Brunch in Kailua-Kona has a way of redefining what a late morning meal can be. Maybe it’s the smell of the ocean mingling with fresh Kona coffee or the easy rhythm of a town that encourages second helpings and third cups. I still remember the first time I wandered off Ali‘i Drive searching for something not too fancy, but far from ordinary. The morning started cloudy, but the poke omelet I found at a small café convinced me that Kona brunch isn’t just food—it’s a mood you bring home.
If you’re after the best brunch spots in Kailua-Kona, you’re about to explore much more than a checklist of restaurants. Whether you crave local comforts, inventive twists, or just a sunlit table with a sea view, this guide takes you straight to the flavors locals whisper about. With each spot, you get a true taste of Kona’s charm—served with that effortless, casual energy only Hawaii can offer.
1. Big Island Grill
Big Island Grill is the kind of place locals rave about, but will still share with visitors who know how to find it. Walk in, and you’re met with a no-frills vibe and a menu that feels both familiar and fresh.
On my last visit, I grabbed a sunny corner table and started with their famous Loco Moco—rich brown gravy over a bed of rice, finished with a perfectly cooked egg (it’s as good as people say). For something lighter, their veggie omelets pack a crunch, while the taro pancakes hint at true island flavor.
What makes Big Island Grill shine is simple, honest food served with plenty of aloha. Here, brunch feels both homemade and entirely Hawaiian, ideal for anyone hunting for authentic Kona comfort.
2. Fish Hopper Seafood and Steaks
Fish Hopper Seafood and Steaks puts you right above Kailua Bay, with morning light glinting off the water and fresh, local flavors filling the menu. One brunch there and you’ll see why it’s favored by both regulars and first-timers. The view alone sets the mood, but the food delivers.
Last time, I watched surfers paddle out while tucking into their Pacific Benedict—poached eggs and tender fish over rice, finished with their creamy hollandaise. It’s as Hawaiian as it gets for brunch. Their fruit bowls always come bright and generous, spotlighting seasonal Big Island produce.
Every visit feels like a seaside celebration, with staff who know their regulars and new faces alike. For anyone seeking brunch with a coastal twist and a true sense of place, Fish Hopper is a top pick.
3. Island Lava Java
+1 808-300-5672
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Island Lava Java captures everything you hope for in a Kona brunch—ocean breezes, laid-back vibes, and food bursting with local freshness. The open-air seating is feet from the shore, so your breakfast comes with a bonus side of sea spray and salty air.
I’ve spent more than one lazy morning here, always circling back to their Avocado Toast topped with marinated tomatoes and microgreens. If you order their signature Kailua-Kona Coffee, you’ll see why locals linger over their mugs. Their Acai Bowls are legendary, striking the balance between post-surf fuel and a sweet treat without being heavy.
What separates Island Lava Java is its balance of health-conscious choices and pure, island indulgence. It’s a sure bet for brunch, whether you want classic comfort or something bright and energizing.
4. 808 Grindz Cafe
808 Grindz Cafe serves comfort food a step above the usual brunch fare, all in a friendly, no-rush setting. Tables fill up fast with people craving generous portions and the kind of homey cooking that lingers in your memory.
My go-to is their famous Macadamia Nut Pancakes—each bite soft and fluffy with just the right touch of nutty crunch. The coconut syrup is a revelation, perfectly tying together simple, familiar flavors in a truly Hawaiian way. Their vegetarian omelets and local fried rice are also standout options, bright with fresh veggies.
The draw here is real value and a menu loaded with local flair. At 808 Grindz Cafe, brunch tastes the way breakfast on the islands should—easy, welcoming, and just a little addictive.
5. Kalikala Cuisine
Kalikala Cuisine quietly delivers some of the freshest brunch options in the heart of Kailua-Kona. The open, cheerful space feels relaxed, with ocean views and a steady breeze that sets a perfect backdrop for an easy morning.
On my last visit, the owner greeted us with a smile and suggested the Stuffed French Toast—thick slices filled with house-made ricotta and local tropical fruit. It was tender and bright, a step above anything you’d find at a crowded diner. Their Eggs Florentine, finished with sweet island tomatoes and spinach, is another favorite among regulars.
Every dish here shows off careful preparation and local ingredients. Whether you eat plant-based or crave something sweet, Kalikala Cuisine’s brunch manages to feel both healthful and indulgent at once.
6. Peaberry & Galette
+1 808-322-6020
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Peaberry & Galette brings a dash of European flavor to the Kona coast, with a menu that’s both inviting and unexpected. Step inside and you’ll find the scent of fresh-baked crepes and strong coffee in the air—a combination hard to resist.
