Perfect first sunset dinner and drinks…where in Kailua-Kona?

Question

Where is your favorite oceanfront restaurant to commemorate your arrival at sunset? Looking for something with festive feeling and great food! Anywhere in the Kailua -Kona area. I have a booking at Magic Sands restaurant so far…..

Answer

Commemorating your arrival in Kailua-Kona with a sunset dinner and drinks is a fantastic way to start your Hawaiian adventure! While Magic Sands Restaurant is a great option, there are several other fantastic oceanfront dining spots that offer beautiful sunset views and a festive atmosphere. Here are some top recommendations in the Kailua-Kona area:

1. Huggo’s on the Rocks

Huggo’s on the Rocks is one of the best oceanfront spots in Kailua-Kona for a relaxed, festive atmosphere with great food and drinks. The restaurant is right on the water, offering amazing views of the sunset. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying the view while sipping a tropical cocktail or trying their fresh seafood dishes.

Great for: Casual dining with a lively, beachy vibe
Menu Highlights: Fresh seafood, poke, and tropical cocktails
Sunset Views: Direct view of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean

2. Kona Brewing Company

For a more casual and fun atmosphere, Kona Brewing Company offers an oceanfront location and great food and drinks. While it’s not as upscale as some other options, it has a festive and lively atmosphere with an extensive beer selection and pub-style menu. It’s also a great spot for enjoying Kona’s famous sunset.

Great for: Relaxed dinner with craft beer and pub food
Menu Highlights: Local craft beers, pizza, and sandwiches
Sunset Views: Outdoor seating with sunset views

3. The Kona Inn Restaurant

The Kona Inn Restaurant is a classic Kailua-Kona spot with beautiful ocean views and a more traditional dining experience. It’s located right by the water, offering stunning sunset vistas while you enjoy Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. It has a more refined feel compared to other spots, making it perfect for a special occasion like a first sunset dinner.

Great for: A more formal, romantic dinner with ocean views
Menu Highlights: Fresh fish, steaks, and Hawaiian specialties
Sunset Views: Perfect spot for watching the sunset

4. Lava Lava Beach Club

For a lively and festive atmosphere, Lava Lava Beach Club is a fun spot with toes-in-the-sand dining and great oceanfront views. It’s a popular choice for sunset cocktails and enjoying a meal with a relaxed, beachy vibe. The restaurant is known for its fun atmosphere and laid-back, Hawaiian style.

Great for: A fun, casual sunset dinner with live music
Menu Highlights: Island-inspired dishes, cocktails, and local fish
Sunset Views: Dining right on the beach, perfect for sunset watching

5. Keauhou Bay

If you want a quieter, more intimate dining experience, you could head to one of the restaurants near Keauhou Bay. While it’s not in the heart of Kailua-Kona, the bay offers more peaceful sunset views and several solid dining options like the Bayview at the Outrigger Resort, which has an intimate setting and beautiful views of the sunset over the water.

Great for: A more peaceful, intimate sunset experience
Menu Highlights: Fresh seafood, local meats, and salads
Sunset Views: Gorgeous sunset views over Keauhou Bay

Conclusion:

All of these options offer beautiful sunset views and a variety of atmospheres to suit different tastes. If you’re looking for something festive with a relaxed vibe, Huggo’s on the Rocks and Lava Lava Beach Club are both excellent choices. For a more refined and romantic sunset experience, The Kona Inn Restaurant provides a classic setting with traditional Hawaiian cuisine. If you’re already booked at Magic Sands Restaurant, it’s a good spot for a sunset view, but I’d recommend trying Huggo’s or Lava Lava for a more lively, beachy experience.

Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful sunset meal to kick off your Hawaiian vacation in style!