Population and Demographics
North Kona is the fastest-growing district on Hawai’i Island with a population of approximately 39,000 residents according to the 2020 Census. The population has increased by more than 40% since 2000, driven by tourism development, economic opportunities, and in-migration from both the mainland United States and other parts of Hawai’i. Kailua-Kona serves as the district’s main population center and the island's second-largest urban area after Hilo, with approximately 22,000 residents in the greater Kailua area. The district has the most diverse population on the island, with significant Caucasian, Native Hawaiian, Filipino, Japanese, Pacific Islander, and Latino communities. North Kona has a relatively young population compared to other districts, with many working-age residents drawn by employment opportunities in tourism, retail, and services. The district also has a substantial part-time resident population of snowbirds and vacation homeowners. The rapid population growth has created housing challenges, with many workers in the tourism industry commuting from adjacent districts due to high housing costs in North Kona.
Geography and Climate
The North Kona District covers approximately 260 square miles on the western side of Hawai’i Island. The district extends from the coastline to approximately 5,500 feet elevation on the slopes of Hualālai volcano. Rainfall varies dramatically with elevation, from less than 20 inches annually at the coast to over 70 inches in the upland coffee-growing regions. The lower elevation areas feature arid landscapes with extensive lava fields, while higher elevations support mesic forests and agricultural lands.
Agricultural Profile
North Kona is internationally recognized for its agricultural products, particularly coffee, which has been cultivated in the region since the early 19th century:
Coffee Production: The Kona Coffee Belt, extending approximately 20 miles along the slopes between 700 and 2,500 feet elevation, produces some of the world's most sought-after coffee. Approximately 600 small farms, most between 3-5 acres, cultivate coffee in the traditional manner.
Tropical Fruit: Farms produce avocados, mangoes, dragon fruit, and other tropical fruits for local markets.
Landscape Plants and Flowers: Nurseries take advantage of the favorable growing conditions to produce ornamental plants and tropical flowers.
Honey: Specialty honey production, including varieties from coffee, macadamia, and 'ōhi’a lehua blossoms.
The agricultural landscape is dominated by small family farms, many owned and operated by multi-generational farming families. The high value of Kona coffee has helped preserve agricultural land despite intense development pressure in the district.
Food System and Cultural Context
North Kona's food system reflects its position as both a major tourist destination and an agricultural region with deep historical roots. The district’s main commercial center, Kailua-Kona, serves as a hub for food distribution and marketing. The Keauhou Farmers Market and Ali'i Gardens Marketplace provide direct marketing opportunities for local producers.
The Kona coffee industry maintains strong cultural connections through events like the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, which celebrates the region's coffee heritage and the contributions of Japanese, Filipino, and other ethnic communities to its development. Several coffee mills provide processing infrastructure, while cooperatives like local agricultural cooperatives support marketing and distribution.
Traditional Hawaiian agricultural and gathering practices continue in areas like Kaloko-Honokōhau, where fishponds and coastal resources are being restored. The Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park preserves examples of traditional food production systems. Local ethnobotanical resources in Captain Cook serves as an important educational resource for indigenous crop varieties and agricultural practices.
North Kona’s food culture is also influenced by its status as a tourist destination, with numerous restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine that showcases local products. Organizations like farmer organizations work to strengthen connections between local producers and the visitor industry.