Talk Story With a Sponsor: Ka’awaloa Trail Farm

Recently, we had the chance to talk story with Tony Tate of Ka’awaloa Trail Farm, an award-winning coffee farm and a 100% Pure Kona Coffee Race sponsor. And we can't wait for you to get to know more about the speedy runner and one of our newest sponsors, so keep reading!  

Ka‘awaloa Trail Farm is located in the mauka area of the ahupua‘a of Ka‘awaloa, and was part of the ancient Kona Field System that provided food crops such as kalo and ‘ulu to the community of Ali‘i that lived in the area around Kealakeukua Bay around the time of Captain Cook’s arrival in Hawai‘i in the 1770s. Around a century ago, coffee was planted on the land and by the 1970s, the land was divided into small farms. 

In 2012, Tony, Louie, and their ‘ohana began managing one of the farms, using natural methods to grow, harvest, and process the coffee. Since its inception, Ka‘awaloa Trail Farm has been on a mission to restore the natural ecological functions of the land and diversify production, shifting from a single focus on coffee to a mixed, agroforestry system incorporating native trees, cacao, and many other fruits and food crops. By 2022, the farm won the Heritage Award at the Kona Coffee Festival Cupping Contest, which is awarded to the highest-ranking coffee produced that year using traditional methods.

“Our mission is to become a model learning farm for the area and demonstrate a method of farming that produces a range of products without using any pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides, minimizing the presence of invasive species and restoring Hawaiian species favorable to native birds, bats, and butterflies,” says Tony. 

“Although we are not originally from the Big Island, we have received many blessings over the years from the land and people here, and we’re determined to give back and share Aloha,” says Tony of why Ka‘awaloa Trail Farm became a sponsor of the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Run. “As both farmers and runners, sponsoring the half-marathon was a natural fit for us and a way to embrace the spirit of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Going forward, we want to support other initiatives that align with our values, caring for the land and its people.” 

Studies show that coffee can improve your muscles' ability to contract, enhance your endurance, and increase your alertness: “So not only is Ka’awaloa Trail Farm coffee award-winning and delicious, but it could very well help you run faster!” Tony adds. Considering that he placed 6th overall in the half marathon last year, we don’t doubt that it can! This year, Tony is excited to once again stand on the start line on November 9th and everyone at Ka‘awaloa Trail Farm is excited to be involved in the race, helping others enjoy it.  

“The race attracts a great group of all types of runners who are supportive and friendly,” says Tony, whose advice for anyone running the race this year is to relax and have fun. “And be sure to thank volunteers and race organizers - It wouldn’t be possible to host the race without them and they put in many long hours to make it a memorable race for all of us.”

Tony’s favorite part of the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon is witnessing the dawn and then the sunrise over Hualalai while running out and back along Ali’i Drive: “It’s an amazing sight! There is a great feeling of accomplishment as you crest the last hill in Keauhou, knowing the hardest part is behind you. And passing all the sacred sites along Ali’i Drive on your way to the finish line motivates you to keep going and be inspired by those who show us the way.”

Ready to experience the amazing sights and be inspired on November 9th? Register now for the 5k or half marathon!

Talk Story with a Pure Kona Sponsor: Moku Pops

If you’re a popsicle fan, you’ll be happy to hear that we recently caught up with Mike Buchal, owner of Moko Pops. Keep reading to find out more about one of the coolest 100% Pure Kona Coffee race sponsors! 

The year was 2015 and Mike was leasing greenhouse space from his friend, John Edney, who owned Tropical Dreams Ice Cream at the time. 

“I was growing organic poha berries and selling them to Two Ladies Kitchen, Honomu Jams, and local farmers’ markets,” says Mike. “Then my father-in-law passed away, and my family and I spent several weeks settling his affairs in Jackson, Mississippi. It was mid-July, humid and HOT. As a respite from the heat, his neighbor recommended we check out a local spot, Deep South Pops, where we discover gourmet ice pops for the first time.”

Refreshed and inspired by the popsicles, Mike’s wife suggested introducing ice pops to the Big Island.  After conducting a little research, Mike realized that although a few farmers’ markets were selling popsicles, no one on the island was wholesaling product into grocery stores or other venues.  

“Not even Tropical Dreams was offering ice cream bars or single-serve treats. So I mentioned the idea to my friend, Ignacio, who had been helping out with the poha berries, and we decided to partner up in the gourmet popsicle business,” Mike shares. “John at Tropical Dreams was supportive. He saw the synergies we could bring to his operation and offered us the kitchen space. By 2016, Moku Pops was off and running!”  

