Kona Coast Archives - Horizon Guest House

Exploring Kealakekua Bay

Posted on April 16, 2023April 28, 2023 by Angus

Kealakekua Bay

The crown jewel of South Kona is undoubtedly Kealakekua Bay. This beautiful bay is part of a marine reserve and is home to an amazing array of tropical fish. Dolphins are often seen here as they use the sheltered bay as a place to avoid predators and also a place to sleep.

On the south side of the bay is Napoʻopoʻo Beach, a small beach where access to the water is easy, though there are no lifeguards and limited facilities.

On the north side of the bay is Captain Cook’s Monument. The monument was erected in 1874 by British sailors to commemorate the spot on which he was killed. The small plot of land on which the monument sits was actually deeded to the United Kingdom by Princess Likelike – so it is actually British soil!

To access the monument you’ll need to hike down from Napoʻopoʻo Road. Read more about this hike in our blog post about top hikes on the island here. The north side of the bay is where the best snorkeling is located and you’ll find that the tour boats typically congregate here.

There are tour operators offering snorkeling and kayaking tours, or you can rent kayaks yourself. This is a great option if you want to snorkel but don’t want to join a tour. Kayak across the bay, and snorkel off the kayak (we’ve done it and we recommend this, especially if you aren’t keen on hiking down to, and back up from, Captain Cook’s Monument).

Dolphins. Spinner dolphins are often see in the bay. They are so-called because when they leap out of the water they are able to spin on their longitudinal axis.

Boat Tours

The Big Three

Fair Winds Cruises – Fair Wind II

60 ft catamaran with a capacity of about 100 people. The tour leaves out of Keahou Bay. The boat also has a water slide and a high dive platform. $159 for 4.5 hour morning tour or $115 for the 3.5 afternoon tour. The Fair Winds is the only company that has a mooring in the bay. This allows it to become a stationary platform from which to snorkel.

Fair Winds Cruises – Hula Kai

This boat is owned by the same company that owns the Fair Wind II. The boat is a little faster and the entire experience is a bit of an upgrade from the Fair Wind II. $165 for a 5 hour morning tour.

Sea Paradise – Hoku Nui

This company operates a 45 foot sailing trimaran that leaves out of Keahou Bay. The boat is a competitor to the Fair Wind II but is often less crowded and a more enjoyable experience. If there is wind they will use the sails. $165 for a 4.5 hour morning tour or $125 for a 3 hour afternoon tour.

Smaller tours

Sea Quest

Their hard-bottom inflatable boats hold up to 14 passengers and the tour takes them to Kealakekua Bay and then on to Honaunau (Place of Refuge). $145 for a 4.5 morning tour (includes lunch) or $128 for a 4 hour tour (no lunch). Leaves out of Keahou Bay.

Dolphin Discoveries

This company also uses hard-bottom inflatables for their tours. $139 for a 4.5 hour morning tour, to both Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau (Place of Refuge) and another tour just to Kealakekua Bay (there are three different times during the day for this tour) $114 for 3 hours. The early morning tour gets to the bay by 8am so you’ll likely be the first boat there!

Exploring Kealakekua Bay and the area around the Captain Cook Monument is a must-see activity. The bay has some of the best snorkeling in the entire state of Hawaii. Whether you decide to hike down to the monument, kayak across the bay, or enjoy a tour, this destination should be near the top of your list on your Big Island adventure.

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Restaurant review: Foster’s Kitchen

Posted on March 22, 2023April 12, 2023 by Angus

Foster’s Kitchen (Kona) is located amongst the strip of restaurants on Ali’i Drive, with a picture-perfect view over the ocean. The restaurant offers a casual dining experience with an extensive menu. They pride themselves on purchasing directly from local famers and producers with a commitment to certified-organic products where possible.

Foster’s Kitchen is currently open Monday to Sunday from 11am to 10pm. We arrived midweek for an early lunch soon after opening and were among the first to be seated. The entire restaurant seating area is a patio space, with lovely views, and a breeze that comes right off the ocean. Note, there is some road noise from Ali’i Drive, especially if seated close to the road.

