From black sand beaches and lush rainforests to volcanoes and coffee farms, the Big Island is full of adventures. Whether you’re up for snorkeling with manta rays, hiking through lava fields, or simply soaking up the sun with a mai tai in hand, there’s something here for everyone. We’ve put together a few of our favorite local spots and experiences to help you make the most of your trip.
BREAKFAST/COFFEE
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A laid back, cute coffee shop specializing in yummy foods, coffees, and merchandise.
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A community-oriented coffee shop offering favorite estate coffee, tasty platters, and baked goods.
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One of the best breakfasts in Kona, offering local, regional, and sustainably sourced ingredients from land and sea.
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Offers great vegan food. Be sure to check out the vegan ice cream next door!
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A large selection of breakfast foods, burgers/sandwiches, plates, and more!
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A warm, welcoming spot for island-fresh breakfasts, handmade pastas, and Peruvian-inspired bites.
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A cozy cafe serving fresh-baked sourdough, sandwiches, bubble waffles, and smoothie bowls. Perfect for a quick bite or relaxing coffee break.
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Delicious Hawaiian inspired food by chef Ippy, a Forbes '30 Under 30' honoree and 'Best Chef in America' contender.
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Only open for lunch, this spot offers the best fish tacos.
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A fun atmosphere, known for their chicken sandwiches, bar, sports, and live music.
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The absolute best deli sandwiches and meats.
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Serves simple, well-executed dishes, homemade desserts, fresh tropical fruit muddled cocktails and a great selection of beers.
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A fresh and flavorful selection of poke bowls, premium fish, and Hawaiian specialties.
LUNCH FAVORITES
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A stunning oceanfront spot serving creative, farm‑to‑table Japanese‑Panĭolo and coastal inspired cuisine.
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An elegant Tyler Florence steakhouse featuring delicious meats, seafood, and our favorite tableside caesar salad.
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A hole in the wall sushi restaurant with the best sushi on the island.
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A family favorite dinner spot featuring ingredients from nearby farms, ranches, and fisheries.
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A beloved, family-run spot in Kona serving authentic Thai food with island flair.
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Also serving dinner, Moana blends global flavors with Hawaiian tradition—ideal for a relaxed yet elevated dinner experience.
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Italian and Mediterranean flavors with fresh island ingredients in a casually elegant beachfront setting.
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An Italian-inspired eatery offering handmade pastas, locally sourced ingredients, and a curated selection of boutique wines.
ELEVATED DINNERS
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A fun bar and restaurant, offering guided rum tastings, a mai tai class, or just a casual spot to enjoy some food and handcrafted rum.
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Offers craft beers, island-inspired dishes, and a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views and live music.
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Offers craft beers, ciders, and teas made with Hawaiian-grown ingredients.
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A cute outdoor bar with open mic’s every Thursday, and Live music on Fridays.
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Offers fresh seafood, tacos, and Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
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Hapuna Beach: Known for it’s beautiful waters - perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding.
Kua Bay: One of the Big Island’s top white sand beaches - great for spotting turtles, and maybe even dolphins!
Pine Trees Beach: A go-to beach for surfing!
Zodiac/Snorkel Boats: Best experienced in the calm morning waters.
Outrigger Boat: A great way to sail and snorkel along the coast.
Manta Ray Night Dive: An unforgettable chance to swim with manta rays after dark.
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The Botanical Gardens: Take a tour or wander solo. Either way, it’s a magical spot.
Mauna Kea Observatory: The optimal spot to view the stars.
Chocolate Farm: Enjoy a 45 minute guided cacao experience, complete with tastings.
Vanilla Bean Farm: Explore the farm on a guided tour, with optimal tastings along the way
Big Island Helicopter Tour: Take in breathtaking views of the big island from the sky!
Big Island Bike Tours: Discover exclusive bike paths and scenic roads unique to the Big Island!
Volcano National Park: Visit the world’s most active volcanos - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa!
Rainbow Falls: Immerse yourself in the magic of Rainbow Falls, best visited in the morning for stunning rainbow views.
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Pu’u Wa’awa’a Trail: A 6.5-mile hike and one of the islands best!
Pololu Valley: A casual hike with stunning views down to a black sand beach.
Waipio Valley Lookout: Not much of a hike - but absolutely worth the visit!
Kiholo Campgrounds: A 2.8 mile hike down that ends on a calm black sand beach.
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Honokaa Town: Stop by this charming town for local shopping on your way to Waipio.
Waimea or Hilo Farmers Markets: Support local vendors and savor fresh island foods at these markets.
Big Island Candies: A beloved local favorite for sweet treats.
Two Ladies Kitchen Mochi: Try some handcrafted mochi thats colorful, soft, and a true taste of Hilo tradition.
Goop Store, Mauna Lani Auberge Hotel: Shop clean beauty, curated fashion, wellness essentials, and lifestyle goods.
Milo Boutique: A luxury lifestyle boutique featuring ready-to-wear, accessories, swimwear, and homeware for men and women.
Seaside Beach Luxe, Hualalai Hotel: Chic resort wear, sunglasses, and coastal-inspired accessories.
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Isaac’s Art Center: Explore a collection of Hawaiian art, from rare historic pieces to contemporary works by local artists.
Ipu Arts, Holualoa: Discover the once-lost Hawaiian art form of “umeke pāwehe” - hand carved and dyed gourds adorned with intricate traditional patterns.
Gallery of Great Things, Waimea": Experience local handcrafted works by local artists and artisans.
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Foodland Farms Mauna Lani: A great deli and wine department.
Puako Store: A neighborhood market offering beach gear rentals, snacks, and their famous macadamia nut chocolate chip cookies!
Honokaa Country Market: A charming boutique market with fresh produce and local foods.
Kamuela Liquor & Wine Shop: Known for having the islands best wine selection.
Sundog Bakery: Offers the best sourdough bread and pastries on the island.
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Kasama Collective: Treat yourself to manicures, pedicures, waxing, and lash extensions! The owner Teresa, can come to you!
Marne Carmichael Walsh: Dermatology and facials.