FEATURED ACTIVITY: WHALE WATCHING
From December through April Hawai`i’s biggest and most welcome visitors appear in the waters off the islands, fascinating visitors, and residents alike. Approximately 10,000 Humpback whales come to Hawai`i annually to mate, nurture their young and give birth. The waters off the Kona and Kohala coasts are prime for whale watching and while you can see them from the shoreline, taking a whale watching tour is a very popular ocean adventure. From the deck of a boat, the whales can be seen breeching and cavorting in the waters. Mamas, with their babies nearby, swim along the coast, readying for the return trip to northern waters for the summer. But, while the Humpbacks are here, there are several ocean activity vendors in Kona which offer whale watching tours. During whale season, December through April, you are likely to see more than one of these behemoths of the ocean while out on a tour. Some suggested tour operators are Body Glove, Fairwinds, Kona Snorkel & Sail, and Captain Zodiac.
FEATURED RESTAURANT: UMEKE’S FISH MARKET BAR & GRILL
Located in the Brewery Block of Kona’s Industrial Area, Umeke’s is the perfect spot to enjoy some of island’s freshest fish prepared several ways, including the restaurant’s featured menu item, poke.
“UMEKE” is the Hawaiian word for “bowl.” At Umeke’s, most of the menu items are designed to be served in bowls. From poke bowls to salads to fresh catch sandwiches and fish tacos, owner and Head Chef Nakoa Pabre gives customers a varied and exciting menu using the freshest fish.
Pabre has twice been awarded “Winner Overall” of the prestigious Sam Choy’s Poke contest and his restaurants were voted “Best Poke in Hawaii” in both 2016 and 2017. In addition, Pabre and his specialty dishes have been featured on Food Network’s popular television shows, “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” and “G. Garvin Road Trip.”
There is restaurant seating inside and out. Umeke’s includes a full bar and a retail poke and fresh counter. Having a party? Inquire about the restaurant’s catering menu.
Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is located at 74-5599 Pawai Pl. in Kailua-Kona. Ph. 808.238.0571 or visit their website, umekesrestaurant.com.
