Gregory's Guidebook
Food Scene
A spectacular place for sunset, (and your bill will prove it!) Consider wandering in early and grabbing a bar table for cocktails and pupus instead of a full dinner if you are budget conscious. (There is a new chef and we have not tasted his menu, but hear good things about it.) The Corn Ribs, Shokupan Bread, Lobster Tempura, King Crab Leg with black truffle butter, Lamb Chops are all great. The Fresh Catch is always a winner. Definitely a "splurge dinner" for a special occasion.
24 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
CanoeHouse
68-1400 Mauna Lani DrA spectacular place for sunset, (and your bill will prove it!) Consider wandering in early and grabbing a bar table for cocktails and pupus instead of a full dinner if you are budget conscious. (There is a new chef and we have not tasted his menu, but hear good things about it.) The Corn Ribs, Shokupan Bread, Lobster Tempura, King Crab Leg with black truffle butter, Lamb Chops are all great. The Fresh Catch is always a winner. Definitely a "splurge dinner" for a special occasion.
FORC stands for "Farmer, Ocean, Rancher and Cook." And Chef Alan Hess does wonders with this farm-to-table restaurant that serves up full, robust, flavorful dishes at this old Waimea cowboy hangout. Favorites: the whole grilled kampachi, smoked pork chops, goat tacos, and grass-fed beef steaks. Order a bunch of dishes and share. Don't skip the killer desserts either. Be sure to look for the old Parker Ranch cattle brands on the wall. A modern and airy renovation has turned this 1970's motel dining room into a hip vintage gem. Reservations a must.
FORC Restaurant
FORC stands for "Farmer, Ocean, Rancher and Cook." And Chef Alan Hess does wonders with this farm-to-table restaurant that serves up full, robust, flavorful dishes at this old Waimea cowboy hangout. Favorites: the whole grilled kampachi, smoked pork chops, goat tacos, and grass-fed beef steaks. Order a bunch of dishes and share. Don't skip the killer desserts either. Be sure to look for the old Parker Ranch cattle brands on the wall. A modern and airy renovation has turned this 1970's motel dining room into a hip vintage gem. Reservations a must.
Peter Merriman "originated" Hawaiian Farm-to-Table food decades ago by encouraging local farmers and ranchers to cultivate the highest quality local ingredients. He basically invented modern Hawaiian fusion haute cuisine, and this was his very first restaurant. It's cozy and unpretentious.
Merriman's Big Island
Peter Merriman "originated" Hawaiian Farm-to-Table food decades ago by encouraging local farmers and ranchers to cultivate the highest quality local ingredients. He basically invented modern Hawaiian fusion haute cuisine, and this was his very first restaurant. It's cozy and unpretentious.
Roy Yamaguchi basically invented modern Hawaiian Fusion cuisine decades ago. This popular eatery in Waikoloa Beach Resort is always packed and often very noisy. A secret tip -- go late -- around 7:45 or 8:00PM when things settle down and the big familes leave. They have a boozy Mai Tai and killer appetizers. The crab cakes with Japanese 7-spice butter is out of this world. The wedge salad with blue cheese and bacon is best in class. And do not, I repeat, DO NOT miss out on his Sichuan spiced spareribs. 3 appetizers and a Mai Tai and it's dinner. The entrees are large enough to split, and the meatloaf is a go-to favorite too. (Two Mai Tais and you will forget that it looks like you're dining in a nice airport lounge.) Most of the wait staff and bartenders have been there for ages, and are usually a hoot towards the end of their shift, once you break through their slightly business-like exterior. Talk story like a local and you will do just fine.
46 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Roy's Waikoloa Bar & Grill
69-250 Waikōloa Beach DrRoy Yamaguchi basically invented modern Hawaiian Fusion cuisine decades ago. This popular eatery in Waikoloa Beach Resort is always packed and often very noisy. A secret tip -- go late -- around 7:45 or 8:00PM when things settle down and the big familes leave. They have a boozy Mai Tai and killer appetizers. The crab cakes with Japanese 7-spice butter is out of this world. The wedge salad with blue cheese and bacon is best in class. And do not, I repeat, DO NOT miss out on his Sichuan spiced spareribs. 3 appetizers and a Mai Tai and it's dinner. The entrees are large enough to split, and the meatloaf is a go-to favorite too. (Two Mai Tais and you will forget that it looks like you're dining in a nice airport lounge.) Most of the wait staff and bartenders have been there for ages, and are usually a hoot towards the end of their shift, once you break through their slightly business-like exterior. Talk story like a local and you will do just fine.
Locals' Hangout
A local hangout with fresh pub fare and great beers. Try the "Fishbites," and bacon-and-bleu or green chile burgers with garlic fries. Fun wait staff and colorful locals make this place feel like the perfect hangout, especially on a rainy Waimea afternoon. Award winning beer is what they are known for -- so order a flight or fill up a growler. (But their lilikoi margaritas go down pretty easily too!) Located in Waimea. Bring a sweatshirt as it gets breezy at the outdoor tables.