Friends and family helped come up with the “Moku Pops” name and island logo, and even assisted with production and packaging in the early days, laying the foundation for the home-grown, family-centered business. Moku means “district” or “island,” symbolizing that the popsicles are rooted in the islands.

By late 2016, after some experience selling at a farmer’s market and roadside, the bulk of Moku Pops’ marketing efforts were focused on building the wholesale business. The Four Seasons Hualalai and Foodland Mauna Lani were among the first customers to sell the locally-made product.

“We wanted to present bold, strong, tropical, and local flavors showcasing the main ingredient, which is why Moku Pops typically have only three or four ingredients, with the first ingredient being the featured flavor,” Mike explains. “And we expressed our mission to make delicious popsicles free from artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives using the taglines ‘Discover Flavor’ and ‘All-natural, all good!’”

For years, Mike and the Moku Pops’ ‘ohana painstakingly hand-labeled, filled, and sealed each popsicle wrapper. What started out as a 3-fluid ounce traditional popsicle wrapped for individual resale out of Moku Pops’ colorful logo freezers, however, evolved and grew over time. In 2020, a resort customer requested a smaller, individually wrapped product to give away as an amenity.

“This prompted us to offer a 1.2-fluid ounce popsicle or minipop. These proved difficult to produce in volume, especially in terms of hand-bagging and sealing the pops,” Mike says. “So in 2021, we purchased larger production equipment and also automated to replace the hand-bagging process and bring more Moku Pops to the island.”

Although initially challenging, Mike concedes that increasing automation was worth the struggle, equipping Moku Pops with the production capacity to meet customers’ product volume needs on the Big Island.  Today, the Moku Pops ‘ohana is even exploring ways to bring their exotic popsicles to the other Hawaiian islands when they’re not busy participating in local events like the 100% Pure Kona Coffee 5k and Half Marathon.  

“We have done a couple of events with Kona Brew, creating custom beer pops, as well as youth sports team events, and most recently a fundraiser for families impacted by the Maui wildfire,” Mike shares. In 2019, Pure Kona Coffee’s race director Keely McGee approached Moku Pops about purchasing popsicles for the event. The popsicles were a huge hit and when the race resumed in 2021 after going virtual during the pandemic, she reached out again and Moku Pops returned as a race sponsor. 

“We have an employee who does the race too. We typically employ two to four people throughout the year,” says Mike. “A couple of our employees started when they were in high school and return to work summers when demand is at its peak. At one point, we had two sisters working for us whose mom, Iris, is a runner. Although her daughters have moved on to college, Iris now also works part time for Moku Pops and is our designated runner for the event!” 

Naturally, we had to find out if Iris has any tips for fellow runners as they prepare for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee race and she was happy to share the following: Run your own race for your own goals and be sure to ask about the free Moku Pops at the finish line! Her favorite flavor is the delicious Kona Coffee popsicles, which we suspect is a favorite with many other runners as well. No matter what the flavor, Mike says that every year, they all disappear. There’s nothing quite like a refreshing gourmet popsicle to cool down once you cross the finish line! 

“The Pure Kona Coffee 5k and Half Marathon are all about community, aloha, and connections.  Although Keely lives in Hilo, we discovered that our next-door neighbor, Joe, is a long-time participant in the half marathon,” Mike says. “And he has been helping with transporting a freezer and popsicles to the event for a couple of years now. The race brings together people from all over the island in a collaborative effort that’s great to be a part of!”

Ready to be part of it and earn a Moku Pop for yourself? Online registration closes on November 2nd at midnight, so register now!

Talk Story with a Pure Kona Sponsor: Big Island Running Company

"Buy It.”

That was the two-word response that Melissa Braswell, co-owner of Big Island Running Company, received from her husband, Jason Braswell when she emailed him a link to the website where the running store was listed for sale. At the time, the couple was living in Chicago and working as attorneys. 

Although they had visited Hawai’i frequently over the years and daydreamed about calling it home, it wasn’t until 2009 that the Braswells were ready to make a career change. 

“One day, I was searching BizBuySell for businesses for sale and saw the running store listed. Since we were both runners, it made perfect sense,” says Melissa of the unanimous decision to purchase Big Island Running Company, which had been in business for around six years before it hit the market. “I emailed Jason the link, he replied ‘Buy It,’ and a week later we were on our way to Kona to look at the store!”  

On their flight home from Kona, Jason was so inspired by the prospect of owning the running company that he grabbed an airline napkin and drew the first sketch of the Run Big logo that has become so iconic. 

