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On The Rocks

3.8 (2k reviews)
ModerateBars, Cafes
Closed 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

On The Rocks Photos

Business Info

ON THE ROCKS ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Live music
Casual
Moderate noise
Happy hour specials

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Recommended Reviews - On The Rocks

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Reviews With Photos

Clown      Seafood Showder
Louis M.

2 stars for value. Yes, the value for our money wasn't there. I felt cheated on the seafood chowder. If we removed the bread, it would turn out to be a cup for a ridiculous price of $26. I had to order two tacos just to fill my appetite. The idea here is that the restaurant caters to tourists, so it's a mousetrap to make money off them. 5 stars for the drinks. I had the Mai Tai and the Ube Limade, both supercharged with liquor. Good job! 5 Stars for the quality of food. We had a seafood platter and fresh catch of the day with volcano fries and coconut coleslaw. It was overall tasty but small portions. 5 stars for the service. Excellent service, quick, and very attentive. 5 stars for desert, it was plentiful, delicious, for the price of $22 was worth every penny. 5 stars for the view. It's fantastic, next to the ocean. What can you lose when you're in a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Mai Tai
Eowyn K.

On the Rocks is the less expensive sibling next door to Huggo's. I had limited expectations as On the Rocks is high on the tourist meter. The reviews were great, the location great, especially for the sunset, and we did not have plans or reservations for dinner. I'm happy that the overall reviews were accurate (sounds like there were some bad experiences though as well), and it exceeded my expectations. They do not offer reservations, so first come first service for the bar, and you put in your name for a table. We were a party of two, and were lucky to grab seats at the bar for drinks while we waited. You can order from the food menu at the bar, our table was just ready after our drink, and had a better view. I had their version of the Mai Tai, which was good, but I'd recently had Mai Tai bar's, which were standout. What was a stand out drink here was their Ube limeade. We ended up coming back in the afternoon another day to have another before we left the island. There is a fantastic view, especially if you can time it for the sunset. They also had wonderful live music and dancing, when we were there, which made it an even better experience. We thought the food was great. My friend and I shared the pork nachos, then the fresh catch, tuna that day, with volcano seasoned fries, which were not spicy, though just standard good fries, and the key lime pie. The nachos were standout, right toppings and right portions. The only thing was not great was the service at the table, though the servicer did recognize and apologize, and was friendly in all interactions. If you can get there before the sunset, and there is not too much of a wait, a tourist location that lives up to the hype. I would return just for the Ube limeade, music, and the sunset view.

View from On the Rocks
Rachel C.

We came at a particularly busy time and had difficulty getting a table, but that's on us for arriving on a Friday night with clear weather. This is definitely the place to be on Kona if you want a good drink with a view. The scenery is not to be missed, and the live music is definitely a bonus as well. I really enjoyed the fish and chips, which had dill in the batter (yum!). I also had the good fortune to order the Ube Limeade, possibly the best drink on the menu. Our server, Quince, was very personable with us. We would have liked a little more prompt service, but again it was a busy night and tables were completely full. I have no idea how On the Rocks handles rainy days. They may have to limit tables to those under umbrellas, but this is definitely a place that's best enjoyed in nice weather. I'd recommend calling ahead if there's rain in the forecast to make sure they can accommodate.

View from our oceanfront table. Best part of lunch.
Josie J.

On the Rocks is owned by Huggos. Huggos is now open only at night. We sat at an oceanfront table. I ordered the tacos and my husband ordered the sliders. Both were meh. Nothing to write home about. The view was spectacular and the service was excellent. I'd return for the view.

Blue Sky Drink
Chris R.

Great place to grab a drink, just chill out and relax. The food was good, not the best but still good. The chips and queso was great! And our server was SO sweet and very helpful with suggestions. Including her suggestion on the taco salad. I was told that it was delicious.

Ube limeade
Mel A.

Beautiful view of the ocean while you dine. If you get a table closer to the oceanside, you get to put your feet on the sand if you wish. Vibe is excellent! We stopped for lunch and a couple of fun cocktails after a morning of activities and we were not disappointed. My husband had some fish tacos which were served with volcano fries and I had a poke bowl. Both were excellent but the highlight for me wad the ube limeade which came in a tall glass with the rim dipped in dissicated coconut. So delicious, I had 2! My husband had a cocktail as well but I can't remember which one. Overall, a very enjoyable lunch. I would recommend stopping by either for lunch or dinner. What better place to dine oceanside than here?