88 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Big Island Brewhaus
64-1066 Mamalahoa HwyA local hangout with fresh pub fare and great beers. Try the "Fishbites," and bacon-and-bleu or green chile burgers with garlic fries. Fun wait staff and colorful locals make this place feel like the perfect hangout, especially on a rainy Waimea afternoon. Award winning beer is what they are known for -- so order a flight or fill up a growler. (But their lilikoi margaritas go down pretty easily too!) Located in Waimea. Bring a sweatshirt as it gets breezy at the outdoor tables.
Do you want the absolute best burger on the Big Island? Look no further. Get the onion rings too, or the pastrami Reuben or the Cuban sandwich and your inner carnivore will delight. In fact, anything they put in the smoker comes out a winner. Don't miss the enormous, delicious desserts too -- the lilikoi cheesecake is a slice of heaven. Located in Waimea past the Hospital.
53 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
The Fish And The Hog
64-957 Hawaiʻi Belt RdDo you want the absolute best burger on the Big Island? Look no further. Get the onion rings too, or the pastrami Reuben or the Cuban sandwich and your inner carnivore will delight. In fact, anything they put in the smoker comes out a winner. Don't miss the enormous, delicious desserts too -- the lilikoi cheesecake is a slice of heaven. Located in Waimea past the Hospital.
Like stepping into a restaurant on a dusty side street in a small Mexican town. The decor mainly consists of a buzzing neon "Corona" sign and some old pinatas, and the family members of all ages offer very friendly (but sometimes forgetful) service. The kitchen can be slow when it's crowded because everything is made to order. But it's got the best down-home, cooked by the Mexican-grandma-you-wish-you'd-had comfort food on the island. Made with real "amor" -- and worth the wait every time! (Hey - that's what the first "Modelo Especial" is for!) Great chile rellenos (poblanos stuffed with cheese and baked in an egg souffle' - not fried); homemade guacamole, chips and spicy salsa roja; perfect refried beans and tasty tomato rice; crispy taquitos, silky soft enchiladas; huge burritos and chimichangas. Or try the heaping platter of carnitas that you will end up taking home for dinner too. I want this big, beautiful happy family to adopt me - I would wash the dishes if I could eat there everyday. In the "old industrial" area in Kona. Closed Mondays, and the kitchen takes a break from 3-5PM days they are open. Best to call and confirm times.
12 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
El Maguey
74-5563 Kaiwi StLike stepping into a restaurant on a dusty side street in a small Mexican town. The decor mainly consists of a buzzing neon "Corona" sign and some old pinatas, and the family members of all ages offer very friendly (but sometimes forgetful) service. The kitchen can be slow when it's crowded because everything is made to order. But it's got the best down-home, cooked by the Mexican-grandma-you-wish-you'd-had comfort food on the island. Made with real "amor" -- and worth the wait every time! (Hey - that's what the first "Modelo Especial" is for!) Great chile rellenos (poblanos stuffed with cheese and baked in an egg souffle' - not fried); homemade guacamole, chips and spicy salsa roja; perfect refried beans and tasty tomato rice; crispy taquitos, silky soft enchiladas; huge burritos and chimichangas. Or try the heaping platter of carnitas that you will end up taking home for dinner too. I want this big, beautiful happy family to adopt me - I would wash the dishes if I could eat there everyday. In the "old industrial" area in Kona. Closed Mondays, and the kitchen takes a break from 3-5PM days they are open. Best to call and confirm times.
A locals' tiki bar with good Happy Hour drinks and tasty pupus. If you're sick of the resorts - ditch your family and head over here for some real fun. In Kawaihae Harbor. Prime Rib night is pretty good too, in that old school 1970’s kind of way. The black bean seafood casserole is a real winner, despite its somewhat off-putting name -- a wonderful ginger, black bean-paste creamy mixture -- get some garlic bread to soak it all up. They often have some excellent local line caught fish that the resorts don't get. Follow their recommendations and you won't go wrong. And if they have monchong -- get it!
56 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Seafood Bar and Grill
61-3642 Kawaihae RdA locals' tiki bar with good Happy Hour drinks and tasty pupus. If you're sick of the resorts - ditch your family and head over here for some real fun. In Kawaihae Harbor. Prime Rib night is pretty good too, in that old school 1970’s kind of way. The black bean seafood casserole is a real winner, despite its somewhat off-putting name -- a wonderful ginger, black bean-paste creamy mixture -- get some garlic bread to soak it all up. They often have some excellent local line caught fish that the resorts don't get. Follow their recommendations and you won't go wrong. And if they have monchong -- get it!
This is THE breakfast spot in Waimea for locals and tourists who want to an authentic Hawaiian Style breakfast. They serve the most enormous pancakes you've ever seen! (And they're hot and fluffy to boot.) Excellent Portuguese sausages and crispy hash browns. Loco moco, kalua pork hash and other ono grindz await you. You won't leave hungry.
58 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Hawaiian Style Cafe - Waimea
65-1290 Kawaihae RdThis is THE breakfast spot in Waimea for locals and tourists who want to an authentic Hawaiian Style breakfast. They serve the most enormous pancakes you've ever seen! (And they're hot and fluffy to boot.) Excellent Portuguese sausages and crispy hash browns. Loco moco, kalua pork hash and other ono grindz await you. You won't leave hungry.
