Wainaku HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wainaku, Hawaii.
1. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
ACTIVE VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park showcases the dramatic landscapes formed by some of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests, lava tubes, and across volcanic craters. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature and learn about Hawaiian cultural connections to these sacred lands.
2. Onomea Bay
JUNGLE MEETS OCEAN
Onomea Bay is a stunning coastal area located close to the Hawaiʻi Tropical Garden, offering a perfect combination of lush jungle and ocean views. The Onomea Bay Trail provides breathtaking vistas where visitors can experience Hawaii's natural beauty at its finest. This hidden gem allows travelers to enjoy the peaceful harmony between Hawaii's tropical forests and the Pacific Ocean.
3. Wailuku River Waterfall
MAJESTIC 26-METER CASCADE
The Wailuku River Waterfall is an impressive 26-meter high cascade that offers a magnificent display of nature's power. Visitors can observe the rushing waters of Hawaii's longest river as it plunges dramatically into the pool below. The surrounding area provides excellent viewing opportunities and a chance to connect with Hawaii's abundant natural water features.
4. Lyman Mission House and Museum
HISTORIC MISSIONARY LEGACY
The Lyman Mission House, built in 1839 for Christian missionaries David and Sarah Lyman, offers tours that provide insight into early missionary life in Hawaii. Adjacent to the historic home, the Lyman Museum displays a fascinating collection of artifacts and natural history exhibits established in 1931. This cultural institution helps visitors understand the complex interplay between Hawaiian traditions and Western influences throughout the islands' history.
5. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
ANCIENT ROYAL SANCTUARY
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park preserves an ancient Hawaiian place of refuge where lawbreakers could seek sanctuary and a royal village complex. The site features impressive heiau (temples) with intricately carved wooden kiʻi (statues), traditional fishponds, and numerous other archaeological treasures. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of ancient Hawaiians and gain profound insights into indigenous governance, spirituality, and daily life.
6. Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
HISTORIC LANDING SITE
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park marks the site of Captain James Cook's first landing on Hawaii Island in 1779, a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history. The bay, which is the largest sheltered bay on the island, contains a heiau (temple) dedicated to the god Lono and is designated as a marine life conservation district. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters while appreciating both the historical significance and natural beauty of this protected area.
7. Lapakahi State Historical Park
ANCIENT FISHING VILLAGE
Lapakahi State Historical Park preserves the remains of a 600-year-old Hawaiian fishing village through carefully maintained archaeological sites. Visitors can take a self-guided tour along the park's interpretive trail to learn about traditional Hawaiian coastal living and resource management. The oceanfront setting provides a stunning backdrop for exploring this important cultural landscape that offers a window into pre-contact Hawaiian society.
8. Coconut Island
ACCESSIBLE ISLAND PARADISE
Coconut Island is a small, beautiful island accessible from the mainland via a footbridge, creating a perfect swimming destination that remains relatively uncrowded. The island offers a peaceful escape with its palm trees, grassy areas, and panoramic views of Hilo Bay and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, swimming in protected waters, or simply relaxing in this tranquil setting just minutes from downtown Hilo.
9. Liliuokalani Gardens
SERENE JAPANESE GARDENS
Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautiful park with many quiet corners to linger and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The 24-acre Japanese garden, named after Hawaii's last reigning queen, features arching bridges, koi ponds, pagodas, and meticulously maintained Japanese landscaping. Visitors can stroll along winding paths while taking in views of Hilo Bay and Mokuola (Coconut Island) just offshore.
10. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
LUSH COASTAL RAINFOREST
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a spectacular 40-acre valley sanctuary featuring more than 2,000 species of tropical plants from around the world. Visitors follow a scenic trail that winds through lush rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, and along the dramatic coastline of Onomea Bay. The garden's mission includes the preservation of rare and endangered tropical plants while educating visitors about the importance of conservation.
11. Akaka Falls State Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL EXPERIENCE
Akaka Falls State Park features a spectacular 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a stream-eroded gorge surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Visitors can take a short paved trail through a rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves, and draping ferns to reach viewpoints of both Akaka Falls and the smaller 100-foot Kahuna Falls. The easily accessible loop trail makes this natural wonder one of the most visited attractions on the Big Island's northeastern coast.
12. Hilo Farmers Market
LOCAL FLAVORS AND CRAFTS
The Hilo Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering place featuring over 200 local farmers and crafters selling fresh produce, tropical flowers, prepared foods, and handcrafted items. Visitors can sample exotic fruits, purchase unique souvenirs, and interact with locals in this authentic Hawaiian marketplace. The market operates daily but is especially lively on Wednesdays and Saturdays when it expands to its full capacity.
13. Rainbow Falls
MORNING RAINBOW SPECTACLE
Rainbow Falls is an 80-foot waterfall on the Wailuku River where morning visitors are often treated to rainbows in the mist when the sun hits just right. The waterfall cascades over a natural lava cave that, according to Hawaiian mythology, is home to the ancient Hawaiian goddess Hina. A short paved path leads to the viewing area, while additional trails allow more adventurous visitors to climb to the top of the falls for a different perspective.
14. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo
UNIQUE TROPICAL WILDLIFE
The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States, housing over 80 animal species in a lush 12-acre setting. Visitors can observe endangered Hawaiian wildlife as well as exotic animals from around the world while walking through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring native and introduced tropical plants. The free zoo includes a popular children's petting zoo area and provides educational programs about conservation efforts.
15. Mehana Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Mehana Brewing Company is Hilo's premier craft brewery offering a range of distinctive beers inspired by local ingredients and Hawaiian culture. Visitors can tour the brewing facilities to learn about the beer-making process before enjoying a tasting flight in the taproom. The brewery's relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for refreshment after exploring the natural attractions around Wainaku and Hilo.