“The Run Big and Run Aloha lines of merchandise were our first mark on the store,” Melissa says. “Now here we are celebrating our 15th anniversary of owning Big Island Running Company.” By September of 2009, Jason had quit his legal job, said goodbye to the Windy City, and headed to Hawai’i to take over the shop. While buying the running company was the Braswells’ ticket to the Big Island, their purpose in stepping up to the helm of the shop was much bigger. 

“From the beginning, our intention was to make Big Island Running Company a center for the community. Our mission has always been to support and encourage a healthy, happy, and active lifestyle, and do it with aloha,” Melissa shares. “We can help runners at all stages of their journey, from beginners to seasoned marathoners.”

Not only is the shop a solution-oriented resource for anyone who has foot problems, including walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and especially those who are on their feet all day for work, but it’s also the backdrop for the start and finish of the 100% Pure Kona Coffee 5k and Half Marathon, and has been since 2015. That was the year Jon Kunitake decided to bring a race back to Kona’s Ali’i Drive. 

“We created a non-profit, Big Island Race Events, and Jon and I started the race. I was the race director for the first two years before Keely McGhee took over the role in 2017. And naturally, Big Island Running Company stayed on as a sponsor, ” says Melissa. “The 100% Pure Kona Coffee races keep getting better each year, and I’m always excited to see what new ideas Keely has in store.” 

Melissa also looks forward to talking to all of the participants and spectators on race day, and hearing stories from runners who she might not see on a regular basis. She adds that: “It’s also special to hear the visitors who run the race talk about what a great experience it was!”

 With the exception of one Pure Kona Coffee Half, Melissa is typically too busy helping out on race day to toe the line herself. “The year I did it, I was able to see tons of friends and customers out on the course. It’s such a great hometown race! But the best part of the race that year was having my daughter, Emily, hand me my mug at the finish line,” Melissa shares.

Every year, a few of Big Island Running Company’s employees pin a bib on come race morning. In fact, employee Nathan Coates finished fourth in the half marathon in 2023. Pretty impressive for someone running his first half! 

Melissa and the rest of the running company staff agree that the opportunity to run on Ali’i Drive when it’s partially closed to vehicles is one of the best parts of the race. One of the most challenging parts of the half marathon, however, is mile 8. “Then the hardest (or at least hilliest) part is over! Definitely prepare with some hill training, though!”

For anyone training for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half, Melissa also recommends dialing in your nutrition, whether that’s training with gels, gummies, salt tablets, or electrolyte drinks. “With our hot and humid climate, having the right nutrition is key on race day.” 

Fortunately, Big Island Running Company can help you stock up on your race day essentials if you happen to travel to Kona for Pure Kona Coffee and realize you forgot your fuel. While you’re at it, grab some Run Big or Run Aloha apparel to add to (or start) your collection! 

Just think, if the Braswells had never decided to “Buy It,” we wouldn’t be able to Run Big! If you’re ready to experience the scenery and energy of Ali’i Drive and Run Aloha this November 9th, register now! 

Talk Story with a Pure Kona Sponsor: Gypsea Gelato

Recently, we had the chance to catch up with Tim Heaton, co-founder and owner of Gypsea Gelato, a long-time 100% Pure Kona Coffee race sponsor. He’s had quite a journey from working on dive boats around the world to opening Gypsea Gelato, but one of the most epic is the journey Tim takes every November to the End of the World and back. Keep reading to find out more about the runner behind one of our sweetest sponsors! 

“I grew up in South California, running and surfing. When I left, it was to work on commercial fishing and dive boats around the world. That’s where I met my wife, Sandra. And that’s how our love for gelato began,” says Tim. “Everytime we would pull into a new port, we would immediately look for a place to grab fresh gelato. We decided to turn our love for gelato into a business and started by taking a week-long class.” 

Making gelato is a blend of creativity and science. Unlike ice cream, gelato is made with more milk and less cream. And the churning process is slower, introducing less air into the final, delicious treat. Once Tim and Sandra had the process perfected, they were ready to share the gelato love. There was only one problem.

“We drove up and down the West Coast, but we just couldn’t find a spot for our shop. So we decided to take a vacation - one last trip to the Big Island and then we would focus on opening our business.” While on vacation, Tim and Sandra discovered that Gio’s Gelato in Kealakekua’s Mango Court was for sale… and found the perfect spot for their own gelato shop! 

“We fished for salmon in British Columbia until we had enough money to buy the shop from Gio himself in 2014. Then we settled down on Hawai’i Island and got to work!” 

A lot has happened in the decade since the Heatons opened the first Gypsea Gelato. 

In 2017, they opened their flagship shop in Coconut Grove, just steps away from the 100% Pure Kona Coffee finish line. In 2019, they moved the Kealakekua shop from its tiny space at Mango Court to its current location in the old Strawberry Patch building. 

