So many people want to visit Hawaii. I mean why not right?? It is beautiful, adventurous, exotic, and expensive..oh wait that last bit is not exactly a positive is it? In fact it is the most common reason that people do NOT visit Hawaii.
After living there for 3 years I can attest to the fact that yes it is expensive, more expensive than any other state to visit. But I can also attest to the fact that it can be done for far less money than people think.
No need to stay in fancy resorts, take all the, made for tourists, tours, or eat out every meal. There is a better way, a more affordable way to enjoy the paradise that is Hawaii. I get asked all the time, how to visit Hawaii affordably, and so finally here is my response:
There are countless ways to save when staying in Hawaii. To start with you have to pick the island that is right for you. When it comes to finances I have found the Big Island to be the most affordable with the Hilo side being the most affordable on the whole island. It is a desirable place to visit because of Kilauea, the most easily accessible active volcano in the world, and due to the high levels of rain leading to glorious waterfalls and stunning greenery.
Lodging
There are numerous ways you can save on lodging in the Hilo area of Hawaii. There are air bnb's, house sitting opportunities, and a few scattered hostels that can assist many people. Often times though they come with hidden fees and house sitting, well that is a tough nut to crack here in Hawaii.
When you think of vacation most people envision staying in a lovely hotel or resort where they can have a full break. No cooking, no cleaning, and a nice cozy spot to relax while inside. I have stayed at quite a few hotels in the area and by far the most affordable option, that gives the most bang for your buck is the Hilo Naniloa hotel.
It is under new management and is undergoing some amazing transformations. The lobby is stunning, the rooms are newly redone, maybe not perfect but at the prices they charge who cares?! The beds and bedding are comfy and everything is clean. The hotel is located on the ocean making the views outstanding, you can even see Mauna Kea from most of the property, when she is cooperating that is. There is also a beautiful park next door, free golf when you stay, and both restaurants and an international airport are close by.
There is a pool, ocean entry with really beautiful tide pools and colorful fish, fast wifi (will be in all rooms soon), a nice breakfast buffet, and big fridges in every room. The prices will go up slightly when all the rooms are renovated but it will still be the most affordable hotel in the area. No doubt the most bang for your buck in the area!
Eating
If you stay in a place like the Naniloa where there is a fridge or even a microwave we oftentimes buy sandwich stuff and cereal and juice. This helps us cover breakfasts or lunches and saves a ton. When you only eat one meal out it can save you hundreds of dollars over a weeks time.
There are also some great affordable restaurants in the area. Big Island pizza, Hilo Burger Joint, Kamana kitchen, and the newly opened Wikifresh are all great options for healthy, locally grown and more affordable grindz in the area. Look around, keep some snacks and easy meals in the room and you'll be surprised how much you can save. Milk may cost close to $8 a gallon but shopping wisely and thinking ahead can really help out if not for the milk at least for everything else.
Activities
Now this is where Hawaii edges so many places out on ability to save money. Between beaches and hiking options alone you can see the best that Hawaii has to offer without spending a dime other than on gas.
Here is a list of free or inexpensive places to enjoy:
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| Mauna Kea from Puna |
No need to stay in fancy resorts, take all the, made for tourists, tours, or eat out every meal. There is a better way, a more affordable way to enjoy the paradise that is Hawaii. I get asked all the time, how to visit Hawaii affordably, and so finally here is my response:
There are countless ways to save when staying in Hawaii. To start with you have to pick the island that is right for you. When it comes to finances I have found the Big Island to be the most affordable with the Hilo side being the most affordable on the whole island. It is a desirable place to visit because of Kilauea, the most easily accessible active volcano in the world, and due to the high levels of rain leading to glorious waterfalls and stunning greenery.
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| Akaka Falls |
There are numerous ways you can save on lodging in the Hilo area of Hawaii. There are air bnb's, house sitting opportunities, and a few scattered hostels that can assist many people. Often times though they come with hidden fees and house sitting, well that is a tough nut to crack here in Hawaii.
