Kona coffee is a cherished symbol of Kailua-Kona, deeply rooted in local tradition and community pride.

 

On Holualoa’s fertile slopes of Mount Hualalai, dedicated farmers hand-pick cherries, sun-dry the beans, and roast small batches, capturing the area’s unique volcanic climate in every cup.

 

For more than 25 years, local families have perfected their 100 percent Kona coffee craft, passing down knowledge and stewardship through generations.

 

The bustling cafes in Kailua-Kona serve as welcoming hubs, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed beans and lively conversation, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage.

 

Authentic Kona coffee, shipped directly from these family farms, delivers an unmistakable taste of the Big Island.

 

As local growers unite to promote sustainability and face climate challenges, visitors are invited to savor and share in this enduring Hawaiian legacy.

The animal community center in Kailua-Kona is emerging as a beloved gathering spot for west-side residents and their pets.

 

Nestled in Holualoa amid sweeping ocean views and cool breezes, the center’s inviting grounds provide a tranquil respite from central Kona.

 

Spanning over a dozen acres, the campus features Scruffee’s Cat Barn, which offers rescued cats both indoor comfort and safe outdoor enclosures.

 

Just steps away, three Dog Dormitories ensure security and a homelike environment for adoptable pups.

 

Families stroll Adoption Square, fostering hope for each animal’s future.

 

The Hawaii Island Humane Society holds lively educational programs and youth camps teach responsible pet care, drawing local interest.

 

Vibrant scenes fill the property, from dog walks in Central Bark Park to heartwarming adoption celebrations.

 

Increasingly, the center hosts community events, welcoming newcomers Fridays through Tuesdays — proving animal rescue is a growing cornerstone of island life.

Each autumn, Kailua-Kona comes alive as the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival returns, filling the town with renewed energy and pride.

 

Locals and visitors gather to honor generations of coffee growers and artisans whose dedication has brought Kona coffee global acclaim.

 

For many families, it’s an emotional celebration of both heritage and the land that sustains their way of life.

 

Attendees enjoy fresh tastings from local farms, captivating aromas, and traditional music and dance that showcase true aloha.

 

This year, Kona Village Rosewood Resort stepped in as a key supporter, offering exclusive specialty brews and connections with local farmers.

 

The resort’s new leadership brings fresh ideas while honoring Kona’s rich past.

 

Excitement peaks during the outrigger canoe races, where the community rallies around fierce yet inspiring competition.

 

With vibrant markets and lively entertainment, the festival remains one of Hawaii’s most beloved traditions, reaffirming Kailua-Kona’s enduring spirit.

Kahaluu Bay in Kailua-Kona offers an inviting blend of vibrant marine life, calm waters, and easy accessibility, drawing snorkelers and surfers year-round.

 

Locals and visitors flock here to encounter green sea turtles and colorful fish gliding through the crystal-clear shallows, sheltered by a natural lava reef that keeps waters safe for beginners.

 

Convenient rentals and surf lessons sit just steps from the sand, with recent upgrades enhancing both access and amenities for families and solo adventurers alike.

 

Beyond the allure of stunning sunsets and picnic spots, the bay’s protected ecosystem is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, symbolized by the historic Kuemanu Heiau on the northern shore.

 

Visitors are encouraged to practice reef-safe habits and heed advice from lifeguards to preserve this unique environment.

 

At Kahaluu Beach Park, stewardship and adventure form a harmonious spirit, welcoming all who respect its natural and cultural treasures.

Kailua Village will unite residents and visitors for the much-anticipated 2026 Kona Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza, a celebration of local community, culture, and national pride.

 

This year’s festivities mark a historic occasion, as Kona joins the nation in commemorating the United States Semiquincentennial, honoring 250 years of unity and progress.

 

Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Kona Marathon, followed by the patriotic parade at 6:00 p.m., and culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Kailua Bay at 8:00 p.m.

 

The lively parade route stretches from Kekuaokalani Gym to Coconut Grove Marketplace, winding through the heart of the village.

 

This year’s Grand Marshals are the Greenwell family, recognized for their deep roots in Kona’s coffee heritage.

 

Attendees can also experience new highlights, such as the revitalized Kona Inn Restaurant and upcoming renovations at Kona Brewing Hawaiʻi’s historic pub.

 

The evening promises community, fireworks, and the enduring aloha spirit in Kailua-Kona.