By 2022, Gypsea Gelato brought its decadent gelato to its third location at the Waikoloa Beach Kings’ Shop. A decade later, Gypsea Gelato has grown into an ohana of around 40 team members, with three shops and one central kitchen.  

“We strive to use the best ingredients, sourced as close as possible to us on the Big Island. We have close relationships with our farmers, whether that’s fresh mint for Mint Chip, white pineapple for our sorbet, or lemongrass and ginger for Tom Kha. We also strive to be part of the community, supporting local events,” says Tim. “I’m a dedicated runner, lifelong runner and I’ve done the Pure Kona Coffee half marathon since 2017. It makes me proud to know we help put on a local race that I love. Over the years, we’ve even had employees run the race!”

Tim acknowledges that running three successful shops means that he can’t always train as much as he’d like to and occasionally, he has to skip a local race to attend to the business. 

“I train as best I can and get in runs when I can. I may sign up for a race and something comes up. As a business owner, I have to take care of the shops. But the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon is the exception. As a runner, it’s one of the coolest races around! It’s the one event that my year is centered around. I even ran the half when it was virtual in 2020, and won it in 2020!”

The views and the challenge of the course are a few answers Tim offers up as to why he keeps coming back to run Kona Coffee year after year.  

“I love the challenge of The Pit. The mana there and the history! This is where Liholiho secured his kingship in the Battle of Kuamoʻo in 1819. So it’s fitting that this is where you fight the biggest mental battle in the race… climbing up that hill out of The Pit.”

For Tim, other highlights of the half marathon include ascending the hill back to Keauhou, passing culturally and historically significant places like the site where they tore down the legendary Keauhou Beach Hotel to build an educational complex, and running past the Ku'emanu Heiau at Kahaluu Bay.

“That’s the heiau where the Hawaiian ali’i would pray for good waves to surf. And on your way out and back, you run past the condos and people come out and cheer. You see the surfers out at Magics and Lymans… It’s magical! Pele will test you out there, but that’s part of the magic. When that happens, you just focus on the next step. Right foot, left foot, repeat!” says Tim of a philosophy that’s helped him in racing and in life.

“My parents were here for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee half marathon last year and really enjoyed cheering. It’s definitely a spectator-friendly event!” Tim attests. “As a major sponsor of the race, Gypsea Gelato is invested in it emotionally and financially. And it finishes on the other side of Coconut Grove from our most highly-trafficked shop!” 

Which is where you’ll find Tim after crossing the finish line. He might even be serving gelato! But not until after he’s enjoyed some Makua Trail. 

“Post-race, it’s the best! You get a caffeine boost from the coffee and a hit of healthy fats and protein!”  

Without Gypsea Gelato and our other amazing sponsors, the 100% Pure Kona Coffee races just wouldn’t be the amazing events they are! If you’re ready to experience Ali’i Drive like never before and celebrate with some post-race gelato, register now and come run with us on November 9th! 

Helpful Tips for Having an Epic Finish Line Moment

It’s happened to the most experienced runner. You check your race results online and are thrilled to see that you achieved that PR you trained for. Then you check the sports photographer’s website a few days after the race and are horrified to discover a photo that isn’t exactly flattering. Or worse, you can’t find your race photo at all when you type in your bib number… because the photographer couldn’t see it! 

At the 100% Pure Kona Coffee 5k and Half Marathon this November, you don’t want you to be THAT runner. 

You want to be THIS runner —>

Keep reading for some super helpful tips on having the best finish line moment from Kona Coffee’s own race announcer Eddie O. and official race photographer Mikey Brown of Hawaii Sports Photography.

Finish Line Do’s and Don’ts

DO … remember that at the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Run, there is a timing chip in your bib, which means that from start to finish, your time and place will be recorded.

"Make sure your race number is visible and on the front. That’s how I know who’s crossing and can announce your name when you reach the finish line!” says Eddie. 

“That bib number is how I organize the race photos,” says Mikey, who views each photo he takes at the race, enters the bib number he sees, then uploads it. “If you want your photo saved AND recorded, all of us have to see it.”

Planning to race in a long sleeve shirt? You probably won’t need one in Kona, even in November. But if you do choose to layer up, be sure that your bib is visible when you cross the finish line. 

“We love our runner families. We love seeing those parents pushing a stroller! Just don’t let the stroller block us from seeing your bib number,” Mikey adds. “We also love our volunteers. Be sure to thank them!”

And everyone loves that the 5k and half marathon are chipped. Which means that you don’t have to stop your watch the second you cross the finish line. We make sure your time is recorded, so just throw your hands in the air, smile, forget about your watch for a moment, and nail that finish line photo! 

