"Hawaiian Slack Key Festival: Top Musicians & Cultural Celebration!"

Trivia Question❓

Located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, Kailua-Kona is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. What famous Hawaiian monarch is said to have spent the last years of his life in Kailua-Kona, residing in a palace known as Huliheʻe?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Top 18 KAILUA-KONA THINGS TO DO | Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii Slack Key Guitar Festival Returns with Top Musicians and Cultural Celebration

The article highlights an upcoming music festival celebrating Hawaii's Slack Key Guitar tradition, featuring top musicians in Hawaiian music.

The event will take place on November 16th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in Kailua-Kona, HI.

The festival aims to showcase Hawaiian culture and support Dakota Briley's recovery fund.

Attendees can donate to the cause and have a chance to win a one-night stay at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort & Spa.

Admission is $20, with free entry for children 12 and under.

Join the extravaganza of talent and immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture.

Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina & Restaurante in Kailua-Kona has reopened after passing a comprehensive follow-up inspection by the Hawaii Department of Health Food Safety Branch on August 12.

The restaurant, located on Alii Drive, received a green “pass” placard, confirming full compliance with health regulations.

Officials verified corrective actions had resolved serious food safety violations discovered just days earlier, which included cockroach infestations, unclean food-contact surfaces, and inadequate handwashing facilities.

Proper food storage, thorough disinfection, pest control, and employee retraining were mandated before reopening.

Pancho & Lefty’s is now welcoming customers back, highlighting the Department of Health’s ongoing commitment to protect the health of residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, Kailua-Kona’s business landscape is evolving, with the Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay set to debut in summer 2025 and Niumalu Marketplace expanding its offerings, reflecting the area’s dynamic growth.

This newsletter sponsored by

On the Rocks: Where aloha meets oceanfront dining

Perched right on the oceanfront at Waikoloa Beach Resort, On the Rocks is where locals and visitors alike come together for fresh island flavors, tropical cocktails, and unbeatable sunset views.

Guided by Eric, a fourth-generation Chinese-Hawaiian with deep roots in the Kona community, the venue reflects both family tradition and aloha spirit.

From his early days bussing tables at Huggo’s to leading the Kona-Kohala Chamber, Eric has dedicated his career to hospitality and community growth.

Whether you’re here for dining, live music, or a laid-back evening by the water, On the Rocks is the ultimate spot to experience Kona at its best.

Kealakehe Girls Volleyball Team Strives for Growth Amidst Early Season Challenges

The Kealakehe High School girls volleyball team has opened their 2025 season with determination, facing strong competition in the Big Island Interscholastic Federation.

Despite early defeats, including a hard-fought home match against Konawaena High School on August 13, the Waveriders are showing resilience and a renewed focus on teamwork.

Head Coach Mervlyn Simmons stresses learning from each match, aiming to boost defensive coordination and offensive play.

Players like senior captain Mahie Bailey remain optimistic, believing tough early opponents will fuel the team’s growth and confidence.

Upcoming games against Hawaii Preparatory Academy and Honoka'a High School will provide more chances for the team to build momentum.

With steadfast community support, the Waveriders are committed to developing as a cohesive unit and making their fans proud.

Focus stays firmly on progress, unity, and the drive for future success as the season unfolds.