Ultimate Kona Happy Hour Guide
Top 16 Happy Hours in Kona, Hawaii
Exploring the Big Island of Hawaii offers more than stunning beaches, majestic volcanoes, lush rainforests, and epic ocean encounters. After a day of adventures, there’s no better way to unwind than with a refreshing tropical drink and some tasty pupus (appetizers). Here are ten of the best happy hours on the Big Island, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy great deals and a chance to recap their day.
Map of the Best Happy Hours
Click the map to see a list of the best Happy hours on the Big Island’s Western Side
In This Guide
The Best Happy Hours in Kona
The Big Island’s Western Coast has some nice spots to hang out and chillaxe with Mai Tai. This guide covers the best happy hour spots in Kona town. Check out this guide to see the best happy hour spots in Wakoloa & Kawaihae.
Kona’s Best Happy Hours
- Aloha Vibes 2-5PM
- Sunset Kai Lani 3-5PM
- Huggo’s On The Rocks 3-5PM
- Puna Chocolate Company
- Kona Brewing Company 3-6PM Weekdays
- Holualoa Cafe 3-5PM
- Don’s Mai Tai bar 4-6PM
- Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse 3-6PM
- Fosters Kitchen 2-5PM
- Kai Eats 3-5PM
- Huggo’s Hbar 4-5PM
- Da Shark Shack 3:30-4:30 & 10:30-11:30PM
- Umeke’s 3-5PM
- Jackie Rey’s 3-5PM
- Oceans Sports Bar ALL DAY
- Shimaichi Sushi 4-5PM
Interested in other Kona Restaurant Ideas?
1. Aloha Vibes
When: 2-5 pm Daily
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Nice bar, more intimate setting, good drinks, view of the ocean
This location has one of the best views of all of the Kona happy hour spots. Perched atop a steep hill above south Kona’s Keahou Bay, this restaurant has a large bar and spacious atmosphere.
2. Sunset Kai Lani
When: 3-5 pm Daily
Where: Keahou Shopping Center
Why we like it: Killer view, inexpensive drinks, nice atmosphere
This location has one of the best views of all of the Kona happy hour spots. Perched atop a steep hill above south Kona’s Keahou Bay, this restaurant has a large bar and spacious atmosphere.
3. Huggo’s on the Rocks
When: 3-5 pm
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Great view next to the water, live music, sit in sand
Happy Hour Menu, Live Music Calendar
Located in Kailua-Kona, Huggo’s on the Rocks offers a beachfront happy hour Kona spot with unbeatable sunset views. From 3:00 to 5:00 PM daily, you can enjoy discounted tropical cocktails, local beers for $5, $7 mai tais, and delicious pupus (appetizers for $7). If you choose to stick around for another round there’s live music every night from 5:30-9:00.
4. Puna Chocolate Company
When: 3-6PM Weekdays Only
Where: Kona Town
Why we like it: Fun shopping & drinking, Inexpensive food, Nice atmosphere
Why we Don’t: No restroom!
One of our favorite unique Kona happy hour spots. Located next to Kona Brewing Company this posh bar in a retail shop has nice chocolate and other items. The downstairs booths are cozy and the upstairs balcony has ample seating with a nice atmosphere. The food is extremely reasonable and tasty too!
5. Kona Brewing Co.
When: 3-6 Weekdays Only
Where: Kona Town
Why we like it: Good fresh local beer selection, garden atmosphere
This iconic brewery in Kailua-Kona is a must-visit. Their happy hour runs from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Enjoy $2 off draft beers, including their famous Longboard Island Lager and Big Wave Golden Ale, $4.95 house wine, well liquor + soda alongside tasty pub fare for $3.95 like the yummy pepperoni rolls and Kalua pork tacos.
6. Holualoa Cafe
When: 3-5 pm Daily
Where: Holualoa
Why We like it: Gorgeous atmosphere, cooler climate, laid back atmosphere
Find yourself looking for a break from the summer sun? Holualoa is located high above Kona. With it’s cooler climate it feels like another part of the island. The cafe has beautiful grounds with flowers plants and verandas. I nice retreat from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Kona.
7. Don’s Mai Tai Bar
When: 4-6 pm
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Massive open shaded area, right on the water
Perched on the oceanfront at the Royal Kona Resort, Don’s Mai Tai Bar offers happy hour from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Sip on expertly crafted mai tais and other cocktails while savoring appetizers like coconut shrimp and ahi poke. The stunning views of Kailua Bay are a perfect backdrop for a happy hour in Kona. Live music is available Thursdays from 5-7 pm.
8. Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
When: 3-6 pm Weekdays Only
Where : Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Outdoor seating area downtown in the action, solid beer selection
Humpy’s in Kailua-Kona boasts an extensive beer selection and a vibrant atmosphere. Featuring a large selection of discounted local and international brews and appetizers. Their patio seating overlooks the ocean. One of the better Kona happy hour spots for beer drinkers.
9. Foster’s Kitchen
When: 2-5 pm 7 days a week
Where: Downtown Kona & Waikoloa
Why we like it: Solid drinks, good happy hour deals, opens early
With locations in Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa, Foster’s Kitchen offers a “scratch kitchen” experience known as slow food and use locally grown produce – it’s worth the extra time! Happy hour is from 2:00 to 5:00 PM every day, offering deals on craft cocktails and select appetizers, and then again from 9:00 – 10:00 PM. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients make every dish a delight. Foster’s also hosts live music from local musicians.
