Kona, Hawaii, on the Big Island's west coast, buzzes with vibrant energy, blending stunning beaches and deep cultural heritage.

This lively hub contrasts with quieter nearby spots, drawing visitors to its sun-drenched shores.

Exciting 2025 events like the Ironman World Championship Women's Race showcase its athletic vibe.

New coffee shops and eco-tours add fresh appeal to the local scene.

For must-do activities, snorkel at Kahalu’u Beach amid colorful reefs and sea turtles.

Explore Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site with ancient temples offering glimpses into Hawaiian history.

Kayak Kealakekua Bay for dolphin encounters near the Captain Cook Monument.

Tour Hualalai coffee farms for tastings in lush settings.

Thrill to nighttime manta ray snorkels or join the November 2025 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival for dances and brews.

Stargaze on Mauna Kea, watch whales from December, or visit Hulihe‘e Palace museum.

Shop Ali’i Drive markets and hike petroglyph trails.

With warm 75-85°F weather, visit in fall for fewer crowds and better deals—rent a car for easy exploration.

Kona's adventures and traditions create unforgettable island magic.

Upcoming Events

November 2025 ignites the Kona Hawaii Coffee Fest, uniting coffee enthusiasts and locals on the Big Island to celebrate 200 years of rich Kona coffee heritage.

This 54th annual event spans multi-day festivities, blending tradition with vibrant community spirit.

Starting November 1 at the Kona Elks Lodge, grab merch and mingle from 5 to 8 p.m.

On November 7, explore a Made in Hawaii showcase in Captain Cook from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by cultural vibes at Hale Halawai County Pavilion until 9 p.m., including a magical lantern parade at 6 p.m.

November 8 offers hands-on farm tours at Kona Coffee & Tea Farm from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., art workshops at Donkey Mill Art Center, and a thrilling tournament at Holua Racquet & Paddle.

Discover Historic Holualoa Village on November 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., plus a Big Island Showcase and recipe contest at Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa.

Midweek highlights include theater pairings on November 10, the Miss Kona Coffee event, and movie screenings on November 11 and 12.

Research tours unfold on November 13, with lively gatherings on the 14th at Keauhou Shopping Center.

Saturday, November 15, buzzes from 6 a.m. at Coconut Grove Marketplace to evening orchestra at Outrigger.

The fest concludes November 16 with shows and final events at Donkey Mill and Kona Elks Lodge.

Purchase admission buttons at spots like Dairy Queen in Kona Commons or Greenwell Farms in Captain Cook.

Amid new local roasters emerging, this lineup delivers unforgettable island energy for residents and visitors alike.

Hawai‘i International Film Festival Presented by Halekulani

Date: Nov 7, Nov 9
Time: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
Location: 67-1186 Lindsey Rd. Waimea, HI 96743

Admission: No admission/registration required.
Details: For more information, please visit the website here.

Keauhou Farmers Market
Date: Nov 8
Time: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Keauhou Shopping Center

Admission: No admission/registration required.
Details: For more information, please visit the website here.

Amid the vibrant greenery of Hawaii's Big Island, Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary serves as a crucial haven for abandoned and mistreated animals.

Established in 2001 near Kona by founder Mary Rose Krijgsman, the nonprofit draws from mainland inspirations to provide care for cats, dogs, and farm animals.

This year, the sanctuary celebrated water system improvements funded by matching donations, highlighting its dedication to growth.

Deep emotional connections flourish here, as volunteers invest time in training and socializing once-fearful strays into affectionate pets.

On its seven-acre site in Kurtistown, the facility hums with life, sheltering hundreds of animals seeking permanent homes.

Local engagement has surged through adoption events and collaborations with organizations like Best Friends Animal Society.

Overcoming earlier hurdles like relocations and island-wide pet overpopulation, the sanctuary shares inspiring tales of recovery, from mobility-restored dogs to trusting feral cats.

Big Island locals contribute by fostering pets and supporting affordable spay/neuter programs to reduce unwanted litters.

Adapting to environmental challenges like invasive species, Rainbow Friends embodies the aloha spirit, promoting compassion and a no-kill ethos across Hawaii.

Business Spotlight

In the heart of Kona, Hawaii, coffee and tea farms blend tradition with resilience amid ongoing challenges.

Perched on volcanic slopes, these family-owned estates produce world-class beans, inviting tours that showcase the full harvest process.

Visitors immerse in the aloha spirit, from picking cherries to savoring fresh roasts.

A veteran farm in Holualoa, with decades of expertise, crafts small-batch coffees emphasizing purity and flavor.

Order online for direct-from-farm delivery, capturing Kona's essence in every cup.

Recent hurdles include labor shortages from May enforcement actions, plus droughts and pest infestations dubbed "farmageddon."

Local leaders advocate for supportive policies to sustain the industry.

Excitement builds for the 54th Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November 2025, featuring tastings, farm tours, and cultural events from November 7-16.

Stop by Kailua-Kona cafes for signature blends, evoking island vibes.

Farm blogs share brewing secrets and historical tales, fostering community ties.

As Kona adapts, its coffee and tea heritage shines as a symbol of innovation and unity on the Big Island.

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