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| Attention to detail can be witnessed all over the property |
It is under new management and is undergoing some amazing transformations. The lobby is stunning, the rooms are newly redone, maybe not perfect but at the prices they charge who cares?! The beds and bedding are comfy and everything is clean. The hotel is located on the ocean making the views outstanding, you can even see Mauna Kea from most of the property, when she is cooperating that is. There is also a beautiful park next door, free golf when you stay, and both restaurants and an international airport are close by.
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| Comfy room, beautiful ocean and Mauna Kea views |
Eating
If you stay in a place like the Naniloa where there is a fridge or even a microwave we oftentimes buy sandwich stuff and cereal and juice. This helps us cover breakfasts or lunches and saves a ton. When you only eat one meal out it can save you hundreds of dollars over a weeks time.
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| Macadamia nut |
Activities
Now this is where Hawaii edges so many places out on ability to save money. Between beaches and hiking options alone you can see the best that Hawaii has to offer without spending a dime other than on gas.
 |
| Resident turtle at Carl Smith beach park in Hilo |
- Rainbow Falls, Hilo
- Boiling Pots, Hilo
- Akaka falls state park, North of Hilo
- Waipio Valley lookout, North of Hilo
- Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut factory, South of Hilo
- Kalapana Lave Viewing, Puna
- Lava Tree state park, Puna
- Red road drive, Puna
- All beaches but preferred in the area are Carl Smith (great for turtles), Pohoiki (surfing) Honolii (great for sea glass and surfing), and Richardsons (great family beach, calm waters)
- Drive up Mauna Kea for sunset or skiing
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| Mauna Kea skiing |
- Ahalanui hot ponds, Puna
- Walk the town center
- Enjoy all the local goods at the Hilo Farmers Market
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (lava tubes, lookouts, petroglyph trail, loads of hiking)
- Drive the Hamakua Coast, North of Hilo
- Hike to Black sand or green sand beaches on Southern part of island
- View the most Southern point of the US where people leap off the ocean cliff into the water
As you can see there is a huge list of free or really inexpensive things to do in the Hilo area. There are great tours as well like zip lining, quad riding through Waipio valley, whale watching, etc and although those are also great options and in my opinion worth the splurge you can still enjoy all the beauty Hawaii has to offer if you skip them. If you expand to Kona, which is only a 2 hour drive and can easily be a day trip, you get even more options for culture, swimming, and seeing native wildlife. There is something for each and every budget!
There are loads of ways to save money on a trip to Hawaii. It may take a little more work and it may not look as luxurious as the ways most people spend there time in Hawaii but I find you actually get to see more of Hawaii this way giving you a beautiful vacation and a better sense of the culture.
Have you been to Hawaii? Any cost saving tips? Share below in the comments!
Ever have one of those perfect, adventure filled days that leaves you pinching yourself wondering if this is really your life?? A week or so ago we had one of these days and it was all due to the best zip lining experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.....the Umauma Falls zip line experience!
Located just 30 minutes North of Hilo, Umauma falls is a beautiful spot. While zipping you have breathtaking views of the ocean, the ability to see stunning waterfalls not open to the public, and access to knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
The zip lining course is 9 lines of varying heights and lengths with the longest being over 2000 feet! You also traverse a 200 foot suspension bridge that was honestly scarier than the lines. The grounds are stunning with unparalleled views, gardens, and of course the waterfalls. You can do a zip and dip combo, which I highly suggest, where you can do all 9 lines then have a provided picnic lunch down by the waterfall. After that you can enjoy a cool swim, jump off the rocks, paddle around in a kayak or paddle board or just relax on the side watching the fun.
We arrived early in order to sign all the waivers, get weighed, and look around the gardens. Once everyone is there you can use the bathroom and gear up. Everything was set up for us and we basically just needed to step into the harness. It was far more comfortable and easy to get on than I was expecting. The guides buckle everything for you, get you fitted in your helmet, explain what is going to happen, and triple check everything to be sure all is safe.