The 2026 Kona Independence Day Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza is set to light up Historic Kailua Village, uniting locals and visitors in celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary.

 

This milestone year, honoring the United States Semiquincentennial, brings added excitement under the theme “America The Beautiful.”

 

Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Kona Marathon, followed by the parade at 6:00 p.m., starting near Kekuaokalani Gym and winding through Aliʻi Drive.

 

At 8:00 p.m., a spectacular fireworks show will dazzle above Kailua Bay.

 

Tom Greenwell and his ‘ohana, respected for their coffee legacy since the 1870s, will serve as Grand Marshals.

 

The celebration also highlights new developments: Kona Quantum Vitality wellness center, the return of Tante’s Local Grindz, and the revival of the iconic Kona Inn Restaurant.

 

This cherished tradition promises a vibrant showcase of Kona's culture, history, and aloha spirit.

Delving into a Kona coffee farm in Kailua-Kona immerses visitors in Hawaii’s celebrated coffee scene.

 

Many farms gladly provide complimentary tours, while a few feature upgraded options like private ATV adventures for added excitement.

 

Most coffee farms cluster along Highway 11, from Kailua-Kona to Captain Cook, generally within a short, scenic drive of one another.

 

It’s easy to explore several farms in a single morning trip.

 

Early visits are ideal, as afternoon clouds and showers frequently roll in on mountain breezes.

 

Tours typically run 30 to 60 minutes and often wrap up with a complimentary coffee tasting.

 

Guests witness every step, from bean to cup—learning about cultivation, harvesting, and roasting.

 

Special highlights include free daily tours at Greenwell Farms, organic farming demonstrations at Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, and exclusive ATV rides at Buddha’s Cup.

 

Visiting during the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival adds extra festivities and flavor for coffee lovers and explorers alike.

The Island Restaurant Group is bringing new life to Kailua-Kona's dining scene by acquiring and revitalizing two beloved landmarks: the Kona Inn Restaurant and Kona Canoe Club.

 

In April 2026, the group—which also operates Jackie Rey’s, Harbor House, and Umekes—purchased these iconic eateries with a vision to blend historic charm and modern upgrades.

 

The Kona Inn Restaurant unveiled its renovated dining space and refreshed menu at a lively reopening on June 18, drawing an enthusiastic crowd.

 

General manager Leila Kanuha shared how each day brings new excitement and growth under the refreshed leadership.

 

Meanwhile, plans are unfolding to rebrand the oceanfront Kona Canoe Club, preserving its ties to local canoeing traditions.

 

Executive Chairman Nakoa Pabre emphasized investing in both community and staff, promising improved service, menus, and job quality as these institutions enter their next chapter.

Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response (HMAR) stands as the largest marine animal rescue nonprofit in the state, leading vital conservation efforts since its founding in 2016.

 

With a focus on endangered species such as the Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and seabirds, HMAR operates primarily on Oʻahu and Molokaʻi while extending its impact to regions like Kailua-Kona.

 

In 2024, HMAR opened Oʻahu’s first full-time emergency care and rehabilitation center for sea turtles, marking a milestone for local marine wildlife protection.

 

The group’s hands-on field response, rescues, and education initiatives remain critical to safeguarding native species.

 

The Marine Mammal Center’s Ke Kai Ola in Kailua-Kona is another essential resource, specializing in Hawaiian monk seal rehabilitation.

 

Ke Kai Ola has treated seals suffering from malnutrition and fishing gear injuries, including a rescued pup, R8HA, and three endangered pups brought in for urgent care in 2024.

 

Together, these organizations ensure Hawaiʻi’s marine life receives expert protection and hope for recovery.

The rhythmic pulse of taiko drums fills the Kailua-Kona air as neighbors gather in a circle, moving together to mark the cherished Obon festival.

 

Obon—rooted in Buddhist tradition—is a special time for honoring and giving thanks to ancestors.

 

The main event, the bon dance, invites the community to join in graceful, repetitive movements, welcoming the spirits of loved ones who have passed.

 

Throughout summer, Kailua-Kona temples host these lively Saturday gatherings, welcoming everyone, regardless of background.

 

Festivities brim with local favorites, from teriyaki beef sticks to sweet Okinawan doughnuts, creating a warm, celebratory mood.

 

These events are vital for supporting temple programs and maintaining cherished facilities.

