Big Island of Hawaii - Kailua-Kona
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Welcome to the Big Island of Hawaii ~ Kailua-Kona
Hele mai! Hele mai!
Welcome back!
Mahalo for continuing on our tour of the Big Island of Hawaii! On this leg of the tour (Part 6) we will be visiting Kailua-Kona.
If you missed the last 5 buses (lens) of our tour you can catch them here:
- The Big Island of Hawaii - Part 1 - North Kohala - Kamuela - Waimea
- The Big Island of Hawaii - Part 2 - Hamakua Coast
- The Big Island of Hawaii - Part 3 - Hilo
- The Big Island of Hawaii - Part 4 - Volcano Area - South Point
- The Big Island of Hawaii - Part 5 - South Kona Coast
The Big Island of Hawaii, also named Hawaii, is the most diverse of all the Hawaiian Islands. You can travel around the Big Island of Hawaii in one day and go from white sand beaches to snow capped volcanoes; from cacti on cattle ranches to tropical rain forest; from black beaches to green sand beaches; and then on to live erupting volcanoes. All in one day!
But wait! You don't want to do it all in one day! Relax, take your time, enjoy! There is so much to see and do on a Big Island of Hawaii Circle Island Tour!
It is well worth it to take your time and plan on staying for a while. There are so many unique and interesting things for you to enjoy while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. You don't want to just drive around the island without stopping and miss it all!
You will want to slow down and absorb the beauty; slow down and experience the diverse cultures and life styles; slow down and savor the exotic tastes and aromas that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer.
Contents at a Glance
This is a Hawaiian Hale (House)
Tradition Requires that You Remove Your Shoes Before You Enter
Eh! No Forget!
You Gotta Remove Your Shoes Before You Go Inside
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
The Places We Will Be Touring in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii
Listen to I Kona
Sung by Ledward Kaapana
Sing Along with the lyrics below:
I Kona
Lyrics by George Kelepolo
Aia i Kona kai 'opua i ka la'i'A'ohe lua e like ai me 'oe
Malihini makou ia 'oe i Kona
I ke kona a keu ke aloha no makou
Ha'ina 'ia mai ana ka pu ana
'A'ohe lua e like ai me 'oe
English Translation:
There in Kona are the cloud banks and calm seas
Second to none, you are incomparable
We are your guests in Kona
By invitation with love for us
Tell the refrain
Second to none, you are incomparable
Ali'i Drive
We will be traveling along Ali'i Drive which is the ocean front main thoroughfare, that weaves along the Kona Coast from Keauhou Bay into Kailua-Kona where it gentley winds to an end at the Kona Pier. Kuamo'o
Where the Hawai'ian Gods Died
This is the where the ancient Hawaiian religion died in a blaze of musket fire, After the death of Kamehameha I, his son Kamehameha II, was crowned King Liholiho. Shortly thereafter, he ate at the table of women and commoners, thereby breaking the ancient kapu`ai system.
This was previously discussed in The Ending of the Kapu`ai System on the Big Island of Hawaii ~ Kona Coast lens.
Chief Kekua o`kalani, who held radically different views about religious traditions, unsuccessfully challenged King Liholiho in battle here. The battle was fought between the traditionalists Hawaiians; headed by Kekua o`kalani, that wanted to keep the old religious traditions of the kapu' ai system alive, and forces of Liholiho and regent Kaahumanu; the Hawaiians that wanted to be free of the kapus.Over three hundred warriors lost their lives here and their graves, despite the official-looking marker at the site, are under the numerous, large stone altars erected by the victors over the very spots the warriors fell. Viewing their lava rock burial mounds produces an eeiry feeling and a good case of "chicken skin" (goose bumps).
The Hapaiali'i Heiau (temple) and the Ke`eku Heiau are located nearby the battlefield. The walls of Hapaialii Heiau are newly restored, and honor the royalty.
Note: This is a replica of an ancient Hawaiian spear, made from the indigenous Hawaiian koa wood, real sharks teeth (pahoa i a me lei-o-mano) and feathers. Quantities are limited as they are handmade from local materials. Many of the previous replicas have sold out and the local artist will not be making anymore.
Kuamoo and the Burial Grounds of Lekeleke
Keauhou Bay
Keauhou Bay: The Birthplace of a King
Kamehameha III was born nearby at Keauhou Bay, a favorite place for snorkeling, swimming and picnics. This is another place that the Honu turtles can been seen.I had mention early that the Fair Wind catamaran was a way to get to Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling and diving. Keauhou Bay is where you will board the boat to sail to the bay for a 2-1/2 hour expedition of sailing, snorkeling, diving and fun. I am biased in my appreciation of the Fair Winds as I use to surf with the owners, Steve and Jay Lambert, when we were all in school in Honolulu. I also worked for them in the office of the Fair Winds and the Captain Cook VII tour boat, years ago.
The sail/dives were always great fun and the evening sunset/dinner and champagne sails are awesome.
