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If you're the sort of person who doesn't come alive until after dark, you might be a little lonely on the Big Island. Blame it on the sleepy plantation heritage. People did their cane raising in the morning, thus very limited late-night fun.
Still, there are a few lively bars on the island, a handful of great local playhouses, half a dozen or so movie houses (including those that play foreign and independent films), and plenty of musical entertainment to keep you happy.
Also, many resorts have bars and late-night activities and events, and keep pools and gyms open late so there's something to do after dinner.
And let's not forget the luau. These fantastic dance and musical performances are combined with some of the best local food on the island and are plenty of fun for the whole family.
A favored haunt of the South Kona crowd, Korner Pocket is tucked in the back of an office plaza and looks like a dive at first glance. But don't let appearances fool you. They serve fantastic, affordable food, ranging from scrumptious burgers to a killer prime rib. Popular local bands frequently perform, with no cover, and everyone gets up to dance. You can also play pool. It's one of the only places open late down south.
A sports bar by night and a good hamburger joint by day, Cronies is a local favorite. When the lights go down, the bar gets packed.
A favorite after-work spot for employees from the surrounding hotels, this sports bar lounge in the Hilton Waikoloa Village offers friendly bartenders, free Wi-Fi, and pool tables. Enjoy tropical cocktails, craft beers, light fare, and live music from 8 to 10 nightly.
A popular gathering place, this sports bar in the back of the Coconut Grove Marketplace has a pool table and an outdoor patio, along with dozens of TVs screening the big game (whatever it happens to be that day). It really gets hopping on the weekends and for karaoke on Tuesday and Thursday. There's good happy hour pricing and $3 Taco Tuesdays and Thursdays.
South Kona's new watering hole brings the area's total bar count to two and was a welcome addition to the community. What it lacks in decor, it makes up for in friendliness. Knock one or two back with a fun pupu menu, including street tacos or pork sliders. There's also more for the hungrier bar patron: Mike's special chili, a Reuben sandwich, or even a hot dog. Happy hour prices are generous.
Hidden away in an unassuming strip mall, this is one of the Big Island's most venerable gay bars. Drag shows, hot DJs, live music, karaoke, drink specials, fiestas, and Sunday barbecues are included in the roster of weekly events. All are welcome.
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