Honokaa Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Honokaa
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 theatre workshops at the Honokaa People’s Theatre. It’s the biggest theatre on the island and dates back to 1930. Play golf at the Hamakua Country Club, a short walk from Honokaa’s town centre.

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-metre) 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 ₹59,986 per night from 18 Jul to 19 Jul
₹59,986
₹76,834 total
18 Jul - 19 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
"Very good service, beautiful view."

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Fairmont Orchid

Fairmont Orchid

4.5 out of 5
1 N Kaniku Drive Kohala, Kamuela, HI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹38,540 per night from 15 Aug to 16 Aug
₹38,540
₹50,322 total
15 Aug - 16 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a full-service spa and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"I have nothing but AMAZING things to say about Fairmont! The entire place felt like paradise and the staff was so welcoming and helpful. I never felt more relaxed in my entire life. Also, be warned...their room service food is TOP NOTCH so you'll be spending a pretty penny if you're like me and can't ..."

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

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 ₹50,988 per night from 17 Jul to 18 Jul
₹50,988
₹63,892 total
17 Jul - 18 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury resort in Kamuela. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,006 reviews)
"Our stay at the Hapuna Beach was memorable. The staff was always friendly and helpful. The amenities were top rate. The views were beautiful. Glad we picked this resort to stay at. Mahalo!!"

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2025

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 Wi-Fi, 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 7 Jul 2025

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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