Kayaks are another fun activity that can be rented at Keauhou Bay. When in Kona, just check at any of the Activities Desks. You can find them in every hotel lobby and there are several set up right on the street in the village of Kailua-Kona.
King Kamehameha III Birthplace
Keauhou Bay ~ Kailua-Kona
The Historic Holua Slide
A Sport for Kings
He'eholua (mountain surfing) on the holua slide was a sport in ancient Hawai'i that was reserved only for the Ali'i. The very dangerous sport is similar to tobogganing, except in tobogganing, the sledder lies down on their back on a sledge or sled board and slides down an icey mountain path at high speed. With holua racing, the sledders either laid down on their stomachs or they stood up like on a surf board.The Keauhou holua slide was not only the longest holua slide, but also the most dangerous slide in all the islands. At the end of the sled path, the slider ended in the ocean at Keauhou Bay.
The papa holua, Hawaiian sleds, were usually about 12 feet long, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches in depth, and weighed about 30 - 60 pounds. They sleds were long and narrow. It was quit a feat to be able to slide on one of these sleds.
Usually the runners were made out of endemic woods called kauila, mamane, or ukiuki and the rails were made out of bamboo. The body of the sleds were a combination of kapa cloth and woven lauhala mats. Everything was tied together with sinnet cording.
The slide, or sledding course,kahua holua,, was paved with rocks, covered with dirt and beaten down to form a smooth runway. Right before the track was used it was covered usually with pili grass, then saturated either with kukui nut or coconut oil to make it slippery. The runners of the sled where also greased for speed. These sledders could travel at speeds of 50 and upwards to a 100 miles an hour. The tracks were narrow and could usually only accommodate one sledder at a time. The winner of the race was the one that could sled the farthest.
The holua racing ended in the early 1800's because the missionaries forbade the Hawai'ians to continue practicing their "heathan" ways. There was quite a bit of gambling that went along with the racing which the missionaries also frowned upon. It seems to me that anything the Hawai'ians considered fun, the missionaries considered "heathan".
Learn More of the History of the Holua Slide
Papa Holua (Hawai'ian Sledding)
Hapaiali'i Heiau, Keauhou Holua National Historical Landmark, & the Ke'eku Heiau
Keauhou Heiaus
Kahalu'u Beach Park
Our next stop heading along Ali'i Drive back into Kailua-Kona is Kahalu'u Beach Park, also known as Turtle Beach. Kahalu'u is one of only a few of the beaches in Hawaii that can boast having a tame fish population. It is not a marine preserve, and yet it surpasses the quantity of fish you would see at a regulated marine sanctuary. There aren't any fishing restrictions at the beach, yet at this well protected cove the fish are very comfortable around swimmers and snorkelers are are known to swim right along side of you. Over 108 reef fish varieties have been recorded at Kahalu'u Beach Park alone!
The cove is almost completely surrounded by a partially submerged rock wall that is the remains of a breakwater built by early Hawaiians to aid in fish farming. The wall aides in keeping out the rough surf, creating a calm, and very gentle protected area. The water at Kahaluu Beach Park is so shallow and calm, that it's perfect not only for the first time snorkeler, but for young children to swim in as well. Within the lagoon, the deepest part is only 10 feet deep and you won't reach deeper water unless going out past the reef.
Large schools of fish can often be seen swimming up to greet swimmers and it is not unusual to find the fish nibbling on your fins while snorkeling. On the left here is a school of yellow tang.Black spiny sea urchins and red pencil sea urchin, can be seen on the rocks and coral once you swim away from the shore into the crystal clear water. The quills of the red pencil sea urchins are used in making jewelry after they have dried. When the are dry they lose their red color and turn into several different shades of brown and tan.
The black spiny sea urchins are highly poisonous if stepped on, so please be very careful. The only known antidote is human urine. I know, it sounds awful, but that is the only thing that will dissolve the quills; stop the swelling and pain; and prevent infection!Kahalu'u is another favorite place for the Honu sea turtles to swim, feed and sleep. They love to sun themselves on the black rocks and can sometimes be difficult to see because when they are out of the water, the color of their shells are very similar to the black rocks. Keep your eyes open for them as they can easily be missed as they are camouflaged against the rocks and tripping over them is an easy thing to do. You can see a photo of one of them swimming below.
The sand at the beach is a kind of salt and pepper color from the erosion of the lava rock that was once prevalent along the shoreline and the picnic area is lined with coconut trees. There are picnic tables and BBQ stands that make it an easy place for a cook out on the beach or an afternoon picnic lunch. Restrooms are available and there is a life guard on duty during the day.
Kahalu'u is also a favorite spot for surfers and you will often see them out beyond the breakwater catching small waves.
Kahalu'u Beach Park Concession Stand
Kahalu'u Beach Park in Kailua-Kona
Photo byTatkar
At the beach park is a food concession where snacks, drinks, sandwiches and plate lunches can be purchased. Also, available at the concession stand is a professional marine biologist, to answer any questions you might have.