“When you finish, feel free to go back to the finish line and cheer!” Eddie says. “Because we’re all in this together!” 

That being said, there is some finish line etiquette to keep in mind.

DO NOT… mess up the timing! If you must go back on the race course to support a friend or family member, take your bib number off.

“Also, don’t congest the finish line. Keep moving!” Mikey suggests. We know, you want a second to catch your breath. Or you need to check on your training partner, who you thought was a few feet behind you. Go for it… after you get through the finishing chute.  

“I know we’re talking about the finish line, but let’s talk about the start of the race for a second. In Hawai’i, we often have a blessing or oli (chant) to start the race. This is similar to the singing of the National Anthem at mainland races,” Eddie explains. “Out of respect, please don’t talk during the blessing, even if you don’t understand what’s being said.” 

Finish Line Highlights

If you ask the race announcer Eddie O., race photographer Mikey Brown, our race director, Keely McGhee, the timing chip team, or any of the volunteers, almost everyone will say the same thing… Happy finishers make us happy! 

“I also love seeing finishers from somewhere other than Hawai’i,” Mikey shares. “I remember this one family from Norway doing the whole race together and crossing with the Norwegian flag. That’s a finish line moment that really stands out to me. There was also a bridal party that ran together last year to kick off the wedding weekend!”

Mikey and Eddie agree that a smile is a must when crossing the finish line.

“We also love seeing groups do the race together and show up in their matching race outfits!” Eddie says. “If your group is doing Kona Coffee to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, engagement, 50th half marathon, or anything else, please don’t hesitate to tell us that before the race so we can give you a shout out!”

Having fun ✔ Bib out ✔ Tongue out ✔

“And more shakas. You’re in Hawaii after all!” Mikey adds.

Are you ready to put our finish line tips into practice?! Registration is now open for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee half marathon and 5k race. Sign up now!

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN KONA

Planning a trip to Kona on the Big Island of Hawai’i? If we had to pick, November might be the best month for visiting Kona. It’s one of the “cooler” months here in Hawai’i and it’s also the month that the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon and 5k is held! 

Whether you want an adventure, are looking to immerse yourself in culture, or just need to relax to the sound of the waves and bask in the sun (wearing your reef-safe sunscreen of course), there’s so much to do and see. To help you make the most of your time in Hawai’i, however, we’ve narrowed it down to the 10 best things to do in Kona.

#10 Enjoy a Kona Sunset

Not only does Kona produce some of the best coffee in the world, but we are also known for some of the best sunsets on the planet! The warm, glowing colors of a Kona sunset are so spectacular in fact that everyone in West Hawai’i seems to stop what they are doing to take it in. The blowing of the pu (conch shell), oohs, ahhs, and clapping from sunset seekers all make the experience unforgettable. It’s believed that Kona sunsets are exceptionally stunning thanks to the lack of visual obstructions on the horizon paired with expansive views of the ocean and a sprinkling of volcanic dust. If the conditions are just right, you might even see the green flash. This burst of vivid green occurs as the last sliver of the setting sun fades into the Pacific and is caused by an atmospheric refraction of light. While you can experience the magic of a Kona sunset from anywhere on the west facing shores that has a clear view of the horizon, our favorite spots to watch the sunset are Magic Sands Beach or Honl’s Beach at the Wai’aha Beach Park (both are on Ali’i Drive), at Honokohau Beach (behind Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park), or at Kikau Point Beach Park (between Kua Bay and Kukio Bay).

#9 Visit the Place of Refuge

South of Historic Kailua Town you’ll find Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park sitting on the shores of Hōnaunau Bay’s protected waters. It was near here that the aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty) chose to establish ceremonial and residential sites, including the Royal Grounds of Kauwalomalie, which can be accessed from the park. In ancient times, the Puʻuhonua was a place of refuge surrounded by a massive dry stacked wall measuring  965-foot long. The Puʻuhonua functioned as protection for defeated warriors, the kapu breakers (those who broke the sacred laws, the kapu, and were sentenced to death), and civilians during times of battle from physical harm … if they reached the boundaries of the Puʻuhonua’s boundaries. Today, the park is still sacred to anyone who sets foot on its grounds and is home to some of Hawaii’s most significant traditional sites. 

#8 Step into St. Benedict’s Painted Church

Perched above the Bays of Hōnaunau and Kealakekua is the Painted Church, a small but significant historical site. The church was erected by Belgian priest Father John Velghe in 1899, who decorated the chapel with paintings that brought stories to life for the many parishioners who were unable to read. Father Velghe used ordinary house paint to create narratives and the colorful paintings are still visible on the walls and ceiling of the Painted Church. Today, the Painted Church is still an active parish, with mass scheduled several times a week. The church is also open to the public Tuesday through Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm. As with Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, be respectful of this sacred, historical site when visiting.  

