Why Living in Kona Is Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Today I’m doing something a little different from my usual content. In this video, I’m answering some of the questions and comments you’ve sent me about what it’s like living in Kona, moving here, and more. These questions really got me thinking and doing some extra research, which I love because I’m always eager to learn more! Let’s dive into some interesting questions and comments about life in this beautiful part of Hawaii.
Kona: A Fisherman’s Paradise 🎣
One of the coolest comments I received is about Kona being the only place in the world where blue marlins over 1,000 pounds have been caught every month of the year. The commenter mentioned catching one, and I can tell you, that’s incredible! I can imagine how amazing that experience must have been. I’ve gone on a few fishing charters myself, and while I didn’t quite catch a marlin, we had a blast and caught plenty of fish. We even saw humpback whales and dolphins—it was just a perfect day out on the water.
What makes Kona special for fishing is that it only takes about 15 minutes to get to the right depth for some serious action. Unlike other places where you’re stuck on the boat for hours just trying to get to the fishing spot, in Kona, you’re right there, ready to fish. That’s why I love fishing here—it’s quick, it’s fun, and even if the waters get rough, you can head back in no time.
Speaking of fishing, I recently learned that the fishing rules here changed in February 2024. Now, non-residents over 15 need a saltwater fishing license. The good news? It’s affordable! You can get a one-day license for $20, a week for $40, or a full year for $70. Military personnel are exempt, so they’re basically treated like Hawaii residents. You can buy these licenses online or at authorized fishing stores.
Is Kona a Tourist Trap? 🏖️
Another comment said, “Kona is a tourist trap. It used to be nicer when fewer people lived here.” Now, I get it—Kona attracts a lot of tourists because, well, it’s beautiful! But I wouldn’t call it a tourist trap. Sure, we have tourists, but I think everyone should have the chance to experience the amazing nature and beaches we have here. Kona is a dream destination for many, and while it does bring in tourists, it doesn’t feel overwhelming to me.
Yes, there’s more foot traffic in town during peak season, but that doesn’t negatively impact my daily life. I think Kona is a special place, and I love that people from all over the world want to visit and enjoy what we get to experience every day.
Bugs in Kona 🦟
One of the comments mentioned bugs—mosquitoes, scorpions, and centipedes. Now, I used to live on the East Coast, so let me tell you, the bugs here are nothing compared to what I experienced back there! Personally, I live at sea level and I’ve barely seen any bugs. I’ve encountered just one live centipede in my house in the eight years I’ve lived here, and even that was taken care of by my husband!
If you live at higher elevations where there’s more rain, you might notice more mosquitoes because they breed in stagnant water. But at sea level, it’s really not that bad. As for scorpions, I’ve never seen one in Hawaii. If any of you have, let me know in the comments because I’m genuinely curious about where they might be!
One thing I didn’t mention before, though, is termites. When you live in Hawaii, termites are pretty common. In about 80% of home inspections, the reports will mention some kind of termite activity, either current or past. It’s nothing to panic about—just something to keep an eye on and take care of when necessary.
Is the Big Island Boring? 🌋
Another comment I received was that “The Big Island is boring.” I have to disagree! Sure, if you’re looking for nightlife, big concerts, and city life, you might find the island a bit slow. We don’t have nightclubs or the constant entertainment you’d find in places like Honolulu or the mainland. But if you love nature, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life, this island is full of adventure.
From hiking and snorkeling to simply enjoying a sunset on the beach, there’s always something to do here. It’s just a matter of what kind of lifestyle you’re looking for. If you want busy city life, this might not be the place for you. But if you’re into nature and a more relaxed way of living, then the Big Island is a perfect fit.
Building a Home in Hulualoa 🏠
I also received a question from someone interested in building a modern home on a vacant lot in Hulualoa. When you’re looking at vacant lots, the first thing you need to check is the HOA (Homeowners Association) rules. Many HOAs have design guidelines that aim for a consistent look within the neighborhood. So, before you fall in love with a lot, make sure to read the design guidelines to see if they allow for modern architectural styles.
If there’s no HOA, you might still run into CC&Rs (Covenant, Conditions, and Restrictions), which function similarly to HOA rules but don’t necessarily require an HOA to be enforced. These rules could dictate the size of your home, roof styles, or even landscaping requirements. If neither HOAs nor CC&Rs apply, you’re pretty much free to build whatever you want, as long as it complies with zoning regulations.
That’s all the questions and comments for today! I hope you found this helpful and enjoyed learning more about living in Kona, fishing rules, bugs (or the lack of them!), and building homes on the Big Island. If you have more questions, feel free to drop a comment or reach out to me directly. I love hearing from you and sharing what I know about life in Hawaii. Aloha, and I’ll see you in the next video! 🌺
Ready to explore life in Kona? Contact me today to learn more about homes for sale and making the move to Hawaii.