A Snorkel Rental Package can be had at $8.50 for a full days use, and includes a snorkel, professionally fitted dive mask, and rubber snorkel fins. The snorkel equipment is some of the best and is always sanitized.
Kahalu'u Beach Park Activities
Magic Sands Beach
The Best Body Surfing in Kailua-Kona at La'aloa Bay Beach Park
During the summer the beach is a beautiful white sands beach with great waves for body surfing. Kids like to boogie board, or paipo board, on the shoreline, and some people will surf further out when the surf's up too.
During the winter, the waves get bigger and the under tow gets stronger and takes all of the sand out sea, leaving black lava rocks exposed on the beach. Body surfing can get trecherous during the winter months. If you are not a good body surfer, or a good swimmer, don't attempt it. You have to know exactly when to pull out of the wave so you don't crash and burn; and get pounded on to the rocks. Once the winter surf is over, all of the sand comes back to the beach.
I use to live in a house down the street a little ways and would walk down to the beach every morning to body surf as the sun was coming up; and every evening as the sun was setting. These two times of the day are when the waves are the best and the beach is practically empty, so you aren't running into inexperienced people in the water.
There is a really nice shore-break at White Sands as the waves get moderately high and even curl before breaking on the sandy beach. This makes for a really nice ride. During the winter I have seen the waves get up to 8 to 10 feet, upon occasion, and that makes for an awesome ride, as long as you remember to pull out before crashing into the rocks.
Life guards are available year round as well as restrooms and showers.
A great place to eat either lunch or dinner, is Jameson's By the Sea. It is located right next to Magic Sands.This is a shot from the lanai of the restaurant, looking out at a the ocean.
Shore Break at Magic Sands
It's Happening at Magic Sands
Watch the Videos!
While Visiting Hawaii Don't Forget Your Camera
Review of the Canon PowerShot A590IS 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
Canon PowerShot A590IS 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
Amazon Price: $350.00 (as of 05/29/2012)
Onward to Kailua-Kona Village
Now that we are all worn out from the body surfing, sun and fun at White Sands Beach, we will head into Kailua-Kona traveling along the beach road into town on Alii Drive. The photo on the left is the coastline along Alii Dr. as we head into town.Kailua-Kona was the originally claimed as the seat of the Hawaiian government by King Kamehameha I, as the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. This is where Hulihee Palace can still be seen today. The capital now, of course is in Honolulu on Oahu.
When Iolani Palace was established in Honolulu as the residence of the ali'i, Hulihee Palace in Kailua-Kona became the summer vacation home for the royal family.
Kailua-Kona Village 1820's
Alii Dr.
Kailua-Kona Village 2006
Alii Dr.
Kailua-Kona
Big Island of Hawaii
When I was a little girl, Kailua-Kona was a sleepy little fishing village and remained rather quiet for quite a few years. The soft, gentle breezes, that drifted in from the ocean kept the temperature at a balmy 86 degrees F. almost year round.It was a different climate and a different time. The aloha spirit was everywhere and the ohana (family) and the aina (land) were the most important things in our lives. When the fish were running and the taro and the breadfruit were plentiful; we were happy. We didn't ask for much and we didn't need much. Life was much simpler back then.
It wasn't until the early 1970's that the village began taking a turn, and by 1989 it had become a bustling tourist resort and had acquired just about every fast food dive imaginable; from Makadanonei (McDonald's) to Taco Hale (Taco Bell).
I guess all of the fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables that not only grew wild, but were cultivated too, just wasn't good enough for the mainland haoles (Caucasians). They had to import their crap food to eat instead of eating fresh, healthy food, while vacationing in a tropical paradise. Auwe! Go figure.
Now Kona is colorful mixture of curio stores, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, sidewalk cafes, art galleries, souvenir stands and bars that all line the beach front road along Ali'i Drive.
Kona is where you will find the most remarkable sunsets and sunrises in the world, acting as a magnificent backdrop for the aqua-blue waters. Ali'i Drive is semi-protected from the ocean waves by a long lava rock sea wall that was built long before the road was paved. Ali'i Drive comes to an end at the Kailua Pier which is next to the birthplace of Kamahemeha I located next to the King Kamehameha Hotel.
The photo above is a gorgeous Kona sunset taken from the sea wall in town, at low tide by the Hulihee Palace.
Baby Marlin Brought in to Kona Pier
Deep Sea Fishing in Kona
Fishing is still very much a part of our lives, in Kona, but in a different way than it was back then. Kona is home to World Records for the largest Pacific Blue Marlins, ahi (featured in this photo), ulua and many other large fish that have been fished in the Kona waters.Deep sea fishing, also known as, sport fishing, has become an expensive hobby in the islands, especially in Kona, as Kona has become one of the sport fishing epicenters of the world. It is one the reasons that our oceans surrounding the islands, have been so over fished. I am just as guilty as the next person for this as I love deep sea fishing. For us locals, we eat what we kill. It helps to keep our freezers full and the families fed.