Make sure to take advantage of the free parking lot behind Foster’s Kitchen which is accessed via Kuakini Highway. The service we experienced on our visit was quick, friendly and efficient.

The menu

From bruschetta and marinated calamari appetizers, to ahi stir fry, fish tacos and shrimp & grits – Foster’s Kitchen has a large menu. They also have salads, burgers and sandwiches, plus an extensive children’s menu.

What we ordered

(Above) Fried Green Tomatoes – breaded green tomatoes, fried golden brown and served with a Cajun remoulade dipping sauce ($13).

(Above) Tomato Bisque Cup – Hot savory tomato bisque topped with avocado mousse and micro greens. Served with gourmet grilled cheese with caramelized Maui onions on sourdough bread ($10).

(Above) Seared Crab Cakes – traditional lump crab cakes served with Cajun remoulade, lilikoi slaw and microgreeens ($22).

(Above) Calamari – calamari marinated in fresh herbs, chardonnay, and garlic – lightly grilled. Served with grilled white truffle lemons and a herb-infused oil ($15).

(Above) Seafood Puff Pastry – puff pastry filled with a mixture of crab, shrimp, Macadamia nut pesto, and cheese, then baked golden brown, brushed with fresh pesto, and sprinkled with parmesan ($15).

(Above) Cheesecake – Graham cracker-crusted scratch-made no-bake cheese cake with a lilikoi topping. Finished with whipped cream and strawberries ($8).

(Above) Banana Pudding – buttery crispy puff pastry shell with house-made vanilla pudding and bananas, caramelized with local dark rum ($12).

Foster’s Kitchen was a relaxed dining experience. Some of the appetizers were more successful than others, in particular the calamari flavors didn’t quite gel, and the seared crab cakes came with a Cajun remoulade that was too hot, overpowering all the other flavors. However, the seafood puff pastry was delicious and the fried green tomatoes were also very tasty.

Foster’s Kitchen is a great place to have lunch or dinner in Kona with an ocean view. They also have another location in the Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa.

Foster's Kitchen Kona

75-5805 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona

Hawaii 96740

Ph. 808 326 1600

Hours: Mon – Sun, 11am – 10pm

https://www.fosterskitchen.com

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Restaurant review: Bianelli’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta

Posted on February 12, 2023March 11, 2023 by Angus

Bianelli’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta is a family owned and operated restaurant that was first established in 1989. For over thirty years they have been using only the freshest ingredients available and supporting Big Island farms by using locally-sourced produce.

The restaurant is famed for its pizza crust. The crust has a thick edge, and is perhaps a little sweeter than traditional pizza crusts. Their pasta source is a combination of white wine mushroom sauce blended with marinara.

Bianellis is currently open Tuesday to Saturday. We arrived on a weekday in the early evening. The restaurant was already quite busy and we had no trouble getting a table outside. There is easy parking in front of KTA. The service was quick and efficient, and even though they had recently upgraded their payment software it was no problem to split the bill.

The menu

Bianelli’s offers a traditional Italian menu. From gourmet pizza, pasta dishes, calzones, sandwiches and salads – the menu is extensive.

What we ordered

(Above) The Gourmet Vegetarian – artichoke hearts, eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, onion and fresh basil. (12″) ($24.45)

(Above) Greek Salad – Locally-grown lettuce, green peppers, onions, green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese and garlic vinaigrette. ($15.95)

(Above) Bianelli’s Combo – Our fresh baked crust topped with mushroom, pepperoni, ham, sausage, green pepper and black olives. (12″) ($24.45)

Bianellis was a very relaxing dining experience – we were even visited by a friendly local chicken during our meal! (we assume it did not subsequently become part of the menu). Our dishes were tasty, although the pizza crust was sweeter than I would have liked and the artichokes dominated the flavor of the vegetarian pizza. However, overall Bianellis is a perfectly pleasant Italian restaurant.

Bianelli’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta

78-6831 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona

Hawaii 96740

Ph. 808 322 0377

Hours: Tues-Thurs 4 – 8pm, Fri-Sat 4pm – 8:30pm (closed Sun-Mon)

https://bianellis.com

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Restaurant review: Keei Cafe

Posted on December 14, 2022January 14, 2023 by Angus

Keei Cafe is a family owned restaurant specializing in American-Hawaiian fusion dishes. Located in Kealakekua, this restaurant has been a local favorite since 1995. It was originally in Honaunau but has been at its current address since 2005.

