When I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I always look forward to hearing live music. There’s something special about relaxing while listening to talented bands and musicians with an ocean breeze nearby.
The Big Island offers many fun and unique places to catch a live music performance. I enjoy exploring the different sounds and styles every time I’m here.
It doesn’t matter if I’m looking for upbeat bars, outdoor venues, or family spots—there’s a place that fits my mood. Live music is a big part of the local culture.
Lava Lava Beach Club
I visited Lava Lava Beach Club and loved the open-air setup right on the sand. The view of Anaeho’omalu Bay is beautiful, and I could actually hear the ocean while listening to live music.
Local musicians played when I went, which made the sunset atmosphere even better. The stage sits close to the tables, so I didn’t miss any of the performance.
I relaxed with a drink, ate Hawaiian seafood, and listened to music without leaving the beach. It gets a bit busy, but I just put my name on the waitlist and took a stroll along the shore.
The staff texted me when my table was ready. They only offer dine-in, so you need to eat there to enjoy the food and live music.
The menu offers everything from fresh fish tacos to steak. The outdoor seating with palm trees and ocean breeze makes it a fun, casual place to catch live music most nights.
Rating: 4.4 (5800 reviews)
Location: 69-1081 Ku’uali’i Pl, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Contact: (808) 769-5282
Website: Visit Website
Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
I visited Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse during my last trip to Kailua-Kona. The place has a lively vibe, especially at night.
Live music played while the crowd sang along and enjoyed themselves. I liked the mix of American food and fresh seafood.
I tried some appetizers and a local beer, and both tasted great. The menu changes a bit after 10pm, so you can grab late-night snacks if you’re out with friends.
The downstairs setup gives it a cozy feel. Humpy’s hosts events like costume contests, and the staff makes everyone feel welcome.
The music acts rotate, so there’s often something new happening on stage.
Rating: 4.1 (1,636 reviews)
Location: 75-5815 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 324-2337
Website: Visit Website
Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar
I enjoy stopping by Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar when I’m in Kona and looking for live music. The open-air setup and beautiful views of the water stand out right away.
It feels relaxing to sit outside on the lanai and watch the sunset. During the day, I like coming here for breakfast or lunch with friends.
The atmosphere is always laid-back, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. In the evenings, the vibe shifts and it becomes a great spot to catch live music with a drink.
The menu features local flavors, and there are good options for both food and drinks. I appreciate their handcrafted cocktails and locally brewed beers.
The staff are always welcoming and helpful. If you want a place where you can eat, enjoy music, and take in the ocean views, Papa Kona is worth a visit.
Rating: 4.3 (1561 reviews)
Location: The Waterfront Row, 75-5770 Ali‘i Dr 1st Floor, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 300-0044
Website: Visit Website
On the Rocks
When I stopped by On the Rocks, I loved how close it was to the ocean. The tables sit right on the sand, so you can relax with your feet in the beach.
The atmosphere is casual and lively with the salty breeze and views of the water. I visited during happy hour and found lots of tasty drinks and small bites to try.
The menu offers a good mix of seafood and island favorites using fresh local ingredients. Everything tasted fresh.
Live music played as the sun set, creating a fun, relaxed evening. The musicians were talented and made it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy local tunes.
Rating: 4.4 (4116 reviews)
Location: 75-5824 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-8711
Website: Visit Website
Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium
When I walked into Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium, the open-air setting and live music instantly made me feel welcome. The stage sits close to the tables, so it’s easy to enjoy the band while eating.
Most nights, people dance and the crowd is friendly and lively. I tried their dinner menu, which focuses on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
The menu changes, so there is always something new to try. The bar offers a good selection of local brews, and everything I tried was well made.
The venue hosts local musicians and touring acts. I liked that they have an Open Mic & Karaoke Night on Monday.
The atmosphere is casual, and seating is first-come, first-served unless you have a big group. The staff at Blue Dragon are friendly and make it easy to have a fun night out.
If you are coming with six or more people, you can call ahead to reserve a table.
Rating: 4.3 (145 reviews)
Location: 61-3616 Kawaihae Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 882-7771
Website: Visit Website
Ola Brew Co
I stopped by Ola Brew Co while exploring Kailua-Kona, and it felt like a popular local hangout spot. The big patio area was perfect for enjoying a cool breeze as I listened to the live music.
The musicians played a mix of island tunes and covers, which created a relaxed vibe. I tried a flight of their local beers, and there were plenty of styles to choose from.
The food menu had something for everyone, with burgers, wings, and a few vegan choices. My burger was fresh, and the sweet potato fries were crispy.
Even though the place was busy, the staff stayed friendly and helpful. There was plenty of seating outside, so I never felt crowded.
If you like both good craft beer and live music, Ola Brew Co is a nice spot to unwind after a day of exploring the island.
Rating: 4.6 (830 reviews)
Location: 74-5598 Luhia St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 339-3599
Website: Visit Website
Hilo Town Tavern
I visited Hilo Town Tavern on Keawe Street looking for live music and good food. The place felt lively and welcoming, both inside and outside.
The vibe is relaxed, and it’s easy to settle in with friends or meet new people. Local bands perform regularly, filling the place with energy.
I liked that the sound wasn’t too loud, so I could still talk and enjoy my food. The lineup changes often, so there’s always something new to hear.
The menu has classic bar favorites, and I was happy with the selection of bites and drinks. The bartenders were friendly and quick, even on a busy night.
