The Perfect Locals-Only Kona Itinerary

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Big Island Bees

Meet the insider: Whendi Grad, co-owner of Big Island Bees 

Location: Kona, Hawaii

Big Island Bees is a mainstay at the iconic farmers market at Kapi’olani Community College on O’ahu, known for their delicate and delicious honey made from native ohia lehua flowers. Here, owner Whendi Grad shares personal recommendations for her Big Island home where their apiary is located. Many of her local favorites are located between Kailua-Kona and Honaunau in the Kona District near their business—an area that still captures the charm of what she calls “Old Kona.”

EAT

Courtesy of Theatery

Kaaloa’s Super J’s in Honaunau is bar none the best place for authentic lau-lau. A sweet local family runs it,  exuding the true warmth of Aloha. They also serve local favorites like lomi-lomi salmon, macaroni salad, and haupia. For breakfast, visit Kaya’s Kawanui in Honalo, a relaxed café serving excellent coffee alongside a great selection of gluten-free baked goods, quiche, bagels, and chia pudding. Theatery in Kainaliu offers delicious gourmet dinners in a beautiful setting with ocean views from the lanai. The lamb shanks and local fish are favorites.

DRINK

Brycia James/Getty Images

I love coming to Magics Beach Grill in the afternoon for drinks and live acoustic guitar. It’s the perfect spot to sip a cocktail while watching the body surfers at Magic Sands Beach. For a classic experience, the Kona Inn in the heart of Kailua-Kona is famous for its Mai Tais. It’s an open-air landmark with incredible views of Kailua Bay.

SHOP

Kerry Colvin

I recommend exploring Holualoa Village, located in the lush “coffee land” mauka (upland) of Kailua. Browse at Crown Flower, a darling shop featuring handmade Kona Coffee tote bags and high-quality artisan wares. At Dovetail Gallery owned by artists Renee and Gerald Ben, they showcase exquisite Koa furniture, bowls, and fine art.

DO

Jeremy Mich

Agriculture is the heart of Kona life. Spend a day doing a self-styled farm tour by visiting local producers throughout the area. Start in Captain Cook at Kona Lisa Coffee, head to Big Island Bees for a hive tour and honey tasting, visit Greenwell Farms, stop by the Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory, and finish at The Vanillerie near the airport. And for an unforgettable adventure outside of the beloved Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, rent a kayak from Kona Boys and paddle across the crystal-clear waters of the Kealakekua Bay.