Once geared up we piled into the 4x4 vans and headed to the top of the course. Now I went with all 3 of my kids who are 17, 12 and 8. The 8 year old and I were beyond nervous about zipping as it was our first time. As we descended the first staircase the butterflies were so bad it was hard to focus but I had to act brave so my little guy wouldn't become more nervous.
The head guide explained exactly what would happen at the first line, and at each subsequent line he also explained before we started. I loved knowing how long and how high each line would be. The very first line is not high or very fast. I thought it was a great idea to help people like us get past the jitters and understand exactly how it was all going to work. The second line is a lot longer and higher, not sure I could have done it if that was the first one!
The staff does basically all the work for you. Safety was of utmost importance and everything had a secondary and even tertiary safety component. The staff hooks you in and double checks everything before you leap off. They are in constant communication with the landing platform so you can feel assured there will be no banging into anyone else. As you approach the landing platform the staff slows you down to a stop, no need to fumble with the lines. I loved not feeling responsible for stopping myself.
There is a weight limit of about 280 pounds and as I later learned that has nothing to do with what weight the lines can hold as they hold infinitely more than that but rather due to the fact that the guides have to stop you and if you weigh 400 pounds you are going to be coming in way too fast for them to do it safely. There is also a minimum weight and size. My 8 year old was well over it. He weighs about 65 pounds and on 2 of the lines momentum alone didn't carry him all the way but the guides quickly shimmy out and pulled him in the rest of the way. They also taught him to tuck his legs in like a cannonball so he would go faster, he loved that!
After all his nerves I could barely keep up with him as he was the first in line to zip! The staff was so encouraging and had great energy so we all had a blast and felt confident.
The first half of the course is a double line so you can zip next to each other. It was a blast, my older 2 raced each other and then my 8 year old and I did. Not a fair race since I outweigh him by so much. I kicked his butt is an understatement!
Check out this video to see what the experience is all about!
After the zipping we were given a chance to change our clothes and jumped in another van to the dip portion of the day. It was a short drive and even shorter hike down to the waterfall. They had a great picnic lunch packed for each of us and after eating we were able to swim in the pond under the waterfall. There is also a stand up paddle board and kayaks to use which was so much fun. The brave were able to climb up to a few spots on the rocks to take a huge plunge into the water. I declined but my boys were leading the charge!
After all that excitement we were exhausted but alas the Umauma Experience has one more trick up its sleeve. The Giant Swing! Now this is no play of words, it truly is a giant swing. NO way was I getting on it but my 2 youngest insisted so up, up, up they went. Sound the gong, pull the cord, and they dropped like rocks. They said, "it was scary, fun, and my stomach dropped out for a second". You can also tour the facility on an easy nature hike but since we did the zip, dip, and swing we saw it all!
If you are looking for a fun family adventure day with thrills, amazing views, and a great crew to hang out with then Umauma is the place for you!
Located just 30 minutes North of Hilo, Umauma falls is a beautiful spot. While zipping you have breathtaking views of the ocean, the ability to see stunning waterfalls not open to the public, and access to knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
The zip lining course is 9 lines of varying heights and lengths with the longest being over 2000 feet! You also traverse a 200 foot suspension bridge that was honestly scarier than the lines. The grounds are stunning with unparalleled views, gardens, and of course the waterfalls. You can do a zip and dip combo, which I highly suggest, where you can do all 9 lines then have a provided picnic lunch down by the waterfall. After that you can enjoy a cool swim, jump off the rocks, paddle around in a kayak or paddle board or just relax on the side watching the fun.
We arrived early in order to sign all the waivers, get weighed, and look around the gardens. Once everyone is there you can use the bathroom and gear up. Everything was set up for us and we basically just needed to step into the harness. It was far more comfortable and easy to get on than I was expecting. The guides buckle everything for you, get you fitted in your helmet, explain what is going to happen, and triple check everything to be sure all is safe.
Once geared up we piled into the 4x4 vans and headed to the top of the course. Now I went with all 3 of my kids who are 17, 12 and 8. The 8 year old and I were beyond nervous about zipping as it was our first time. As we descended the first staircase the butterflies were so bad it was hard to focus but I had to act brave so my little guy wouldn't become more nervous.
