Kohala
Kohala
As you drive 20-minutes north of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, you’ll marvel at the rugged lava fields surrounding you. You may not see it from Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, but the Kohala Coast is where you’ll find some of the island’s finest resorts. Nestled amongst the jet-black and rust-red lava rock fields, a result of eruptions from the island's volcanos centuries ago, are green oases full of world-class accommodations, fine dining and some of Hawaiʻi’s best golf courses. The sun-drenched Kohala Coast sees an annual average rainfall of only nine inches, so soak in the sun and relax at Hāpuna Beach State Park, one of the island of Hawaiʻi’s largest white sand beaches, indulge at local restaurants or recharge at a local spa. You’ll discover cultural treasures on the Kohala Coast, too, such as the remarkable Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, the largest restored heiau in Hawaiʻi.
At the junction of Kawaihae Road and Highway 19, turn east to explore the cool scenic pasturelands of Waimea. In sharp contrast to the lava landscapes along the Kohala Coast, this upcountry town is home to the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy). From Waimea, head north on Kohala Mountain Road. Visit Kahuā Ranch to take a horseback riding tour or ATV drive. Then continue on to the charming town of Hāwī. On your way to Kapaʻau, home of the original Kamehameha Statue, you'll find dramatic Pololū Valley at the end of the road. If returning back to the Kohala Coast, take ʻAkoni Pule highway (coastal) and stop off at Lapakahi State Park, an old fishing village.
Video: Day With a Local in Kohala
Regions of Island of Hawaiʻi
If you’re driving along the Hāmākua Coast be sure to stop to explore some of its hidden gems, including taro farms, black sand beaches, splendid waterfalls and more.
The perfect place to explore local shops, a famous farmers market, beautiful beaches and dramatic waterfalls.
See dramatic features such as lava trees and molds at Lava Trees State Park and swim in volcanically heated tide pools.
See an active volcano at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National park and learn how the Hawaiian Islands were formed.
Bright blue water, abundant resorts, coffee tastings, and unique historical and cultural landmarks — your options are plentiful.
The island of Hawaiʻi is often called the “Golf Capital of Hawaiʻi” because of the renowned courses found along the Kohala Coast.
Take a memorable drive from Hilo to the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout to see scenic overlooks, waterfalls, botanical gardens and small towns.
This friendly, small town is the gateway to the Waipiʻo Valley, and home to cute local shops and restaurants.
Located on the northern Hāmākua Coast, the sacred Waipiʻo Valley was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I and an important center for political and religious life in Hawaiʻi.
The Hilo Farmers Market is one of the best open markets in Hawaiʻi, featuring fresh fruit, vegetables, plants and local crafts.
Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a beautifully landscaped, 30-acre Japanese garden featuring fishponds, pagodas and rock gardens.
ʻAkaka Falls State Park features two amazing waterfalls, ʻAkaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet).
Downtown Hilo is the island of Hawaiʻi's biggest small town, featuring centuries-old wooden storefronts—many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places—housing a variety of sophisticated galleries, shops, restaurants and cultural sites.
If you’re looking for a waterfall near Downtown Hilo, take a short drive west on Waiānuenue Avenue to Wailuku River State Park.
This famous black sand beach is a great photo opportunity and is almost as popular with honu (green sea turtles) as it is with visitors.
One of the state’s most famous attractions is a testament to the power of nature and a rare opportunity to see an active volcano.
Part of the National Park System, this historic site is home to one of the largest and last heiau (temple) built in Hawaiʻi.
The Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is one of the most extensive petroglyph fields in Hawaiʻi.
Hāpuna Beach on the Kohala Coast is one of the largest white sand beaches on the island of Hawaiʻi.
The Pololū Valley Lookout offers a breathtaking view overlooking Pololū Valley, a black sand beach and the northeastern coastline.
Visit Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau and learn about early Hawaiian history at this National Historic Park, historic place of refuge and former royal grounds.
The Keauhou resort area, just south of Historic Kailua Village in Kona, is where you can often spot manta rays and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).
Historic Kailua Village is a lively seaside town in the heart of Kona home to shopping, dining and important historic sites.
Travel back to the days of the Hawaiian monarchy at Hulihe‘e Palace, located right on Ali‘i Drive in the heart of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona).
Just south of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, is Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Explore this coastal park and discover how an early Hawaiian settlement survived on the rugged Kona coast.
Kohala Highlights
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
Part of the National Park System, this historic site is home to one of the largest and last heiau (temple) built in Hawaiʻi.
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Puakō Petroglyph Archeological Preserve
The Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is one of the most extensive petroglyph fields in Hawaiʻi.
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Hāpuna Beach
Hāpuna Beach on the Kohala Coast is one of the largest white sand beaches on the island of Hawaiʻi.
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Pololū Valley Lookout
The Pololū Valley Lookout offers a breathtaking view overlooking Pololū Valley, a black sand beach and the northeastern coastline.
Read MoreMore to See in Kohala
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Learn More About Petroglyphs On the Island of Hawaiʻi
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