Hakalau is a small Hawaiian community located on the eastern coast of the Big Island in the United States. This hidden gem is nestled in be…
Best for you if…
Hakalau is a strong pick for nature exploration & hiking — plan about 7 days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: Summer.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 93/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈99.1 km span)
High season: Summer
Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · March · April · November · December
20-25°C
20-25°C
25-30°C
15-20°C
Hakalau is a charming town located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, United States. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforests and breathtaking coastal views, Hakalau is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Here are a few ways to reach Hakalau:
The nearest major airport to Hakalau is Hilo International Airport (ITO), which is approximately 17 miles south of the town. Several airlines operate regular flights to Hilo from various cities in the United States. From the airport, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Hakalau. The scenic drive takes about 30 minutes along the picturesque Hamakua Coast.
If you are already on the Big Island, getting to Hakalau by car is a convenient option. From Hilo, take Highway 19 northbound and continue for approximately 12 miles until you reach Hakalau. The drive offers stunning views of the coastline and lush greenery, making the journey itself a memorable experience.
While public transportation options are limited on the Big Island, there is a bus service called Hele-On that operates from Hilo to various destinations. You can take the Hele-On bus from Hilo to Hakalau, but be sure to check the schedule in advance as the frequency of buses might be limited. Additionally, it is advisable to have a backup plan or alternative mode of transportation.
Another way to reach Hakalau is by joining a guided tour. Many tour operators offer day trips or multi-day excursions that include transportation to Hakalau and other popular attractions on the Big Island. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey while knowledgeable guides provide insights about the area.
Regardless of how you choose to reach Hakalau, once you arrive, you will be greeted by the town's peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. Whether you are seeking adventure in the nearby Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge or simply looking to unwind on the stunning Hakalau Beach, this hidden paradise is well worth the journey.
Hakalau is a small Hawaiian community located on the eastern coast of the Big Island in the United States. This hidden gem is nestled in between lush green forests and the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. It offers stunning views of the Mauna Kea volcano and is home to a vibrant local culture, making it a unique destination for those seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience.
Visitors can explore the beautiful Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, a pristine rainforest that is home to a variety of native plant and animal species, including the endangered Hawaiian hawk and the Hawaii amakihi bird. The refuge is also home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the stunning Umauma Falls, which cascades over 100 feet into a pool below.
Hakalau also offers visitors the opportunity to explore the local culture and history through visits to the Hakalau Plantation Village, a former sugar cane plantation that has been transformed into a living museum. Visitors can learn about the lives of the workers who lived and worked on the plantation, as well as the rich history of Hawaii's sugar industry.
Overall, Hakalau is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience. Whether you're interested in exploring the natural beauty of the island or learning about its rich culture and history, this hidden gem has something for everyone.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
50 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~1 km · 3 places
~0.8 km · 2 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
~3.3 km · 4 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
~2 km · 4 places
~0.3 km · 2 places
~16 km · 7 places
~4.8 km · 2 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~19 km path
~16.7 km path
~34.5 km path
~54.1 km path
~54 km path
~31.5 km path
~20.7 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 7 days in Hakalau, United States.
High season is typically Summer.
Travelers often find better value in January, February, March, April, November, December.
Hakalau suits Nature Exploration, Hiking, Beach Activities, Wildlife Viewing.
Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.
Pack sunscreen and insect repellent
Add Hakalau and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
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