The head guide explained exactly what would happen at the first line, and at each subsequent line he also explained before we started. I loved knowing how long and how high each line would be. The very first line is not high or very fast. I thought it was a great idea to help people like us get past the jitters and understand exactly how it was all going to work. The second line is a lot longer and higher, not sure I could have done it if that was the first one!
The staff does basically all the work for you. Safety was of utmost importance and everything had a secondary and even tertiary safety component. The staff hooks you in and double checks everything before you leap off. They are in constant communication with the landing platform so you can feel assured there will be no banging into anyone else. As you approach the landing platform the staff slows you down to a stop, no need to fumble with the lines. I loved not feeling responsible for stopping myself.
There is a weight limit of about 280 pounds and as I later learned that has nothing to do with what weight the lines can hold as they hold infinitely more than that but rather due to the fact that the guides have to stop you and if you weigh 400 pounds you are going to be coming in way too fast for them to do it safely. There is also a minimum weight and size. My 8 year old was well over it. He weighs about 65 pounds and on 2 of the lines momentum alone didn't carry him all the way but the guides quickly shimmy out and pulled him in the rest of the way. They also taught him to tuck his legs in like a cannonball so he would go faster, he loved that!
After all his nerves I could barely keep up with him as he was the first in line to zip! The staff was so encouraging and had great energy so we all had a blast and felt confident.
The first half of the course is a double line so you can zip next to each other. It was a blast, my older 2 raced each other and then my 8 year old and I did. Not a fair race since I outweigh him by so much. I kicked his butt is an understatement!
Check out this video to see what the experience is all about!
After the zipping we were given a chance to change our clothes and jumped in another van to the dip portion of the day. It was a short drive and even shorter hike down to the waterfall. They had a great picnic lunch packed for each of us and after eating we were able to swim in the pond under the waterfall. There is also a stand up paddle board and kayaks to use which was so much fun. The brave were able to climb up to a few spots on the rocks to take a huge plunge into the water. I declined but my boys were leading the charge!
After all that excitement we were exhausted but alas the Umauma Experience has one more trick up its sleeve. The Giant Swing! Now this is no play of words, it truly is a giant swing. NO way was I getting on it but my 2 youngest insisted so up, up, up they went. Sound the gong, pull the cord, and they dropped like rocks. They said, "it was scary, fun, and my stomach dropped out for a second". You can also tour the facility on an easy nature hike but since we did the zip, dip, and swing we saw it all!
If you are looking for a fun family adventure day with thrills, amazing views, and a great crew to hang out with then Umauma is the place for you!
Waipi'o Valley is one of those enchanted destinations that people usually only dream of. It is secluded, hard to reach, and stunningly beautiful. It is located at the end of the road just after Honoka'a town in the Hamakua district on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Waipi'o Valley is also called the valley of the kings because, as it was explained to us on the tour, many kings were brought to the valley when they were children for protection. Including the Great King Kamehameha. The valley sits at sea level with 2000 foot sheer walls surrounding it, offering great protection. The valley alone is impressive enough but when you catch a glimpse of the 1200 foot majestic Hi'ilawe falls you are reminded of the strong mana (or power) that is in Waipi'o Valley.
The Waipi'o Valley Ride the Rim tour starts out just before the Waipi'o valley lookout where you can park, sign all the waivers and them hop in a 4 x 4 vehicle to reach the area where the ATVs are kept. It is all private land so this is an area you can only access on the tour and believe me it is well worth the time and money.
I have to admit that I was slightly nervous at the start. Not sure why but since having kids I've gotten more and more timid about weird things. I was worried I wouldn't be able to drive it, worried I would hit someone else, worried it wouldn't make it up the hill, and that I might hit someone else. Funny thing is after the trip it is completely laughable to even consider being worried. The tour was very safe, totally beautiful, educational, and one of our favorite days spent on this island so far!
