There’s no shortage of tasty, refreshing beverages on the Big Island. Even though we’re renowned for our mai tais, Hawaii is home to several breweries.
If craft beer is your tipple, check out my spotlight on Kona Brewing Company.
This Is How We Brew It
Founded by a father and son team, Kona Brewing Company has been crafting island-side sips since 1994. The dream began in Kailua-Kona and continues here with nearly three decades in the craft beer business.
Even as they’ve experienced global success, the team at Kona Brewing Company remains committed to sustainability and community outreach.
What makes Kona Brewing Company so special? Its commitment to Hawaii’s Aloha spirit. Their self-described “liquid aloha” reflects an island lifestyle that celebrates connection, joy, and relaxed vibes.
The aloha way of life is why I love living on the Big Island. Things can get pretty stressful on the Mainland. But Hawaiian locals love to keep it easy and breezy.
Top Sips
Budding beer connoisseurs should follow Kona Brewing Co. on Untapped. The brewpub posts up-to-date info about what’s available on draft.
Big Wave is the island’s golden ale of choice. Supremely sippable and refreshing, it’s a perfect beer after a day in the golden sun. (If you’re not familiar with golden ales, think of them as more flavorful lagers with a slightly fuller body.)
Check out the Backyard Batch for seasonal and limited beers exclusively available in Kona. Try the Blonde Stout for a mind-boggling sip experience. Or try the Pipeline Porter for a truly dark beer made with real Kona coffee.
They also offer gluten-free and alcohol-free beers. And if barley water isn’t your thing, the brewpub offers an excellent selection of world wines.
Wish You Were Beer!
You can find Kona’s brews in 35 mainland states as well as 10 different countries. But nothing beats having a cold one right at the source.
For the full experience, take a tour of the brewery – complete with a few samples, of course. The company recently expanded into a new eco-friendly complex that’s considered to be one of the most sustainable breweries in the world.
Once you’ve learned all about the beer production process, enjoy a few drinks at the Kona Brewing Pub. In addition to beers, this restaurant serves an array of mouthwatering, hand-tossed pizzas and pupu.
Visit the Brewpub in downtown Kona at 74-5612 Pawai Place.
Local Tip: The brewery and restaurant are closed Sundays and Mondays. But that doesn’t mean you can’t ease your way into a new week. Stop by the Growler Shack on Saturday and grab to-go beer for the next few days.
Why Be Sad When You Could Be Hoppy?
Living on the Big Island means that the proverbial (beer) glass is always half full. It’s hard to be sad when you’re enjoying sunshine and a laid-back lifestyle.
If you’re ready to pursue this kind of happiness, give me a call. I’ll help you find the perfect place to enjoy those takeaway brews: your very own island home.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.