The Big Island is home to an ever-growing assortment of small businesses that are producing artisan goods and boutique farm products, and providing exciting and unique experiences for visitors and locals alike. As a partner in this community, the Holualoa Inn is proud to work with many small businesses in Kona and beyond to bring the best that the Big Island has to offer to our guests. Their unique offerings are part of the character and charm that make our bed and breakfast such a unique place. As a way of showing our appreciation and support, this month we would like to highlight some of the exceptional small businesses with whom we work.
Into the Blue Charters
Into the Blue is a two-boat ocean tour company based out of Kailua-Kona. While many companies offer snorkeling tours at sites along the Kona coast, we chose to partner with Into the Blue because they offer a more personalized and intimate experience. Their six-person Power Catamaran is the perfect size for small-group excursions. When you go out with Into the Blue, it will be just you, your family or friends, and the captain and guide. Into the Blue makes sure to leave the harbor earlier than other tour companies to get you to the best snorkeling sites first. This gives you the best chance to encounter the incredible array of marine life along the Kona Coast. On your next stay with us, book an excursion with Into the Blue for a unique ocean experience!
The Vanillerie
Guy Cellier and JR Pataray of the Vanillerie have undertaken the incredible task of growing delicate vanilla orchids in the rugged, dry lava fields north of Kailua-Kona. On one of their tours, you can learn about the techniques they have used to cultivate and process high-quality vanilla despite the challenges of the environment. They are part of a growing movement on the Big Island to produce world-class agricultural products that can be crafted into top-quality foods and culinary goods. You can browse their selection of artisanal, locally-produced vanilla extracts and body products on site at their visitor center. Visit their website to learn more.
Kai Ea Jewelry
We are proud to offer fine island-inspired jewelry from Kai Ea at the Holualoa Inn. Kimberly Richert hand-crafts each unique piece of jewelry here on the Big Island using precious metals and unique gemstones. Her one-of-a-kind creations make excellent gifts for family and friends back home, or they can be a special souvenir for you to keep. You can find earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more on display in our dining room, and they are available for direct purchase should you wish. You can visit her Facebook page to see more examples of her work.
Our Massage Therapists
At the Holualoa Inn, we partner with the best massage therapists on the island so you can be sure to have a relaxing and rejuvenating experience every time you book a massage with us. Our therapists all come from different backgrounds and have their own styles and specialties, which means that every massage you get at the Holualoa Inn can be unique (but it will always be exceptional!). We work directly with all of our therapists, which means that every massage you book with us supports a local small-business owner.
Waipuna’ula Red Spring Farm
Our very own Claudio D’Angelo, one of the people responsible for making sure the Holualoa Inn is always looking its absolute best, also provides us with jams crafted from tropical fruit he grows on his Waipuna’ula Red Spring Farm in Captain Cook. His jams make excellent gifts to take home to friends and family, or to take back for yourself! Every taste of decadent tropical flavor, whether it be mango, passionfruit, or white pineapple, will transport you back to the Big Island. Claudio’s jams are available for purchase at the Holualoa Inn.