Wandering Along Hamakua
For those who enjoy flower scented air, rainforests, waterfalls and sweeping ocean views, a drive along the Hamakua coast will not disappoint. The drive is one that follows State Highway 19 from Hilo to Waimea. The two lane highway is a well travelled artery that links tiny towns of Paauilo, Honokaa and Laupahoehoe with Hilo to the south and Waimea to the north. It’s impossible to get lost along this Big Island drive since all roads either begin or end along the highway, so drop the top and soak in the sun and fun. Allow a minimum of three hours to enjoy the sights along the way.
Here are a few of the sights not to be missed along the Hamakua Coast:
Akaka Falls
From Hilo most will venture north for a visit to Akaka Falls. The state park is in fact a duo of waterfalls. The smaller is called Kahuna falls and plunges about 100 feet. The larger is Akaka Falls which is bout 440 feet long. There is a half-mile paved trail that winds under a tropical canopy before arriving at the scenic overlooks.
Onomea Scenic Drive
The signs along Highway 19 will announce the turn off to this four mile drive along narrow tree lined roads that cross bridges and offer beautiful scenic views of the beautiful Onomea Bay. Along this road be sure not to miss the water rushing from the lava tube near the entrance to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
Waipio Valley
This beautiful valley is one of the more special places in all of Hawaii. Historically it was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha the Great. Today it is home of several loi or taro fields that yield some of the sweetest poi in the islands. It is also the home of the endangered Hawaiian hawk. The I’o can be seen flying over the valley.
Hawaii Travel Advice: Rental cars are not allowed into Waipio Valley.
Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.
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