 

With new generations stepping forward, community participation is essential to keep this rich tradition thriving for years to come.

 

The next bon dance at Windward Buddhist Temple in Kailua, on July 12, 2025, promises a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Nestled on Hawai‘i’s Big Island, the Kona District bursts with historic charm and cultural flavor.

 

The celebrated Kona Coffee Cultural Festival returns for its 55th year, running November 6 to 15, 2026. This ten-day gathering honors Kona’s legendary coffee through lively farm tours, tastings, hands-on demonstrations, and colorful entertainment that attract visitors worldwide.

 

Nearby, Holualoa village thrives as an arts hotspot—its dozen-plus galleries and shops spotlight local talent. Studio 7 Fine Arts and Glyph Art Gallery feature acclaimed artists such as Dorothy Remington and celebrate diverse mediums.

 

Monthly cultural gatherings fill Holualoa with music, food, and creative energy, uniting residents and guests.

 

The festive Music & Light Festival each December welcomes the holidays with live performances and dazzling lights, creating a joyous atmosphere.

 

The Holualoa Village Ohana community group ensures these traditions flourish, keeping the area vibrant and inviting for all.

Kailua-Kona's climbing scene is flourishing, inviting everyone from beginners to veterans to enjoy top-notch indoor bouldering and climbing activities.

 

Kona Cliffs stands out as the area’s pioneering rock climbing gym, offering over 2,500 square feet of climbing space at 74-5617 Pawai Place Bay H.

 

The gym features bouldering walls, lead climbing, top roping, and auto belay systems, providing versatile challenges for all abilities.

 

Open daily, their commitment to community shines through youth programs designed to build confidence, fitness, and problem-solving skills in a friendly setting.

 

On the other side of the island, Volcanic Rock Gym at 161 Hamakua Drive in Kailua offers bouldering, Kilter Boards, and a Moon Board, focusing on fun and fitness for all ages.

 

Both gyms prioritize safety and inclusion, making climbing accessible for families and newcomers alike.

 

Contact the facilities for updated programs and start your adventure today.

Chicken Nugget, a lively three-legged dog, brightens daily life in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, with his unstoppable spirit.

 

Missing a limb hasn’t slowed him down—his energy and zest for adventure make him a favorite at local beaches.

 

He loves dashing across the sands of the well-loved Dog Beach near Honokohau Harbor, a hotspot where dogs run free and splash in the shallow, fish-filled bay.

 

Visitors are often delighted by the sight of Chicken Nugget soaking up the sun, showing just how vibrant a tripod dog can be.

 

Just south lies Alula Beach, or Kona Dog Beach—a hidden, pet-friendly haven offering calm waters and shady spots for both dogs and their humans.

 

Chicken Nugget’s island adventures include scenic car rides and outings with his beloved stuffed toys, illustrating the resilience and joy three-legged dogs can bring.

 

His journey inspires anyone considering adopting a special pet with boundless love to share.

Every Saturday morning, the Keauhou Farmers Market energizes the Keauhou Shopping Center parking lot with a burst of local flavor and community pride.

 

From 8 AM to noon, visitors and residents mingle among stalls featuring 100% Big Island-grown fruits, vegetables, and artisan goods.

 

Enjoy the colors of fresh papayas, avocados, and bananas, sample golden honey, and admire vibrant island flower bouquets.

 

Coffee lovers can savor world-famous Kona coffee, chatting with the farmers who nurture every bean.

 

Handmade breads, jams, macadamia nuts, and locally sourced meats tempt every palate, each product reflecting the dedication of passionate island producers.

 

Live music fills the air, turning the market into a festive showcase of community and culture.

 

Organized by the Kona County Farm Bureau, the market highlights the value of supporting local agriculture.

 

Arrive early for the best selection and bring cash for a true taste of Hawaii’s bounty.

Honaunau Bay, famously called Two Step Beach, stands out as a top snorkeling spot on Hawaii's Big Island.

 

Just south of Kailua-Kona, its clear waters and abundant marine life attract both snorkelers and divers eager for a memorable experience.

 

The bay's iconic lava rock "Two Step" entry makes ocean access easy, revealing tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and occasional Hawaiian green sea turtles.

 

Mornings offer ideal underwater visibility, but afternoons sometimes see more clouds and lower clarity.

