There’s something undeniably magical about Volcano Village. Nestled in the lush rainforest near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, this quiet hamlet brims with artistic spirit and natural beauty. Among its treasures is Ira Ono, a visionary artist, chef, and community advocate whose creative energy has turned his property into a sanctuary of Hawaiian art, food, and aloha. If you’re staying at our Big Island bed and breakfast, visiting Café Ono and Volcano Garden Arts isn’t just a pit stop; it’s an experience that connects you to the soul of this remarkable place.
The Visionary Behind the Magic
Ira Ono began his journey into the world of art and creativity in Brooklyn, New York, where he attended the prestigious High School of Performing Arts with a major in dance. His early passion for the arts expanded when he pursued a BFA in painting from Tyler School of Art at Temple University. He further honed his skills in sculpture, earning a Max Beckman scholarship to study at the Brooklyn Museum School. Inspired by his travels through Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Europe, Ira developed a rich and diverse artistic perspective.
In 1968, a visit to Hana, Maui, became a life-changing moment, prompting him to leave Brooklyn behind. There, he co-founded Hana’s first art gallery, revitalized the ceramics department at Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center, and established Maui’s first craft gallery, now known as Maui Crafts Guild. His move to Volcano Village in 1980 marked the beginning of a new chapter where he continued to blend art, sustainability, and community. His work, featured in galleries from Norway to Japan, embodies intuitive creativity and a connection to the past, evoking memories through colors, shapes, and textures. Today, he continues to inspire visitors at Volcano Garden Arts and Café Ono, championing creativity, environmental stewardship, and local artistry.
Volcano Garden Arts: A Feast for the Senses
The grounds of Volcano Garden Arts feel straight out of a fairytale. The gardens are lush with vibrant sculptures, colorful flowers, and winding paths to explore.
Inside the gallery, Ira curates an eclectic collection of Hawaiian art and crafts, featuring everything from locally made jewelry to hand-thrown pottery and textiles. Each piece, inspired by the island’s volcanic landscapes, rainforest flora, or cultural traditions, tells a story. You’ll probably find it difficult to walk away from the captivating creativity on display. If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or a meaningful gift, this is the place to find it!
What makes Volcano Garden Arts truly special is its emphasis on community. Ira’s commitment to supporting local artists shines through in every corner of the gallery. By showcasing their work, he creates a platform for their talents while enriching the cultural fabric of the Big Island.
Café Ono: A Hidden Culinary Gem
After wandering through the gardens and gallery, there’s no better way to recharge than at Café Ono. This charming vegetarian café, tucked within the Volcano Garden Arts property, serves up meals that are as nourishing for the soul as they are for the body.
The café embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes bursting with flavor. The menu is small but thoughtfully curated, featuring items like hearty soups, fresh salads, and gourmet gluten-free entrees. Don’t miss the homemade desserts—everything from rich chocolate brownies to homemade apple pie.
Dining at Café Ono isn’t just about the food. It’s about the atmosphere. You might find yourself seated in the cozy indoor dining area, surrounded by Ira’s artwork, or out on the garden patio, where the gentle rustling of leaves and birdsong provide the perfect soundtrack to your meal. It’s no wonder this spot is often touted as one of the best Volcano Hawaii restaurants and even ranks among the best restaurants on the Big Island.
The Spirit of Aloha
The warm and welcoming Aloha sprit can be felt at every moment of your experience at Volcano Garden Arts and Café Ono. From the warm welcome you receive when you arrive to the personal touches in the art and food, everything feels like it’s been crafted with care.
Ira himself is often on-site, greeting visitors and sharing stories about the property’s history or the artists he works with. It’s this personal connection that turns a visit here into something unforgettable. Check the website for updated opening hours, as of this blog the gallery is open daily from 10 am – 4 pm daily, and Cafe Ono is open Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun from 11am to 2 pm.
A Perfect Pairing with Volcano Village Lodge
One of the best parts about Café Ono and Volcano Garden Arts is their proximity to Volcano Village Lodge. After a restful morning at our Big Island bed and breakfast, you can spend an afternoon immersed in art, culture, and delicious food, all just minutes away.
Make Your Visit Unforgettable
Enjoy incredible food, admire the stunning Hawaiian art, find a unique souvenir to remember your travels, and meet a visionary who has poured his passion into creating something truly special. This is the one-of-a-kind experience you can expect at Café Ono and Volcano Garden Arts.
Ready to start your adventure? Book your stay now and immerse yourself in the artistic heart of Volcano Village.