#7 Experience a Lu’au 

No Hawai’i vacation would be complete without attending a lū‘au and for a traditional Polynesian experience, you can’t beat the Royal Kona Resort’s Voyagers of the Pacific lū‘au. The Royal Kona is conveniently located within walking distance from Coconut Grove, where the 100% Pure Kona Coffee races start and end. As you are regaled with stories of how the ancient Polynesians traveled across the Pacific to Hawai’i Island, you can dine on savory kālua pig cooked in a traditional imu (underground oven) and other delicious lū‘au food at the all-you-can-eat buffet. Throughout the evening, you can stop by the open bar for a mai tai or other libation while you enjoy the rhythms of Hawaiʻi and the South Pacific. And for the grand finale of this lyrical revue, Samoan fire knife dancers will take your breath away and leave you talking about the memorable evening for years to come. 

#6 Snorkel at a Monument

If you’re up for a challenge (other than running the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon), then grab some water, some snacks, and your snorkel gear and get ready to hike to another world! History buffs will appreciate hiking South Kona’s Ka`awaloa Trail to the Captain Cook Monument. After British Captain James Cook died at this spot in 1779, a portion of the land was ceded to Great Britain for a monument, so technically, the monument is on British territory. Before Cook’s controversial presence here, however, the bay at the end of the Ka`awaloa Trail was a thriving Hawaiian village. You can glimpse this area’s many layers of history while hiking down about 1,300 feet in nearly 2 miles. For this hike, you’ll need trail running or hiking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water to drink. It takes most visitors about an hour to hike down to the bay, and the trail may or may not be overgrown (although it is always visible). There’s a good reason to hike this trail with your snorkel gear - When you reach the bottom and head left along the stone wall, you’ll discover the monument, as well as the clearest water you may ever snorkel in! Hop in and swim with schools of exotic fish until you’re ready to hike back up. Need a refreshing treat after making it back to the top of the trail? Head to Gypsea Gelato in Kealakekua for some handmade gelato! 

#5 Hike in a Cloud Forest 

Cloud forests are a magical type of ecosystem found where mid-latitude tropical rainforests meet mountains… and we happen to have one just miles outside of Historic Kailua Town. If you’re up for a hike, but you’re not interested in the challenge (or heat) of the Ka’awaloa Trail, you’ll appreciate the Makaula-'O'oma Trail. Located in the Honuaula Forest Reserve, you can easily explore this exotic trail by taking Kaloko Drive for about 4 miles until you see Makahi Street and turning left. At the end of this street is the trailhead and from there, you’ll have some options. To explore the Upper Jurassic Trail, turn right, climb to the top of the reserve, and turn left to follow the Crosstown Trail. When you reach the Mallway Trail, follow it downhill to loop back to the trailhead. The Upper Jurassic loop is 2.3 miles round trip, with 636’ of elevation gain. To explore the Lower Jurassic Trail from the trail head, head downhill on the Pig Skull Trail, descending through the lush forest until you hit the Pipeline Trail at the bottom. Pipeline will pass the Mallway Trail before intersecting with the Lower Jurassic Trail which will take you back up to the trailhead. The Lower Jurassic loop is about 3.4 miles long, with 700’ of elevation gain. No matter what loop you choose, you’ll be hiking in a cloud forest, so don’t be surprised if conditions are damp. Be prepared by bringing a rain jacket and wearing sturdy shoes that can handle any mud or wet tree roots and rocks you might encounter.

#4 Shop at the Artisan Markets

The Ho'oulu Community Farmers and Artisans Market is the place to shop on Wednesdays and Fridays. The 'Ohana Vendors at this market are very special, as everything sold at the market is 100% made, grown, and created on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Held on the lawn in front of the Outrigger Kona from 9am to 2pm, you can pick up everything from raw honey from regenerative hives and earrings made of repurposed plastic to homegrown microgreens and artisan vinegar brewed in Hawaii from tropical fruits. As you peruse the "GALLERY ON THE GREEN,” you’ll also find ocally grown estate coffee, seasonal produce (like the biggest avocados you can imagine!), jams, nuts, and even live music every Wednesday, from 9am to 2pm.

And if you’re in town for the Kona Coffee road races, you’re in luck! The Made in Hawai’i Artisan Market is part of the kick-off to the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Held from 2pm - 9pm at the Hale Halawai County Pavilion on Ali’i Drive, it’s a celebration of Hawaii’s best arts and crafts. Shop for authentic accessories, apparel, and other treasures made by small businesses showcasing their talents in handmade products. The market also features a fusion of multicultural food offerings from popular food trucks and pop-up food vendors.

