Davidsbeenhere in Kailua-Kona, HI: 14 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Hawaii County

Must-try foods in Hawaii County

• Loco Moco
  Loco MocoThe ultimate comfort food originating in Hilo. It features a bed of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried sunny-side-up egg, and smothered in rich brown gravy. For the most authentic experience, locals flock to Cafe 100 or Ken’s House of Pancakes.
• Ahi Poke
  Ahi PokeUnlike the mainland 'poke bowls' with many toppings, Big Island poke focuses on high-quality raw Ahi tuna cubed and seasoned simply with shoyu, sesame oil, and sea salt. 2026 favorites include the creative wasabi and spicy garlic variations from Da Poke Shack and Pau Hana Poke.
• Strawberry Mochi
  Strawberry MochiA cult favorite from the legendary Two Ladies Kitchen in Hilo. These hand-crafted, pillowy soft rice cakes often feature a whole fresh strawberry encased in sweet red bean paste (tsubuan). They are so popular that pre-ordering is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
• Malasadas
  MalasadasPortuguese-style hole-less donuts that are fried until golden and rolled in sugar. While iconic throughout Hawaii, the Punalu’u Bake Shop (the southernmost bakery in the U.S.) is the destination for unique local flavors like taro, lilikoi, and guava-filled malasadas.
• Huli Huli Chicken
  Huli Huli ChickenRotisserie-style chicken grilled over local Kiawe wood and basted with a sweet and savory ginger-soy glaze. Roadside stands like Randy’s Huli Chicken and Ribs in Captain Cook are iconic, often identified by the smoke and long lines of locals on weekends.
• Big Island Abalone
  Big Island AbaloneAn interesting and trending delicacy sourced from the Big Island Abalone Farm near the Kona airport. These Japanese salt-water snails are served as sashimi or grilled with garlic butter at the farm's food truck—a true 'insider' foodie find that is booming in 2026.

Trip guide

• About Hawaii County
  About Hawaii CountyHawaii County, often referred to as the Big Island, encompasses the largest geographic area in the Hawaiian archipelago and is the site of some of the earliest Polynesian settlements, estimated to date back to approximately 400 CE at Ka Lae (South Point). The historical heritage of the county is centered on the unification of the islands under King Kamehameha I, who was born in North Kohala.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Hawaii County (the Big Island) is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November, when you’ll find the best balance of pleasant weather and lower travel costs. While the Kona side stays sunny year-round, winter months (December to March) bring higher rainfall to the Hilo side and peak tourist crowds seeking a tropical escape. To experience local food culture.
• Getting around
  Getting around Hawaii County

  • Commercial Air Travel Most visitors arrive via Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west or Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east. Direct flights are available from the U.S. mainland and major international hubs.
  • Rental Car Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Big Island's vast landscape, which spans over 4,000 square miles. Major agencies operate out of both Hilo and Kona airports.
  • Hele-On Bus Hawaii County's public transit system, the Hele-On Bus, offers fare-free island-wide service (currently through late 2025). It connects major towns like Hilo and Kona and provides access to attractions like Hawaii.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Never turn your back on the ocean, as sudden rogue waves can appear without warning and sweep you off rocks or into the sea.
  • Always remove your shoes before entering a private residence or vacation rental as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
  • Drive with the 'Aloha Spirit' by being patient, avoiding the use of car horns, and allowing other drivers to merge into traffic.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Hawaii County

  • Food Truck Fridays at Old Kona Airport Park, featuring a rotating lineup of over 20 vendors including Sugar's Hawaiʻi and Big Island Provisions.
  • Traditional Street Eats at the 33rd Annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, spotlighting Japanese and multi-cultural food vendors.
• Historic Kailua Village↗
  Historic Kailua VillageThe official site for Historic Kailua Village, managed by the Kailua Village Business Improvement District to promote the heritage and commerce of Kailua-Kona.