The best walks and hikes around Keaau

Yes, the area offers several easy walks suitable for families. A great option is the Coconut Island (Mokuola) – Liliuokalani Gardens loop from Mokaoku. It's a short, relatively flat walk of about 1.7 miles (2.8 km) through beautiful coastal gardens, making it manageable for all ages.

Absolutely. For a memorable waterfall experience, consider the Liliuokalani Gardens – Rainbow Falls loop from Mokaoku. This trail leads you to the impressive 80-foot Rainbow Falls. The area around the falls is lush and tropical, offering beautiful scenery.

Hiking on lava rock is a unique feature of the Puna district. The terrain can be uneven, sharp, and sometimes slippery, especially when wet. It's essential to wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip. Take your time, watch your footing, and carry plenty of water as the dark rock can radiate heat.

Many trails in the region, particularly those on public lands and in state parks, have restrictions on dogs to protect native wildlife and ecosystems. It's always best to check the specific regulations for each trail or park, such as the Historic Puna Trail, before you go. Service animals are generally permitted.

The Ha'ena Beach and Sea Turtles – Kalele Palm Grove loop is a fantastic choice. This trail takes you through a lush palm grove to the secluded Ha'ena Beach, also known as Shipman Beach. It's a beautiful spot and a known resting place for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).

Yes, you can explore a massive lava tube at Kaūmana Caves State Park near Hilo. This popular natural attraction allows you to descend into a cave formed by a lava flow from Mauna Loa in 1881. Remember to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven and dark.

The region is rich in wildlife, especially birdlife. On coastal trails, you have a good chance of spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) resting on the sand. The rainforests are home to various native and non-native bird species. For dedicated birdwatching, the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge is a renowned preserve, though access typically requires a guided tour.

Yes, several loop trails make for convenient hikes without the need to backtrack. The Liliuokalani Gardens loop from Waiākea is a pleasant circular route through the scenic Japanese-style gardens and along the coast near Hilo.

The hiking routes around Keaau are well-regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the unique combination of lush rainforest scenery, dramatic volcanic coastlines, and the accessibility of trails that lead to beautiful features like waterfalls and secluded beaches.

Most hikes around Keaau are rated as easy to moderate. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation gain, especially along the coast and through the gardens near Hilo. Some trails, like the Puna Trail to Ha'ena Beach, can be more challenging due to muddy conditions and uneven lava rock surfaces.

Parking can be limited, especially at popular trailheads like the one for the Historic Puna Trail. It's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot in the designated lot. In some cases, you may need to find parking along the road, so be sure to do so safely and legally, without blocking access.