Uncle Jon Kunitake at UCC Coffee Farm

#3 Take a Coffee Farm Tour 

Out of all the gourmet coffees out there, Kona coffee is ranked among the best. And if you’re not a coffee enthusiast, you will be after touring one of Kona’s world-famous coffee farms. Ever since the first coffee trees were planted hee in the late 1820s, Kona + coffee has been a match made in heaven! Kona coffee farms dot the slopes of Hualalai. Take a farm tour and enjoy the pastoral view of the Pacific from a field of coffee plants. Learn about our area’s rich volcanic soil and ideal growing climate and the hard work that goes into growing coffee, breathe in the aroma of beans roasting, sip on the distinct coffee brewed from the farm-grown beans, and of course pick up a bag of coffee to bring home. Here are a few coffee farms that typically offer tours during the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival:

• Buddha’s Cup 

• Greenwell Farms 

• Hala Tree Coffee 

• Island Sun Coffee 

• Ueshima Coffee Company – UCC Hawai’i 

#2 Attend the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

Speaking of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, the festivities will begin on November 1st and last through the 10th. In its 53rd year, this celebration of the Kona coffee lifestyle is Hawaiʻi’s Oldest Food Festival. Since 1970, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and the local community have shared the unique history and culture of Kona coffee pioneers, farmers, and artisans with residents and visitors alike. Kona’s unique nearly 200-year coffee heritage is preserved, perpetuated, and promoted through this 10-day long festival. Festival events include a cupping competition, recipe contest, lei contest, and crowning of Miss Kona Coffee, Miss Aloha Hawaii, and Little Miss Kona Coffee… And it all starts with the mesmerizing Festival Lantern Parade at sunset on Friday, November 1st, featuring colorful lanterns and cultural costumes to honor the Big Island’s multicultural history diversity.

#1 Run the 100% Pure Kona Coffee 5k or Half Marathon!  

November means cooler temps in Kona, but it’s still warm enough for beach lounging … and running in shorts. It really is the perfect time of year to take the ninth annual “shot” at the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon and 5k! Rooted in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, the scenic half marathon has attracted runners, coffee-lovers, and coffee farmers who also happen to run since its debut in 2015. This year, join us and over 600 others running the 5k, aptly named the “the espresso shot,” and the iconic Half Marathon. Run the scenic coast of Kailua-Kona down Ali’i Drive to the infamous “Pit” at the “End of the World.” And enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean as you complete the half marathon or 5k distances. Then celebrate with a cup of coffee in your one-of-a-kind Kona Coffee finishers mug.

Make the most of your time in Hawai’i and come run with us! Registration is now open for the half marathon and 5k race on November 9th so register now!

THE HISTORY OF HAWAII’S 100% PURE KONA COFFEE HALF MARATHON

The 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon is one year shy of a decade old, but has already become a storied race held on iconic Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona, Hawai’i. Rooted in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, the scenic half marathon has attracted runners, coffee-lovers, and coffee farmers who also happen to run (like local legend Uncle Jon Kunitake!) since its debut in 2015. 

That November, the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon, which coincided with the 45th annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, started around sunrise in front of the Coconut Grove Marketplace. Heading south along Ali’i Drive, runners enjoyed sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean before descending into the “pit” and turning around at the End of the World in Keauhou. That inaugural event attracted 180 runners, likely intrigued by the unique finisher medals - custom coffee mugs on lanyards. Volcano’s Billy Barnett took home the first finisher’s coffee mug after winning with a time (that would take years to beat) of 1:17:13. 

Unfortunately, the half marathon cooled off just as quickly as it was brewed up. In 2016,  the race was canceled over uncertainty whether there would be enough police officers available to assist with road closures.

Fortunately, the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon returned to Ali’i Drive in 2017, attracting nearly 150 runners excited about the race’s resurgence, thanks to its new race director, Volcano’s Keely McGhee, who also directs the Volcano ‘O’hia Lehua Runs.

The grand finale to the week-long Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, an important community event honoring Kona’s cultural heritage of coffee pioneers, farmers, and artisans, the 2nd annual Kona Coffee Half Marathon saw a new champion. After working late the night before the Kona Coffee Half and only sleeping for about five hours, Kona’s own Patrick Stover cruised past his opponents, placing first overall with a personal best time of 1:18:40!

