03/14/2026 - 12:00pm
The Kona Brewers Festival is one of the Big Island’s most beloved annual events, celebrating craft beer, local cuisine, and Hawaiian culture—all set against the stunning backdrop of the stunning Kona coast. Held each year in March, this Big Island festival draws locals and visitors from across Hawaii and the mainland, offering a lively mix of great food, world-class brews, live entertainment, and oceanfront aloha vibes. It’s a must-experience event for anyone visiting the island who loves craft beverages, island flavors, and community-focused events.
What is the Kona Brewers Festival All About?
Founded in 1996, the Kona Brewers Festival brings together dozens of breweries and top island chefs for a day of tasting, celebration, and sustainability. Breweries pour samples of craft beers ranging from West Coast IPAs and tropical ales to dark stouts and seasonal brews, while local restaurants serve bite-sized dishes that highlight the Big Island’s vibrant culinary scene.
The event is also a fundraiser—each year, proceeds support local environmental, educational, and cultural organizations. Visitors get to enjoy great beer and food while contributing to a positive cause.
Where the Kona Brewers Festival Takes Place
The Kona Brewers Festival is typically held at the Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona, right on the water near Kamakahonu Bay. This central, oceanfront location makes it easy to pair your festival day with nearby attractions, including:
- Historic Kailua Village
- Kailua Pier
- Local shops and art galleries
- Beautiful coastal walks and sunset viewing spots
The beachfront festival grounds offer scenic views, warm breezes, and easy access to all the charm of downtown Kona.
What to Expect at the Event
Visitors can enjoy:
- Unlimited beer samples from craft breweries across Hawaii and the mainland
- Tasting plates from top Big Island restaurants
- Live music, hula, and entertainment throughout the day
- Sustainability efforts, including composting, recycling, and zero-waste initiatives
- A lively, social atmosphere perfect for couples, groups, and beer enthusiasts
The festival often sells out quickly, so securing tickets early is highly recommended.
Tips for Visiting the Kona Brewers Festival
- Buy tickets early — this is one of the Big Island’s most popular events.
- Plan transportation — parking is limited; consider ridesharing or staying nearby in Kona.
- Stay hydrated — the Kona sun can be strong, and you’ll be sampling a variety of brews.
- Arrive hungry — the tasting plates are a highlight and showcase some of the island’s best cuisine.
- Explore Kailua-Kona before or after the event — great shopping, oceanfront dining, and historic sites are steps away.
Where to Stay Near the Festival
For visitors planning to attend the Kona Brewers Festival, South Kohala Management offers a wide array of luxury Big Island vacation rentals just a short drive up the coast in the Waikoloa Beach, Mauna Lani, and Mauna Kea resort areas. These properties provide the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and access to world-class beaches, golf courses, and dining—ideal for turning your festival day into a full Big Island getaway. Our closest vacation rental to the festival is Dolphin View on Alii Drive, a 4 bedroom, 3 bath oceanfront home.
Browse our Big Island vacation rentals to find the perfect home base for your Kona Brewers Festival experience.