Hāmākua Coast

Located just north of Hilo on the northeastern side of the island of Hawaiʻi, the Hāmākua Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of scenery on the island. With nearly 84 inches of rainfall a year, the region boasts lush tropical rainforests, stunning waterfalls and tranquil green valleys. 

During most of the 19th and 20th centuries, the Hāmākua Coast was covered with sugar cane. Today, communities can still be found where small farmers grow kalo (taro), hearts of palm, vegetables and tropical fruit. Small towns like Historic Honokaʻa Town also feature specialty shops and boutiques with their own local flavor.

For a memorable drive, take the Hāmākua Heritage Corridor from Hilo to Waipiʻo Valley Lookout. As you drive along the scenic coast, you’ll see deep water-carved gulches, thick with tropical foliage. Stop and tour gardens full of exotic plants, including the Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden and World Botanical Gardens with its triple-tiered Umauma Falls. The heritage drive includes two of the island’s most famous waterfalls—the 442-foot-high ʻAkaka Falls and the 100-foot-tall Kahuna Falls. One look at their cascading beauty and you’ll understand why they’re called wailele (leaping waters). At the end of your journey, stop at the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout to savor a truly stunning panoramic view.