CONGREGATION KONA BETH SHALOM is located on the “Kona Coast” – the west side of HAWAI`I  ISLAND (called “The Big Island,” “Orchid Island,” or “Volcano Island”). It is the largest island in the United States and has the greatest land area in the Hawaiian archipelago: some 4,028 square miles (10,430 square kilometers) … about the area of Delaware and Rhode Island combined. All of the other Hawaiian islands could fit inside the Big Island (with room to spare!) yet only 13% of the state’s population lives here. The main town on the Kona coast is Kailua-Kona. A major highway (the only “freeway” on the island) connects  the Kona side with the city of Hilo on the island’s eastern coast …a 75 mile (120 kilometer) trip that passes between the majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, each towering almost 14,000 feet (4200 meters) above sea level. On “our island” you can witness creation as lava pouring from Kilauea volcano builds new land; see colorful fish on the reefs that appear to be hand-painted by HaShem; and experience the true relaxation and renewal of Shabbat in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Kona Beth Shalom has been West Hawaii’s Jewish Congregation since before 1985.