Perched right above the breaking waves in downtown Kailua-Kona, this place has excellent Neapolitan style pizza, good local beef burgers, and surprisingly authentic tacos. Service is friendly and the view of the Pacific cannot be beat. Now called "Kai Eats and Drinks" and one of the best lunch spots in Kona.
Coffee @ Kai
75-5776 Ali‘i DrPerched right above the breaking waves in downtown Kailua-Kona, this place has excellent Neapolitan style pizza, good local beef burgers, and surprisingly authentic tacos. Service is friendly and the view of the Pacific cannot be beat. Now called "Kai Eats and Drinks" and one of the best lunch spots in Kona.
Ono Grindz
Deliscious yakatori style restaurant with anything and everything you want on a skewer grilled over binchotan - Japanese white charcoal. Get the meatballs, lamb chops, and bacon wrapped asparagus. The miso soup, soft-shell crabs and sushi rolls are excellent too. Truly “ono grindz” - "good eats." In Waimea.
20 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Moa Kitchen
65-1298 Kawaihae RdDeliscious yakatori style restaurant with anything and everything you want on a skewer grilled over binchotan - Japanese white charcoal. Get the meatballs, lamb chops, and bacon wrapped asparagus. The miso soup, soft-shell crabs and sushi rolls are excellent too. Truly “ono grindz” - "good eats." In Waimea.
Truly a shack. Truly the best poke ever. On Ali'i Drive near "Banyons" in Kona. Go early as they close when they run out...
132 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Da Poke Shack
76-6246 Ali‘i DriveTruly a shack. Truly the best poke ever. On Ali'i Drive near "Banyons" in Kona. Go early as they close when they run out...
LIbby and her chef husband are doing a light, fresh twist on traditional Korean fare in this family-run restaurant. Excellent dishes packed with flavor and love. Try the stir-fried tofu, short rib kalbi and mandoon (dumplings). All of the sides are interesting and tasty too. On the KTA side of the shopping center in Waimea. Tell Libby the "boys from New York" sent you, and she will take care of you with extra aloha.
Yong's Kal-Bi
65-1158 Mamalahoa HwyLIbby and her chef husband are doing a light, fresh twist on traditional Korean fare in this family-run restaurant. Excellent dishes packed with flavor and love. Try the stir-fried tofu, short rib kalbi and mandoon (dumplings). All of the sides are interesting and tasty too. On the KTA side of the shopping center in Waimea. Tell Libby the "boys from New York" sent you, and she will take care of you with extra aloha.
Chef Carey works wonders with this old-time yet up-scale burger joint by serving the perfect roadside burgers, fish tacos, fries and onion rings. One of the few places in Hawai`i where you can get an authentic Dole Whip -- basically the best pineapple sorbet you've ever had. The fresh fish burgers and tacos are outstanding too. In Kawaihae Harbor overlooking the oil tanks and boat launch. What's not to like?
23 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Kohala Burger & Taco
613665 Akoni Pule HwyChef Carey works wonders with this old-time yet up-scale burger joint by serving the perfect roadside burgers, fish tacos, fries and onion rings. One of the few places in Hawai`i where you can get an authentic Dole Whip -- basically the best pineapple sorbet you've ever had. The fresh fish burgers and tacos are outstanding too. In Kawaihae Harbor overlooking the oil tanks and boat launch. What's not to like?
This is the best place on island to buy the absolute freshest, line-caught local fish. Expand your world from the usual but delicious Ahi and Ono and try Opakapaka (Pink Snapper), Uku (Blue-Green Snapper), and Opah (Moonfish) Do not go home without some locally-farmed Kona Shrimp (keep the heads on and grill them whole.) And if they have Monchong (Sickle Pomfret) - just buy it -- this deep sea fish eats shrimp and you can taste it in the soft, flaky, delicate fillets. Now relocated across the street from the picture above in the Kawaihae Harbor shopping center -- just down from Kohala Burger and Taco and the Shave Ice store.
18 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Hale I'a Da Fish House
613665 Kawaihae-Mahukona RdThis is the best place on island to buy the absolute freshest, line-caught local fish. Expand your world from the usual but delicious Ahi and Ono and try Opakapaka (Pink Snapper), Uku (Blue-Green Snapper), and Opah (Moonfish) Do not go home without some locally-farmed Kona Shrimp (keep the heads on and grill them whole.) And if they have Monchong (Sickle Pomfret) - just buy it -- this deep sea fish eats shrimp and you can taste it in the soft, flaky, delicate fillets. Now relocated across the street from the picture above in the Kawaihae Harbor shopping center -- just down from Kohala Burger and Taco and the Shave Ice store.
Unfortunately Tropical Dreams is not selling their ice cream from their factory, but you can get it in most grocery stores. It's made from all local ingredients and very, very rich and delicious.
Tropical Dreams Ice Cream
66-1250 Lalamilo Farm RdUnfortunately Tropical Dreams is not selling their ice cream from their factory, but you can get it in most grocery stores. It's made from all local ingredients and very, very rich and delicious.
Tasty locally crafted beers and excellent flatbreads and a good beet/arugula salad. Ola Brew is spear-heading the renovation of the "old industrial area" as the locals call it. Hip, funky and fun. A must if you are in Kona and need to whet your whistle. In the Old Industrial Area in Kona.
