Logo for the Kona Kai Festival featuring stylized white text with the word 'KONA' and abstract fish illustrations.

Dive into the Kona Kai Festival, where tradition meets innovation in the pursuit of ocean conservation. This dynamic event offers a day of inspiration, education, and action. Learn from kūpuna, explore the latest in coral restoration, discover exciting job opportunities in ocean science, enjoy live music, and experience fun learning activities for keiki and more!

People at a panel discussion or event wearing Hawaiian leis, with one person holding a microphone. They are sitting at a table with microphones.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Abstract illustration of a large floral or leafy plant with multiple stems and smaller branches, rendered in light teal color with black outlines against a black background. Kona Kai Fest.
Three green fish silhouettes arranged in a horizontal row. Kona Kai Fest.

A day where ocean, culture, and community meet. Kona Kai Fest brings together voices, practices, and experiences that celebrate Hawaiʻi’s relationship with the sea—from knowledge-sharing to hands-on learning, from music to meals. Come curious. Leave connected.

  • Dive into conversations shaping the future of Hawaiʻi’s ocean and communities.

    Tidepool Thinktank

    ​10:00 AM  | Welcome & Opening Protocols

    • ​Kaho’okahi Kanuha – Opening Protocol & Emcee

    • ​10:10 AM | Kaimana Barcarse + Dory Wong: “Why Blue Economy, Why Hawai’i”

    ​10:20 – 11:20 AM |  Saving Our Ko'a

    • ​Moderator: Carissa Cabrera

    • ​Speakers: Keanu Binney-Medeiros, Greg Asner, Akoni Pelacat-Nelson, Jessica Glazner

    ​1:00 - 2:00 PM | Mo'olelo for the Next Generation

    • ​Moderator: Kolby Moser

    • ​Speakers: Uncle Chuck Leslie, Aunty Cindi Punihaole, Uncle Charles Young

    ​2:15 - 3:15  PM | Kuleana In Action

    • ​Moderator: Keoni DeFranco, Purple Mai‘a

    • ​Speakers: Lanihuli Kanahele, Alex Awo, Anthony Mau, Laila Kaupu

    ​3:30 - 4:30  PM | Waterwomen & Watermen

    • ​Moderator: Ipo Morgan

    • ​Speakers: Bruce Ayau, CJ Kanuha, Ulu Nāpeʻahi

  • Come with your whole crew—this is not a “just watch” kind of day.

    Hands-on, intergenerational activities invite keiki and adults alike to learn, create, and connect with ʻike Hawaiʻi and ocean practices.

    Activities include:

    • Net making & throwing

    • Limu identification & touch tanks

    • Fish pole building

    • Limu pressing & printing

    • Keiki scavenger hunt

  • Support local, meet the makers, and take a piece of the day home with you.

    We’re bringing together Hawaiʻi-based vendors, artisans, and organizations rooted in sustainability, culture, and community. Expect everything from ocean-inspired goods to mission-driven booths sharing knowledge and resources.

  • Let the rhythm carry you through the day.

    Enjoy live performances and DJs throughout the festival, featuring local artists and special guests. From laid-back daytime vibes to an evening set with Kaʻikena Scanlan, music will flow alongside the ocean energy.

  • Come hungry. Stay longer.

    Enjoy a curated lineup of food vendors, chef tastings, and fresh coastal flavors—including an oyster bar and local favorites.

    Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in between panels, there’s something for everyone.

Logo for Kona Kai Fest featuring stylized representation of coral or brain coral in light pink on a dark blue background.
A group of people, including a woman with a large sunhat, a man with curly hair, and children, are gathered around a table at an outdoor event. The woman with a sunhat is talking to a young woman behind the table who is wearing a turquoise shirt with the logo 'EWallu Industries.' There are flyers and flowers on the table, and a large informational sign is in the background.
A group of people gathered outdoors under a covered area, engaging in conversation. Some are smiling and gesturing, with various signs and posters visible among the crowd.
Crowd of people attending an outdoor event under a wooden canopy with string lights, some holding fans and wearing sunglasses, and a few standing at the back near a blue umbrella.
A group of people attending a panel discussion or presentation in a room with wood-paneled walls. The room features various nature-themed photographs, including wildlife and underwater scenes, hanging on the wall. Four women are seated at the front, with one woman speaking into a microphone.
A group of people gathered around a table at an outdoor event under a partly cloudy sky. One person is holding a fan and showing a sticker sheet with shell designs. Others are looking at the items on the table.