Naalehu

Naalehu is a town situated on the Big Island of Hawaii, recognized for its historic significance, natural beauty, and welcoming locals. As the most southerly town in the United States, Naalehu provides visitors with a distinctive and authentic Hawaiian experience that is less crowded. The town is located in a valley surrounded by green hills and pastures, with the Pacific Ocean visible in the distance. Visitors can stroll along the town’s streets, which feature historic buildings, shops, and eateries offering Hawaiian cuisine.

Naalehu boasts several historic sites, including the Punalu’u Bake Shop, which is known for its malasadas, a type of Portuguese doughnut. The bake shop has been operating since 1922 and is a popular spot for those with a sweet tooth. Another well-known attraction in Naalehu is the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, located a few miles away. This beach is known for its black sand, made up of volcanic fragments, and clear waters that are home to various marine life. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which houses two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs that allow visitors to experience Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Naalehu is accessible by car, with several highways and scenic routes connecting the town to the rest of the Big Island. Whether visitors are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Naalehu offers something for everyone.

Flights To Naalehu

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Naalehu

  • Book in advance: Airfare prices tend to go up as the departure date approaches, so it’s generally a good idea to book your flights as far in advance as possible.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates: Airfare prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and time of year. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, try searching for flights on different days and at different times to find the best deal.
  • Use flight comparison websites: There are many websites that allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines at once, such as Skyscanner, Kayak, Earlytrips, Ticketsaway, Mycityflights and Google Flights. These websites can help you find the best deal on flights to Naalehu.
  • Consider alternative airports: The Big Island has two major airports, Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Kona International Airport (KOA), as well as several smaller airports. Consider flying into a different airport and driving to Naalehu to save money on your flights.
  • Sign up for airline loyalty programs: Many airlines offer loyalty programs that allow you to earn points or miles for every flight you take. These points can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades, which can help you save money on your trip to Naalehu.
  • Consider traveling during off-peak times: Airfare prices tend to be higher during peak travel times, such as holidays and summer vacation. If you’re able to travel during off-peak times, you may be able to find cheaper flights.