64 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Ola Brew
74-5598 Luhia StTasty locally crafted beers and excellent flatbreads and a good beet/arugula salad. Ola Brew is spear-heading the renovation of the "old industrial area" as the locals call it. Hip, funky and fun. A must if you are in Kona and need to whet your whistle. In the Old Industrial Area in Kona.
This is the first of the two Farmers Markets you will want to visit on Saturday morning in Waimea. Be sure to pick up: Martha's Mac Nut tarts; Giulietta's sweet or hot Italian sausage; guava wood smoked goat cheese, crotins, feta (and anything else) from Big Island Goat Cheese; orchids from George; a BLT from Mai Grille; bread, lavash, lilikoi bars and coffee squares from Sandwich Isle Bread Co.; fresh greens and veggies from Kekala Farms; tomatoes from Hi-B Farms; and Akaka Falls Farms delicious tropical jams and jellies. Open from 7-noon.
19 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Waimea Town Market at Parker School
65-1224 Lindsey RdThis is the first of the two Farmers Markets you will want to visit on Saturday morning in Waimea. Be sure to pick up: Martha's Mac Nut tarts; Giulietta's sweet or hot Italian sausage; guava wood smoked goat cheese, crotins, feta (and anything else) from Big Island Goat Cheese; orchids from George; a BLT from Mai Grille; bread, lavash, lilikoi bars and coffee squares from Sandwich Isle Bread Co.; fresh greens and veggies from Kekala Farms; tomatoes from Hi-B Farms; and Akaka Falls Farms delicious tropical jams and jellies. Open from 7-noon.
This is the second Farmers Market on Saturdays in Waimea. Turn RIGHT at Ace Hardware and you can't miss it. Be sure to pick up: great, fresh Thai food at Nikki's, a Red Barn grilled cheese sandwich; talk story with Dylan (owner) and Matt (mohawk) at Makua Coffee - they make the best Kona coffee on island and offer a delicious, rich dark roast; the silver truck with the butcher has local grass-fed beef, pork, and lamb; there's also a great Jamaican stand with Ox-Tail Stew and Jerk Chicken, and lots of other fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore and enjoy the local treats, and the view of the nearby green mountains is spectacular, especially if the clouds are rollings along at eye level.
28 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Kamuela Farmers Market
67-139 Pukalani RdThis is the second Farmers Market on Saturdays in Waimea. Turn RIGHT at Ace Hardware and you can't miss it. Be sure to pick up: great, fresh Thai food at Nikki's, a Red Barn grilled cheese sandwich; talk story with Dylan (owner) and Matt (mohawk) at Makua Coffee - they make the best Kona coffee on island and offer a delicious, rich dark roast; the silver truck with the butcher has local grass-fed beef, pork, and lamb; there's also a great Jamaican stand with Ox-Tail Stew and Jerk Chicken, and lots of other fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore and enjoy the local treats, and the view of the nearby green mountains is spectacular, especially if the clouds are rollings along at eye level.
Sightseeing
Owner Brandon raises Berkshire pigs and chef Keoni Regidor creates delicious plates with all locally sourced ingredients, elevating Hawaiian cuisine to new heights. Super friendly wait staff, excellent live music and a view that cannot be surpassed make this place pure magic. If Sonny Lim or Charles Brotman are playing guitar you are in for a real treat. Reservations required for dinner. It is often our guests favorite dining spot on the whole island. From the food to the wait staff, you just can't beat the "aloha" at this wonderful place.
31 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Napua at Mauna Lani Beach club
68-1292 S Kaniku DrOwner Brandon raises Berkshire pigs and chef Keoni Regidor creates delicious plates with all locally sourced ingredients, elevating Hawaiian cuisine to new heights. Super friendly wait staff, excellent live music and a view that cannot be surpassed make this place pure magic. If Sonny Lim or Charles Brotman are playing guitar you are in for a real treat. Reservations required for dinner. It is often our guests favorite dining spot on the whole island. From the food to the wait staff, you just can't beat the "aloha" at this wonderful place.
Enjoy the elegant beauty of Lawrence Rockefeller's Mauna Kea Beach Hotel -- a monumental and innovative piece of 1960's modern architecture by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. The views of Kauna`oa Bay are stunning...and so are the frozen Mai Tais with lilikoi foam on top.
7 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Copper Bar
62-100 Mauna Kea Beach DrEnjoy the elegant beauty of Lawrence Rockefeller's Mauna Kea Beach Hotel -- a monumental and innovative piece of 1960's modern architecture by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. The views of Kauna`oa Bay are stunning...and so are the frozen Mai Tais with lilikoi foam on top.
Unfortunately Auberge has not been the kindest of neighbors, and they evicted Uncle Francis, Kavika and Uncle Gary from their spot next to the beach club, after having been in business there for 40 years. We hear they may relocated to Kawaihae Harbor, but we are not sure yet. This leaves the Mauna Lani Beach Club with no paddle board, kayak or snorkel rentals nearby. Go to Snorkel Bob's in the Mauna Lani Shopping Center for mask, fin, snorkel gear. Stink eye to Auberge for booting out such nice people who knew this area so well.