Rina H.

We came here on Super Bowl Sunday, but were lucky to find a few seats! The servers were all friendly and welcoming. The ambience is gorgeous. Everywhere you sit has an ocean view. The food was also really good. I loved how it was presented and my friends all loved what they got. We also tried a couple drinks, which were also really tasty. I would definitely come back when visiting in the future.

Chicken sandwich
Tommy T.

This restaurant had some amazing views of the bay. They offer validated Parking up to two hours. Service was great and friendly. The food was amazing. The Poke nachos were very delicious, the fried shrimp and chips were very delicious, and the chicken sandwich was very delicious. They had probably one of the best Mai Tai I had ever tasted. They do accept credit cards. The restrooms were clean.

Chicken strips
Steve S.

This is one of those 4 star spots worth going out of your way to experience. Time your evening so you're seated just before sunset and take in the live music, dancing, and warm colors of the sky. There is bar seating with larger tables further from the water, but up close you can sit waterside in groups of 3-4 with your feet in the sand. Excellent feel-good vibes. No reservations, but the front was able to seat our group of 6 easily without much wait. Our waiter was fantastic and attentive. They serve classic bar items with Hawaiian flair, and their popular entree is the fish tacos. The food was good, but with limitations. Some items were overly salted (chicken strips), and others came out cold, like they had been sitting around for a while (room service vibe). The best item was the dessert, Mauna Kea ice cream pie. Just look at that monstrosity! Taking in the whole picture, we had a great time and would definitely come again.

ahi Kona Poke
Didi A.

Food amazing I have strict food options as I eat only halal in the big island this place was recommended by yelp and chat GPT lol any ways It is the same group as lava lava beach house seating with ocean view parking was available by the restaurant. We went on a lunch on aweekday Has cool hawaiian vibe and I believe at night they have music My Kīlauea veggie burger tested amazing the best I have had and the loaded french fries amazing My husband loved his dish which was ahi poke Fish and chip was good Coconut coleslaw lacked flavor did not like Fish taco had was corn taco so my daughter did not like much Server was amazing Yum yum I will come back to his place or I am back to the big island

Their sinful Kona Coffee Cheesecake
Denise W.

Hello Fellow Yelpers First time at this restaurant and I was truly impressed. The atmosphere, wait staff and food and drinks were amazing. We got a great seat on the sand with a very nice view. Ask for Tristan, he's a great waiter Remember to do random acts of kindness as it will make everyone feel wonderful Happy Yelping and please follow me for more awesome reviews

Seafood Chowder
Lea C.

First meal upon arriving on the Big Island of Hawaii. Dropped by On The Rocks for lunch since they are right by the water with a beautiful view. Fast friendly service right from the start. Make sure you have your license plate number to give them and have your parking validated. Ordered the Ceviche Wontadas, Huggo's Famous Seafood Chowder, and the Fish and Chips. Ceviche Wontadas were enjoyable...fresh ingredients and in 'crispy wonton cups'. Forget dipping, just bite right into the wonton cups! Seafood Chowder was served in a sourdough bread bowl and beautifully presented. Very thick and creamy, homemade taste with fresh seafood and not out of a can. I had to remember I wasn't eating Clam Chowder and the seafood was a nice change. I would have preferred the chowder in a regular bowl to really enjoy the dish and have more chowder, but I also love sourdough bread. The Fish and Chips were perfectly prepared, very much like an English Pub. They didn't use cod, but a heartier fish Their tartar sauce was smooth in texture, but complimented the fish perfectly. I went without malt vinegar so it wouldn't take away from the taste of the fresh fish. Great spot for food and scenery. I look forward to visiting again.

Can you beat the view? No
D C.

Beautiful location , unobstructed ocean views. Mahi-mahi was scrumptious, service was above par, really personable and attentive. Everything just hit the spot for what we crave in Kona.

Poke Bowl

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13 days ago

Great views, great service. Fin being able to eat lunch in the sand. Food was great, had the poke and the pork.

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On The Rocks Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - On The Rocks

Garden seating vs terrace seating for outdoor view of sunset?

You are literally sitting in a sandy area on top of the rocks. It's outdoors and there's some umbrellas and a bar. Your feet will be on sand.

Is the current LIMITED MENU that recently replaced the regular full menu going to be upgraded soon?