The owners source as much of their menu from local ingredients to prepare creative and delicious dishes with nightly specials.

Keei Cafe is currently open 5pm-9pm, Tues-Sat. We arrived on a weekday in the early evening. The restaurant was almost empty and we didn’t have to wait for a table. There is easy parking around the back of the restaurant.

There are plenty of tables and plenty of airflow. There is a separate dining area for large groups and smaller tables on a balcony area facing the highway. On the evening we were there a musical duo were playing – unfortunately, this combined with the wooden floors and more diners, meant there was quite a lot of noise and it did reduce the enjoyment of the space somewhat.

The menu

The menu is a mix of American-Hawaiian flavors. Choose from appetizers like eggplant rolls, ahi poke nachos and baked brie. As well as salads with locally grown ingredients there are pork chops, seafood pasta and spicy fajitas. Dessert options include, warm tropical bread pudding and warm macadamia nut pie.

What we ordered

(Above) Vegetarian Black Bean Soup. A hearty housemade soup topped with sour cream and fresh salsa. Served with a warm tortilla ($8.95).

(Above) Caprese Salad. Local vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella slices, tender basil leaves, sweet maui onions drizzled in extra virgin olive oil, and our housemade balsamic reduction glaze ($10.95)

(Above) Roasted Half Chicken. Experience Keei Cafe’s yellow Thai curry sauce or white wine peppercorn gravy, with your choice of white or brown rice, whipped potatoes & a vegetable medley ($25.95).

(Above) Cioppino-Fisherman’s Stew. An assortment of fresh seafood including mussels, shrimp, scallops, squid, and fresh fish in a rich tomato/white wine broth. Served with crusty bread ($13.95).

(Above) Pasta Primavera. Your choice of chicken or tofu with sauteed vegetables, smothered in a basil pesto or marinara sauce and topped with grated parmesan cheese ($21.95).

(Above) Warm Lava Flow. Rich chocolate flourless cake with a molten chocolate center. Served with seasonal sauce, chocolate and caramel drizzle ($7.95).

Keei Cafe was a relaxing dining experience, however it did get a little loud with the musical duo’s performance. Our dishes were tasty, although the vegetarian black bean soup was lacking in flavor. Overall Keei Cafe is the perfect spot for dinner in Kealakekua.

Keei Cafe

79-7511 Mamalahoa Highway

Kealakekua

Hawaii 96750

Ph. 808 322 9992

Hours: Tues-Sat, 5pm – 9pm (closed Sun-Mon)

https://www.opentable.com/keei-cafe

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Restaurant review: Rebel Kitchen

Posted on November 29, 2022December 1, 2022 by Angus

Rebel Kitchen specializes in Hawaiian-inspired burgers, sandwiches & salads. They also make their own range of hot sauces which are sold on site.

Located in the heart of Kainaliu, Rebel Kitchen has a community feel. The owners source as much of their food as possible from local suppliers. They also use eco friendly food packing products where possible.

Rebel Kitchen is currently only open 11-5pm, Tues-Sat. As a result, it’s primarily a lunch spot. We arrived on a weekday in the early afternoon. The restaurant was almost empty and we didn’t have to wait for a table. Kainaliu is a small collection of restaurants, second-hand stores, galleries and other shops on Mamalahoa Highway not far from Kealakekua. There is a usually easy parking in front of the restaurant.

There are plenty of tables and plenty of airflow in an area that is essentially an enclosed patio. There is also seating at the bar.

The menu

The menu is a mix of classic American staples infused with local Hawaiian flavors. Pupu’s (Hawaiian for appetizers) include – nacho steak fries (fries topped with slices of ribeye steak), Hawaiian Fire Wings (deep fried wings in their homemade hot sauce) and Cuban Rolls (pork, ham and cheese rolled in a wonton and deep fried!). Items on their salad menu include – Thai steak salad, BBQ chicken salad and a grilled vegetable salad. Why not try their local grass fed beef patty burgers, or a pulled pork sandwich. They also have a number of specialty dishes including an ono and shrimp dish, cajun pasta, and a creamy veggie pasta. All the buns used in the burgers and sandwiches are freshly made on the premises!

