Lihue International Airport (Lihue Airport - LIH)
Unlike larger international airports like Honolulu (HNL), Kona International Airport (KOA) does not currently offer full-service airline lounges such as the Qantas Lounge, Delta Sky Club, or United Club. KOA's open-air design and smaller scale reflect the laid-back spirit of the Big Island but also mean travelers will find fewer traditional lounge-style amenities.
However, that doesn't mean comfort and convenience are out of reach. While there are no premium lounges onsite, travelers at KOA can still find quiet spaces, essential amenities, and nearby alternatives that serve similar purposes for relaxation, productivity, and refreshment before a flight.
Kona Airport offers a rustic and open-air terminal layout, with shaded waiting areas and scenic views of the lava fields and Pacific Ocean. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, allowing travelers to enjoy Hawai'i's tropical climate while they wait. Though there are no formal lounges, KOA provides basic amenities including:
Free public Wi-Fi
Restrooms located near all gate areas
Nearby grab-and-go food counters and vending machines
Souvenir shops offering local snacks, drinks, and reading materials
These options provide essential comfort for short stays, and the airport's easy-to-navigate design minimizes walking distances between gates, baggage claim, and check-in counters.
While you won't find business-class lounges or airline-branded spaces at KOA, here are a few alternatives and suggestions to elevate your pre-flight experience:
If you're looking to relax before an afternoon or evening flight, several nearby Kona-area resorts offer day pass access to their pools, spas, and lounges. These include:
Royal Kona Resort
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
These resorts are within 15–30 minutes of the airport and offer luxurious settings to unwind before heading to KOA. Access may include pool use, showers, dining, and spa facilities—perfect for travelers with long layovers or late checkouts.
Priority Pass members will not currently find a participating lounge inside KOA. However, some Kona restaurants or cafes in the future may opt in to the Priority Pass restaurant program, so it's worth checking your app or account periodically before travel.
As of now, KOA does not have any Priority Pass lounge locations, so members are encouraged to plan ahead if they're seeking lounge-style benefits.
Though informal, KOA's compact size means you can often find less crowded corners of the terminal to relax or work. Some gates, especially during off-peak hours, remain relatively quiet. Bring a travel pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and a personal hotspot or downloaded content for comfort.
Tip: The gate areas facing the ocean side of the airport offer peaceful views and natural airflow, providing a calm place to relax.
While limited, KOA offers a selection of food stands and kiosks where you can grab a bite before boarding. Options may include:
Fresh island snacks (macadamia nuts, dried fruit)
Sandwiches, poke bowls, and wraps
Coffee and smoothie stands
Local beer and packaged beverages
While not a full buffet or bar, these local vendors give a taste of Hawai'i's culinary flair before you take off.
If you're a business traveler, prepare ahead:
Use KOA's free Wi-Fi for last-minute email or document work
Bring a portable charger or power bank—electrical outlets are limited
Download media or work files in advance in case of slow signal strength
Consider pairing your KOA flight with an airport lounge experience at your next destination or connection point, such as Honolulu (HNL), Los Angeles (LAX), or San Francisco (SFO), all of which offer full lounge services
While Kona International Airport lacks a dedicated lounge facility, its laid-back atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and efficient layout help offset the absence of premium spaces. For travelers seeking luxury or extended comfort, pairing your flight with a resort day pass, early hotel checkout, or a premium lounge at your connecting airport is the best way to enjoy a more complete pre-flight experience.
Whether you're headed to the mainland, island hopping, or flying in for a Big Island adventure, KOA delivers a friendly, relaxed Hawaiian welcome—and sendoff—even without a traditional lounge.