My favorite from a recent visit was the Savory Spinach Galette, filled with melting cheese and herbs layered into a crisp buckwheat crepe. The locally roasted coffee has a boldness that pairs beautifully with anything on the menu. For a sweeter start, the Lilikoi Crepe, with passionfruit sauce, is light but full of flavor.
What makes Peaberry & Galette shine is its playful approach to classic French fare using fresh, local ingredients. It’s a brunch stop that never feels routine, always offering something a little special.
7. Huggo’s On The Rocks
Huggo’s On The Rocks is where brunch meets the sand—literally, with tables right at the water’s edge and toes brushing warm grains while you eat. The vibe is as relaxed as it gets, blending great island tunes and casual energy with food that never feels like an afterthought.
My last visit started with their Fresh Island Fruit Plate, bursting with pineapple, papaya, and local citrus. For something heartier, the Breakfast Tacos cradled eggs and grilled vegetables in soft tortillas, with a touch of tropical salsa to tie it all together. It’s simple, bright, and totally satisfying.
The perfect spot for those who want their morning meal with a side of sea breeze and true Kona spirit. Huggo’s On The Rocks isn’t just a place to eat—it’s an experience you’ll want to revisit.
8. Foster’s Kitchen
Foster’s Kitchen manages to be both polished and welcoming, making it an easy pick for brunch when you want something a little more crafted than casual fare. The focus on fresh, local ingredients shows in every plate, with farm-to-table quality you can both taste and see.
I remember the first time I tried their Veggie Scramble, packed with roasted local vegetables and fresh herbs. Each bite felt like it was straight from the garden, especially alongside their fluffy house-made biscuits. If you’re craving something sweet, the Banana Nut Waffles offer a perfect blend of crispy edges and caramelized fruit that tastes like a Hawaiian morning done right.
Foster’s Kitchen stands out with genuine flavors, creative twists, and a sense of local pride. It’s a spot where brunch feels both thoughtful and deeply satisfying.
9. Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse is the kind of place where brunch feels a bit like a neighborhood party—lively, laid-back, and full of island flavor. The open-air seating offers a view of the bustling Alii Drive, making people-watching almost as enjoyable as the food.
My favorite brunch order here has to be their Veggie Omelet—loaded with crisp greens and melty cheese, it’s as filling as it is fresh. Their breakfast potatoes have a golden crunch you won’t forget. For a lighter bite, they serve up some of the best fruit bowls around, highlighting Big Island produce at its juicy best.
Generous portions and easygoing vibes make Humpy’s a true gathering spot. It’s a must for anyone wanting brunch with personality and local flair.
10. Kona Canoe Club
Kona Canoe Club delivers that classic Kona brunch vibe: easy, breezy, and right on the waterfront. The open-air lanai means you’re treated to ocean views while cool trade winds keep things relaxed and comfortable. It’s the kind of place where conversation flows as easily as the coffee.
On my last visit, I dove into their Taro Pancakes—soft, flavorful, and just sweet enough to stand out. Their veggie burrito is a winner too, stuffed with fresh vegetables and enough zing to wake up any sleepy morning. Fruit plates here always overflow with local produce, so everything tastes sun-ripened and bright.
Kona Canoe Club is all about unfussy island classics served with a personal touch. Perfect for anyone seeking brunch with a salty breeze and a sense of belonging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does brunch usually start in Kailua-Kona?
Most spots begin serving brunch around 7:00 am or 8:00 am and continue through the early afternoon. Local favorites often keep it casual; check with each restaurant for their exact hours.
Are there vegetarian and vegan brunch options in Kailua-Kona?
Absolutely. You’ll find plant-based choices on almost every brunch menu. Many places offer vegan omelets, fruit bowls, tofu scrambles, and dairy-free pancakes.
Can I find gluten-free brunch menus in Kailua-Kona?
Yes—gluten-free pancakes, toast, and specialty plates appear frequently in Kailua-Kona’s brunch spots. Most restaurants can customize dishes to fit gluten-free needs; just ask your server.
Do I need reservations for popular brunch places?
It depends. Walk-ins work for most cafes, but oceanfront or well-known spots—like Island Lava Java or Huggo’s On The Rocks—can fill quickly on weekends. A reservation never hurts if you want a guaranteed view or a big table.
Is brunch kid-friendly in Kailua-Kona?
Very much so. Many places offer kid-sized portions, fruit plates, and casual seating perfect for families. Outdoor patios are a plus for wiggly little ones.