By 2018, the challenging yet stunning course continued to attract the fastest runners in Hawai’i, along with local families and running clubs fueled by the best coffee in the world. 2018 also saw previous 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon champs (and good friends) Billy Barnett and Patrick Stover go head to head, with Billy ultimately pulling ahead and finishing 20 seconds ahead of Patrick. On the women’s side, school teacher Bree Wee of Kailua-Kona made her students proud by setting a course record of 1:25:37.

2019 saw a record number of runners register for the 4th edition of the Kona Coffee race, which offered a highly-anticipated marathon option for those crazy enough (and hopped up on enough coffee) to face the mettle-testing “pit” twice in one morning. 340 participants ran along Ali’i Drive in the cool of dawn, including the legendary barefoot runner, who ditched his shoes mid-race to finish his 26.2 mile journey, barefoot, in the heat of Kona! Kona’s Patrick Stover nabbed the title of marathon winner while David Wild fought hard to earn the win in the half marathon. Interestingly enough, David and Patrick happened to be the cross-country coaches at Konawaena High School that year, and their student athletes volunteered at an aid station on the course. After cheering for the young runners every weekend, the students repaid the favor to their coaches (we could hear them cheering from a mile away!) and it turned out to be the boost both coaches needed to walk away the 2019 victors. What’s more, rumor has it that Patrick signed up for the marathon because 77-year old Uncle Jon Kunitake told him “Even I’m doing the marathon. Are you gonna let me out run you?” Challenge accepted!

Enter the pandemic. There would be no running Keauhou’s challenging hills or climbing in and out the infamous “pit” in 2020. At least not in a traditional race setting. Instead, we offered our first-ever virtual race option and were thrilled to see so many athletes get on board, as well as amazing sponsors like Big Island Running Company, Gypsea Gelato, and BioAstin. Collectors of the classic Kona Coffee race mugs were not disappointed, as they received the coffee mug and race shirt for completing the virtual half or full marathon. We even had two unicorns in New Jersey and a runner in Seattle whose support crew was made up of a Christmas elf and reindeer join in on the fun! 

2021 was the year of the comeback for the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon and WOW did it feel incredible to all be together again - We were even grateful to be running down to the End of the World and crawling back out again! It took a year away from racing to affirm that it was never really about crossing a finish line - It’s always been about the journey we take along the way, and those we share it with! This was also the year we saw a fresh face on the podium. John Benner of Volcano, Hawai’i won the men’s title and set a new course record of 1:12:4 in the process. Bree Wee returned to crush her own record from 2018, running a sizzling 1:24:16.

In 2022, we celebrated the world’s most famous coffee bean and our 7th annual 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon with over 320 participants. This year’s half marathon had an undeniably “big race” feel, as runners flocked to the Big Island for the event from as far as Canada, Tokyo, and France! The winner himself, Jared Hixon, hailed from Gardnerville, Nevada, and went home with an unforgettable color-changing Kona Coffee mug and the second fastest course time, 1:16:56. Bree Wee was back for her fourth win, which she earned by running a 1:26:27 half marathon. 

By 2023, it was time to add a 5k option, aptly named the “the espresso shot,” to the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon. The result? A record turnout of more than 600 runners. Not even the early morning showers and a downed telephone pole along the race course could stop the masses. Maybe they were motivated by the thought of Eddie O. announcing their name at the finish line or winning that coveted Kona Coffee mug! 

Adding the 5k certainly gave new depth to the footrace. Rather than stand around for their friends, significant others, or parents to finish 13.1 miles, many who would otherwise spectate decided to get in on the fun, including a 9-year old from Kona and Holuloa’s own Uncle Jon, 80-year old owner of Kunitake Farms Pure Kona Coffee. Proudly wearing bib #1, he elicited the loudest cheers as usual. Even louder than the clapping and chee-hooing the crowd saved for local runner Jantzen Hing as he cruised into his first win ever after running 13.1 miles in 1:21:18 and Bree Wee, as she flew across the finish line in 1:29:30, securing another first place title. On the 5k side, the overall men’s champion was Seth Skopek of Honolulu and the women’s winner was Dana Kate of Kailua-Kona. The shorter distance was a big hit, and we’re excited to share that it’s an option for 2024 as well! 

Growing coffee is hard work. Running 13.1 miles is hard work. And blending a passion for both into a runcation for some and an unforgettable race for all is nothing short of a labor of love (here’s looking at you Keely and all Kona Coffee’s amazing volunteers)! If you’ve never run the 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon or 5k before, why not find out for yourself why so many of us plan our year around that moment when we cross the finish line and are handed that one-of-a-kind finishers’ mug?! Registration is now open for the half marathon and 5k race. Hope to see you bright and early on November 9th! 

Register now!