What we ordered

(Above) Blackened ono sandwich. Crispy blackened ono topped with lettuce, tomato and onion on a homemade bun ($14.75). Served with a spicy pineapple coleslaw (red cabbage, onion, peppers, pineapple topped with homemade sauce).

(Above) BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich. Pulled pork in a tangy spicy BBQ sauce topped with lettuce, tomato and onion on a homemade bun ($13.99). Served with a potato salad (a mustard-based salad with red potato, onions, peppers, olives and pickles.

Rebel Kitchen was a relaxed dining experience. The food was delicious and the homemade sauces were very tasty. This local favorite is the perfect spot for lunch when you find yourself in the Kainaliu/Kealakekua area.

Rebel Kitchen

79-7399 Hawai’i Belt Rd (aka Mamalahoa Hwy)

Kealakekua

Hawaii 96750

Ph. 808 322-0616

Hours: Tues-Sat, 11am-5pm (closed Sun-Mon)

http://rebelkitchen.com

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Restaurant review: Izakaya Shiono

Posted on October 31, 2022October 31, 2022 by Angus

Izakaya Shiono is a sushi and Japanese resturarant, serving fresh fish dishes with locally sourced fish, all prepared by experienced Japanese chefs.

We arrived on a weekday in the early afternoon. The restaurant was about half-full and we didn’t have to wait long for a table.

Izakaya Shinono’s is in the same district as Kona Brewing Company, Umeke’s Fish Market Bar and Grill, and right next door to HiCO (Hawaiian Coffee). There is a parking lot behind the restaurant that serves a number of local restaurants.

There is outdoor seating alongside the restaurant, and also a separate patio area where we found a table in the shade.

The menu

The menu is a mix of sushi, ramen and tempura. We decided to order off the lunch menu and had one main dish with a side of miso soup (included).

What we ordered

(Above). Sushi Nigiri Set – unagi cucumber ($20.50). The unagi was delicious and the sushi was excellent. Extremely tasty!

(Above). Sushi Nigiri Set – Spicy Tuna ($20.50). It was the perfect amount of tuna and the flavors were wonderful.

Unfortunately, the miso soup could have been a little hotter but this is a small complaint. The service was great, the sushi was exceptionally good, and the fish tasty and fresh.

Izakaya Shiono sources the freshest locally caught fish as well as importing the best fish from Japan. Note: the restaurant uses Tamaki Gold Koshihikari, which is considered by many to be the best short-grain rice in the world. All very good reasons to visit Izakaya Shiono for some of the best Japanese on the Big Island.

Izakaya Shiono

74-5599 Pawai Place B4 & B5

Kailua-Kona

Hawaii 96740

Ph. 808 657 4388

Hours: Mon-Sun, 11am-8pm

https://www.sushishiono.com/izakaya-shiono/

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Restaurant review: Teshima’s Restaurant

Posted on September 30, 2022October 1, 2022 by Angus

Teshima’s Restaurant has become a firm favorite among locals and tourists on the Kona Coast. Located in Kainaliu, just south of Kona, they serve a mix of simple Japanese and Hawaiian cuisine. We stopped in for lunch, early on a weekday.

We arrived at Teshima’s on Monday morning at 11:30am in time for an early lunch. Surprisingly it was already busy, but we didn’t have to wait long for a table.

Teshima’s is next to the Buddhist temple at the juncture of the old and the new Mamalahoa Highway. There is parking in front of the restaurant and also in the parking lot directly to the right of the building (in the direction of the gas station).

There is plenty of seating inside, with a mix of booths and tables.

The interior has been nicely decorated and is spacious with large ceiling fans. They do not take reservations but they do accept take-out orders and serve alcohol.