Once you get to the ATVs there is a briefing about how to operate the ATV as well as all safety components. Afterwards there is a small track set up so everyone can get used to how it feels and so that the guides have a chance to see how you ride. This gives you a few minutes to put aside any concerns or to decide you would rather be a passenger and it gives the guides a chance to pull you from the lineup if they do not feel you can be safe enough. There was a very strong feeling of safety after spending just a few minutes with the guides.
You can either drive your own ATV (no passengers allowed), ride in a side by side buggy which is basically a 2 person buggy/ATV, or ride with the guide in one of the Polaris buggies. My oldest son and I drove our own while my 12 year old rode in the buggy as you need to be at least 16 to drive the ATV. There is also a weight range of 100-350 pounds to drive your own ATV. They provide helmets for you. There is no actual dress code but closed toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting wet or dirty is recommended. We wore just our slippers and it was fine but I can see how closed toed shoes would probably be better.
I was so thankful for the test track as it really helped to build my confidence and the guides were all really supportive in easing my mind and assuring me that everything was safe. We drove up hills, down hills, through huge puddles, and stunning forests. You cannot really take photos while riding but they provide a safe area to strap a bag onto in the front of the ATV. I had a dry bag and found that very helpful because it will get wet and muddy.
We stopped at various view points where the guides used a "talking story" method of educating us about the area including local plants, history, culture, geography, and more. We also had a chance to stop at a beautiful waterfall where they have a platform set up and you have some snacks and drinks but the best part was being able to jump right in, cool down, and float under a beautiful waterfall. It is cold but it was incredibly refreshing. It is known as one of the Kings baths so to think we were swimming in a spot where royalty once did was inspiring.
At the last look out we could see the 1200 foot tall Hi'ilawe falls and the guide that spent his entire life living in the valley was able to explain the culture and customs of the valley. I found it especially helpful that we could see the whole valley from that spot making it a lot easier to relate to.
The kids and I had an amazing time. I immediately knew we needed ATVs in our lives soon because that was incredibly fun but more than that, it gave me a great respect for the culture and history of the valley as well as Hawaii in general.
If you have a chance while on the big island get over to Waipi'o valley's ride the rim tour! It's an adventure you will remember forever.
Waipi'o Valley is also called the valley of the kings because, as it was explained to us on the tour, many kings were brought to the valley when they were children for protection. Including the Great King Kamehameha. The valley sits at sea level with 2000 foot sheer walls surrounding it, offering great protection. The valley alone is impressive enough but when you catch a glimpse of the 1200 foot majestic Hi'ilawe falls you are reminded of the strong mana (or power) that is in Waipi'o Valley.
The Waipi'o Valley Ride the Rim tour starts out just before the Waipi'o valley lookout where you can park, sign all the waivers and them hop in a 4 x 4 vehicle to reach the area where the ATVs are kept. It is all private land so this is an area you can only access on the tour and believe me it is well worth the time and money.
I have to admit that I was slightly nervous at the start. Not sure why but since having kids I've gotten more and more timid about weird things. I was worried I wouldn't be able to drive it, worried I would hit someone else, worried it wouldn't make it up the hill, and that I might hit someone else. Funny thing is after the trip it is completely laughable to even consider being worried. The tour was very safe, totally beautiful, educational, and one of our favorite days spent on this island so far!
Once you get to the ATVs there is a briefing about how to operate the ATV as well as all safety components. Afterwards there is a small track set up so everyone can get used to how it feels and so that the guides have a chance to see how you ride. This gives you a few minutes to put aside any concerns or to decide you would rather be a passenger and it gives the guides a chance to pull you from the lineup if they do not feel you can be safe enough. There was a very strong feeling of safety after spending just a few minutes with the guides.
You can either drive your own ATV (no passengers allowed), ride in a side by side buggy which is basically a 2 person buggy/ATV, or ride with the guide in one of the Polaris buggies. My oldest son and I drove our own while my 12 year old rode in the buggy as you need to be at least 16 to drive the ATV. There is also a weight range of 100-350 pounds to drive your own ATV. They provide helmets for you. There is no actual dress code but closed toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting wet or dirty is recommended. We wore just our slippers and it was fine but I can see how closed toed shoes would probably be better.
