The best walks and hikes around Honomu
4.6
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Hiking around Honomu, located on the Big Island of Hawaii's northeast coast, offers access to lush tropical landscapes and significant natural features. The region is characterized by dense rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and coastal vistas along the Hāmākua Coast. Trails often navigate through vibrant vegetation, leading to viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean and deep stream-eroded gorges.
Best hiking trails around Honomu
- The most popular hiking route is Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop from ʻAkaka Falls State Park,…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
4.0
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1.40km
00:26
50m
50m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Onomea Bay Trail through a lush rainforest to scenic ocean views and the Onomea Bay Viewpoint.
4.5
(19)
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hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
29
hikers
1.40km
00:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
25
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2.38km
00:42
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Honomu
Tips from the Community
The Akaka Falls are worth seeing even when it rains.
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Akaka Falls State Park is located on the northeastern Hilo Coast and features two magnificent waterfalls. The 0.6 km long, gently ascending hiking trail takes you through a lush rainforest with wild orchids, bamboo groves and hanging ferns. If you continue following the paved footpath, you will first come across the 30 m high Kahuna Falls. Behind the next bend in the circular route you can already see the towering Akaka Falls, which plunge over 135 m into a gorge. The beautiful waterfall is probably the most famous of its kind on Hawaii Island. The pleasant hike takes less than an hour. https://www.gohawaii.com/de/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/hilo/akaka-falls-state-park
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From here, visitors can take the Onomea Bay Trails down to the bay. The bay on the ocean is about .4 miles from here on a boardwalk. The walk through the lush rainforest brings visitors to lush forests with so much green foliage and flowers and past waterfalls. Be careful because this area can get very slippery when wet, so wear proper shoes and try to let the trails dry out after it rains. Even if they choose not to go down the trail on foot, bikers can peer down the trail from the parking lot and find a few memorial statues without having to hike.
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Onomea Bay has an amazing view of rocky shores, crashing waves, and a nice viewing platform. The waters are a bit too rough to swim, especially with all the lava rocks. The jungle surrounding the shores and trail are amazing with flowers and thick vegetation.
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Indescribable, a beautifully landscaped garden. A bloom everywhere you look.
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I've seen better, but it's not worth the money.
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A must for flower lovers. A really great garden, unique.
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Onomea Bay is located close to the Hawaiʻi Tropical Garden and is the perfect combination of jungle and the ocean. The views along the Onomea Bay Trail will bring you to multiple beautiful viewpoints to enjoy the views of the bay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Honomu?
There are currently 7 hiking trails available around Honomu, all of which are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Honomu?
The trails around Honomu are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the lush tropical landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and coastal views that define the region's routes.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Honomu?
Yes, Honomu offers several family-friendly options. The Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop is a paved 0.6-mile trail that winds through a rainforest, leading to spectacular waterfall views, making it ideal for families. The trail does involve some stairs.
Can I find trails with waterfalls near Honomu?
Absolutely. Honomu is renowned for its waterfalls. The most prominent is the ʻAkaka Falls, a majestic 442-foot cascade, and the 100-foot Kahuna Falls, both visible from the loop trail within ʻAkaka Falls State Park.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Honomu area?
Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular choice is the Onomea Bay – Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop from Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a 1.1-mile trail offering botanical garden scenery and bay views. Another option is the Onomea Bay Viewpoint – Onomea Bay loop from Papaikou.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking around Honomu?
Beyond the waterfalls, you can explore the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which offers lush grounds and views of Onomea Bay. Kolekole Beach Park is also nearby, providing clear ocean views and a great picnic spot.
Are there any trails that offer ocean views?
Yes, the Onomea Bay Trail is an excellent choice for ocean views. This 0.9-mile path provides stunning jungle and ocean vistas, with multiple viewpoints along Onomea Bay.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Honomu?
Honomu's tropical climate means hiking is generally pleasant year-round. However, the region can experience rain, especially in winter months. Visiting during the drier seasons typically offers more comfortable conditions for exploring the trails and enjoying the outdoor scenery.
Are there any less crowded hiking options near Honomu?
While ʻAkaka Falls State Park is very popular, trails like the Onomea Bay Trail or the Onomea Bay – Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop might offer a more serene experience, especially during off-peak hours, allowing for a quieter appreciation of the jungle and coastal views.
Is parking available at the trailheads in Honomu?
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and attractions. For instance, ʻAkaka Falls State Park has a dedicated parking lot, though a small fee may apply. It's always advisable to arrive early, especially for popular spots, to secure a parking space.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Honomu's hiking trails?
Honomu's trails primarily navigate through lush rainforests, characterized by dense vegetation, wild orchids, bamboo groves, and draping ferns. You can expect paved paths in some areas, like the ʻAkaka Falls loop, and natural earth trails that can be slippery after rain, particularly near coastal areas like Onomea Bay.
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