Attractions and Places To See around Honokaa - Top 6

Honokaa is a gateway to the scenic Hamakua Coast, offering stunning ocean views and lush, rain-fed landscapes. A must-see is the Waipio Valley Lookout, providing panoramic views of the 'Valley of the Kings' with its towering cliffs and distant black sand beach. You can also drive along the Old Mamalahoa Highway, a scenic route through rainforests and open green land, offering views of Onomea Bay and century-old bridges.

Yes, within the Waipio Valley, accessible from the Waipio Valley Lookout, you can find Hiilawe Falls. It is one of Hawaii's largest waterfalls, with water cascading down 1,450 feet. It can be admired by hiking or driving into the valley.

Honokaa boasts several historical and cultural landmarks. You can visit the Honokaa People's Theatre, a restored 1930s movie theater on Mamane Street, or explore the Honokaa Heritage Center for insights into the town's plantation past. Strolling down Historic Downtown Honokaa (Mamane Street) offers a glimpse into its plantation-era feel with wooden storefronts and historic buildings.

The Honokaa Heritage Center provides a free exhibit with historical photos and displays detailing Honokaa's plantation past. It also serves as a visitor center and gift shop. For more information on historic buildings, you can visit honokaaheritagecenter.org.

For hiking, the Kalopa State Recreation Area is a peaceful forested area with trails like the Perimeter Horse Trail, which is 2.3 miles long and suitable for hiking, offering loop options with other trails. You can find more hiking routes, including easy and moderate options like the Kalōpā Nature Trail loop, in the Hiking around Honokaa guide.

Absolutely. The Old Mamalahoa Highway is a four-mile scenic route connecting Waimea and Honokaa, winding through rainforests and open green land with views of Onomea Bay. The entire Hamakua Coast also offers a highly recommended scenic drive with stunning ocean views and rolling hills.

Yes, Honokaa offers various cycling routes. The Old Mamalahoa Highway is a popular choice for bikers, offering views and crossings of century-old bridges. For more options, including routes like the 'Mamalahoa Highway to Mamane Street loop' or the 'Waipi’o Valley Lookout loop', check out the Cycling around Honokaa guide.

Honokaa offers several family-friendly options. The Hamakua Harvest Sunday Farmers Market is a great place for families to explore local produce, food vendors, and entertainment. Kalopa State Recreation Area is ideal for picnicking and easy hikes. Farm tours, such as those offered by the Hawaiian Vanilla Company or Honoka'a Chocolate Farm, can also be engaging for all ages.

While specific wheelchair accessibility details for all attractions are not extensively documented, many of Honokaa's downtown areas, including Mamane Street with its shops and eateries, offer paved sidewalks. It's advisable to contact specific venues like the Honokaa People's Theatre or Honokaa Heritage Center directly for their accessibility provisions.

The Hamakua Harvest Sunday Farmers Market is the primary spot for local produce, food vendors, and unique goods. It operates on Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and supports local businesses and sustainable agriculture.

Mamane Street, Honokaa's historic downtown, is the heart of its shopping and dining scene. You'll find a variety of appealing boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, and inviting restaurants offering Hawaiian-influenced shopping and local cuisine, including traditional Hawaiian dishes, fresh seafood, and locally grown produce.

Honokaa's climate is generally pleasant year-round. However, for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the drier months typically offer more comfortable conditions. The Hamakua Coast is known for its rain-fed landscapes, so be prepared for potential showers regardless of the season. Checking local weather forecasts closer to your visit is always recommended.

To fully experience Honokaa's diverse offerings, including its natural features, historical sites, and local markets, planning at least a full day is recommended. If you wish to explore the Waipio Valley in depth, undertake longer hikes, or enjoy multiple farm tours, consider dedicating two to three days to the area.