As elsewhere, life in Hawaii since mid-March has been very different. Hawaii ordered social distancing, the closure of non-essential businesses, a 14-day stay-in-place quarantine for all those arriving from out of state, and closure of beaches and parks. The result in Kona has been virtually no tourists, closed restaurants, very little traffic.
The outdoor Keauhou Farmers Market (where on Saturdays for more than ten years Rancho Aloha has sold coffee, avocados, and tropical fruit) was closed March 14.
But it is heartening that there appears to be progress. The Farmers Market opened on the 4th of July with masks and social distancing. It was great to again see (and try to recognize behind masks) our local resident customers. Restaurants and some beaches are carefully opening. State officials express hope that the 14-day quarantine for out of state arrivals can be lifted by September 1.
Rancho Aloha and all of Kona miss our friends and visitors from the mainland and elsewhere.
We hope to see you soon!