I was so thankful for the test track as it really helped to build my confidence and the guides were all really supportive in easing my mind and assuring me that everything was safe. We drove up hills, down hills, through huge puddles, and stunning forests. You cannot really take photos while riding but they provide a safe area to strap a bag onto in the front of the ATV. I had a dry bag and found that very helpful because it will get wet and muddy.
We stopped at various view points where the guides used a "talking story" method of educating us about the area including local plants, history, culture, geography, and more. We also had a chance to stop at a beautiful waterfall where they have a platform set up and you have some snacks and drinks but the best part was being able to jump right in, cool down, and float under a beautiful waterfall. It is cold but it was incredibly refreshing. It is known as one of the Kings baths so to think we were swimming in a spot where royalty once did was inspiring.
At the last look out we could see the 1200 foot tall Hi'ilawe falls and the guide that spent his entire life living in the valley was able to explain the culture and customs of the valley. I found it especially helpful that we could see the whole valley from that spot making it a lot easier to relate to.
If you have a chance while on the big island get over to Waipi'o valley's ride the rim tour! It's an adventure you will remember forever.
As we are preparing to leave the Big Island of Hawaii there is a mental check list of places I want to explore a little more deeply. The small town of Hawi is one of them!
2 years ago a monk seal was born on the beach up in Northern Kohala and when we went to check him out a bit we drove through the charming little towns up there. Each blends into the next with no clear distinction but they are charming, sleepy and places I knew I wanted to spend more time in.
We are leaving in May so only have a little over a month left. With my birthday coming and the fact that we almost always choose experiences over gifts I knew this was my chance. So we booked a hotel, researched what we wanted to do while there and after stopping at Tex's for hot malasadas we were on our way for a 3 day adventure!
Hotels
For starters there really are not very many hotels in the area at all. One that stands out though is the Kohala Village Inn. More than just a place to lay your head this is a beautiful property in the heart of Hawi that is more a community space or hub as they call it. There are beautifully appointed plantation style rooms, a cafe, food shop, CSA where locally grown food is the centerpiece, a children's playground, and a large barn where they hold community programs and workshops. I love how invested in the community they are.
The room we stayed in was lovely for a family as it was 2 adorable rooms connected with a shared bathroom, giving everyone a little more space. 1 room had a Queen bed and the other room 2 double beds, perfect for our family of 5. The rooms had a really authentic feel, something I really appreciated. It felt so welcoming and more like a hostel because of the communal vibe but with much nicer rooms and privacy. There is an open area with books, couches, water cooler, a large dining table as well as a refrigerator (had a private one in our room as well) and microwave available for every one's use.
Comfort is a vital component to any hotel stay and the Kohala Village Inn had that in spades but another component that we have found through the years, that is almost as important as comfort, is location! That was the other great thing about this hotel, it was perfectly placed right in the middle of Hawi, so easy to walk around and enjoy the art galleries, restaurants and cafes but it was set back enough that there was no noise issue at all at night or in the morning. It was also right across the street from a nice locals mini mart type store as well as the meeting spots for some of the more popular adventure activities in the area.
We stayed 2 nights and loved it. The town is quite sleepy at night but we brought games, and there was a TV with cable in each room not to mention the great playground my younger boys loved!
Flumin'
One of the coolest things to do in the area is to flume, or kayak, down the old ditch system. 100+ years ago when there was a lot of sugar cane production in the area an irrigation ditch was built to provide enough water for the crops. When the sugar cane production left the island the ditch remained. It is actually in remarkably good shape due to these companies and the upkeep they provide.
You start the tour in a 4x4 van looking at various lookout points around the area, most of which are off limits unless you are doing a tour like this one with Flumin' Kohala. The tour then moves on to a short walk through the jungle to reach the starting point of the flume. The best part about it was all the information that the guides were able to share. They were helpful, fun, and so passionate about the area. You are required to wear a small life saving belt and closed toed shoes and that's about it for requirements. We wore our suits and had a chance to jump out and swim a bit, which was a nice reprieve from the heat.
