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Kona & Kohala Coast Dining
Where sun-drenched days meet spectacular sunsets and world-class cuisine along the Big Island's golden coast
Written by a Local Food Expert
Kalani MillerSun, Sand, and Splendor: Kona & Kohala Coast Dining
The leeward, or western, side of the island is defined by sun-drenched days, black lava fields stretching to the sea, and the world-class resorts of the Kohala Coast. The dining scene here is a tale of two extremes: spectacular fine dining in luxurious settings and legendary local "grindz" tucked away in Kailua-Kona's industrial parks and shopping centers.
Worth the Splurge (Fine Dining)
'Ulu Ocean Grill & Beach Tree Restaurant (Four Seasons Resort Hualalai)
These two sister restaurants represent the pinnacle of oceanfront dining. Their shared philosophy is an incredible commitment to local sourcing, working with a network of over 160 Big Island farms and producers to ensure that roughly 75% of their ingredients come from the island itself.
'Ulu Ocean Grill focuses on an "ocean-to-table" concept, fusing Pan-Asian techniques with Hawaiian flavors. It's elegant, refined, and rated by many as the best restaurant in Hawaiʻi. Beach Tree Restaurant offers a more relaxed, "toes-in-the-sand" experience with an Italian-inspired menu.
Kalani's Pro-Tip: For a truly unforgettable special occasion, book a table at 'Ulu for sunset and order the ahi tuna Wellington—it's a masterpiece. For a more laid-back but equally beautiful evening, get a table on the sand at Beach Tree, order a pizza from their brick oven, and soak in the ambiance.
Huggo's
A true Kona institution, Huggo's has been serving diners from its prime waterfront location since 1969. It's the classic spot for a perfectly cooked steak or the freshest catch of the day. The large deck is suspended right over the ocean, and if you're lucky, you might even see manta rays gliding in the water below as you dine.
For a more casual vibe, their sister restaurant, Huggo's On The Rocks, is right next door, offering live music and a sandy floor where you can literally dine with your toes in the sand.
Must-Try Local Grindz (Casual Eats)
🤤 Broke Da Mouth Grindz
The name, pidgin for "delicious food," says it all. This spot is a local favorite for its hearty, authentic Hawaiian and Filipino plates. The garlic furikake chicken and oxtail adobo are legendary.
🐟 Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
While Da Poke Shack is the king of takeout poke, Umekes is the go-to for a fantastic sit-down poke bowl experience. They also serve excellent fish tacos and refreshing island-inspired cocktails.
🍽️ Big Island Grill
This is the definition of value. The portions are huge, the food is honest local comfort fare, and the prices are fair. It's not a place you go for ambiance, but for a satisfying meal that tastes like it came from a local auntie's kitchen.
🥤 Da Poke Shack
The legendary poke spot with a perpetual line. Fresh fish only, never frozen. Get there early and try the "Pele's Kiss" for spice and the classic "Shoyu" for savory perfection.
ℹ️ Kona Dining Info
- Climate: Sunny & dry
- Specialty: Resort dining
- Best Sunset: Beach Tree
- Local Favorite: Da Poke Shack
💰 Price Ranges
- Local Grindz $8-15
- Casual Dining $15-30
- Fine Dining $40-80
- Resort Luxury $80+
🧭 Restaurant Guide
⭐ Kalani's Top Picks
'Ulu Ocean Grill
Best sunset dinner
Da Poke Shack
Legendary fresh poke
The Coffee Shack
Best breakfast view
Kalani's Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known spots, the Kona coast hides some incredible dining experiences that even many locals don't know about. These are the places that make this area special.
The Coffee Shack (Captain Cook)
Driving south from Kona along the winding Māmalahoa Highway, you'll come across this mountainside gem. The food—especially the homemade bread and lilikoi cheesecake—is delicious, but the real reason to come is the view. The open-air lanai offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic vistas of Kealakekua Bay and the coastline below.
It's simply one of the most beautiful places to enjoy a meal on the entire island.
Manago Hotel Restaurant (Captain Cook)
For a taste of old Hawaiʻi, stop at the Manago Hotel, home to one of the island's oldest eateries. The dining room is no-frills and hasn't changed in decades, which is part of its charm. They are renowned for their simple, perfectly cooked pork chops, a local legend for generations.
This is where you come to experience the Hawaii that existed before tourism changed everything.
Oceanfront Views
The west side offers unmatched sunset dining experiences with tables literally on the sand at some locations.
Resort Quality
World-class chefs and premium ingredients create some of Hawaii's finest dining experiences.
Local Flavor
Hidden gems serve authentic local food away from the tourist crowds, often in industrial areas.
The Kona and Kohala Coast dining scene perfectly captures the duality of the Big Island—luxury resorts offering world-class cuisine alongside humble local spots serving the most authentic flavors you'll find anywhere. Both experiences are essential to understanding what makes this island's food culture so special.
