Here are some of my favorite spots for food and fun on the Kona side of Big Island, Hawaii. Located at Waikoloa Village is the Queens Marketplace and the Kings Shops. Island Gourmet Market, at the Queens Marketplace, is a one stop shop. This deli has cold food, hot food, cold drinks, a wine bar, and souvenirs. Their malasadas paired with fresh Kona Coffee is a must have.
Across from Queens Marketplace are the Kings Shops. Original Big Island Shaved Ice Company (OBISIC) is by far the best shaved ice place on the island. I’ve had a lot of their flavors and specialty combinations, and I think the Kona Coffee specialty is the best. One large order is enough for two people.
The Whalers General Store, which has reasonably priced souvenirs, is across from OBISIC. I recommend checking both Island Gourmet Marketplace and Whalers General Store before buying anything as they sell similar items, and one place may be cheaper.
The Royal Kona Resort is a great spot for breakfast and a luau. Their breakfast menu is reasonably priced and the view, especially if you are at a table closest to the water, is hard to beat. Royal Kona Resort | Official Site
Moco Loco is a local hearty dish consisting of rice, beef patty, eggs, and topped with gravy. You will get a plentiful serving so make sure you are hungry.
In the evening, the Outrigger Hotel turns on their spotlights and people can see the giant manta rays from their deck at no cost. Another option to see the manta rays is a tour through a company which you actually go in the water but that is approximately $94 pp before gratuity.
If you decide to head up to Havi (about 2 hours from Kona), stop the at Hamakua Nut Farm. All of Hamakua’s macadamia nuts are locally grown on the Big Island. You can sample every one of the macadamia nut flavors they sell as well as see the production process. If you don’t care to try the nuts, grab some Ice Cream and browse the souvenirs.
Close to the nut farm is Lapakahi State Park. It features not only a spot for snorkeling and swimming (bring water shoes), but a nice trail for an easy hike. Facilities here consist of a port o john and no showers.
Old Kona Airport State Beach Park is a great place to go if you have kids. There are plenty of tide pools and space to play in the sand. This expansive beach is not crowded and has ample parking. Swimming is not ideal here due to the rocks. Bring a chair or a towel and lay out and listen to the waves.
[…] There are no showers or actual restroom, but Port-o-johns are available. Close to this park is Hamakua Nut Farm. You can sample every one of the macadamia nut flavors they sell as well as see the production […]