The Hamakua Coast is generally defined as covering the northern section of the island above Hilo, along the Mamalahoa Highway (also known as Highway 19) to Waimea. As we were planning to stay on the east side of the island for several days we used the day of our drive from Kohala to Hilo to take in the breaktaking views along the way. This is another in our series on Top 10 Big Island of Hawaii Activities for families travelling with teens and tweens. Click the link to see the rest!
Hamakua Coast Offers Glimpse of Old Hawaii
The coast was once covered in sugar cane plantations but all that remains today are stands of wild sugar cane by the side of the road. Much of the area has a remote, wild feel to it with steep cliffs providing beautiful views of rugged coastline. We did not have the time to visit the remote but famed Waipio Valley but did find time for the following stops:
- The Parker Ranch just 10 miles away from Kohala but a world apart from the resorts covers over 40% of the island. Although we didn’t stop to do the official ranch tour, just driving through the Ranch and the town of Waimea gave us a look at a vast, lush agricultural landscape that was starkly different from the lavascapes we had left behind.
Parker Ranch
- Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park stands in tribute to 20 children and adults that were camping at the park in 1946 and lost their lives to a devasting tusnami. This is a great lunch spot as picnic tables overlook the lava tidepools and crashing waves.
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
- Pepeekeo Scenic Drive about 5 miles North of Hilo. This 4 mile drive allows a chance to get off the main highway and travel a winding local road over one lane bridges and rain forest.
Akaka Falls, which is discussed in a separate post is also nearby. Give yourself enough time to really enjoy this part of the island, it is definitely more than a drive by.
