Catch the Game with Aloha: Your Big Island Sports Bar Guide
Aloha, sports fans! Visiting the Big Island and worried you might miss the big game? Fear not! While the laid-back island vibe might make you think live sports viewing is rare, you’d be surprised. The Big Island, with its diverse communities and influx of visitors, boasts a surprising number of fantastic sports bars where you can catch everything from NFL and NBA to local high school football and even international rugby. As a local who loves to catch a game with a cold drink in hand, I’ve scouted the island to bring you the best spots. Whether you’re in Kailua-Kona, Hilo, or a smaller town, there’s a place for you to cheer on your team.
Kailua-Kona: The Heart of the Action
Kailua-Kona, on the west side of the island, is the most populated area and therefore offers the most options for sports enthusiasts. The energy here is palpable, especially during major sporting events.
Huggo’s on the Rocks
While not strictly a sports bar, Huggo’s on the Rocks is an absolute institution and a local favorite for watching games, especially those that overlap with sunset. Located right on the water at 75-5852 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, this open-air bar offers stunning ocean views. They have multiple TVs strategically placed, so you won’t miss a play. The vibe is casual and fun, with live music often playing before or after games. Their pupus (appetizers) are delicious, and the cocktails are top-notch. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a football game with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack. It gets busy, especially on game days, so get there early!
Island Lava Java
For a more casual, coffee shop meets sports bar vibe, Island Lava Java is a great choice. Situated at 75-5699 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of seating and TVs. They serve a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, alongside a good selection of local beers and coffee drinks. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its friendly service and consistent quality. During major games, they often have specials and a lively crowd.
Broke Da Mouth Grindz Poke & Kava Bar
If you’re looking for a truly local experience and want to watch sports with a laid-back, authentic Hawaiian feel, Broke Da Mouth Grindz is the place. Located at 75-5541 Kuakini Hwy #105, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, this spot is famous for its incredible poke and kava. While it’s a kava bar, they also have TVs showing various sports. The crowd here is incredibly friendly, and it’s a fantastic place to strike up a conversation with locals and learn about the island. It’s not your typical sports bar, but the atmosphere and food make it a unique and memorable experience for catching a game.
Don the Beachcomber at Royal Kona Resort
Sometimes, you want to watch the game with a bit more of a resort feel. Don the Beachcomber, located at 75-5856 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, within the Royal Kona Resort, offers a beautiful setting with ocean views and multiple screens for sports. They have a great happy hour and a menu featuring classic Polynesian-inspired cocktails and island cuisine. It’s a good option if you’re staying at the resort or looking for a slightly more upscale, yet still relaxed, environment to catch a game.
Hilo: The Lush Side of Sports
Hilo, on the east side of the island, has a different vibe – wetter, greener, and perhaps a bit more local-focused. While options might be fewer than in Kona, the spirit is just as strong.
Hilo Bay Cafe
Similar to Huggo’s in Kona, Hilo Bay Cafe (160 Keliʻiokalani St, Hilo, HI 96720) is a premier dining establishment that also embraces sports viewing. They have a beautiful setting overlooking Hilo Bay and a sophisticated yet comfortable bar area with TVs. They show major games and have an excellent wine and cocktail list, along with a menu of creative, locally-sourced dishes. It’s a great place for a more refined sports-watching experience, where you can enjoy world-class cuisine while keeping up with the action.
Pine Tree Cafe
For a more casual, no-frills experience in Hilo, Pine Tree Cafe is a beloved local spot. Located at 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, this diner-style restaurant and bar is known for its generous portions and local comfort food. They have TVs tuned to sports, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with local chatter. It’s the kind of place where you can get a hearty meal and a cold beer and feel like a part of the community. Perfect for catching a local high school game or a major league match.
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel – “The Coffee Shop”
This is a classic, no-nonsense spot within the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (1776 Kalanianaʻole Ave, Hilo, HI 96720). While it might not be advertised as a sports bar, “The Coffee Shop” (which serves more than just coffee!) is often a go-to for locals looking to watch sports in a comfortable, familiar setting. They have TVs, serve standard pub fare, and offer a range of beverages. It’s unpretentious and reliable, making it a solid choice for catching a game without any fuss.
Beyond the Main Towns: Gems in Smaller Communities
The Big Island is vast, and sometimes the best discoveries are off the beaten path.
Waimea (Kamuela) – Red Water Cafe
In the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town of Waimea, Red Water Cafe (65-1279 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743) offers a surprisingly sophisticated atmosphere with a great bar program. While it’s a fine-dining restaurant, their bar area is a popular spot to catch games, especially during football season. They have excellent craft cocktails and a menu that reflects the ranching heritage of the area. It’s a more upscale option for sports viewing in the upcountry region.
Volcano Village – Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant
If you find yourself near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant (19-5772 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, HI 96785) offers a cozy and historic atmosphere. While primarily a restaurant known for its European-inspired cuisine, they do have a bar area with TVs where they show major sporting events. It’s a warm and inviting place to relax after a day of exploring the park and catch a game.
Insider Tips for Big Island Sports Bar Hopping
- Check the Schedule: Especially for games that aren’t during prime time local hours (like early morning NFL games), call ahead to confirm that the bar will be showing your specific game. Time differences can be a challenge.
- Aloha Time: Island time is real! Service can sometimes be more relaxed than you might be used to. Patience and a friendly attitude go a long way.
- Local Favorites: Don’t shy away from places that might not look like a typical sports bar. Often, the best experiences are found in spots that locals frequent.
- Happy Hour Deals: Many bars offer fantastic happy hour specials on drinks and pupus. Keep an eye out for these to save some money while enjoying the game.
- Transportation: If you plan on enjoying a few adult beverages, consider ride-sharing services or designating a sober driver. Parking can sometimes be challenging in popular areas like downtown Kailua-Kona.
- Embrace the Vibe: Remember, you’re on vacation! Even if your team is losing, try to enjoy the unique atmosphere of watching a game in paradise. The sunsets, the ocean breeze, and the company often make up for any on-field disappointment.
- Don’t Forget the Beer! For those who appreciate a good brew, exploring local craft beers is part of the island experience. Many of these bars will feature local taps. You can also explore online what’s available before you go, by checking out dropt.beer, a great resource for beer enthusiasts.
- Stay Informed: For the latest on local events and news that might impact your visit, check out dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/.
- Shopping for Gear: If you’re looking for any sports-related gear or souvenirs, you might find some unique items at local shops. For online browsing and potential purchases, dropt.beer/shop/ is a good place to start.
So there you have it! Your guide to enjoying sports on the Big Island. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a lively spot to enjoy a drink, these places offer a taste of local life and a prime view of the action. Grab a Mai Tai, cheer for your team, and soak in the magic of watching sports in Hawaii!
