One of the things that makes returning to the Big Island so enjoyable is that Kona continues to Evolve.
The beaches and sunsets are still here. The snorkeling, manta rays, coffee farms and ocean adventures aren’t going anywhere. But new businesses and attractions continue to give visitors more reasons to explore beyond the usual itinerary.
This year, that includes a new downtown White Nene coffee shop, the return of the Kona Trolley, new food and wellness businesses, indoor climbing and a full calendar of community events.
For repeat visitors, these additions offer a chance to see a different side of a familiar destination. And for first-time visitors, they’re more reasons to spend some time exploring Kailua-Kona rather than simply passing through.
For visitors planning a Big Island vacation this fall and winter, these new additions are worth putting on your radar. Whether you’re looking for a new place to grab coffee, something different to do between beach days, or a reason to return to downtown Kona, there’s plenty happening.
White Nene Opens a New Downtown Kona Location
One of Kona’s local coffee favorites is expanding.
White Nene Coffee Roasters, known for its specialty coffee and Hōlualoa presence, has opened a new brick-and-mortar café in downtown Kailua-Kona. The new location at Aliʻi Plaza near Kuakini and Hualalai Roads gives visitors another opportunity to enjoy locally roasted coffee without having to drive up the mountain.
The café is expected to have approximately 700 square feet of indoor space along with about 800 square feet of shaded outdoor seating. The focus is on specialty coffee, including pour-over and espresso drinks, along with a small selection of food.
For coffee lovers, it’s an easy addition to a morning spent exploring historic Kailua Village.
Kona Trolley Returns to Kailua Village
Getting around downtown Kona just became a little more fun.
The Kona Trolley returned to Kailua Village in October, offering visitors an open-air way to explore the area. The privately operated vintage-style trolley follows a one-mile loop through Kailua Village, making stops along the way for visitors who want to explore shops, restaurants and attractions.
The trolley currently operates Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with plans for expanded service.
It’s particularly useful for visitors who want to spend a few hours around Aliʻi Drive without constantly moving the rental car. And because the route is short, you can easily hop off, explore, grab lunch or a drink, and continue your afternoon.
Lauhala Kitchen Adds Another Casual Food Option
Kona’s food scene continues to grow, and Lauhala Kitchen is one of the newer additions worth checking out.
Located on Hualalai Road, this fast-casual restaurant focuses on hearty, approachable food with a local influence. The menu includes options such as burritos, wraps, quesadillas and plate lunches.
It’s the kind of place that works well when you want something satisfying without turning lunch or dinner into a formal event. For visitors spending the day exploring Kona, it also offers another convenient option away from the resort restaurants.
Kona Cliffs Brings Indoor Climbing to the Brew Block
Looking for something completely different from snorkeling and sightseeing?
Kona Cliffs gives visitors an opportunity to try indoor bouldering at the Brew Block. The facility is designed to accommodate beginners as well as experienced climbers, making it a potential option for families, active travelers or anyone who wants to try something new.
Indoor climbing is particularly appealing when you want a break from the sun—or when the weather doesn’t cooperate with your outdoor plans.
It’s another example of Kona expanding beyond the traditional beach-and-resort vacation.
IRONMAN Week Brings Kona to Life
October is one of the most exciting times to visit Kona, as the IRONMAN World Championship brings athletes and spectators from around the world to the island. This year’s championship takes place October 10, with the men’s and women’s races taking place together on a single race day.
For more than race participants, IRONMAN has become part of the fabric of Kona. In the days leading up to the event, Kailua Village takes on a completely different energy. Athletes train along the coast, spectators line Aliʻi Drive, and the town fills with visitors from around the world.
Race week also offers plenty for visitors who aren’t competing. The Parade of Nations, keiki activities, live entertainment and other community events create opportunities to experience the excitement without ever picking up a pair of running shoes.
On race day, watching the athletes make their way through the swim, bike and run portions of the course is an experience in itself. The atmosphere along Aliʻi Drive and around Kailua Pier can be especially memorable as crowds cheer competitors toward the finish line.
If you’re visiting Kona during IRONMAN week, consider spending some time downtown rather than simply passing through. Grab breakfast, explore the shops, walk along the waterfront and take in the energy surrounding one of Hawaii’s biggest annual sporting events. Even if you aren’t here for IRONMAN, you’ll quickly understand why this week has become such an important part of the Kona calendar. October is one of the most exciting times to be in Kona, thanks to the IRONMAN World Championship.
Kona Coffee Festival Returns in November
Coffee lovers have another reason to visit later this fall.
The 55th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival takes place November 6–15, bringing approximately 10 days of coffee, culture and community events to the Kona area.
The festival includes farm tours, tastings, cultural activities, entertainment, competitions and artisan events.
For visitors who want to experience more than the typical resort side of Hawaii, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about one of the crops most closely associated with the Kona region.
And with new coffee businesses like White Nene expanding in Kona, there has never been a better time to explore the local coffee scene.
Kailua Village Stroll Returns
Another event worth adding to your calendar is the Kailua Village Stroll on October 18.
The monthly event brings local vendors, entertainment and activities into the heart of Kailua Village. Portions of Aliʻi Drive become more pedestrian-friendly, giving visitors an opportunity to browse local businesses while enjoying the atmosphere of downtown Kona.
It’s a good reminder that some of the best Kona experiences aren’t necessarily major tourist attractions. Sometimes they’re as simple as walking through town, finding a local shop, listening to live music and deciding where to stop for dinner.
Planning a Kona Getaway?
Whether you’re returning to the island or visiting for the first time, staying somewhere that puts you close to the things you want to experience can make a big difference.
Big Island Stays offers a wide selection of vacation rentals throughout Kona and the Kohala Coast, from comfortable condos to spacious private homes. Having your own kitchen, living space and outdoor area gives you more room to enjoy Hawaii at your own pace—and makes it easy to come and go as you explore everything new around the island.
Start planning your next Kona vacation and discover what’s new for yourself.
Book your Big Island getaway with Big Island Stays at bigislandstays.com.