The menu

The menu is an eclectic mix of Japanese and Hawaiian. From traditional Japanese dishes, like sashimi, sukiyaki and shrimp tempura to Hawaiian dishes like ‘Kona Up-Country’ Chop Steak, homemade corned beef hash patties and Kona Coast fried ahi.

What we ordered

(Above). Beef Teriyaki with miso soup and rice ($17.99)

(Above). No. 1 Teishoku – Miso soup, sashimi, sukiyaki, tsukemono, sunomono, rice ($17.99)

(Above). Sakura Tray (Mondays only). Sushi, beef teriyaki, fried fish, sashimi and served with rice, miso soup, tsukemono, suomono and hot green tea ($17.99)

Service was quick, friendly and efficient. The dishes we had were delicious, and the flavors simple. The range of Japanese dishes isn’t as extensive as a dedicated Japanese restaurant (there are only a couple of sushi options on the menu) but the Hawaiian dishes are very popular with the locals.

Make sure you check out this local institution when you’re next in Kainaliu.

Teshima's Restaurant

79-7251 Mamalahoa Highway

Kealakekua

Hawaii 96750

Ph. 808 322 9140

Hours: Mon-Sun, 11am-8pm

https://www.teshimarestaurant.com

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Safe sunscreens for Hawaii: 5 zinc oxide & reef-safe sunscreens from worst to best

Posted on August 22, 2022October 4, 2022 by Angus

I tested a number of mineral zinc oxide sunscreens in order to find out what works the best, doesn’t leave a thick white residue, is easy to apply, and most importantly is good for the environment.

I tested 5 different sunscreens and rated and reviewed these from worst to best.

My skin type

I have a Scottish/New Zealand background and as a result my skin is extremely fair. I burn easily and do not tan (at least not naturally!). I was looking for a sunscreen that was going to meet the guidelines being set by the state of Hawaii in regards to the marine environment and the coral reef, and that would also work for my skin type.

Nano and non-nano oxide explained

Nano sunscreens refer to those that contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide which have been broken down into nanoparticles. This means that you get the sun protection without the residue often found in non-nano sunscreens (the bigger particles that reflect the sun’s rays more easily). There are concerns over the safely of nanoparticles if inhaled (see research by the Environmental Working Group, EWG, and also the International Agency for Research on Carcinogens).

Does this mean that nanoparticles can be absorbed into the body? Research suggests this NOT to be the case (see research by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration).

If you are still cautious you might consider using sunscreens which are non-nano. Please note, there is no agreed upon threshold for what differentiates nano from non-nano, so some claims can be misleading.

5. Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50

Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen is SPF 50 with up to 80 minutes water resistance. It contains no fragrance, phthalates or parabens. It contains 25% zinc, as well as 7 Hawaii-grown antioxidant ingredients. These ingredients include, kukui, macadamia, noni, spirulina and plumeria.

Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. Also contains no avobenzone or octocrylene, the two ingredients that will be banned from January 2023.

Verdict: The lotion is a noticeably thicker than some of the other products we tested and I found it was harder to apply as a result. There was a noticeable residue on application, although it did eventually fade. There is also a faint natural scent due to the additional natural ingredients, which wasn’t overpowering but for those looking for something completely unscented they may want to reconsider using this brand. It was also difficult to rinse off my hands and left a greasy residue.

Rating: 5.5/10

Cruelty Free: Yes

Vegan: Yes

Non-nano: Yes

4. Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF50

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face sunscreen is SPF 50 (water resistant for up to 80 minutes) and contains 12% zinc oxide. It is formulated with zinc and prebiotics as well as vitamin E.

Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. Also contains no avobenzone or octocrylene, the two ingredients that will be banned from January 2023.

Verdict: The lotion is light and application was easy. There is some white residue but it fades quickly and there is no scent or oily texture.

Rating: 7.5/10 for performance of this product BUT downgraded to 3/10 for the reasons below.

Cruelty Free: No, Cetaphil is not a cruelty-free skincare brand. Even though they claim to not test on animals, they choose to sell in a country (China) that requires imported cosmetics to be tested on animals.

Vegan: Cetaphil is not considered to be vegan because they test their products or ingredients on animals, or allow others to do so on their behalf.