We not only have the sport fishermen fishing for their trophy fish to stuff and ship home, we also have the high demand for fresh fish not only from the many restaurants catering to the tourist, but also to the ever growing population of people that come to visit and then forget to go back home. Our ecosystem is having a difficult time supporting the influx of people that have decided to make Hawaii their home in the last 40 years and it continues to grow daily.
Grand Daddy Marlin
Caught in Kona Waters
Photo by Karin247 at Flickr
This grand daddy Pacific blue marlin weighed in at 973-pound on the Kailua-Kona Pier. It was caught aboard the "Marlin Magic II" charter boat, skippered by Marlin Parker, by Bob Dudley of the Laguna Niguel Billfish Club on July 29, 2008. It was the second largest fish ever caught in the 49-year history of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament.It took Bob Dudley nearly 2 1/2 hours to reel in the fish with 50-pound test line.
World Record Marlin Fished in Kona Waters
This Pacific Blue Marlin weighed in at 1,656 pounds, and was caught aboard the "Black Bart" charter boat in 1984, skippered by the legendary Capt. Bart Miller and angled in by Gary Merriman. This 17-foot long beast is the largest blue marlin ever brought into Kona and is the second largest Pacific blue ever caught by rod and reel. The fight to bring this huge fish on board lasted two hours and 20 minutes. Contact Capt. Bart at Black Bart Lures.
The biggest fish ever caught on rod and reel was a blue marlin caught just off Oahu, weighing in at a hefty 1,805 pounds! Gail Choy-Kaleiki was fishing with her father, legendary Capt. Cornelius Choy on the COREENE-C when they hooked a 1,805-lb Pacific blue marlin. It is the largest blue marlin ever caught on a rod and reel and is not an IGFA world record because they were assisted by other persons in landing the monster. The fish was caught off the island of O'ahu on June 6, 1970. The boat still charters today from Pearl Harbor on O'ahu.
What is really amazing is that these huge fish are half the size of what the Pacifc blue will grow to. They can grow to over 3,000 pounds. You can see a photo of one of these 3,000 pounders that Capt. Bart Miller hooked up to by going to
Big Marine Fish Photos
Hand Carved Blue Marlin
Carved in Hawaii from Local Koa Wood
Huggo's on the Rock's
Best View in Kona
I love Huggo's. i have been eating and partying there since 1969 when Eric's parents first opened the place. I've seen it go through many changes to what it is now, and it is one of the best places in Kona for "Cocktail Hour". The ambiance is the absolute best for cocktails and pupus as it is smack-dab oceanfront. The waves splash up against the rocks directly below the restaurant. We have often watched both whales and dolphins as the sun sinks slowly into the horizon offering the most gorgeous sunsets in the world as a back drop.
As for the food, it depends on the time of day, who the cook may happen to be and if the fisherman brought in any fresh fish for the menu. I have had superb dinners here and I have also had mediocre ones. It is always good to check with the locals to find out when is the best time to eat there, as chefs to change. The same one may not be working in 2012 as was working in 2004.
With that being said it is still a wonder place for cocktails at sunset and for partying after dinner.
Huggo's at night is a great party place. There is always something going on. Something that I find very cool about Eric's son, who is running the place now, is that he is always open to giving new local musicians a chance to play their music.
if you are in Kona it IS a place to check out 'cause Huggo's Rocks!
Painting of Hugg's
By Artist John Collins
Artwork of Huggo's Painted by artist John Collins. Please visit his website to see more of his paintings of Kona's marine life.
Walking Through Kailua-Kona
Down Alii Dr. in Kailua-Kona Hawaii
The rest of the walk from the Kona Inn Shopping Plaza down Ali'i Drive, are a bright and colorful mixture of specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants and bars, until you get down to the Kona Pier next to the King Kamehameha Hotel.
Hand Carved Humpback Whale
Carved in Hawaii from Local Koa Wood
This hand carved sculpture of a "Humpback Whale" is carved from the beautiful indigenous Koa wood in Hawaii. It is neslted on a driftwood base. This sculpture would make a wonderful gift for any whale or ocean enthusiasts, or for a nautical themed room decor. This is a one-of-a-kind carving from Hawaii and is the only one available making for a very unique and exclusive gift.
A Little Kailua-Kona Music While You Visit Our Village
by Ho'aikane
Hulihee Palace
The Summer Home of the Royal Family,
Hulihe'e Palace, was originally built out of lava rock (pukapuka stone) by John Adams Kuakini, Governor of Hawaii in 1838. The Palace wasn't plastered over until 1885, when King Kalakaua decided to give the building a more refined appearance.Hulihe'e was built with native Hawaiian wood from the tropical rain forest. The logs of koa and ohia are beautiful, lustrous wood that can be seen within the interior of palace and has been polished to a high sheen.
The home is a two level structure, as can be seen by the photo above, that includes an entry hall, parlor, dining room, sitting room and two bedrooms.