Mauna Lani Sea Adventures
68-1292 S Kaniku DrUnfortunately Auberge has not been the kindest of neighbors, and they evicted Uncle Francis, Kavika and Uncle Gary from their spot next to the beach club, after having been in business there for 40 years. We hear they may relocated to Kawaihae Harbor, but we are not sure yet. This leaves the Mauna Lani Beach Club with no paddle board, kayak or snorkel rentals nearby. Go to Snorkel Bob's in the Mauna Lani Shopping Center for mask, fin, snorkel gear. Stink eye to Auberge for booting out such nice people who knew this area so well.
A great place to watch sunset and just a short walk from the Mauna Lani Beach Club along the sea wall fronting the anchialine ponds. Once a month at the full moon they have Talk Story, featuring local bands. Bring a chair or a towel and hang out on the lawn with a bottle of wine and soak in the music and scenery. Usually starts around 5PM on the Saturday closed to the full moon.
Eva Parker Woods Cottage
68-1400 Mauna Lani DrA great place to watch sunset and just a short walk from the Mauna Lani Beach Club along the sea wall fronting the anchialine ponds. Once a month at the full moon they have Talk Story, featuring local bands. Bring a chair or a towel and hang out on the lawn with a bottle of wine and soak in the music and scenery. Usually starts around 5PM on the Saturday closed to the full moon.
A trip back in time to the 1960's with this slightly kitschy, slightly tacky open-air Tiki Bar at the Royal Kona Resort on Ali'i Drive in downtown Kona. Great "Pau Hana" Happy Hour [4-6PM] with cheap Mai Tai's and decent pupus. During high surf waves will crash over the sea wall into the bar! Sit in the splash zone for maximum fun.
38 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Don's Mai Tai Bar
75-5852 Ali‘i DrA trip back in time to the 1960's with this slightly kitschy, slightly tacky open-air Tiki Bar at the Royal Kona Resort on Ali'i Drive in downtown Kona. Great "Pau Hana" Happy Hour [4-6PM] with cheap Mai Tai's and decent pupus. During high surf waves will crash over the sea wall into the bar! Sit in the splash zone for maximum fun.
Don't go here - it's a local secret hangout for lunch - and we've been sworn to secrecy not to share this with tourists. Don't order the Big Daddy cocktails, and certainly don't order the fresh Tombo Tuna Melt, the grass-fed burger or the crispy, light onion rings. You won't like any of them or the terrible view of the ocean crashing on the sand just yards away. Remember, we didn't tell you to go there (but if you do, it's at the southernmost end of the Four Seasons Hotel, about a 10-15 minute walk south from the main lobby along the shoreline trail.) And certainly do not park for free - and avoid the valets - in the lot just on the left before the main entrance to the hotel. Just don't even think about going here because you won't like it at all, and now please forget we even told you about it.
Residents' Beach House
100 Kaupulehu DrDon't go here - it's a local secret hangout for lunch - and we've been sworn to secrecy not to share this with tourists. Don't order the Big Daddy cocktails, and certainly don't order the fresh Tombo Tuna Melt, the grass-fed burger or the crispy, light onion rings. You won't like any of them or the terrible view of the ocean crashing on the sand just yards away. Remember, we didn't tell you to go there (but if you do, it's at the southernmost end of the Four Seasons Hotel, about a 10-15 minute walk south from the main lobby along the shoreline trail.) And certainly do not park for free - and avoid the valets - in the lot just on the left before the main entrance to the hotel. Just don't even think about going here because you won't like it at all, and now please forget we even told you about it.
Go early in the morning to this amazing example of ancients Hawaiians carving picto-grams in this incredibly hard lava rock. Look for the map of the entire island, divided into ahupua`as - or self-sustaining pie-like sections - from mauka (mountain) to makai (sea.) This ensured that each community could have access to fresh seafood, spring water, planting land and cooler pastureland to grow all their food in a sustainable way. (The antithesis to our current culture!) The trail is near the end of Holoholokai State Park near the Fairmont Orchid in Mauna Lani.
18 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Puako Petroglyph Park
1 N Kaniku DrGo early in the morning to this amazing example of ancients Hawaiians carving picto-grams in this incredibly hard lava rock. Look for the map of the entire island, divided into ahupua`as - or self-sustaining pie-like sections - from mauka (mountain) to makai (sea.) This ensured that each community could have access to fresh seafood, spring water, planting land and cooler pastureland to grow all their food in a sustainable way. (The antithesis to our current culture!) The trail is near the end of Holoholokai State Park near the Fairmont Orchid in Mauna Lani.
City/town information
Cowboys in Hawai`i? This beautiful historic up-country town was - and still is - the heart of Parker Ranch, which was once the largest cattle ranch in the United States. Be sure to visit the two Farmers' Markets on Saturday to stock up on local produce and cheese, fish and meat, and a variety of prepared food. Check out the art galleries and antique stores, and don't be surprised to see guys in cowboy boots and dusty blue jeans having an Overboard IPA next to you at the Big Island Brewhaus, where you must try their award winning beers. (Order a flight!) This is truly old Hawai`i - alive and well and full of aloha. Excellent restaurants prepare the bounty of the land and the sea: FORC, Merriman's, Red Water Cafe, Moa Kitchen, The Fish and the Hog, Village Burger and Yong's Kalbi are some of our favorites. Be sure to bring a sweatshirt or sweater -- sometimes it's freezing -- i.e. 65 degrees and cold and rainy while the sun is shining on the Kohala Coast! (And you thought you'd never use your cars heated seats in Hawai`i...)
