Attractions and Places To See around Hawi - Top 6

The most popular natural viewpoint is Pololū Valley Lookout, offering breathtaking panoramic views of steep cliffs, green forests, and a dramatic black sand beach. It's recommended to visit before sunset. The Kohala Mountain Road (Highway 250) also provides stunning landscapes through cattle ranches and countryside.

Yes, the region is rich in history. You can visit Lapakahi State Historical Park, which displays the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. Another significant site is Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, home to the sacred Moʻokini Heiau, a temple built approximately 1500 years ago, and near the birthplace of King Kamehameha I.

Beyond exploring attractions, you can enjoy thrilling adventures like Kohala Zipline, which offers 8 lines, 6 sky bridges, and a rappel through a forest reserve. There are also Kohala Waterfalls Adventures and Big Island Eco Adventures 2 for exploring the region's natural beauty. For cycling, you can find routes like the 'Moʻokini Heiau via Hawi loop' or 'Hawi via Kapa‘au loop'. More details on cycling routes can be found on the Cycling around Hawi guide.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Lapakahi State Historical Park offers a self-guided tour of an ancient Hawaiian settlement, which can be an educational experience for all ages. The Hawi Main Street area with its shops, galleries, and farmers market is also a pleasant family outing.

Hawi generally enjoys pleasant weather year-round. However, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer a good balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The Pololū Valley Lookout is particularly beautiful before sunset, regardless of the season.

Hawi is known for its artistic community. The Hawi Main Street features unconventional shops, boutiques, and galleries such as Tiffany's Art Agency, Zeidman Wood Art Gallery, and the Kohala Artists' Cooperative. The Hawi Farmers Market, held on Saturdays, is also a great place to find local produce and artisan goods.

Absolutely. Just beyond Hawi in Kapaau, you'll find the original Statue of King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands. Additionally, the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is near King Kamehameha I's birthplace, making it a highly significant cultural site.

Yes, several attractions have nearby trails. A hiking trail leads into the Pololū Valley from its lookout point. Lapakahi State Historical Park has marked trails for exploring the ancient village ruins. The UPOLU Point Trail also offers coastline views and passes historical sites like Mo'okini Heiau.

Hawi offers charming local eateries. The Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery is a well-known stop, serving Pacific Rim dishes in a lively island atmosphere. For coffee lovers, Kohala Coffee Mill is popular for its 100% Kona coffee, gluten-free meals, and Big Island-made ice cream. You can find these and other options along Hawi Main Street.

Yes, Lapakahi State Historical Park is an excellent place to learn about ancient Hawaiian life. It preserves the ruins of a 600-year-old fishing village, where you can take a self-guided tour along marked trails to see rebuilt houses and walls made from lava stones, offering a direct glimpse into historical Hawaiian culture.

Visitors appreciate the spectacular views from places like Pololū Valley Lookout, often noting the beauty of the beach and cliffs. The historical sites like Lapakahi State Historical Park are valued for their educational insights into Hawaiian history. The peaceful atmosphere and charming shops along Hawi Main Street also receive positive feedback.

Yes, you can find coastal parks and beaches to enjoy. Keokea Beach Park and Mahukona Beach Park provide opportunities to experience the Hawaiian coastline. While not a park, the Pololū Valley Lookout also offers views of a dramatic black sand beach.

The Kauhola Point Lighthouse Site marks the location of a long-standing lighthouse originally built in 1933. Although the original lighthouse has been replaced by a metal marker, this secluded cape holds historical significance as a navigational aid for many years.