 

Next door, the Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park invites visitors to explore its deep cultural roots; however, swimming within park boundaries is not allowed to protect its sanctity.

 

Tragically, a Florida woman lost her life here in May 2026, reinforcing the importance of ocean safety and limiting the area to confident swimmers.

 

Recent rises in sea urchin numbers also urge caution, as both reefs and snorkelers may be at risk.

 

By respecting local guidelines and the changing environment, visitors can safely enjoy Honaunau Bay’s unique natural beauty and historic spirit.

Kailua-Kona residents seeking to upgrade their vehicles have several trusted choices for window tinting and paint protection services.

 

C-Thru Window Tinting, a local favorite since 1986, offers expert automobile, marine, and residential tinting as a certified 3M™ Window Films dealer. Clients benefit from improved heat control, increased privacy, and advanced UV protection. Their high standards have earned prestigious local awards.

 

For more than 15 years, WOW! Windows Tinting has provided professional tinting for cars and businesses, focusing on energy savings and comfort. As the region’s Solar Gard dealer, they prioritize customer satisfaction with free estimates.

 

Kaloko Tinting specializes in full vehicle protection, offering window films, paint protection, and ceramic coatings with certified, detail-oriented technicians.

 

Meanwhile, Tint Master Lacy brings over 30 years’ experience and meticulous installation with performance warranty films.

 

With these skilled providers, Kailua-Kona drivers can enhance both the look and longevity of their vehicles.

Visiting Kailua-Kona invites travelers to experience the heart of Hawaiian culture and its stunning landscapes.

 

Participate in local traditions by joining community events, exploring historical sites, and supporting native artisans for a true sense of the island’s heritage.

 

Recent community initiatives, like the Kani Leʻa apartment project, are addressing affordable housing and homelessness, ensuring residents benefit as tourism grows.

 

The town’s dining scene is evolving, with five celebrated restaurants uniting to highlight authentic Hawaiian cuisine while preserving their unique identities.

 

Keep informed about ongoing developments, such as major sewer upgrades scheduled through October 2026, and adjust travel plans as needed to avoid disruptions.

 

Show environmental respect by using reef-safe sunscreen, staying on marked trails, and joining beach cleanups.

 

Choose tours and workshops led by locals for deeper connections and genuine cultural experiences that strengthen the spirit of Kailua-Kona.

Kailua-Kona will come alive on Saturday, June 6, 2026, as the 154th annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade pays tribute to Kamehameha the Great.

 

The parade sets off at 9:00 a.m. from Kuakini Highway at Palani Road, making its way to Kailua Pier and continuing along Aliʻi Drive to the Royal Kona Resort.

 

Spectators can look forward to the stunning pāʻū riders—equestrians representing all eight Hawaiian Islands—each festooned in vibrant, island-specific attire and lei.

 

Traditional hula hālau and lively community floats will fill the procession with energy and pride.

 

After the parade, Huliheʻe Palace will host the beloved Hoʻolauleʻa festival, featuring live Hawaiian music, art, and dance from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Early arrival is encouraged, as large crowds are expected to celebrate and honor Hawaiʻi’s rich cultural heritage.

Holualoa’s First Friday Art Walk lights up the village each month, inviting locals and visitors to experience art, music, and flavors unique to Kona.

 

From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., streets fill with the vibrant energy of live performances and the aroma of island-inspired street food.

 

Art lovers can stroll through Holualoa’s diverse galleries, each one highlighting creative works by talented local artists.

 

Beautiful paintings, ceramics, and mixed media reflect the area’s rich cultural roots, making every visit feel fresh and inspiring.

 

Live music weaves through the event, creating an inviting, festive atmosphere.

 

Gourmet food vendors serve local favorites, perfect for enjoying as you browse and mingle in the heart of Kona coffee country.

 

Don’t miss this lively evening—a true celebration of Kona’s art scene and creative spirit.

Kona Biscuit Company is quickly making waves in Waikoloa, offering a fresh and flavorful take on breakfast and brunch classics.

 

Opened in February 2026, this cozy spot delights with buttery, scratch-made biscuits infused with bold Hawaiian flair.

 

Diners savor specialties like the loco-moco biscuit or build their own creations, featuring ingredients such as Hamakua mushrooms, island-fresh eggs, and sweet Maui onions.

 

Sweets lovers will adore the unique ube treats, while every dish highlights the finest locally sourced produce, served alongside tropical juices and rich Kona coffee.