Places To Visit

Natural Attractions
  1. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: This stunning beach is known for its unique black sand, which is made up of tiny volcanic fragments. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
  2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Located just a short drive from Naalehu, this national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs.
  3. Ka’u Coffee Mill: This coffee farm and mill offers tours and tastings of its award-winning coffee. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Cultural Attractions
  1. Punalu’u Bake Shop: This historic bakery has been serving up delicious malasadas, a type of Portuguese doughnut, since 1922. Visitors can watch the bakers at work and enjoy a sweet treat.
  2. Kauaha’aina Church: This historic church, built in 1891, is a beautiful example of Hawaiian architecture and features stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
  3. Na’alehu Theatre: This historic theater, built in 1938, shows classic and contemporary films and hosts live performances.
Historical Sites
  1. Old Kau District School: This historic school building, built in 1925, now serves as a community center and museum, with exhibits on the history and culture of the Kau district.
  2. Na’alehu Hongwanji Mission: This Buddhist temple, built in 1927, is a beautiful example of Japanese architecture and features intricate woodwork and a stunning Buddha statue.
  3. Kau District Gymnasium: This historic gymnasium, built in 1936, is a gathering place for the community and hosts sports events, concerts, and other activities.
Outdoor Activities
  1. Whittington Beach Park: This beautiful park offers picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, as well as access to the ocean for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.
  2. Wood Valley Temple: This Buddhist temple and retreat center offers meditation classes, workshops, and retreats in a peaceful and serene setting.
  3. Kau Coffee Trail: This scenic driving tour takes visitors through the beautiful Kau district, with stops at coffee farms, historic sites, and scenic lookouts.
Scenic Drives
  1. Highway 11: This scenic highway runs along the eastern coast of the Big Island, passing through Naalehu and offering stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and countryside.
  2. Mauna Loa Road: This scenic drive takes visitors through the stunning landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with stops at scenic lookouts, hiking trails, and visitor centers.
  3. Ka’u Forest Reserve: This scenic drive takes visitors through the lush and verdant Ka’u Forest Reserve, with stops at scenic lookouts, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Events
  1. Na’alehu Fourth of July Celebration: This annual event features a parade, live music, food vendors, and fireworks.
  2. Ka’u Coffee Festival: This annual festival celebrates the region’s coffee industry, with tastings, tours, and workshops.
  3. Na’alehu Christmas Light Parade: This annual event features a parade of festively decorated floats, followed by a tree-lighting ceremony and caroling.
Shopping and Dining
  1. Na’alehu Grocery Store: This local grocery store offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other grocery items, as well as a deli and bakery.
  2. Hana Hou Restaurant: This popular restaurant serves up delicious Hawaiian and American cuisine, including fresh seafood, burgers, and sandwiches.
  3. Kau Coffee Mill Store: This gift shop sells a variety of Kau Coffee products, as well as souvenirs, gifts, and local crafts.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: This stunning beach is famous for its unique black sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can also see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the beach.
  2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs. The park offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape and the opportunity to see lava flows up close.
  3. Ka’u Coffee Mill: This coffee farm and mill offers tours and tastings of its award-winning coffee. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  4. Whittington Beach Park: This beautiful park offers picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, as well as access to the ocean for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
  5. Wood Valley Temple: This Buddhist temple and retreat center offers meditation classes, workshops, and retreats in a peaceful and serene setting. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and the opportunity to learn about Buddhist practices and philosophy.
  6. Na’alehu Grocery Store: This local grocery store offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other grocery items, as well as a deli and bakery. Visitors can stock up on supplies for their vacation and enjoy a delicious meal at the deli.
  7. Hana Hou Restaurant: This popular restaurant serves up delicious Hawaiian and American cuisine, including fresh seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy a meal on the outdoor patio while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  8. Kau Coffee Mill Store: This gift shop sells a variety of Kau Coffee products, as well as souvenirs, gifts, and local crafts. Visitors can take home a taste of Naalehu and a reminder of their vacation.

Where To Stay

  • Volcano House: Located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, about 25 miles or 45 minutes drive from Naalehu. This hotel offers rustic accommodations with stunning views of the Kilauea volcano.
  • Kilauea Lodge: Located in the town of Volcano, about 25 miles or 45 minutes drive from Naalehu. This hotel offers cozy accommodations, a restaurant, and a lounge.
  • Hilo Bay Hotel: Located in the town of Hilo, about 40 miles or 1 hour drive from Naalehu. This hotel offers modern accommodations, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: Located in the town of Hilo, about 40 miles or 1 hour drive from Naalehu. This hotel offers oceanfront accommodations, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
  • Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – A DoubleTree by Hilton: Located in the town of Hilo, about 40 miles or 1 hour drive from Naalehu. This hotel offers modern accommodations, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
  • Punalu’u Bake Shop and Country Store: Located about 15 miles or 25 minutes drive from Naalehu, this property offers a bakery, a gift shop, and picnic tables. While not a traditional hotel, it’s a popular spot for visitors to rest and refuel while exploring the area.
  • Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park: Located about 15 miles or 25 minutes drive from Naalehu, this county park offers camping facilities, picnic tables, and restrooms. While not a hotel, it’s a great option for visitors who prefer camping.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: Naalehu has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, the town does experience more rainfall than some other parts of the Big Island. The driest months are typically April through October, while the wettest months are typically November through March.
  • Crowds: Naalehu is a small town and doesn’t experience the same level of crowds as some of the more popular tourist destinations in Hawaii. However, the peak tourist season in Hawaii is generally mid-December through March, so you may encounter more crowds during this time.
  • Activities: If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit Naalehu is from December through April, when humpback whales migrate to the waters around Hawaii. If you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, or surfing, the summer months may be the best time to visit, when the waters are generally calmer.
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