Honokaa, HI

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Kukuihaele featuring landscape views, tropical scenes and rocky coastline
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau

Scenic drives and picturesque lookouts, local art galleries, golf and theater welcome travelers to the northeast coast of Hawai’i, the state’s scenic Big Island.

Honokaa is a community village situated on the northeast coast of Hawai’i Island, which is also known as Big Island. The friendly village faces the Pacific Ocean and is a gateway to the island’s Hamakua Coast, a region famous for its breathtaking scenery, postcard-perfect waterfalls and green valleys.

A good place to start your visit is in Honokaa’s historic downtown. Stroll along Mamane Street, where annual horse races were once held. Today the street has cafés and restaurants in addition to a handful of interesting antique stores and galleries. Visit the Big Island Glass Gallery to watch glass-blowing demonstrations and see local art exhibitions. On a Saturday morning, browse the farmers market for fresh, local produce.

Watch a movie, attend a concert or take part in dance and theater workshops at the Honokaa People’s Theater. It’s the biggest theater on the island and dates back to 1930. Play golf at the Hamakua Country Club, a short walk from Honokaa’s town center.

A highlight of visiting Honokaa is seeing the Waipio Valley. Rent a car and drive to the Waipio Valley Lookout, which presents uninterrupted views of the valley, cliffs and coastline. Hike, ride on horseback or join a four-wheel drive tour to beaches and waterfalls, including 1,450-feet (442-meter) tall Hiilawe Falls. Tours run from Honokaa and knowledgeable guides will share the stories and legends of the valley. On your way to the valley, stop by Neptune’s Garden Gallery and Waipio Valley Artworks to see displays of local arts and crafts.

Honokaa is about a 1-hour drive north from Hilo, the largest village on Hawai’i Island. Hilo has an international airport. You can catch a bus from Hilo to Honokaa, but most people rent a car because of the freedom it gives to explore the island at your own pace. Don’t miss the Hamakua Heritage Corridor, a coastal route between Hilo and Waipo Valley that includes waterfalls, rainforests, botanical gardens, beaches and picnic areas.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

5 out of 5
68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr, Kamuela, HI
The price is NT$14,115 per night from Aug 22 to Aug 23
NT$14,115
NT$18,753 total
Aug 22 - Aug 23
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,003 reviews)
"We stayed for a week with family and had an amazing time"

Reviewed on 2025/7/17

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Fairmont Orchid

Fairmont Orchid

4.5 out of 5
1 N Kaniku Drive Kohala, Kamuela, HI
The price is NT$14,147 per night from Aug 19 to Aug 20
NT$14,147
NT$18,371 total
Aug 19 - Aug 20
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"Every member of the staff was so friendly and kind. When they found out we we were celebrating our anniversary, they surprised us with chocolate covered strawberries and wine. My daughters and I loved seeing the sea turtles every day. This place is truly magical."

Reviewed on 2025/7/28

Fairmont Orchid
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

4 out of 5
62-100 Kauna'oa Drive, Kohala Coast, Kamuela, HI
The price is NT$14,372 per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
NT$14,372
NT$18,250 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,005 reviews)
"It’s true paradise it’s a little out of the way so food can be tricky but so worth the complete get away at the most amazing location"

Reviewed on 2025/7/28

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mauna Kea Residences

Mauna Kea Residences

4 out of 5
62-100 Kauna’oa Dr, Kamuela, HI
Stay at this 4-star beach aparthotel in Kamuela. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Mauna Kea Beach and Hāpuna Beach State ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (36 reviews)
"Excellent location just off the beach."

Reviewed on 2025/7/7

Mauna Kea Residences
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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