the environment lively and energetic but friendly too. The owner Bailei (sorry if I spelled it wrong) has energy I want to bottle and take home with me. Evening bartender Dani was quick and observant ;-). Both are master of the art of conversation. The locals love this place and I loved learning all about being "rich, fun, & young." Andy you were a lifesaver. If you are in downtown Kona, definitely hit this bar and get a feeling of being home. 💜💜

D'MARIE was a wonderful bar tender and treated us amazingly. Drinks were great and reasonably priced. This is more of a locals bar but that's my favorite kind of bar.

Not a spot for the timid or those looking for the family-friendly tourist bars, this is the true locals' joint with beer swilling and karaoke. More of a respectable dive than what one may consider a "cocktail bar" but they still will make the mai tais and whatever basic else. Expect everyone to know each other so make friends and share a pint haha in this dark and close quarters space.

This is such a beautiful place to visit- we were there last year. It’s breathtaking for sure, you can see the ocean as you walk further into the property. They have different sections, you can sit and just bask in the sun or sit by the butterfly garden. They have this spiral 🌀 maze which is very interesting plus it gives the story behind it.

This is a small botanical garden with an amazingly diverse collection of plants. It is not the easiest place to find due to one-way roads and neighborhood development. The signage on the grounds is outdated and difficult to read. Although we visited during open hours and there was a meeting being conducted in the basement, the main level and restrooms were closed. The grounds are not set-up for wheelchair access, but are flat or sloping for handicapped accessibility

Beautiful, unique flowers! It's a small garden, but very nice and peaceful. Keep an eye out for the bright green lizards running around.

Very pretty little botanical garden. Wish there were markers. Many unique trees and shrubs. I've never seen before. Mosquitoes ate us alive. We should have anticipated.

Really a lovely, peaceful place, well tended, with plants organized by continent. No charge, one of the "birdiest" places we found on Hawaii. Thanks to the persons who donated and maintain these gardens.

Got bitten by mosquitos!! nice little gardens. Beautiful plants and trees. But the signs of plants and trees were a little outdated. Small botanical garden with native Hawaiian plants, as well as exotic plant species.

I went there and explored the garden, learned about many plants and flowers, and took some beautiful pictures. It was a wonderful experience.

VERY POOR SERVICE!! Walked in, bartender was rude and dismissive asked for my drink to be made right and he ignored me and helped another person. Bar was dead so there was no reason for the bad service. Wanted to support the local gay bar but left dissatisfied.

Like Maui, the gay bar scene here is weak. Hell, there's not even one bar on Maui, so the Big Island is one up on us! ATMOSPHERE: The bar is oddly located in the middle of a strip mall amongst other businesses, though the majority of them were closed at night. It's a small room with a u-shaped central bar, high tops off to the sides, a pool table, and a TV for karaoke. There's a disco ball hanging but no dance floor. We moseyed on in around 11pm on a Saturday night, and the place was dead, meaning about 9 others were there. SERVICE: Matt, the sole bartender on duty came over, introduced himself, and got us settled in, and took our orders. What a friendly guy. We were happy to hear that they had a late night happy hour on domestic bottles, which were a mere $3. Yes! OVERALL: Cute little neighborhood hole in the wall kinda place to grab a few drinks and talk story. Friendly service, great prices, lots of parking.

What a dump, my partner, his best friend went in there on. Wednesday night; mind you I Am from nyc, capital of rude; this place does even add up. The bartender did not even acknowledge us. Please , please don’t go. My second time and the second time was even worst than the first time. Don’t set foot there. You want a place that’s accommodating go to the My Bar. Amazing service. You lost my business, my friends who will be coming to Hawaii we will not be going to the mask.

Most uninviting gay bar I've ever been in. Steer clear if you're a tourist. They dont want your patronage.🤙

I was just learning my self the area. So decided to check out the Gay Bar. The bar man was so friendly. The atmosphere too is unexplainable. Amazing place to unwind, relax over a beautiful mellow music. Of course sipping and ice cold beer

Fun local bar. Bartender was super nice and intro’ed us to trivia. Free candy for everyone. There were stockings up too. Felt like a nice local joint for anyone to come and be themselves.

My girlfriend and I visited here on a Saturday night. It’s a local spot with friendly welcoming vibes. We played trivia, played songs on the jukebox and had inspiring conversations with other patrons both local and visiting. Can’t wait to come back again! Shout out to Mickey Lee 💖 and the bartender Bartender Brian.