Pepeekeo is a small town located in the Hilo District of Hawaii County, on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is situated on the eastern coast of…
Best for you if…
Pepeekeo is a strong pick for nature exploration & hiking — plan about 5-7 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: Summer.
Solid guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 69/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈3.3 km span)
High season: Summer
Best months for lower-cost travel: May · September · October
70-80°F
70-80°F
80-90°F
60-70°F
Located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, Pepeekeo is a charming town known for its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere. If you are planning a visit to this hidden gem, here are a few ways to reach Pepeekeo:
The nearest major airport to Pepeekeo is Hilo International Airport (ITO), which is approximately a 20-minute drive away. Several airlines operate flights to Hilo from various cities in the United States. Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Pepeekeo.
If you prefer a scenic road trip, driving to Pepeekeo is a great option. From Hilo, take Highway 19 northbound and continue for about 10 miles until you reach Pepeekeo. The drive offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush tropical landscapes, making it a memorable journey.
While public transportation options are limited in Pepeekeo, you can still reach the town by taking a bus from Hilo. The Hele-On Bus service operates routes throughout the island, including a route that passes through Pepeekeo. Check the bus schedule in advance and plan your journey accordingly.
If you prefer a hassle-free transportation option, some tourist shuttles and private tour companies offer services to Pepeekeo. These shuttles often provide pick-up and drop-off services from popular tourist areas, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey.
If you are arriving in Hawaii via a cruise ship, there is a possibility that your itinerary includes a stop at Hilo. In such cases, you can disembark at Hilo Harbor and arrange for transportation to Pepeekeo. Local taxis and tour operators are usually available near the cruise terminal.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Pepeekeo is an adventure in itself. Once you arrive, you can explore the town's natural wonders, including the stunning Akaka Falls State Park and the Onomea Bay Scenic Drive. Don't forget to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some delicious Hawaiian cuisine during your visit!
Pepeekeo is a small town located in the Hilo District of Hawaii County, on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is situated on the eastern coast of the island, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Pepeekeo is part of the greater Hilo metropolitan area and is known for its lush green landscapes, tropical rainforests, and scenic waterfalls.
The town is home to a tight-knit community that takes immense pride in its Hawaiian heritage. Traditional cultural practices and customs are still celebrated and honored in Pepeekeo. The local residents embrace the Aloha Spirit, making it a warm and welcoming place for visitors.
One of the main attractions in Pepeekeo is the spectacular Akaka Falls State Park. This park is home to two magnificent waterfalls, including the famous Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a gorge. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush rainforest, immersing themselves in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them. The park also offers picnic areas and breathtaking viewpoints, allowing visitors to take in the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the cascading waterfalls.
In addition to its natural wonders, Pepeekeo is also known for its rich agricultural history. The town was once home to several sugar plantations, which played a significant role in shaping its economy. While the plantations are no longer operational, the legacy of agriculture lives on. Today, visitors can explore the area's coffee farms and learn about the process of growing and harvesting world-renowned Hawaiian coffee beans.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
6 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~0.6 km · 2 places
~1.2 km · 2 places
~2.3 km · 3 places
~1.2 km · 2 places
~4.8 km · 4 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~1.2 km path
~0.6 km path
~2.5 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days in Pepeekeo, United States.
High season is typically Summer.
Travelers often find better value in May, September, October.
Pepeekeo suits Nature exploration, Hiking, Waterfall tours, Coffee plantation visits.
Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent
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