Imagine trading chilly autumn mornings for warm ocean breezes, a morning swim in the Pacific, and Thanksgiving dinner with the colors of a Hawaiian sunset in the background. On the Big Island, the holiday is an opportunity to slow down, spend time together, and experience a few things you simply can’t do back home. Whether you’re planning a traditional turkey dinner or hoping to spend the day exploring the island, Kona and the Kohala Coast offer plenty of ways to make Thanksgiving feel special.
Enjoy the Outdoors Before the Feast
One of the best parts of spending Thanksgiving on the Big Island is having so many ways to enjoy the day outdoors. Start your morning with a swim or snorkeling adventure at Kealakekua Bay, where clear water and colorful marine life make it a favorite for ocean lovers. For an easier beach day, head to Hapuna Beach or Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) in Waikoloa, both popular spots for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the coastline.
If you prefer exploring on land, consider a scenic drive along the Kohala Coast, a walk through the historic sites of Kailua-Kona, or a visit to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to learn more about Hawaiian history and culture. You can also explore the island’s volcanic landscapes at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, although it’s best to plan for a longer day trip from Kona.
Thanksgiving Dinner, Island Style
You don’t have to give up your favorite Thanksgiving dishes just because you’re in Hawaiʻi. Many visitors choose to enjoy a traditional holiday meal at a local restaurant or resort, where menus may feature roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie alongside fresh island ingredients.
Resorts along the Kohala Coast and restaurants in Kailua-Kona may offer special Thanksgiving meals, buffets, or prix-fixe dinners. Availability and menus vary from year to year, so check directly with restaurants and hotels as the holiday approaches. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for larger groups.
Staying in a vacation rental offers another great option. With a full kitchen, dining area, and room for everyone to gather, you can prepare your own Thanksgiving dinner, pick up fresh ingredients from local markets, and enjoy the holiday together without the rush of a restaurant schedule.
Explore Local Markets and Holiday Festivities
Thanksgiving week can also be a great opportunity to discover local shopping and seasonal events. Browse Kona’s farmers markets for tropical fruit, locally grown produce, flowers, and island-made treats. You may also find craft fairs, holiday markets, and early Christmas celebrations taking place around the island, depending on the year’s event calendar.
The Kona and Waikoloa areas offer plenty of places to shop, dine, and enjoy an evening out. Check local event listings for Thanksgiving-week entertainment, resort activities, and holiday light displays beginning around late November.
Make This Thanksgiving One to Remember
From snorkeling along the coast to sharing a holiday meal with family, Thanksgiving on the Big Island lets you celebrate at your own pace. Spend the morning at the beach, explore somewhere new in the afternoon, and gather around the table in the evening.
Planning a Thanksgiving escape? Big Island Stays offers vacation rentals in Kona and along the Kohala Coast, giving you the space, comfort, and flexibility to make the holiday your own. Visit bigislandstays.com to find your island home for the holidays.