What are the parking options?

First come first serve in the parking lot or park on the side of the street

Do they do reservations? Or is it first come first serve?

First come first serve.

Good people ?ok

Huh? Complete sentences, please.

Do we need reservations?

We are first come, first served! Mahalo!

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Don's Mai Tai Bar - Delicious breakfast French toast and coffee with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean

Don's Mai Tai Bar

3.8(309 reviews)
0.1 mi
$$

We went on a Friday evening. We were able to park on the street but they have validated parking…read moreoutside the hotel. The restaurant is right by the beach. The hostess was really accommodating and sat us promptly with ocean views. We were able to get the Happy Hour Special. They have $8.00 Mai Tai and $1 off Draft Beers. The Mai Tai was delicious 8/10. We ordered the Fish Tacos for $27.00 7/10. The sweet potato fries were great 8/10. We had great service provided by our waitress. I would definitely return and try their other menu items.

A Must‑Stop Every Time We're in Hawaii -- The Vibes Are Immaculate…read moreIf you're in Hawaii and you don't stop at Don's Mai Tai Bar, you're missing out on one of the happiest little slices of island life. We've been here multiple times over the years, and somehow it just keeps getting better -- like they've mastered the art of "vacation mode" and bottled it into a drink menu. First of all, the mai tais. I mean... the name says it all, but they truly deliver. Perfectly balanced, strong enough to remind you you're on vacation, and served with that breezy, effortless island charm. It's the kind of drink that makes you sit back, take a deep breath, and think, "Yep, this is exactly where I'm supposed to be." The views are unreal -- ocean waves, warm breezes, and that golden Hawaiian light that makes everything feel like a postcard. You can sit there for hours just watching the water and people‑watching while sipping something delicious. It's the definition of a no‑rush, no‑stress spot. The staff is always friendly in that genuine, easygoing way that makes you feel like a regular even if you're only in town for a week. They're quick, helpful, and somehow always know exactly what drink you're in the mood for before you do. And the food? Surprisingly great for a bar with a view this good. Usually places with scenery rely on the scenery, but Don's actually delivers. Fresh, flavorful, and perfect for snacking between mai tais. It's one of those places that becomes part of your Hawaii tradition -- the spot you talk about months before your trip and the first place you want to go once you land. Five stars without hesitation. We'll be back every time we're on the island.

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Don's Mai Tai Bar
Don's Mai Tai Bar
Don's Mai Tai Bar - Great traditional Mai Tai, it was strong and flavorful.

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Great traditional Mai Tai, it was strong and flavorful.

Laverne's Sports Bar

Laverne's Sports Bar

3.3(260 reviews)
0.1 mi
$$

Laverne's is one of many good bars and restaurants along the water in Kona. It used to be Humpy's…read moreand still has the same vibe. They have a downstairs bar and tables, plus another larger bar upstairs that connects with their dance floor and bar, plus goes on to connect with the neighboring bar and music venue. There are restrooms both downstairs and upstairs. I've been here many times, and am always appreciative of their draft beer selection. They have a great collection of old tap handles around the ceiling, many beers and breweries that no longer exist. On our recent visit, we had a great bartender/server who was attentive and quick with orders. Beer glasses were clean, beer cold and fresh. They have a large menu of foods, including brunch earlier in the day.

Stumbled upon Laverne's Sports Bar on a rainy day while looking for somewhere close to our hotel,…read moreand I'm glad we did! The place was pretty empty -- probably due to the downpour outside -- which honestly gave it a really chill, laid-back vibe that we ended up loving. Heads up if you're parking in the back: we scanned the QR code and it came out to $50, which felt steep. Not totally sure if that's standard or if we did something wrong, so just be aware before you scan! Inside, there was only one waitress working, but she was accomodating and even let us split our bill, which is always appreciated. The food also came out fairly fast, which was great since we were starving. I went with the chicken sandwich and fries -- the sandwich was perfectly moist and juicy, not dry at all, which is exactly what you want. Hit the spot on a cold, rainy day. Might possibly stop by again next time we're in the area - minus parking in the back lot. Great little spot if you want something low-key and satisfying.

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Laverne's Sports Bar - Set up for Super Bowl LX!

Set up for Super Bowl LX!

Laverne's Sports Bar - Chicken sandwich

Chicken sandwich

Laverne's Sports Bar - Bar

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On The Rocks - bars - Updated May 2026

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