Honokaa HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Honokaa, Hawaii.
1. Waipio Valley Lookout
BREATHTAKING VALLEY VIEWS
Waipio Valley Lookout offers tranquil views of a lush valley, ocean, and cliffs, with a path leading to a black sand beach. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich local history while taking in the scenic beauty. The lookout serves as a gateway to the dramatic scenery of the Waipio Valley, making it one of Honokaa's top attractions.
2. Honokaa Chocolate Co
BEAN-TO-BAR CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE
Honokaa Chocolate Co offers an immersive chocolate farm tour highlighting the bean-to-bar process with tastings and educational sessions. Visitors can learn about cacao cultivation and high-quality goat milk chocolate production in a hands-on environment. The company showcases local Hawaiian chocolate craftsmanship, making it a sweet stop for chocolate lovers visiting the island.
3. Mauna Kea Tea
SERENE TEA FARM EXPERIENCE
Mauna Kea Tea is a tranquil tea farm nestled in serene surroundings that showcases the art of Japanese tea ceremonies and tea production. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tea tastings amid lush landscapes, learning about the cultivation process. The farm offers a peaceful retreat that combines agricultural education with the natural beauty of Hawaii's Big Island.
4. Hiilawe Falls
MAJESTIC HAWAIIAN WATERFALL
Hiilawe Falls is an impressive waterfall nestled within the scenic Waipio Valley near Honokaa. Visitors can marvel at this natural wonder that cascades dramatically down the lush valley cliffs. The falls are part of the rich cultural landscape that makes the Hamakua Coast a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
5. Honokaa People's Theatre
HISTORIC CULTURAL VENUE
The Honokaa People's Theatre stands as the historic centerpoint of Honokaa, dating back to 1930 and continuing to showcase movies and live performances. Located along Mamane Street, this cultural landmark preserves the town's plantation-era heritage while serving as a community gathering place. Visitors can experience both the architectural charm and the vibrant local arts scene through events hosted at this beloved venue.
6. Honokaa Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE HUB
The Honokaa Farmers Market showcases vendors offering an array of local products ranging from tropical fruits and fresh bread to honey and goat cheese. Visitors can also enjoy prepared foods like Thai cuisine and coffee while browsing the diverse selection of Hawaiian goods. The market welcomes SNAP/EBT benefits and features educational events and live entertainment, creating a community-centered shopping experience.
7. Horseback Riding Ranch Tours
SCENIC EQUESTRIAN ADVENTURES
Horseback riding tours near Honokaa take visitors through scenic ranch landscapes, offering a unique perspective of the northern Big Island's natural beauty. Participants have opportunities to taste organic, locally-grown fruits and learn about sustainable farming practices during their ride. These equestrian adventures combine outdoor recreation with agricultural education, making for a memorable Hawaiian experience.
8. Bird and Bee Hawaii
INTERACTIVE BEEKEEPING EXPERIENCE
Bird and Bee Hawaii is a small, woman-owned apiary on the Hamakua Coast offering interactive bee tours for small groups. Visitors receive an introduction to beekeeping in a dedicated bee barn classroom, providing insights into honey production and bee conservation. The hands-on experience connects participants with Hawaii's natural ecosystem while supporting local, sustainable agriculture.
9. Waipio Beach
SECLUDED BLACK SAND SHORE
Waipio Beach is a stunning black sand beach located at the mouth of the dramatic Waipio Valley near Honokaa. Visitors who make the challenging descent to this secluded shore are rewarded with pristine natural beauty and powerful surf. The beach is steeped in Hawaiian history and offers a glimpse into the authentic, less-commercialized side of Hawaii's natural landscape.
10. Hawaiian Vanilla Company
FIRST AMERICAN VANILLA FARM
The Hawaiian Vanilla Company offers visitors a unique agricultural experience as America's first commercial vanilla producer. Tours of the farm provide fascinating insights into the labor-intensive process of growing and curing vanilla beans in Hawaii's climate. Guests can enjoy vanilla-infused meals and purchase specialty products, making it a fragrant and flavorful stop on the Hamakua Coast.
11. Kalopa State Recreation Area
NATIVE FOREST HIKING HAVEN
Kalopa State Recreation Area showcases a native 'ohi'a forest ecosystem with well-maintained hiking trails through lush vegetation. Visitors can observe endemic Hawaiian plants and birds while enjoying the cool upland climate of the Hamakua region. The park offers picnic facilities and camping options, making it ideal for both day trips and longer immersions in Hawaii's natural environment.
12. Tex Drive In
FAMOUS PORTUGUESE MALASADAS SPOT
Tex Drive In, located on the outskirts of Honokaa, is known for its delicious malasadas, traditional Portuguese doughnuts that have become a Hawaiian favorite. Visitors can watch these sweet treats being made through viewing windows before enjoying them fresh and warm. The restaurant also offers a full menu of local comfort food, making it a popular stop for both tourists and residents exploring the Hamakua Coast.
13. Taro Gifts
HAWAII-MADE SOUVENIRS SHOP
Taro Gifts is a charming boutique in downtown Honokaa specializing in Hawaii-made goods and memorable souvenirs. Shoppers can browse through a carefully curated selection of local crafts, artwork, and specialty foods that showcase Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship. The store offers authentic keepsakes that go beyond typical tourist merchandise, providing visitors with meaningful mementos of their time on the Big Island.
14. Akaka Falls State Park
TOWERING TROPICAL WATERFALL
Akaka Falls State Park, located near Honokaa, features a spectacular 442-foot waterfall cascading through a lush rainforest setting. Visitors can enjoy a paved trail loop through tropical vegetation, offering views of both Akaka Falls and the smaller Kahuna Falls. The easily accessible park provides one of the most impressive waterfall experiences on the Big Island, making it a popular destination for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
15. Honokaa Street Art
VIBRANT CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS
Honokaa's street art installations transform the historic plantation town into an open-air gallery showcasing local artistic talent. Visitors can discover colorful murals and creative public art pieces while walking through downtown, each telling stories of Hawaiian culture and history. The evolving outdoor exhibition adds visual interest to Honokaa's charming architecture and provides perfect photo opportunities for travelers exploring this Big Island gem.