The best road cycling routes around Honokaa

Road cycling routes around Honokaʻa feature diverse terrain, from lush rainforests and dramatic sea cliffs to expansive ocean views. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, including both challenging climbs and scenic descents, particularly along the Hāmākua Coast and towards the Waipiʻo Valley. Portions of the Old Mamalahoa Highway offer rolling hills and a more relaxed ride.

Yes, Honokaʻa offers several challenging routes for experienced road cyclists. For instance, the Honokaʻa to Spencer Beach Park route is a difficult 51.8-mile ride with significant elevation changes (over 1,480m ascent). Another demanding option is the Laupāhoehoe Beach Park to Honokaʻa route, a 39-mile path featuring dramatic coastal views and over 1,170m of elevation gain.

The region is rich with natural beauty. Many routes offer stunning ocean views, dramatic sea cliffs, and lush rainforests. You can experience the beauty of the Hāmākua Coast, with its characteristic eucalyptus trees lining the roads. The Old Mamalahoa Highway provides scenic stretches, sometimes leading to the panoramic Waipiʻo Valley Lookout, where you can see the 'Valley of the Kings' with its black sand beach and waterfalls.

While many routes involve significant elevation, some sections of the Old Mamalahoa Highway can be suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride, offering pleasant rolling hills and less traffic. Guided e-bike tours are also available along the Hāmākua Coast to the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout, which can be a great family-friendly option for enjoying the scenery with less physical exertion.

Honokaʻa generally offers good cycling conditions year-round due to Hawaii's tropical climate. However, the dry season (roughly May to October) might be preferred for more consistent sunny weather. The wet season (November to April) can bring more rain, but also makes the rainforests particularly lush and vibrant. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, there are loop options. A popular choice is the Old Mamalahoa Highway – Hāmākua Jodo Shu Mission loop from Honokaa. This moderate 24.8-mile (39.9 km) trail takes you through scenic rolling hills and past the historic Hāmākua Jodo Shu Mission, offering a great way to experience the local landscape and culture.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Honokaʻa, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse and stunning landscapes, including the lush rainforests, dramatic sea cliffs, and expansive ocean views along the Hāmākua Coast. The variety of routes, from moderate to challenging, also contributes to its appeal.

Yes, the region has significant historical and cultural sites. The Old Mamalahoa Highway – Hāmākua Jodo Shu Mission loop from Honokaa takes you past the Hāmākua Jodo Shu Mission, Hawaii's first sanctioned Buddhist temple. While not directly on a cycling route, the Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, a major ancient Hawaiian temple, is also nearby and worth exploring.

Honokaʻa itself is an old plantation town with local shops and restaurants offering locally-sourced ingredients, making it a good starting or ending point for meals and resupply. While specific cafes directly on every route might be limited, planning your ride to pass through Honokaʻa or other small towns along the Hāmākua Coast will provide opportunities for refreshments and provisions.

There are several road cycling routes around Honokaʻa, with komoot featuring 6 distinct tours. These include a mix of moderate and difficult options, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.

Absolutely! Beyond the stunning natural scenery, you might pass by the Old Mamalahoa Highway itself, which is a highlight for its scenic beauty. The Hamakua Harvest Sunday Farmers Market in Honokaʻa is a great place to visit if your ride coincides with market hours. The Waipiʻo Valley Lookout offers breathtaking views of the 'Valley of the Kings' and its waterfalls.