The entry hall includes a striking bust of Kalakaua and several redwood pillars that the King brought home from California.The Kuhio Room features a large koa dining table that belonged to the Kalakaua family.
The Kuakini Room contains artifacts from pre-Western contact through the Monarchy period.
The bedroom of Princess Ruth Keelikolani, features many of her favorite personal items that are now island treasures.
The second-floor sitting room is a treasure store of traditional Victorian-style furnishings, priceless oriental rugs and marble statues.The Territory of Hawaii purchased the palace in 1925. It was then turned over to the Daughters of Hawaii. The Daughters of Hawaii were first formed in 1903 by descendants of Protestant missionary women, whose mission is "to perpetuate the memory and spirit of old Hawaii and of historic facts, and to preserve the nomenclature and correct pronunciation of the Hawaiian language." They took over the management of the palace in 1927. The summer home of the Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) is now preserved as a museum by the Daughters of Hawaii.
I have always found this ironic as the ancestors of the founding Daughters are the very ones that tried to abolish the Hawaiian language as a sinful, pagan language. The missionaries actually believed that they would have better control over the Hawaiian people and their land if their entire life-style and culture was not only abolished, but completely wiped out forever. Fortunately today, the Daughters of Hawaii are a melting pot of woman who have descended from all ethnicity of the people of Hawai'i and can belong to the organization only if they are direct descendants.
"In order to be a member of Daughters of Hawai`i, a woman must be directly descended from a person who lived in Hawai`i prior to 1880. Membership is presently about 1,400. The Society has been assisted since 1986 by a support group known as the Calabash Cousins. Membership to this group is open to anyone interested in supporting the Daughters' purposes. Currently, there are approximately 350 Calabash Cousin members."
The Inter-Island Steam Navigation Company sought to purchase the land under the palace to build an oceanfront hotel in Kailua-Kona, but thankfully the Daughters refused to give up the property.
Answer To: What are the Visiting Hours of Hulihe'e Palace?
Hulihe'e Palace
Video of the Palace by the Daughters of Hawai'i
If you would like to make a donation you may visted the Daughters of Hawaii website:
http://www.huliheepalace.org
Or you may call them at 808-5956291
Hawaiian Quilts on eBay
Hula Kahiko at Hulihee Palace
The "drum" beat that you hear is an ipo which is a hollowed out and dried gourd. The ipo is used as an accompaniment to most hula dances.
Moku'aikaua Church
Big Island of Hawai'i's 1st Church
Moku'aikaua Church is the first Christian church to be built in Hawai'i. It is located right across the street from the Hulihe'e Palace. When viewing the Palace from out at sea, you can see the steeple of the church towering in the background.After the death of Kamehameha the Great in 1819, and the end of the kapu system by King Kamehameha II (King Liholiho) a missionary ship named the Thaddeus, was anchored further up the Kona coast waiting for permission for it's passengers, the First Company of American missionaries, to disembark and come ashore. Among the passengers where the Christian ministers, Hiram Bingham and Asa Thurston, and their wives, who were anxious to get to shore and start converting the "heathens". Upon hearing the news of the heiaus (Hawaiian temples) being destroyed by order of the new king, they immediately sailed down to Kailua-Kona from Kawaihae Harbor to seek permission from the new king to come ashore to begin constructing Christian churches and schools.
The concept of Christianity was not exactly new to the Hawaiians. They had already been indoctrinated to the Christian faith from the ships that been landing since the time of Capt. Cook's arrival.
To make a long story short.....
The missionaries received permission from King Liholiho to build their church and missionary school on today's present site. In 1820. They received a years probation from the new king (a probation that lasted indefinitely). Hiram Bingham was assigned to Honolulu and Asa Thurston stayed in Kona and constructed thatched buildings for their first places of conversion on the site of what is now the Moku'aikaua Church The construction of the present stone structure wasn't started on the site until 1835 and the building as it stands now was completed in 1837.
Inside Mokuaikaua Church
The interior of the church is constructed of the gorgeous wood of the ohia trees and the koa wood trees that are the hardwood trees endemic to Hawai'i. The outside foundation and walls are made from the puka puka (porous lava rock) stones that were mortared together with a mixture of sand, kukui nut oil, and burnt, crushed coral gathered from the ocean by the local Hawaiian men. The building as it stands today was constructed by the seamen off of the ships that had transported the missionaries to Hawai'i. The same seamen also constructed the Hulihe'e Palace across the street.
In back of the church is a small museum that contains a collection of artifacts and paintings that portray the history of the Christian arrival. A scale model of the brig Thaddeus is the centerpiece of the museum exhibits. The replicated model was crafted by the same seamen of the Pacific Fleet Command that constructed the church in 1934. The church did not received the ship model as a gift until 1975.