I put together a little video below that shows what the flume is like. We had a great time and learned a great deal about King Kamehameha and the surrounding area.
Tip: Bring water there was none provided until the end of the tour and we got pretty thirsty. Also good to bring some towels along with you. You WILL get wet!
Views
I've been hearing about Pololu lookout for the past few months. For some reason I didn't even know it existed when we went all the way up there to see the baby monk seal so as I contemplated the what to do aspect of this trip I knew that had to make the list. I had heard the hike was a bit rough so I decided to wait and make a decision when we got to the lookout.
As soon as we approached the lookout we were blown away, stunning seaside cliffs, large valleys, and waterfalls drifting off the cliffs into the ocean below. I took a look at the hike starting point and although quite steep I decided to go for it. It was just my oldest son and I as the littles had enough and wanted to stay at the playground.
The hike down took about 30-40 minutes because it was a little slick and muddy. It was beautiful really, loads of spots to sort of stand to the side, take a break and soak in one stunning vista after another. At the bottom there is a lovely black sand beach and a small little river, loads of balancing rocks, some hammocks, and just a generally cool vibe. We hung out for quite some time enjoying the peace as not very many people were there at all and then hiked back up. The way back only took about 20 minutes but was much harder cardio wise. The path is mostly covered too so not too hot.
Tips: Definitely bring some water and a snack. Try to take any valuables with you as there is some theft from the cars at times. Watch the current well before getting in the water. It was deceptively calm while we were there but upon more inspection there was quite a strong current and no lifeguards anywhere. Also as you head over to Hawi be sure to drive slow and look around, it is my favorite area on the island with sloping green hills and stunning 180 degree + sweeping ocean views!
Beaches
North Kohala does not have any white sand beaches unless you head down towards Southern Kohala and visit Hapuna, Spencer, or Mauna Kea beaches. Those would be about a 40 minute drive from Hawi. The beaches up in Hawi area are Pololu beach (the black sand beach I mentioned above), Keokea beach where we were honored to see the baby monk seal a few times but is more of a rocky beach, Kapa'a Beach park which is also a rocky beach where monk seals often rest, or Mahukona, also a rocky beach.
We visited all these beaches and they all have facilities like bathrooms and showers. But definitely bring water and snacks as there is not much of that kind of thing around.
History and Culture
As I said before I did a lot of research for this little mini trip. I quickly realized that there was a lot of cultural experiences to be had in this area of the island. But sadly we were unable to actually get to any. They all involve at least a little bit of hiking and after all our other activities we were just out of daylight. A reason to return soon I guess.
If you want to head that way try and visit King Kamehameha's birthplace within Kohala historical sites state monument and Lapakahi state historical park. I don't have a wealth of knowledge about these spots but they can offer you a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life.
2 years ago a monk seal was born on the beach up in Northern Kohala and when we went to check him out a bit we drove through the charming little towns up there. Each blends into the next with no clear distinction but they are charming, sleepy and places I knew I wanted to spend more time in.
We are leaving in May so only have a little over a month left. With my birthday coming and the fact that we almost always choose experiences over gifts I knew this was my chance. So we booked a hotel, researched what we wanted to do while there and after stopping at Tex's for hot malasadas we were on our way for a 3 day adventure!
Hotels
For starters there really are not very many hotels in the area at all. One that stands out though is the Kohala Village Inn. More than just a place to lay your head this is a beautiful property in the heart of Hawi that is more a community space or hub as they call it. There are beautifully appointed plantation style rooms, a cafe, food shop, CSA where locally grown food is the centerpiece, a children's playground, and a large barn where they hold community programs and workshops. I love how invested in the community they are.