Non-nano: No

3. ThinkSport SPF 50 Sunscreen

ThinkSport sunscreen SPF 50 is a non-nano mineral zinc oxide sunscreen. It contains hyaluronic acid which attracts moisture for added hydration, and also vitamin E which helps to condition the skin.

Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. Also contains no avobenzone or octocrylene, the two ingredients that will be banned from January 2023.

Verdict: This lotion is quite thick but was easy to apply to the skin. There is definitely a white residue left behind but this does fade somewhat, though it will make you look noticeably paler. It was also difficult to wash off my hands and does seem to have a greasy base to it.

Rating: 7/10

Cruelty Free: Yes

Vegan: Yes

Non-nano: Yes

2. Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen SPF30

This organic certified natural mineral sunscreen contains no synthetic chemicals. It contains sunflower oil, cocoa butter and vitamin E among other nourishing antioxidant ingredients. It contains 23% zinc oxide and offers SPF 30 protection.

Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. Also contains no avobenzone or octocrylene, the two ingredients that will be banned from January 2023.

Verdict: This product is thicker than the others we tested but I loved the way this feels. It goes on smoothly, most likely due to the sunflower oil and cocoa butter ingredients, and does not leave a white residue. Despite it feeling thick (it’s a little tougher getting it out of the tube) it doesn’t feel thick on the skin.

Rating: 8/10

Cruelty Free: Yes

Vegan: Yes

Non-nano: Yes

1. Native Mineral Face Lotion Unscented SPF30

Native specializes in creating products that are as free of chemicals as possible. Their range of sunscreen includes the Mineral Face Lotion. This product contains 20% zinc oxide, and advertises itself as absorbing quickly, with no residue as well as being lightweight and non-greasy.

Contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. Also contains no avobenzone or octocrylene, the two ingredients that will be banned from January 2023.

Verdict: Definitely lives up to the description. The lotion is lightweight and not all greasy. It absorbed quickly and did not leave a white residue that is common with zinc oxide-based sunscreens. We also tried the body sunscreen which was slightly thicker but just as non-greasy. The face lotion contains avocado oil which gives it a lighter consistency.

Rating: 8.5/10

Cruelty Free: Yes

Vegan: Yes

Non-nano: Yes

The Native Mineral Face Lotion was the clear winner. It is light and non-greasy and doesn’t leave a white residue. It’s also non-nano, cruelty-free and vegan. The Raw Elements Sunscreen was the runner-up, some might find it on the thicker side however it does go on smoothly.

(*** NOTE: the opinions expressed in this review are our own and we have not been sponsored or paid in any way to promote any of the brands mentioned above ***)

Check out our blog on why reef-safe sunscreen is so important.

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Reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii and why it matters

Posted on July 31, 2022October 4, 2022 by Angus

Ingredients in sunscreen having been doing damage to the coral reefs in Hawaii for years. These chemicals cause damage to the DNA of the coral, resulting in deformities, bleaching and sometimes even the death of the coral itself.

What's in the sunscreen that causes the damage?

In January, 2021 SB2571 came into effect in the state of Hawaii. This bill banned the sale of any sunscreen that contained oxybenzone or octinoxate (unless prescribed by a healthcare provider). The Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources had banned the use of these sunscreens a year earlier in Kealakekua Bay. This specifically targeted the tour boats that operate in the bay every day.

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are both FDA-approved compounds and are present in approximately 80% of all sunscreens.

Sunscreens that also contain petrolatum, also known as mineral oil, often take years to biodegrade and are also harmful to marine life.

Titanium Oxide does not easily biodegrade either – in fact it reacts to warm water by forming hydrogen peroxide which causes damage to marine life. However, reef-safe sunscreen that contain low concerntrations of the active ingredients zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide are considered safe.

Environmental Impacts

Coral reefs in the Hawaiian Islands are flooded with 6,000 tonnes of sunscreen every year.

It doesn’t take much to cause harm to the coral reef. Only a very small amount of oxybenzone (the equivalent of one drop of water into an area the size of 6.5 Olympic-sized swimming pools) can cause harm. Unfortunately, testing has revealed that some Hawaiian beaches show levels 10 times that amount.