10. Kai Eats
When: 3-5 pm Daily
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: over 40 beers, seltzers, wine & ciders on tap, Ocean view, Dog Friendly
Taplist, Mixed Drinks, Wine List
Located next to the ocean the bar has so many taps there’s something for everyone. $2 off taps and mai tais. Casual clean atmosphere and good service make for a great happy hour Kona spot to chillaxe. Park in the garage and validate inside. This is a great spot for beer and wine drinkers and their dogs! The ample shade and location next to the ocean make for an excellen Kona Happy hour option.
11. Huggo’s Restaurant – HBar
When: 4-5 Daily
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Swanky ambience, next to the sea. Good for groups.
Cocktail Menu, Wine & Beer menu, Live music calendar
Sister to Huggo’s on the Rocks, Huggo’s offers an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Liquid Happy Hour is from 4:00 to 6:00 PM with discounted craft cocktails. The oceanfront setting provides an idyllic view as the sun sets over the Pacific. Should you choose to stick around for another round there’s live music nightly from 6:00-9:00.
12.Da Shark Shack
When: 3:30-4:30PM & 10:30-11:30PM daily
Where: Kona Town & Kona Airport
Why we like it: Craft Cocktails, Excellent Poke/Nachos, Air Conditioned
Umekes in Kailua-Kona is known for its fresh poke bowls and seafood dishes. Their happy hour from 3:00 to 5:00 PM offers $9 mai tai, $6 beers, $8 wines $5 well drinks. It also includes small pupus (appetizers) from popular dishes off the menu like their awesome poke nachos. Pair your drinks with their famous poke for a true taste of Hawaii. The poke nachos are the best in town!
13. Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
When: 3-5pm daily
Where: Kona Town & Kona Airport
Why we like it: Craft Cocktails, Excellent Poke/Nachos, Air Conditioned
Umekes in Kailua-Kona is known for its fresh poke bowls and seafood dishes. Their happy hour from 3:00 to 5:00 PM offers $9 mai tai, $6 beers, $8 wines $5 well drinks. It also includes small pupus (appetizers) from popular dishes off the menu like their awesome poke nachos. Pair your drinks with their famous poke for a true taste of Hawaii. The poke nachos are the best in town!
14. Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill
When: 3-5 pm
Where: Kona Town
Why we like it: Beautiful Bar
With locations in Kailua-Kona and Hilo, Jackie Rey’s offers a warm, family-friendly indoor but open air atmosphere. Happy hour runs from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers. The Rosemary bread….mmmm, carbs.
15. Ocean’s Sports Bar
When: All Day
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Classic bar gets it done, sports/pool, Taco Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday
A local favorite to watch sports. It opens at 3:00PM unless it’s football season and then doors open at 7:00 AM. All-day happy hour Kona specials include $6 Mai Tai’s and $5 PBR’s daily, and $14.95 fish & chips on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sundays. Don’t miss the taco and Mexican drink specials on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday!
16. Shimaichi Sushi
When: 4-5 pm Daily
Where: Downtown Kona
Why we like it: Best sushi in Kona
A local’s favorite for affordable sushi! Happy Hour is from 4:00 – 5:00 PM with $1 off all bottled beers, house wine, and house sake. $2 off Chicken Karaage AND $2 off their delicious Green Bean Crunchies!!
Each of these happy hours brings its own unique flavor to the Big Island, combining great deals, delicious food, and unbeatable views. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots should be on your list. Cheers to discovering the best happy hours on the Big Island!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at night in Kona?
While stargazing at the top of Mauna Kea and viewing the lava are both popular experiences, the top most exclusive experience available only in Kona is the Manta Ray Night Snorkel & Dive.
What is happy hour called in Hawaii?
Locals say ‘Pau Hana’ which literally translates to work done. This is the time when people get oof of work and relax or hang out and have a beer or three.
Which Kona happy hours are best for sunset viewing?
- Huggo’s On The Rocks
- Don’s Mai Tai bar
- Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
- Fosters Kitchen
- Huggo’s Hbar
- Sunset Kai Lani
Which Kona happy hour spots offer live music?
When does the sun set today in Kona?
Source: Time is
How do you spend an afternoon in Kona?
What is the most refreshing drink in hot weather?
Living in hot humid weather means having a tasty refreshing beverage choice is all the more important. We love gin & tonics because the tonic water, while sweet, provides a dry fresh taste and the lime gives a refreshing acidity to cut the sweetness. Don’t like gin?
What do locals like to drink in Hawaii?
Beer is a commonly consumed beverage. Steinlager is a popular choice as well as Heineken. Mai Tai’s are a popular cocktail found in most bars throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
What is in a Mai Tai?
The original Mai Tai comes from Trader Vic’s in Los Angeles but was widely adopted in Hawaii as a cocktail of choice. It typically includes rum, tropical fruit juice (pineapple, orange juice, guava, passion fruit), an acid like lime, and a bitter and or cordial.