 

Brunch fans enjoy choices like lilikoi and guava mimosas or loaded Bloody Marys in an atmosphere buzzing with aloha spirit.

 

Open daily from 7 AM to 2 PM, and transforming into “The Roost” for intimate island dinners Thursday through Saturday, Kona Biscuit Company delivers a truly memorable culinary adventure in the heart of Waikoloa.

Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, are beginning their ancient nesting season, returning to the coasts of Kailua-Kona and beyond just as their ancestors have for millions of years.

 

Recent years have seen a rise in nesting activity on Hawaii’s main islands, offering residents and visitors a rare look at these majestic creatures.

 

From May through August, female honu discreetly come ashore at night to lay eggs, each nest holding up to 100 eggs that incubate beneath the sand.

 

Hatchlings, emerging from August to October, brave a challenging dash toward the ocean, guided only by the natural horizon.

 

Respecting these nesting sites—by keeping at least 20 feet away and avoiding artificial lights—helps ensure the survival of future generations.

 

The recent International Sea Turtle Symposium in Kailua-Kona highlighted ongoing conservation efforts, reinforcing the importance of community stewardship in protecting Hawaii’s honu.

 

Witnessing these turtles is a powerful reminder of our connection to nature—and our vital role in their future.

The Big Island Jazz and Blues Festival returns to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel from May 14–17, 2026, celebrating its 13th year on the Kohala Coast.

 

Fans can look forward to unforgettable performances by Grammy Award-winning musicians and legendary jazz icons in the breathtaking setting of Kaunaʻoa Bay.

 

The festival’s main concert is set for Saturday, May 16, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with early entry starting at 4:30 PM.

 

Additional highlights include a festive Jazz Teaser Show on May 15 at the hotel’s Copper Bar and a lively Jazz Breakfast on May 17.

 

Guests will also enjoy the newly renovated Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, featuring luxurious updated rooms, a stunning oceanfront wellness space, and sophisticated new dining options.

 

Festival tickets will be available soon.

Kealakekua Bay, nestled on Hawai‘i Island’s Kona coast, is renowned for its pristine, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

 

This protected marine sanctuary teems with tropical fish like yellow tang and parrotfish, and even the occasional green sea turtle, making it a paradise for snorkelers of all skill levels.

 

Visibility often tops 100 feet, revealing intricate coral gardens and an abundance of sea life.

 

The iconic white Captain Cook Monument stands at the bay’s edge, commemorating the British explorer’s final landing in 1779 and marking one of the richest snorkeling spots.

 

Visitors reach Kealakekua Bay via guided boat tours, kayaking, or a challenging hike down the Ka‘awaloa Trail, each revealing stunning views and unique perspectives.

 

Ongoing efforts, such as the collaborative Kanu Ko‘a project launched in 2024, blend traditional Hawaiian wisdom with science to restore the bay’s reefs, preserving its beauty and cultural legacy for future generations.

 

Safety and reef stewardship remain top priorities for an unforgettable, responsible snorkeling adventure at Kealakekua Bay.

Nestled on the scenic shores of Kahuwai Bay, Kona Village Resort blends exquisite luxury with deep-rooted Hawaiian culture.

 

Spanning 81 acres, the resort features 150 thatched-roof hale bungalows interwoven by coral pathways and tropical gardens.

 

The layout and ambiance honor the site’s historic fishing village, creating a relaxed, immersive island experience.

 

At its heart, Moana—the signature restaurant—specializes in local seafood like miso-glazed kampachi, charred 'ahi, and Kona lobster.

 

Panoramic views of the bay and a vibrant Talk Story Bar set the stage for unforgettable sunsets and laid-back evenings beneath the palms.

 

Sustainability is a priority, with solar power and LEED Gold certifications underscoring its eco-friendly mission.

 

Guests enjoy beach bikes, cultural activities, and tranquil pools, all enveloped in the beauty and tradition of Kailua-Kona.

Adopting a dog in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is a heartwarming way to welcome a new family member while supporting local animal welfare.

 

The Hawaii Island Humane Society (HIHS) provides a variety of vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and microchipped dogs eagerly hoping for loving homes.

 

Dogs over six months are tested for heartworm, and the Foster-to-Adopt option lets you make sure the match is right before finalizing.

 

Simply browse the HIHS website to view available dogs and learn about them, then submit an adoption application online.