78 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Waimea
Cowboys in Hawai`i? This beautiful historic up-country town was - and still is - the heart of Parker Ranch, which was once the largest cattle ranch in the United States. Be sure to visit the two Farmers' Markets on Saturday to stock up on local produce and cheese, fish and meat, and a variety of prepared food. Check out the art galleries and antique stores, and don't be surprised to see guys in cowboy boots and dusty blue jeans having an Overboard IPA next to you at the Big Island Brewhaus, where you must try their award winning beers. (Order a flight!) This is truly old Hawai`i - alive and well and full of aloha. Excellent restaurants prepare the bounty of the land and the sea: FORC, Merriman's, Red Water Cafe, Moa Kitchen, The Fish and the Hog, Village Burger and Yong's Kalbi are some of our favorites. Be sure to bring a sweatshirt or sweater -- sometimes it's freezing -- i.e. 65 degrees and cold and rainy while the sun is shining on the Kohala Coast! (And you thought you'd never use your cars heated seats in Hawai`i...)
Beaches
Powdery white sand, turquoise water and very few other beach
-goers make this my favorite beach on island. Turn off Queen K at the Kekaha Kai State Beach sign a few miles north of the airport and drive down an unpaved road - use a 4WD (or a rental car!) Walk along the first bay, Kekaha Kai, until you get to the abandoned Magoon Estate. Then hike about 1/2 mile along a lava trail and you will be richly rewarded with this near-empty, picture-perfect beach. Wear close-toed shoes, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses for the lava trail hike, and bring plenty of water (and a few beers for when you get there.) You'll feel like you're on Gilligan's Island. Well worth the effort. Please carry back out whatever you carry in. No facilities or life guards. Gate closes after sunset.
80 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Makalawena Beach
Hawaii 19Powdery white sand, turquoise water and very few other beach
-goers make this my favorite beach on island. Turn off Queen K at the Kekaha Kai State Beach sign a few miles north of the airport and drive down an unpaved road - use a 4WD (or a rental car!) Walk along the first bay, Kekaha Kai, until you get to the abandoned Magoon Estate. Then hike about 1/2 mile along a lava trail and you will be richly rewarded with this near-empty, picture-perfect beach. Wear close-toed shoes, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses for the lava trail hike, and bring plenty of water (and a few beers for when you get there.) You'll feel like you're on Gilligan's Island. Well worth the effort. Please carry back out whatever you carry in. No facilities or life guards. Gate closes after sunset.
"Beach 69" - as the locals call it - is named after the telephone pole numbers - (get your mind out of the gutter!) Also known as "Waialea Beach at Hapuna State Park" as the sign says - but not to be confused with the much larger Hapuna Beach just to the north. (Confused yet? -- everything here has two or different names! Read Mark Twain's "Letters from Hawai`i" and you'll understand why!) A great place to spend the day at the beach - large parking lot, outdoor showers and public restrooms. The beach has lots of shade, easy entry and good snorkeling. A friendly mix of locals and tourists hang out. Wear your "slippahs" when traversing the beach as the kiawe (mequite) trees drop their thorns.Turn down Puako Drive and make the first right directly across from the Transfer Station. (And if your mind is still in the gutter text me and I'll give you directions to the clothing-optional, "beach that dare not speak its name," discretely hidden nearby.)
109 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Waialea Beach
Old Puako Road"Beach 69" - as the locals call it - is named after the telephone pole numbers - (get your mind out of the gutter!) Also known as "Waialea Beach at Hapuna State Park" as the sign says - but not to be confused with the much larger Hapuna Beach just to the north. (Confused yet? -- everything here has two or different names! Read Mark Twain's "Letters from Hawai`i" and you'll understand why!) A great place to spend the day at the beach - large parking lot, outdoor showers and public restrooms. The beach has lots of shade, easy entry and good snorkeling. A friendly mix of locals and tourists hang out. Wear your "slippahs" when traversing the beach as the kiawe (mequite) trees drop their thorns.Turn down Puako Drive and make the first right directly across from the Transfer Station. (And if your mind is still in the gutter text me and I'll give you directions to the clothing-optional, "beach that dare not speak its name," discretely hidden nearby.)
This beautiful white sand beach is accessed through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. All beaches in Hawai`i are public, so the hotel must offer limited access to this perfect beach which Lawrence Rockefeller saw in the 1960's and decided to build this monumental and stunning piece of New Brutalist modern architecture. The hotel houses a large collection of Oceanic art and Hawaiian quilts. The Copper Bar and Hau Tree are great places to have a Mai Tai and soak in the exquisite scenery. Ask the Security Guard for a "Beach Access Pass" and you're good to go. There are only about 25 spots - so go early or late in the day. Shady spots near the trees to the south, easy entry and a long shallow bay make this great for relaxing and swimming. Cool lava rock bathrooms and showers.
