Hāmākua – Waterfalls & Scenic Drives
From Leilani's Logbook: Hāmākua is where the island puts on its most dramatic show. Waterfalls cascade hundreds of feet into valleys carved by ancient streams.
Hāmākua: Post-Plantation Paradise
Hāmākua is post-plantation paradise. When sugar plantations closed, the land gradually returned to its natural state. Now it's one of the most scenic drives in Hawaiʻi, with waterfalls, valleys, and coastal views that define tropical beauty.
Small communities dot the coastline, each with its own character. Many residents are descendants of plantation workers from various countries, creating a multicultural rural atmosphere steeped in history.
Tropical Paradise Climate
💧 Waterfall Country
- • Tropical Continuously Wet climate
- • Year-round flowing waterfalls
- • Thick tropical vegetation
- • Constant moisture and lushness
🏔️ Dramatic Landscape
- • Dramatic coastal cliffs
- • Hidden valleys carved by streams
- • One-lane bridge charm
- • Post-plantation recovery
The coastline features dramatic cliffs and hidden valleys carved by streams over millennia, creating the perfect conditions for some of Hawaii's most spectacular waterfalls.
Spectacular Natural Wonders
💧
ʻAkaka Falls State Park
442-foot waterfall accessed via 0.4-mile loop trail. One of Hawaii's most iconic and photographed waterfalls.
Iconic 👑
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
Sacred "Valley of the Kings" with breathtaking views. Historical and spiritual significance to Hawaiian culture.
Sacred 🚗
Hāmākua Heritage Corridor
Highway 19 scenic drive with charming one-lane bridges. Experience old Hawaii at a leisurely pace.
Scenic Drive 🏊
Umauma Falls
Three-tiered waterfall with natural swimming holes. Popular with locals for its accessible beauty.
Swimming🌊 Laupāhoehoe Point
Memorial park honoring 1946 tsunami victims. Peaceful reflection spot with dramatic coastal views and important historical significance.
Travel Pono in Hāmākua
🚗
Drive Safely
Yield on one-lane bridges and pull over for others. Take your time on winding roads.
🙏
Respect Sacred Sites
View Waipiʻo Valley from the lookout unless you have permission to enter.
🏪
Support Local Communities
Stop in Honokaʻa and Laupāhoehoe. These small towns depend on visitor support.
Practical Information
🏨 Accommodations
- • Best as day trip from Hilo/Kona
- • Limited B&Bs available
- • Vacation rentals in Honokaʻa
- • Camping at some beach parks
🎒 Essential Packing
- • Rain jacket (constant moisture)
- • Waterproof shoes for hiking
- • Camera for spectacular views
- • Cash for small town businesses
🚗 Driving Tips
- • Allow extra time for scenic stops
- • One-lane bridges require patience
- • Pull over to let faster traffic pass
- • Watch for sudden weather changes
📅 Best Times
- • Morning for best waterfall lighting
- • Weekdays less crowded
- • Any season (always lush)
- • Allow full day for complete circuit
💡 Local Tip
Stop at Tex Drive In in Honokaʻa for their famous malasadas - Portuguese donuts that are a local institution. The scenic drive is about the journey, not speed.
💧 Quick Info
- Best For:Waterfalls • Drives
- Vibe:Scenic • Historical
🎒 What to Bring
- Rain jacket
- Waterproof shoes
- Camera