Visit the website of Mokuaikaua Church where you can get more information
Mokuaikaua Church Stained Glass Window
Moku'aikaua Church Ocean View - 1883
Kailua-Kona Circa 1883
A Guide to Old Kona's Past
The Kona Inn
The old Kona Inn was built in 1928 by Charles W. Dickey, a Hawaii born architect of Caucasian ancestry, who designed many of the state's buildings in Honolulu, such as buildings at Kamehameha and Punahou Schools, the Waikiki Theater, the Halekulani Hotel, and the Naniloa Hotel in Hilo, in his uniquely Hawaiian style architecture. His style emphasized broad double-hipped roofs and open, spacious plans that were intimately linked to the Hawaian Islands. The Kona Inn was the first resort hotel to be built in Kailua-Kona. It was built on the site of Papa 'Ula, red flats, which was once a heiau, sacred temple, used for human sacrifice of the warriors killed in battle. The heiau was built by Chief Umi. The photo of Charles W. Dickey above rightt is courtesy of the Honolulu Star Bulletin Archives
In the old days, the Kona Inn was the place to go in Kona. The hotel was always booked solid and it had the best luau show in town. The hotel had tennis courts and a saltwater swimming pool that is fed directly from Kailua Bay. Back in it's heyday, before my time, when the steam ships came to town, my aunties put on hula shows on the large, palm-shaded lawn area in back of the hotel, as you can see inthe old photo on the left. After the shows they worked in the hotel serving the wealthy guest. The old Kona Inn was responsible for the beginning of tourism in Kailua-Kona, for the very wealthy.During my day, in the 1960's, it was a popular place for the jet-setters to hide-away. The cocktail lounge in the hotel was always jumping and sported a gorgeous Hawaiian koa wood bar, and a baby grand piano. I worked there back in the day, as a cocktail waitress and bartender. It wasn't unusual to see Richard Boone and Lee Marvin hanging out in the lounge, back then. The Kona Inn Lounge and the old Kona Steak House were the happening places in those days, and the favorite hang outs for the two actors. This was when Richard Boone and Lee Marvin were partners in the charter fishing boat, the Blue Hawaii. Even then, the very rich would come to the Kona Inn to stay.
All of us girls that worked in the lounge were tipped with silver dollars, back then. It was not an unusual night to take home a Crown Royal bag with $400 in silver dollars, and working cocktails on a luau night the average that we each made in tips was $600 for a 4 hour luau. That Crown Royal bag was so heavy with silver dollars, I could barely carry it. Let me tell you, there was a lot of partying in those days!
Today, it is home to the Kona Inn Restaurant and the Kona Inn Shopping Village, which is a sprawling shopping complex that features some very unique shops and art galleries.
Boat View of the the Old Kona Inn
The Kona Inn Today
Kona Inn Shopping Village
The Front of the Kona Inn Shopping Village.
A Drive Through Kona Town
Ali'i Drive
Center of Kailua-Kona Village
Kona Restaurants
Add a link to your favorite restaurant in Kona. Your favorite place doesn't have a website? Put up a Squidoo lens and tell the world all about it and add your link here. Please do not spam with irrelevant links!
Kona Galley Restaurant, Big Island | MyTravelGuide.com
Kona Galley Restaurant, Kailua-Kona-Big Island - U more...1 point
Fish Hopper Seafood Restaurant for Dining in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean combine more...0 points
Kona Brewery and Pub - Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Co. creates hand-crafted, award-winni more...0 points
Jameson's By The Sea
Fine Restaurant Dining next to Magic Sands Beach i more...0 points
Paradise Gourmet Catering
Paradise Gourmet Catering is at your service for a more...0 points
Kona's Farmers Market - Swap Meet
Ahu`ena Heiau
Photo by Donald B. MacGowan
The Ahu`ena Heiau is located between the Kailua-Kona Pier, between the Kamakahonu Beach and the King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. King Kamehameha the Great rebuilt this sacred heiau (sacred temple) on a puka puka stone, (lava rock) paepae (platform) between 1812-1813. One of the Big Island's most historic sites is the Ahu`ena Heiau ! We are very proud that it has been added to the register of National Historic Landmarks.
Inside the heiau the image of Kalaemoku, a healing god known for his great healing powers, is the dominant carved image. Other images in the heiau were of ancestral gods with whom Kamehameha maintained close rapport for the benefit of his kingdom. The heiau was built to honor Lono, the God of peace and prosperity.
Members of Kamehameha's council frequently met with Kalaemoku at the Ahu'ena Heiau for ritual prayers. This was also the gathering place to school Prince Liholiho, Kamehameha's young heir, in the arts, sciences, theology, and the ways of wise government.
Learn more of this sacred place at Külana Huli Honua
Kamakahonu Beach ~ Located Between the Kailua-Kona Pier & the King Kamehameha Hotel
King Kamehameha Hotel in Kailua-Kona
The Best Luau Show in Kona!