Kaunaoa Beach
This beautiful white sand beach is accessed through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. All beaches in Hawai`i are public, so the hotel must offer limited access to this perfect beach which Lawrence Rockefeller saw in the 1960's and decided to build this monumental and stunning piece of New Brutalist modern architecture. The hotel houses a large collection of Oceanic art and Hawaiian quilts. The Copper Bar and Hau Tree are great places to have a Mai Tai and soak in the exquisite scenery. Ask the Security Guard for a "Beach Access Pass" and you're good to go. There are only about 25 spots - so go early or late in the day. Shady spots near the trees to the south, easy entry and a long shallow bay make this great for relaxing and swimming. Cool lava rock bathrooms and showers.
Also known as Kua Bay, this locals' favorite is packed with fun. Lots of people-watching, kids boogie boarding and beautiful ocean views make this the best beach north of Kona. Often busy and crowded but always fun. No shade - so bring an umbrella. Parking can be crowded on Aloha Fridays and weekends - so people often park along the road and walk down to the beach. Across the the Veterans Cemetery.
66 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Manini'owali Beach (Kua Bay)
Also known as Kua Bay, this locals' favorite is packed with fun. Lots of people-watching, kids boogie boarding and beautiful ocean views make this the best beach north of Kona. Often busy and crowded but always fun. No shade - so bring an umbrella. Parking can be crowded on Aloha Fridays and weekends - so people often park along the road and walk down to the beach. Across the the Veterans Cemetery.
This is the first half of your trek to Makalawena Beach. It's a lovely beach...but head towards the lava trail and continue on to Makalawena. You won't regret it.
16 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Kekaha Kai Beach Park
Hawaii 19This is the first half of your trek to Makalawena Beach. It's a lovely beach...but head towards the lava trail and continue on to Makalawena. You won't regret it.
Just rated "#1 Beach in America" by Dr. Beach for its 1/2 mile long sandy beach, easy entry, great boogie boarding, and lifeguards. Great for kids and adults alike. Lots of tourists and locals and plenty of people-watching. Not a lot of shade, except off to the right by the rocks, so bring an umbrella and a cooler of beer. Showers, rest rooms and lots of life guards make this a family friendly place to spend the afternoon. (Sometimes non-residents pay a small parking fee...sometimes.)
174 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Hapuna Beach State Park
Old Puako RoadJust rated "#1 Beach in America" by Dr. Beach for its 1/2 mile long sandy beach, easy entry, great boogie boarding, and lifeguards. Great for kids and adults alike. Lots of tourists and locals and plenty of people-watching. Not a lot of shade, except off to the right by the rocks, so bring an umbrella and a cooler of beer. Showers, rest rooms and lots of life guards make this a family friendly place to spend the afternoon. (Sometimes non-residents pay a small parking fee...sometimes.)
This is the Hawaiian name of the Residents Beach Club at Mauna Lani. Use the Beach Access Card to park in the private lot, and as our guest please feel free to use the chaise lounges and cabanas. Napua restaurant overlooks this small, picturesque bay and serves lunch and dinner most days, (often with Grammy award-winning local musical talent - the incomparable Sonny Lim plays slack-key guitar many a Sunday - and Charles Brotman is a master of classical guitar.)
Uncle Gary's Surf Shack rents stand-up paddle boards, canoes and kayaks, and snorkel gear from 9AM-4PM [M-Sat.] Mauna Lani Sea Adventures offers Scuba classes and boat dives off the "Winona." The 5PM Sunset Cruise is also not to be missed for unparalleled views of the surrounding 5 volcanoes (Kohala, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hualalai and Maui's Haleakala) and Captain Spike lives up to his name and makes a damn good "Rum-ona" cocktail.
Easy entry, lots of coral and indigenous tropical fish just offshore make this protected cove a primo snorkeling spot. Please read the Reef Education Board to familiarize yourself with the amazing animals that call this place home.
We also need your help in order to preserve this beautiful spot, which has unfortunately experienced coral bleaching for the past 7 years. Please use only zinc or titanium based sunscreen - or better yet - skip the chemicals (which inevitably end up in the ocean anyway) and wear a rash guard and a hat. Please help us keep the coral and fish as healthy as possible for future generations to enjoy.
Makaiwa Bay
This is the Hawaiian name of the Residents Beach Club at Mauna Lani. Use the Beach Access Card to park in the private lot, and as our guest please feel free to use the chaise lounges and cabanas. Napua restaurant overlooks this small, picturesque bay and serves lunch and dinner most days, (often with Grammy award-winning local musical talent - the incomparable Sonny Lim plays slack-key guitar many a Sunday - and Charles Brotman is a master of classical guitar.)
Uncle Gary's Surf Shack rents stand-up paddle boards, canoes and kayaks, and snorkel gear from 9AM-4PM [M-Sat.] Mauna Lani Sea Adventures offers Scuba classes and boat dives off the "Winona." The 5PM Sunset Cruise is also not to be missed for unparalleled views of the surrounding 5 volcanoes (Kohala, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hualalai and Maui's Haleakala) and Captain Spike lives up to his name and makes a damn good "Rum-ona" cocktail.
Easy entry, lots of coral and indigenous tropical fish just offshore make this protected cove a primo snorkeling spot. Please read the Reef Education Board to familiarize yourself with the amazing animals that call this place home.