 

Adoption fees support animal care—$80 for dogs, $65 for cats, and $20 for smaller pets or birds.

 

By adopting or sponsoring a pet through HIHS, you help care for thousands of animals each year and give a deserving pet a fresh start.

Kailua-Kona bursts with vibrant farmers markets and artisan fairs, each highlighting the local bounty and artistic spirit of Hawaii’s Big Island.

 

The Kona Village Farmers Market, located downtown, offers a colorful mix of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and floral displays every Wednesday through Sunday.

 

Saturdays bring the Keauhou Farmers Market to life at Keauhou Shopping Center, where shoppers find organic fruits, island meats, flowers, coffee, and macadamia nuts, all enhanced by live music and a festive energy.

 

The Kona Commons Artisan Market pops up every second Saturday, bringing local art, jewelry, glasswork, accessories, and specialty foods to eager visitors seeking one-of-a-kind treasures.

 

Wednesdays’ Ho’oulu Farmers Market & Artisans Fair focuses on Big Island-made products, from estate coffees to jams, jellies, and crafts, supporting the island’s creative economy.

 

These lively gatherings offer more than fresh food—they create community, celebrate culture, and invite all to experience authentic Kailua-Kona.

Swimming alongside manta rays on a night snorkel off Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, delivers a breathtaking encounter with these gentle marine giants.

 

After sunset, guests receive a safety briefing before venturing into the moonlit Pacific, anticipation mixing with the thrill of an after-dark adventure.

 

In the water, snorkelers clutch a lighted float board that beckons plankton—and soon, massive manta rays, with wingspans reaching 16 feet, gracefully swoop in to feed.

 

Though impressive, reef manta rays are harmless filter feeders, offering an awe-inspiring but safe spectacle just inches away.

 

Guidelines help preserve this magical experience, urging snorkelers to float calmly, avoid touching the rays, and respect the mantas’ natural rhythm.

 

With multiple Kona tour operators available, guests can choose experiences tailored to comfort and intimacy, making each encounter truly memorable.

 

Marveling at manta rays in Kona is a life-changing adventure, sure to leave visitors inspired and connected to the ocean.

The Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center invites local entrepreneurs to a free workshop on April 29, 2026, from 8:30 to 10:15 a.m. at Hale Iʻako, located on the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiʻi Authority campus in Kailua-Kona.

 

This interactive event highlights small business financing options and business support programs essential for growth.

 

Attendees will explore SBA loan opportunities—including the popular 504 property loan and the versatile 7a general-purpose loan.

 

The workshop will also discuss export trade support, funding grants, and Hawaiʻi’s Green Infrastructure loan programs, offering valuable resources for expanding or green businesses.

 

Guidance will be provided by experts from the Small Business Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and regional agencies.

 

Due to limited space, early registration is advised to ensure participation in this popular local business event.

The Hawaiian monk seal, an endangered species unique to the islands, is now in its peak pupping season, running from March through August.

 

Female seals come ashore to give birth and nurse pups, dedicating weeks to their care on local beaches like those near Kailua-Kona.

 

During this vital time, seals are especially protective.

 

Residents and visitors are urged to keep their distance — at least 150 feet from mothers with pups, or 50 feet from any seal — and keep dogs leashed and far from seals.

 

Following posted signs and avoiding close encounters helps prevent disturbances that could separate moms from pups.

 

The monk seal is legally protected, and harassment can result in steep penalties.

 

Reporting sightings to the NOAA hotline aids conservation and future survival of these treasured marine mammals.

Chocolate lovers in Kailua-Kona can look forward to an unforgettable celebration as the Big Island Chocolate Festival returns from April 23-25, 2026, at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

 

Highlights include a free Chocolate Farmers Market on April 24, where local cacao growers and chocolatiers share their artisanal creations.

 

Guests can meet acclaimed chocolate chefs during live demonstrations, discovering both classic and modern chocolate techniques up close.

 

The festival also features a student competition, with emerging talents presenting inventive chocolate treats judged by distinguished chefs.

 

For a hands-on culinary adventure, Chefs & Table in Kailua-Kona offers immersive cooking classes and pop-up dinners focused on chocolate-inspired dishes at 73-4976 Kamanu St #105.

 

These festive gatherings unite chocolate fans and food professionals alike, ensuring a delicious community experience.