The King "Kam" Hotel Sponsers Many Events in Kona
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is the only property in Kailua-Kona located on a white sandy beach. Kamakahonu Beach (sometimes called "Baby Beach") has excellent snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle board surfing that are just a few of the many activities guests and locals can enjoy.The King Kamehameha Hotel has been the meeting place for many of the local Hawaiian events for the West Hawai'i community for years. They are the sponsor of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, the annual Kona Brewers Festival, the Ford Ironman World Championship Triathlon, and many other local events.
The reason that I mention this historical hotel is not only because of it's historical significants and it's sponsorship of these world famous events, the King Kam Hotel is also home to the best luau feast and show in Kona, known as the famous Island Breeze Lu'au.
Removing the Roasted Pig from the Imu
The kalua pig that is the main entres eaten at the lu'au is put into the imu (cooking pit) in the morning to cook underground all day. When the guest first arrive at the lu'au in the afternoon, there are many local Hawaiian craft activities going on for the guest to participate in while waiting for the Royal Court to arrive. While waiting, they can also watch the pig being removed from the imu.
In the photograph above the pig was just brought out of the hot steaming imu. The tea leaf and banana stump leaves that the pig was wrapped in for cooking is being pulled away from the kalua pig before being taken inside to the kitchen to prepare for the lu'au. In the kitchen the kalua pig is hand pulled from the bones and put into serving vessels.
The Royal Court Arriving to the Lu'au
When the Royal Court arrives at Kamakahonu Beach, they will be dressed in the attire of the Ali'i (royalty) in ancient Hawai'i. They arrive on board an outrigger canoe. The Royal Court is then announced by the trumpeting of the Court Conch Shell and the Royal Court Chanter.
The guests will then follow the procession from the activities area into the Royal Grounds, where the elaborate luau buffet awaits. When the feast begins the guest will then eat traditional luau food, that includes the Kalua Pua'a (the succulent pork that just came out of the imu), while watching the amazing Polynesian entertainment that has been arranged for the pleasure of the guest and the Royal Court.
Arrival of the Royal Court
Sunday Brunch at the King Kam Hotel
They serve anything and everything you can think of from customized waffles, pancakes, crepes and omelets, to tables laden with roast beef, fresh fish, lobster, shrimp, oysters on the half-shell, roasted turkeys, baked hams and every kind of salad and pupus you could dream of. Fresh sushi, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, caviar, imported cheeses from all over the world, local island food, European dishes, American dishes are all beautifully arranged on the buffet tables. And the desserts? They are to die for. Three huge tables filled with delectables. Champagne are Mimosas are served right along with your Kona coffee, or any other beverage you may desire. The photo below is showing just one small corner of the buffet tables.
If there are only two places to eat that you have the time for while visiting Kona, the luau and the Sunday brunch at the King Kam should not be missed!
The resort is an easy walk to the other historical sites that I have already mentioned, and to the restaurants, night life and shopping along Ali'i Drive in the historic Kailua Village.
No Make Hi-Ways By Me
Don't Build Your Highways By Me
It would be nice if everyone got paid for their land.
The Awful Truth.....
Many of the people that have already moved in have worn out their welcome. They have been inconsiderate and rude guest. They have over-fished our oceans, polluted our water and air; devastated the aina (land), and have disrespected our culture.
Many claim our home is better than the homes they left behind. Yet they seem to be determined to turn it into the mainland they are running away from. They have found it important to their lifestyles to build the likes of Walmart, KFC and McDonald's. Funny we never needed these places to shop or eat before they got here.
They love it here so much, that instead of adapting to our way of life, learning and appreciating our customs, our language, and experiencing the flavors of the local food, they are in obsessed with changing it into a mini-mainland with it's fast food restaurants, strip malls, and the ever polluting automobiles and cruise ships. The traffic in Kona is horrendous now and over taxing for our 2 lane roads. When new hi-ways get built to accommodate the traffic that continues to increased with the influx of population, it will rip away more of the natural beauty and resources that has attracted these people to begin with.
Like flies to honey, with no thought of their effect on the environment or the delicate eco-structure, they come and stay.
Unfortunately these uninvited guest can't seem to remember how to get back on that plane that brought them here and go back home. They have laid claim to our homes and land, as if they have an inherent right to it.
Now, Kona is a bustling tourist spot that is over crowded with bumper to bumper traffic that is backed up for hours in the mornings and afternoons. The rents for a studio apartment have risen to $1500 - $3000 a month (at the minimum, some are higher) which is impossible for many of the local Hawaiian people to pay.
Tourist are fine. They come. They have a good time. They go home. It's the rest of the intruders that stay, injecting their carbon footprints into our atmosphere.
I am really not trying to be mean, it is just simple fact that the islands can not keep its lifestyle and resources if the population continues to increase at the current rate. Unfortunately, the people that want to move here do not care one iota about these issues. They are in denial that they are part of the problem.
This is NOT Being Hateful ~ This is Fact
She was offended by the word "haole" which told me right away that she is one of the mainland haole intruders and not a "local girl", as she does not know the translation of the word. Unfortunately, she is ill informed and only sees the Hawaiian word as something derogatory, which is NOT the case. (I myself am Hapa-haole. LOL!) She did not have the courage to leave an email address or a link where she could be reached for further discussion or enlightenment, yet was adamant for me to "Stop the Hate". This poor child must be too young to know that I do not hate. I pity the blindness of individuals such as herself.
