The Kona Inn Shopping Village is more than just a shopping center. It’s a piece of Hawaiian history. Constructed in 1928, it was originally built as an inn meant to house the earliest waves of tourists to Kona. In its heyday, the 20-room inn was a vibrant tourist destination, known for plush accommodations and beautiful views. In the late 1970s, it stopped operating as a hotel, and by 1980 had become Kona Inn Shopping Village.
The resulting shopping area has a quaint, historical feel. Its wide boardwalks and calming ocean views create a relaxing environment in which to shop, eat, or take in the scenery. The stores here range from local artisan outfits to traditional souvenir shops, with a couple of surf shops and ukulele stores thrown in. Of late, there are some empty storefronts, but there is still enough open to make a trip worthwhile. If you are on the hunt for Hawaiian souvenirs to take home to friends and family, this is a good place to start. Stores here offer familiar souvenir options like Hawaiian shirts and dresses, leis, mugs, shot glasses, hats, t-shirts, and more.
The village also houses some quality dining options. If you’re here in the morning, be sure to visit Kona Coffee Café. In addition to a full menu of delicious, locally grown coffee options, the café also offers a complement of sweet treats. We highly recommend the macadamia nut pie. The best part? If you fall in love with the coffee (and there’s a good chance you will,) it’s also available to buy by the bag.
As for restaurants, check out the Kona Canoe Club or Kona Inn Restaurant. Both offer fresh, creative menus, cold drinks, and friendly service. But perhaps the best part of each? The views. Both restaurants are oceanside, offering unobstructed views of the water. The open-air setups provide a comfortable and relaxing environment to grab a drink or have a bite.
Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, this unique, historical shopping center is within walking distance of several area resorts, making it an easy and convenient destination. If you have a chance to visit, we’d love to know which shops and restaurants you most enjoyed!
Insider Tips:
-There is street parking, but it can be tricky to find a nearby spot. Alternatively, there is a paid lot adjacent to the shopping center, which charges an hourly rate to park.
-While there are several souvenir stalls and shops here, the prices aren’t always the most economical. If you’re looking for deals, you may want to consider comparing prices at other establishments before buying here.
-There is a large, oceanfront lawn next to the village, in front of the Kona Inn Restaurant. This is a picturesque spot to have a picnic, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean. Additionally, it’s a great spot to let kids run off some excess energy.