The mix of locals and visitors gives it a fun, easy-going atmosphere.
Rating: 4.3 (1084 reviews)
Location: 168 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 935-2171
Website: Visit Website)
Korner Pocket Sports Bar & Grill
I visited Korner Pocket Sports Bar & Grill while searching for live music and local flavor. The atmosphere felt relaxed, with locals and visitors hanging out, playing pool, and watching sports on big TVs.
A live band played, making the place lively and fun. I tried their food specials and liked the generous portions.
On Mondays, I enjoyed homemade meatloaf with mashed potatoes and veggies. Tuesdays featured fresh tacos in different flavors.
Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 PM, offering good deals on drinks and appetizers. Sunday brunch surprised me with an early kitchen and a special menu.
The staff welcomed me warmly, and I never felt rushed. If you want to listen to live bands while enjoying a meal and a drink, this is a great spot.
Rating: 4.4 (675 reviews)
Location: 81-970 Haleki’i Street, 81-970 Halekii St B1, Kealakekua, HI 96750
Contact: (808) 322-2994
Website: Visit Website
Big Kahuna Beach Grill
I stopped by Big Kahuna Beach Grill in Kailua-Kona and felt glad I did. The place felt casual and welcoming, with a focus on comfort food.
You can see the ocean from the dining area, which adds to the atmosphere. Live music made my visit lively and fun.
The band played well without being too loud, so I could talk with friends. The local touch made the meal memorable.
The menu offers a range of choices, from burgers to pancakes, tacos, and fresh seafood. I ordered a burger and fries, and both tasted great.
People around me enjoyed breakfast dishes even after noon. Service was quick, and everyone was friendly.
I didn’t need a reservation, but you can join a waitlist or book ahead. The vibe stays relaxed and easygoing.
Rating: 4.2 (942 reviews)
Location: 75-5663 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 556-6482
Website: Visit Website
Kona Brewing Co.
I visited Kona Brewing Co. on my last trip to Kailua-Kona and enjoyed the laid-back vibe. The open-air lanai provided a great spot to relax and listen to live music.
Locals and visitors gathered to enjoy fresh, locally brewed beer and handmade pizza. The music set a fun mood without being too loud.
The space felt open and airy under the tin roof, and the staff were friendly. I liked ordering food, grabbing a local beer, and soaking in the music with friends.
Rating: 4.5 (3715 reviews)
Location: 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 334-2739
Website: Visit Website
Live Music Culture on the Big Island
Music on the Big Island connects people and celebrates local history. From traditional Hawaiian songs to modern styles, each sound has its own story and energy.
Unique Island Sounds and Influences
I notice the Big Island’s music mixes old and new sounds in fun ways. Hawaiian slack key guitar, called kī hō‘alu, sounds soft and relaxing.
This style uses fingerpicking unique to Hawaii. Ukulele rhythms give every song a bright and light feeling.
Local singers often use both Hawaiian and English in their songs. This blend shows how local traditions and outside influences mix here.
Sometimes, I hear reggae, pop, and jazz at live music spots. Many bars and restaurants invite visiting musicians and local bands.
Places like the Blue Dragon Tavern and Palace Theater in Hilo offer a range of live performances. Open-air restaurants and beachside bars in Kona create a casual, friendly vibe.
No matter the venue, I feel a true sense of aloha through the music.
Seasonal Events and Local Traditions
Throughout the year, I find special music events and festivals that keep traditions alive. The Merrie Monarch Festival takes place every spring, supporting hula competitions and honoring Hawaiian culture.
Even smaller gatherings, like weeknight shows at Waikoloa Beach Resort’s shopping centers, bring families and tourists together. Holiday times mean more concerts and outdoor shows.
Summertime often features free beachside concerts, local bands, and food trucks. In winter, I enjoy festive performances tied to Christmas or New Year’s.
Karaoke and open mic nights let locals perform and keep the music scene fresh. Regular live shows at spots like Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium make it easy to join in and feel the spirit of the Big Island.
Tips for Enjoying Live Music Venues
I enjoy the music scene more when I know what to expect. Planning ahead helps me have fun, stay comfortable, and respect the local culture.
Best Times to Visit for Live Performances
I notice the busiest nights for live music are usually Friday and Saturday. On the Big Island, many venues like restaurants and bars host their best shows on weekends.
If I want a bigger crowd and more energy, I plan my visit for a weekend evening. Many spots, such as Kona Brewing, start shows at sunset, between 6–7 p.m.
Arriving early helps me get a good seat and catch happy hour specials. I also check venue calendars online because some places only offer live music on special occasions.
For a relaxed vibe, I sometimes pick a weeknight. Local artists might play softer sets, and it’s easier to chat with friends.
If weather is a concern, I look for venues with covered or indoor stages to stay dry if it rains.
Local Etiquette and Expectations
When I go to live music venues on the Big Island, I respect the local customs. Being friendly and polite matters here.
I clap and show appreciation between songs. If I want to take photos or videos, I ask first or keep my phone on silent with the flash off.
Many venues encourage dancing. I make sure not to block anyone’s view or bump into tables.
Dress codes are casual. I avoid wearing bathing suits or beachwear unless I’m at a beachfront bar.
I keep my voice down during performances because many places are small and sounds carry. Tipping musicians is common, especially at smaller venues and coffee shops.
I look for the tip jar and drop in a few dollars to show my thanks. This supports local artists.
