Hawai'i the Big Island - Hawaii - page 249

Ironman Triathlon World Championship SPORTS
( http://ironman.com ) This legendary event, held on the Kona Coast in early October, com-
bines a 2.4-mile ocean swim, 112-mile bike race and 26.2-mile marathon - the ultimate
race, which must be completed in 17 hours or fewer.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival COFFEE
( www.konacoffeefest.com ) For 10 days during harvest season in November the community
celebrates Kona coffee-pioneers and their gourmet brew. Events include a cupping com-
petition (like a wine tasting), art exhibits, farm tours, parades, concerts and a coffee-pick-
ing race.
Sleeping
The quality of many hotels and condos along Aliʻi Dr in the walkable center of Kailua-
Kona trend toward fair to middling. More attractive offerings are just outside town.
Reservations for all listed properties are recommended in high season.
Kona Tiki Hotel HOTEL $
MAP
( 329-1425; www.konatikihotel.com ; 75-5968 Aliʻi Dr; r $80-145; ) The nothing-special
rooms (with refrigerator, but no TV or phone) in this older three-story building would be
forgettable if the intimate hush of crashing waves didn't tuck you in every night. Snug on
a restless cove, the Kona Tiki is well kept, friendly and surprisingly romantic. The more
expensive rooms have kitchenettes.
Casa de Emdeko CONDO $
MAP
( 329-2160; www.casadeemdeko.org ; 75-6082 Aliʻi Dr; 1- & 2-bedroom from $95; ) With
Spanish-tile roofs, white stucco, immaculate gardens and two pools, this vacation rental
complex is stylish and restful. Units are overall up-to-date, well cared for and nicely
priced.
Koa Wood Hale Inn/Patey's Place HOSTEL $
MAP GOOGLE MAP
( 329-9663; 75-184 Ala Ona Ona St; dm/s/d from $30/55/65; ) This oddly named
hostel is Kona's crashpad for backpackers. There's basic, clean dorms and private rooms
(all with shared baths, kitchens and living rooms) on a residential street that's walking