The room we stayed in was lovely for a family as it was 2 adorable rooms connected with a shared bathroom, giving everyone a little more space. 1 room had a Queen bed and the other room 2 double beds, perfect for our family of 5. The rooms had a really authentic feel, something I really appreciated. It felt so welcoming and more like a hostel because of the communal vibe but with much nicer rooms and privacy. There is an open area with books, couches, water cooler, a large dining table as well as a refrigerator (had a private one in our room as well) and microwave available for every one's use.
Comfort is a vital component to any hotel stay and the Kohala Village Inn had that in spades but another component that we have found through the years, that is almost as important as comfort, is location! That was the other great thing about this hotel, it was perfectly placed right in the middle of Hawi, so easy to walk around and enjoy the art galleries, restaurants and cafes but it was set back enough that there was no noise issue at all at night or in the morning. It was also right across the street from a nice locals mini mart type store as well as the meeting spots for some of the more popular adventure activities in the area.
We stayed 2 nights and loved it. The town is quite sleepy at night but we brought games, and there was a TV with cable in each room not to mention the great playground my younger boys loved!
Flumin'
One of the coolest things to do in the area is to flume, or kayak, down the old ditch system. 100+ years ago when there was a lot of sugar cane production in the area an irrigation ditch was built to provide enough water for the crops. When the sugar cane production left the island the ditch remained. It is actually in remarkably good shape due to these companies and the upkeep they provide.
You start the tour in a 4x4 van looking at various lookout points around the area, most of which are off limits unless you are doing a tour like this one with Flumin' Kohala. The tour then moves on to a short walk through the jungle to reach the starting point of the flume. The best part about it was all the information that the guides were able to share. They were helpful, fun, and so passionate about the area. You are required to wear a small life saving belt and closed toed shoes and that's about it for requirements. We wore our suits and had a chance to jump out and swim a bit, which was a nice reprieve from the heat.
I put together a little video below that shows what the flume is like. We had a great time and learned a great deal about King Kamehameha and the surrounding area.
Tip: Bring water there was none provided until the end of the tour and we got pretty thirsty. Also good to bring some towels along with you. You WILL get wet!
Views
I've been hearing about Pololu lookout for the past few months. For some reason I didn't even know it existed when we went all the way up there to see the baby monk seal so as I contemplated the what to do aspect of this trip I knew that had to make the list. I had heard the hike was a bit rough so I decided to wait and make a decision when we got to the lookout.
As soon as we approached the lookout we were blown away, stunning seaside cliffs, large valleys, and waterfalls drifting off the cliffs into the ocean below. I took a look at the hike starting point and although quite steep I decided to go for it. It was just my oldest son and I as the littles had enough and wanted to stay at the playground.
The hike down took about 30-40 minutes because it was a little slick and muddy. It was beautiful really, loads of spots to sort of stand to the side, take a break and soak in one stunning vista after another. At the bottom there is a lovely black sand beach and a small little river, loads of balancing rocks, some hammocks, and just a generally cool vibe. We hung out for quite some time enjoying the peace as not very many people were there at all and then hiked back up. The way back only took about 20 minutes but was much harder cardio wise. The path is mostly covered too so not too hot.
Tips: Definitely bring some water and a snack. Try to take any valuables with you as there is some theft from the cars at times. Watch the current well before getting in the water. It was deceptively calm while we were there but upon more inspection there was quite a strong current and no lifeguards anywhere. Also as you head over to Hawi be sure to drive slow and look around, it is my favorite area on the island with sloping green hills and stunning 180 degree + sweeping ocean views!
Beaches
We visited all these beaches and they all have facilities like bathrooms and showers. But definitely bring water and snacks as there is not much of that kind of thing around.
History and Culture
As I said before I did a lot of research for this little mini trip. I quickly realized that there was a lot of cultural experiences to be had in this area of the island. But sadly we were unable to actually get to any. They all involve at least a little bit of hiking and after all our other activities we were just out of daylight. A reason to return soon I guess.
If you want to head that way try and visit King Kamehameha's birthplace within Kohala historical sites state monument and Lapakahi state historical park. I don't have a wealth of knowledge about these spots but they can offer you a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian life.
Have you been to Hawi? What did you think? Where did you go? Tell us about it in the comments below!