I am only stating the issues as I have seen them develop over the last 60 years. I have also learned from my own Mother who will be 92 this December 2011. Nothing that I write is out of hate. It is only to inform. I love my home with the depth of my being and am insulted with the ignorance of people such as this writer.
Orchid Mouse Pads
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Please Spread the Luv If You Love the Big Island of Hawaii
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madoc
May 24, 2012 @ 1:23 pm | delete
- I am nominating this lens as my "best ever" lens in the current quest for most like-able lenses, although really I mean the whole set of lenses about the grand circuit of the Big Island. I think you represent your home town, Big Island, and Hawaiian culture, admirably. On the whole, comments on Squidoo are far more constructive than in most forums or news venues, so the few comments you have to delete seem to stand out more (and hurt more), as the rantings of really complete idiots. Hang in there!
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BlueTrane
May 15, 2012 @ 6:34 pm | delete
- another great lens!
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Kay
May 1, 2012 @ 11:02 pm | delete
- I really enjoyed reading your whole Kailua Kona "tour guide" -- I feel like I will be a better visitor now and more understanding of being respectful of Hawaiian culture... not that I would be on purpose but it is good to understand where Hawaiians are coming from. I get it that you can actually love a place to death. I am really looking forward to our trip this summer and added several must sees to my itinerary after reading all your helpful tips. thanks !!!
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Pinkchic18
Mar 30, 2012 @ 1:28 pm | delete
- Oh how i would love to visit Hawaii someday. Hopefully soon! :) Nice lens!
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Pinkchic18
Mar 30, 2012 @ 1:28 pm | delete
- Oh how i would love to visit Hawaii someday. Hopefully soon! :) Nice lens!
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Big Island of Hawaii - Kailua-Kona Index
Click a Link Below to Go Back Up
- This is a Hawaiian Hale (House)
- Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
- Listen to I Kona
- I Kona
- Ali'i Drive
- Kuamo'o
- Kuamoo and the Burial Grounds of Lekeleke
- Keauhou Bay
- King Kamehameha III Birthplace
- The Historic Holua Slide
- Papa Holua (Hawai'ian Sledding)
- Hapaiali'i Heiau, Keauhou Holua National Historical Landmark, & the Ke'eku Heiau
- Kahalu'u Beach Park
- Kahalu'u Beach Park Concession Stand
- Snorkeling at Kahalu'u Beach Park
- Kahalu'u Beach Park Activities
- Magic Sands Beach
- Waiting for the Wave
- Shore Break at Magic Sands
- It's Happening at Magic Sands
- While Visiting Hawaii Don't Forget Your Camera
- Onward to Kailua-Kona Village
- Kailua-Kona Village 1820's
- Kailua-Kona Village 2006
- Kailua-Kona
- Baby Marlin Brought in to Kona Pier
- Deep Sea Fishing in Kona
- Grand Daddy Marlin
- World Record Marlin Fished in Kona Waters
- Hand Carved Blue Marlin
- Huggo's on the Rock's
- Painting of Hugg's
- Walking Through Kailua-Kona
- Hand Carved Humpback Whale
- A Little Kailua-Kona Music While You Visit Our Village
- Hulihee Palace
- Hulihe'e Palace
- Hawaiian Quilts on eBay
- Hula Kahiko at Hulihee Palace
- Moku'aikaua Church
- Inside Mokuaikaua Church
- Mokuaikaua Church Stained Glass Window
- Moku'aikaua Church Ocean View - 1883
- A Guide to Old Kona's Past
- The Kona Inn
- Boat View of the the Old Kona Inn
- The Kona Inn Today
- Kona Inn Shopping Village
- A Drive Through Kona Town
- Center of Kailua-Kona Village
- Kona Restaurants
- Kona's Farmers Market - Swap Meet
- Ahu`ena Heiau
- Kamakahonu Beach ~ Located Between the Kailua-Kona Pier & the King Kamehameha Hotel
- King Kamehameha Hotel in Kailua-Kona
- The Best Luau Show in Kona!
- Removing the Roasted Pig from the Imu
- The Royal Court Arriving to the Lu'au
- Arrival of the Royal Court
- The Luau Show at the King Kamehameha Hotel Luau
- Sunday Brunch at the King Kam Hotel
- No Make Hi-Ways By Me
- The Awful Truth.....
- This is NOT Being Hateful ~ This is Fact
- Orchid Mouse Pads
- This Lens Was Blessed By a Squid Angel
- Please Spread the Luv If You Love the Big Island of Hawaii
- Have Questions About The Big Island of Hawaii?
- Want to Know When I Add More to this Lens?
by KonaGirl
Aloha! My name is June. I am from Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. I am also a Giant Squid and a Squid Angel.
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