It’s well-known in Kona (and the entire state of Hawaii, for that matter) that if you’re looking for reasonably priced necessities and groceries, Costco is the move. Unlike most goods you’ll find that have been marked up to account for shipping costs, the Costcos in Hawaii (including the Costco in Kona) offer all the Costco goodness you’re used to for mainland prices.
The Costco in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
And yes, my friends, this includes the magnificent food court with 69 cent soads, $1.50 hot dogs, $3 smoothies, and more.
The Kona Costco food court
If you’re making a Costco run prior to arriving at the Pau Hana Condo, I’m excited to share some of my go-to items.
First up? The rotisserie chicken. On your first night, if you’re not looking to make a beeline for the great bars and restaurants that downtown Kona has to offer and you’d prefer to eat in the Pau Hana Condo, who wants to cook? (This is especially true if your flight’s getting in at or after 6pm, as many mainland flights are.)
Rotisserie chicken at Kona Costco
Another top pick: booze. Unlike New York, Hawaii doesn’t have any laws restricting the sale of alcohol, so you can stock up on fantastic liquor, wine, and beer at Costco.
A great wine and liquor selection at Kona Costco
A great wine and liquor collection at the Kona Costco
Another one of my favorite items to stock up on at Costco in Kona: Sunscreen. The Hawaiian sun is brutal, especially if you’re planning to spend time at the beach or one of the Big Island’s incredible hikes. Stock up on affordable Coppertone while you’re here.
Sunscreen: A Big Island must
Costco in Kona is also a great move for all your gift shopping. Pick up Kona coffee or macademia nuts for all your friends back home, a surefire way to ensure they’re envious of your glorious Big Island getaway.
A great place for souveniers! Mac nuts, Kona coffee, etc.
Pro tip: Kona Costco gift cards
The best kept island supermarket secret: fresh poke and sushi
Another pro tip: Costco in Kona sells gift cards for all of Kona’s best spots at a discount. My favorites: Willie’s Hot Chicken and Umeke’s, both located in Brewery Block. And last but not least: don’t let anyone convince you otherwise, the fresh poke that you find at the grocery store or at Costco here in Hawaii is absolutely phenomenal.
Costco in Kona transcends the typical shopping experience, becoming a strategic and pocket-friendly ally for a memorable Big Island getaway.