We also need your help in order to preserve this beautiful spot, which has unfortunately experienced coral bleaching for the past 7 years. Please use only zinc or titanium based sunscreen - or better yet - skip the chemicals (which inevitably end up in the ocean anyway) and wear a rash guard and a hat. Please help us keep the coral and fish as healthy as possible for future generations to enjoy.
This is a great place to watch the sunset at Mauna Lani. It's rocky and not good for swimming, but a lovely spot with a few picnic tables to hang with a bottle of wine and close out the day. A locals' secret spot. Take beach chairs in case the tables are full or for a "better seat" for the Sun's free, daily, farewell show. Turn right just before you get to the Fairmont Orchid and head makai (towards the sea.)
Holoholokai Beach Park
Holoholokai Beach Park RoadThis is a great place to watch the sunset at Mauna Lani. It's rocky and not good for swimming, but a lovely spot with a few picnic tables to hang with a bottle of wine and close out the day. A locals' secret spot. Take beach chairs in case the tables are full or for a "better seat" for the Sun's free, daily, farewell show. Turn right just before you get to the Fairmont Orchid and head makai (towards the sea.)
Auberge recently kicked out Mauna Lani Sea Adventures from the Residents' Beach Club, where they had been in business for over 40 years. Uncle Gary, Uncle Francis and Kavika ran a great operation and they have been a favorite fixture on that beach for generations of beach-goers. Auberge's complete lack of aloha has now left visitors with only one nearby option for mask, fin and snorkel rentals -- Snorkel Bob's at the Mauna Lani Shopping Center. Snorkel Bob's is a very good operation, with high quality gear, eco-friendly advice, and most importantly -- they will take their time to help you find gear that fits. There's nothing worse than a leaky mask. If you're a serious snorkeler or diver, you may wish to bring your own gear from home. But seriously, for all their talk of "ohana" and "being conscientious," Auberge has shown their true corporate and greedy colors by evicting some of Mauna Lani's most beloved ohana. Stink eye to you, Auberge.
Snorkel Bob's
68-1330 Mauna Lani DrAuberge recently kicked out Mauna Lani Sea Adventures from the Residents' Beach Club, where they had been in business for over 40 years. Uncle Gary, Uncle Francis and Kavika ran a great operation and they have been a favorite fixture on that beach for generations of beach-goers. Auberge's complete lack of aloha has now left visitors with only one nearby option for mask, fin and snorkel rentals -- Snorkel Bob's at the Mauna Lani Shopping Center. Snorkel Bob's is a very good operation, with high quality gear, eco-friendly advice, and most importantly -- they will take their time to help you find gear that fits. There's nothing worse than a leaky mask. If you're a serious snorkeler or diver, you may wish to bring your own gear from home. But seriously, for all their talk of "ohana" and "being conscientious," Auberge has shown their true corporate and greedy colors by evicting some of Mauna Lani's most beloved ohana. Stink eye to you, Auberge.
Payo sa lungsod
Huwag palampasin
2 Saturday Farmers Markets in Waimea are a must
The 1st one is located at The Parker School. My favorites: Martha's Mac Nut Tarts, Giulietta's hot or sweet Italian sausages, everything from Big Island Goat Cheese, and the BLT from Mai Grill.
*****
The 2nd is at Pukalani Stables (turn right at Ace Hardware.) My favorites: Makua Coffee's dark roast; a great meat truck for local grass-fed beef, lamb, and pork; and Nikki's tasty prepared Thai food is fresh and full of flavor. If you're here in July/August pick up a white pineapple for a true island treat that cannot be exported.
Bago ka umalis
"Letters from Hawaii" by Mark Twain
"I went to Maui to stay a week and remained five. I had a jolly time. I would not have fooled away any of it writing letters under any consideration whatever." --Mark Twain
So Samuel Langhorne Clemens made his excuse for late copy to the Sacramento Union, the newspaper that was underwriting his 1866 trip. If the young reporter's excuse makes perfect sense to you, join the thousands of Island lovers who have delighted in Twain's efforts when he finally did put pen to paper.
Bago ka umalis
The Big Island Revealed
The name says it all—it’s a Big Island. There is so much to see and do here that many visitors only scratch the surface of what’s available. Take the hassle out of travel and get the most out of your time on the island of Hawai‘i with Big Island Revealed. For over 20 years we’ve lived the activities, adventures, and experiences we write about in our reviews—we’ve done the leg work of finding the best of the best (and worst of the worst) so you don’t have to. Everything is analyzed in relation to what’s around it, so you can choose what the best options are for you each day.
Bago ka umalis
"Stories of Hawaii (Tales of the Pacific)" by Jack London
John Griffith London, adventurer and popular author, sailed his self-designed ketch Snark from San Francisco to Honolulu in 1907, and with his wife Charmian spent five months touring the islands before embarking on a two-year cruise of the South Seas. Two volumes of short stories that should be more widely known were written about the future Fiftieth State and dramatize his aloha for the people he met on his travels. Jack and Charmian reveled in the beach life of Waikiki, rode around Oahu, descended into the giant crater of Haleakala on the island of Maui, and stayed at the Parker Ranch.