By: Nicole Rosania, travel content creator and writer at The Abroad Blog

Downtown Kona has no shortage of dreamy restaurants and bars to grab a tropical drink! Watching the sun dip beneath the Pacific and turn the sky into an array of colors is a magical experience you must have (ideally more than once!) during your time in Kona. Kona has one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world! From casual oceanfront bars to chic resort lounges, here are 5 places to enjoy a sunset cocktail in Kona, Hawaii.

Don’s Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Kona Resort

Don’s Mai Tai Bar is as iconic as classic as it gets for Kona sunset viewing. Perched right on the edge of the Royal Kona Resort, this open-air, oceanfront bar is one of the largest of its kind in the area. The energy here is relaxed but lively. Aside from the panoramic ocean views and tiki torches that light up the area at night, you can also enjoy live island music here! Be sure to try the Mai Tai… it’s famous!

There is happy hour here from 4-6pm. 

Huggo’s On The Rocks

Just down the road from Don’s Mai Tai bar is another famous Kona staple — Huggo’s On The Rocks. I went here for a tropical cocktail during my stay at the Mango Sunset BnB and ended up staying for dinner too. The bar is on the sand, with tables and chairs set right along the shoreline. 

The vibe is casual and feels authentic. Come for the cocktails, stay for the atmosphere — there is usually live music played here and you may even catch a hula dance! I learned some traditional Hawaiian dance moves during my visit to Huggo’s last year. 

Grab a table near the railing, and you’ll understand why Huggo’s is a must-stop for anyone chasing Kona’s golden hour.

Sunset Kai Lanai

Sitting high above the coastline in Keauhou, this airy restaurant and bar offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean below. It’s a front-row seat to nature’s nightly show, but with fire pits, fresh island cuisine, and cocktails that match the setting. This bar serves everything from local craft beer to signature lychee martinis. 

Shipwreck Bar & Sushi at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated bar for a sunset cocktail in Kona, head to Shipwreck Bar — a hidden gem tucked within the luxurious Kona Village Resort. Built beside the sea, this bar blends natural Hawaiian design with sleek modern touches, creating the most dreamy atmosphere for your vacation. 

Even if you’re not staying at the resort, it’s worth making a reservation here just to experience the atmosphere, craft cocktail menu, and sushi.  

Honi Olani Sunset Cocktail Cruise

While the above recommendations will offer incredible sunset and shoreline views, why not enjoy a cocktail on the water itself?? During your vacation in Kona you should look into a Honi Olani Sunset Cruise, which departs from Honokōhau Harbor. The cocktail cruises are usually about 90 minutes in length with open bars.

The catamaran cruise often includes light snacks, and the first couple of drinks are complimentary with some packages. 

Final Tips For Sunset Cocktails In Kona, Hawaii

Whichever spot you choose, plan to arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before sunset to snag a good seat and settle in. Kona’s west-facing coastline gives you a front-row view almost anywhere you go, but the most magical moments often happen right after the sun dips — when the colors shift from gold to rose to deep violet. 

Most bars along the coast have a relaxed dress code, though resort lounges like Shipwreck Bar are a bit more polished.

Ready to book your stay at the Mango Sunset BnB? Head to the website to secure your reservation — P.S., you’ll save $$$ by booking direct!