Impact from sunscreen chemicals is only one factor among many causing ongoing damage to marine environments. Ocean acidification, water pollution and rising sea temperatures are all causing systemic problems to the ecosystem.

More changes ahead

In January 2023, a new law will ban the sale of sunscreen containing the ingredients avobenzone or octocrylene.

Maui has also passed a law which will come into effect October 1st, 2022 which will ban all non-mineral sunscreens.

What can you do to help?

Make a concerted effort to buy reef-safe sunscreen. Look for the label on all certified sunscreens. Alternatively, try to reduce your reliance on sunscreens:

Stay out of the sun between 10am – 2pm
Use an umbrella
Wear a sunhat
Wear UV-protected sunglasses
Wear sun shirts and other UV protecting clothes where possible

The following are a list of some of the available reef-safe sunscreens in Hawaii:

Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian
SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen
Mama Kuleana Waterproof SPF 30 Reef-safe Sunscreen
Little Hands Hawaii SPF 35+ All-natural and Organic Sunscreen
Manda Organic SPF 50 Sun Paste
Raw Love SPF 35 All-natural Mineral Sunscreen
Thinksport SPF 50 Sunscreen
All Good SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion
Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Badger SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Cream
Raw Elements SPF 30 Certified Natural Sunscreen
Stream2Sea SPF 30 Mineral Sunblock
Loving Naturals Clear Body SPF 30+ All-natural Sunscreen
Banana Boat Simply Protect SPF 50+ Sunscreen (spray, not lotion)
Olita Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

Check out our sunscreen review! We test and rate five different sunscreens.

Make sure you buy reef-safe sunscreen and do your part to reducing the human impact on the fragile coral reefs and the larger Hawaiian marine ecosystem.

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Restaurant review: Black Rock Pizza

Posted on July 16, 2022July 31, 2022 by Angus

Black Rock Pizza has become a favorite with locals and tourists. Located in the center of Captain Cook they make a large array of delicious pizzas and tasty salads, plus they have local beer on tap. We stopped by for an early dinner.

We arrived at Black Rock Pizza on a late Sunday afternoon and the restaurant was in a languid quiet phase before the dinner rush.

Black Rock is opposite ChoiceMart on Mamalahoa Highway with a small number of parking spaces directly outside the restaurant as well as adequate parking on a nearby side street.

The interior has been nicely remodeled and there is plenty of seating inside as well as outside in front. But of you want to sit outside (but not look directly onto the highway) there is also a spacious lanai at the rear with views of the ocean.

The outside seating is a big plus when it comes to remaining socially distant from other patrons when eating out, and enjoying the late afternoon breeze. We grabbed a table at the far end with a great view.

The menu

Black Rock has an extensive menu of pizzas and salads (they even do dessert – check out their cannoli) and they make their own special sauces. We ordered the Veggie Head (red sauce, spinach, mozzarella, red onion, eggplant, zucchini, artichoke, roasted red peppers, black olive) in medium size, and the BBQ chicken (Kiawe Mango BBQ, chicken, bacon, red onion, roasted red peppers and smoked mozzarella) also in medium. They also serve wine and local beer on tap (from the Kona Brewing Company and the Ola Brewing Company).

What we ordered

(Above) Veggie Head ($20) – the pizza was delicious. The crust was just the right thickness, not too thick and not too thin. The sauce was great, and the combination of veggies was extremely tasty.

(Above) BBQ Chicken ($22) – The BBQ sauce was delicious and the chicken was crispy. Great flavor combinations.

The medium-sized (12″) pizza was a lot of pizza for one person and we both agreed that next time the 8″ pizza would have been just the right amount. Having said that, we ate every slice and were well-satisfied!

Service was quick, friendly and efficient. Black Rock Pizza also has an option to pickup uncooked pizzas so you can take them home and bake them in the oven (which might be a good option if you’re far from home). Best to call ahead if you want to pickup during the busy dinner rush. Check out their menu here.

Black Rock Pizza

82-6127 Mamalahoa Highway

Captain Cook

Hawaii 96704

Ph. 808 238 0571

Hours: Mon-Sun, 11am-8pm

https://www.blackrock.pizza

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