Best Happy Hour Kona 2023

A tropical getaway would not be complete without the perfect food and cocktail in your hand.

My boyfriend and I were lucky to spend some time in Kona this year. And it was the perfect tropical vacation. We relished amazing hikes, snorkeling, and laying on the sandy beaches.

But the best part was the food and cocktails that we truly loved. A particular highlight was the happy hour venues, where we spent each afternoon before dinner.

Since we are huge foodies, we tried just about every happy hour option we could find. We found the perfect local restaurants offering great deals, breathtaking ocean views, and delicious cocktails.

We tried them all, so trust me, this is the best of the best.

Here are the best places to enjoy happy hour in Kona based on menu options, drink variety, price, location service, and overall atmosphere.

So bottoms up!

#1. Island Lava Java Bistro – The Best Local Happy Hour Experience with a View

I love this place because the venue is spacious, with plenty of seating inside and out, and has a beautiful beachside view. This beach house restaurant has a local vibe through the use of all local produce, 100% Kona coffee, and organic options. The Hawaiian spirit is the vibe here; they even bring in great local musicians.

Happy hour is every day from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, and a large food menu is available at 50% off. We ordered a few different things, and they were all good. My boyfriend loved the big island pizza because tasty toppings covered it, and the crust was done perfectly. It has chili sauce, so there is a delicious kick to it.

I enjoyed fresh catch fish and chips and a chicken taco. Both were extremely well prepared with fresh and tasty ingredient combinations. Also, each serving was generous and under $10. The flavors are classic American with a touch of Hawaiian twist.

We chose a nice bottle of wine that was 25% off for drinks. But there are drinks and cocktails at great deals as well. The service was helpful and friendly. They were swamped, but we did not mind because they had good organization.

It is my number one pick for happy hour because:

• I loved the food here. It was delicious, the portions were substantial, and the happy hour menu was extensive.
• They have terrific deals on drinks, including 25% off bottles of wine.
• The servers are friendly and helpful.
• The vibe is local and in the Hawaiian spirit.

Address: 75-5801 Ali’i Dr. Building 1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

#2. Magics Beach Grill – The Best Contemporary Beachfront Hawaiian Fusion

This place is almost tied for first place and offers a breathtaking sunset over the Kona Coast. The vibe is authentic Hawaiian, with exceptional food sourced from the locals.

We made a reservation for outside seating and loved it. Despite being busy, our server was attentive and helpful. The happy hour is from 2 to 6 pm, the longest we’ve seen. All the appetizers are $2 off and already exceptionally priced. We ordered almost everything, and they carefully made every dish. The presentation was beautiful.

I loved the Beachside Brussels with peanuts and a sweet chili glaze. The Garlic Shrimp Skillet with pineapple, Sriracha butter caramel, and rice was also filling and delicious.

They have several draft beers, wines, and cocktails for drinks. I recommend the dragon fruit margarita and the pineapple mai tai. Both are strong, flavorful, and overall delicious.

Check out happy hour at this beautiful location because:

The atmosphere is very relaxed, Hawaiian, and local:

• The terrace has a fantastic view of the beach regardless of what table you sit at.
• The food is filling and creative, and all the local produce and fish are fresh.
• Service is attentive and friendly.

Address: 77-6452 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

#3. Kona Brewing Company – Best Beer Lovers’ Happy Hour

This is a fun brewery to tour or visit for a happy hour. Since we already did the tour, we enjoyed the happy hour this time. The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly. The food is rich in flavor, and the beer is terrific right out of production.

The food and drink deals here are unbeatable. And happy hour is pleasant and long, from 3 pm to 6 pm each working day. But it’s a bright idea to extend your stay because they always have great live rock or reggae music.

This happy hour is a must-do if you love pizza like we do (the most delicious you will find on your trip)! We did the half and half option to try different flavors. They also have delicious roasted garlic (flat bread, whole garlic, and Gorgonzola cheese), sliders, wings, and poke.

We will revisit this place for lunch or dinner.

Here’s why I loved it and you will too:

• The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious.
• The food is filling, overloaded with high-quality ingredients, and well-priced.
• They have fantastic beer and tasting options for just about any beer drinker.
• They have great live music every evening, so relax and extend your stay.

Address: 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Conclusion

Kona bars and restaurants are known not just for Kona coffee and tropical produce but also for their fantastic happy hours. The big island happy hour scene thrives with variety, ensuring something for everyone.

At places like Island Lava Java Bistro or Magic’s Beach Grill, you’re guaranteed delicious authentic thai food and scenic views that embody the Hawaiian spirit.

For beer enthusiasts, Kona Brewing Company is a haven offering quality pizza, beer specials, and local rock tunes. Not only can you find cocktails in Kona, but venues like Don’s Mai Tai Bar, Oceans Sports Bar, and Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse offer a mix of fish tacos, a few drinks, and a great atmosphere. With waterfront bars like these, every hour feels like Kona happy hour. Don’t miss out on these top picks when in Kailua Kona, HI.

Last Updated on August 17, 2023 by Brigitte