Island Breeze Luau
A wonderful luau experience with good food and lovely performances! Located within Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel.
This luau features the presentation of the Royal Court which we missed (oops) since we were running late coming from another adventure. However, the establishment did a wonderful job checking in with us and when we arrived, the check-in process was quick and smooth.
They guided us to our table with a fantastic view despite being the last to arrive which I found really thoughtful of them to consider our quality of experience despite missing some of it.
Despite missing the beginning performances, they certainly continued to capture the audience with their beautiful movements and attire.
I was so engrossed in their performance and music that when I realized I wanted to get more food towards the end of the performance, they already cleared the tables. So a tip would be to go back earlier for seconds to make the most of the buffet and get seconds on your favorite dishes! Even though we missed the beginning and I was bummed I couldn’t get more food in the end, I thought it was an organized and well-done luau with solid food.
Hilo Farmers Market
It is always fun to see fresh produce from the season displayed in front of you in such glory!
It has a rustic feel and is a great place to pick up a few fruits that look appetizing you want to try.
Tropical fruits in Hawaii are just so much better here than on the mainland.
I am always bummed I cannot bring it back with me on the plane at the end of our trips.
There is also a modest food court nearby which we didn’t try.
Other great Hawaiian items are sold at the farmer’s market.
Nearby, we found Ou’s Thai Food, which is a small food truck nearby that is excellent. We brought the food to enjoy at our next destination, which happens to be the Volcanic National Park to eat our items.
Ou’s Thai Food
Avocado spring rolls-fresh and refreshing! We wish we ordered more to try her other items!
Restaurant Experiences
Island Lava Java
After walking Ali’ii Drive looking at shops and taking in the scenery, having dinner at Island Lava Java is a fantastic way to the day.
It is a great place to relax, and enjoy a fulfilling meal while watching the sunset. I love the open-air seating areas and the live entertainment while we eat.
We were super stuffed by the end of the meal. They have large portions that is easily shareable too. We didn’t have enough room for dessert but check out their large selection and they definitely sound delicious too!
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
Umeke’s is a restaurant that was recommended by one of our tour guides. The restaurant is located in a plaza that has a cluster of other restaurants that looked appetizing as well.
It seems to be a popular restaurant so we put our name on the waitlist.
It is a large seafood restaurant that has a great indoor and outdoor area that hosts live singers while we dine.
It has a large menu with so many choices that it can be overwhelming to narrow down what we can order.
With some help from our very patient waiter, he recommended a combination plate to help try more.
This combo included the addition of the fresh catch of the day and it was the star dish! It was prepared extremely well and just so fresh.
That fresh catch of the day was well worth the splurge at the restaurant.
Food Too Good to be Missed
Suisan Fish Market
Personally, this is THE BEST poke I have ever had to date in Hawaii or on the mainland. If you love poke, DO NOT pass up this place! We almost did because we always see a line and with limited hours. I am so glad we didn’t! It doesn’t look like much from the exterior, but it is worth the wait and price.
Take it to the nearby park bench or picnic table and gobble up the freshest poke seasoned just right.
Their side options of ube or wakame salad are also done well.
Large portions and they don’t skimp on their scoops. I haven’t found poke that lives up to this place since.
Two Ladies Kitchen
If you love mochis, do not miss this place! Their fresh fruit and seasonal mochis are my favorites!
There was a line while we waited, so it was fun chatting with the locals. They mentioned whenever they are in the area, they also make sure to try to pick up some mochis before they head home.
However, it is hard to beat having delicious fruit from Hawaii wrapped in a sweet paste with a chewy fun outer layer. The fresh fruit-covered ones are definitely MUST gets.
It is a good idea to double-check before you go since their hours are limited and items do run out!
They have a Facebook website that you can also refer to for any updates.
Energizing Drinks and More
Kona Coffee and Tea
I enjoy dropping by for my morning coffee and breakfast items here!
They have many selections and can customize your drinks. I love that I can substitute macadamia nut milk or other alternatives for your coffee. Their coffee keeps me energized for my days of adventure driving and hiking!
Their chia seed cup with granolas and berries is delicious, hearty, and filling. There is an option you can add fresh papaya to it if you wish!
They have quality Kona coffee and some great merchandise to bring home.
Fresh Off The Grid
Located close to the amazing Pololu Valley and was such a fantastic stop after the Pololu Valley trail. It was such a nourishing reward after the hike.
They sell a variety of snacks, fruit, smoothies, juice, and ice cream to name a few things.
The drink I had was all-natural, refreshing, and not overly sweet.
My friend got papaya with coconut ice cream. WOW, did I wish I ordered a whole one for myself too. Just ripe and juicy papaya with the aromatic coconut ice cream to top it off.
There are picnic tables to enjoy the drinks while kids can also observe the animals that show up to your party.
We really enjoyed our spontaneous spot! So glad that we passed by it while visiting the Pololu Valley. With quenched thirsts, we felt more replenished to continue our journey.