Pahoa

Pahoa is a town situated on the eastern coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, in the Puna district. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. The town’s main street, also known as “downtown” Pahoa, features shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Pahoa has a rugged and rustic charm and is known for its cultural heritage, with a history that dates back to the early Hawaiian settlers. The town has a diverse community of residents, including Hawaiians, Filipinos, Japanese, and other ethnic groups. This diversity is reflected in the town’s festivals, events, and celebrations.

One unique aspect of Pahoa is that it is near the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s geology and natural history through hiking, visiting lava tubes, and observing steam vents.

Despite its attractions, Pahoa remains a lesser-known destination. However, those who visit are rewarded with a unique experience that showcases the town’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Pahoa has something to offer for various interests, making it a worthwhile destination to discover.

Flights To Pahoa

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Pahoa

  • Book in advance: Airfare prices tend to increase as the departure date approaches. To get the best deal, book your flights several months in advance.
  • 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, you can save money by flying on less popular days or during the off-season.
  • Use flight comparison websites: Flight comparison websites, such as SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsawayMycityflights and Google Flights, can help you compare prices from multiple airlines and travel websites at once. This can save you time and money by helping you find the best deal.
  • Consider connecting flights: Nonstop flights to the Big Island of Hawaii can be expensive. Consider booking connecting flights with layovers in other cities to save money.
  • Look for discounts and promotions: Airlines often offer discounts and promotions, such as last-minute deals, early bird specials, and military discounts. Be sure to check the airline’s website for any current promotions.
  • Use travel rewards credit cards: Travel rewards credit cards can help you earn points or miles that can be redeemed for free flights or discounts on airfare. Consider applying for a travel rewards credit card to save money on your flights to Pahoa.

Places To Visit

Natural Attractions
  1. Lava Trees State Monument: This unique park features a forest of lava trees, which were formed when a lava flow solidified around the trunks of ohia trees. The park also has a short nature trail that takes visitors through the lava forest.
  2. Isaac Hale Beach Park: This beautiful beach park offers a black sand beach, a natural warm pond, and a variety of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
  3. Kapoho Tide Pools: These natural tide pools are located on the coast near Pahoa and offer a unique opportunity to snorkel and swim in crystal-clear water.
Cultural Attractions
  1. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: This beautiful park features Japanese gardens, a pond, and a variety of cultural exhibits. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian and Japanese culture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  2. Pahoa Village Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Pahoa and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the town’s plantation days, the sugar industry, and the volcanic activity that has shaped the region.
Historical Sites
  1. Pahoa Train Station: This historic train station was built in 1922 and was once a hub of activity for the sugar industry. Today, the station has been restored and is used as a community center and museum.
  2. Old Pahoa Village: This historic district features a variety of buildings that date back to the early 1900s. Visitors can stroll through the streets and admire the architecture, which includes plantation-style homes and businesses.
Art and Entertainment
  1. Puna Gallery: This art gallery features a variety of local and international artists, including painters, sculptors, and photographers. Visitors can browse through the gallery and purchase unique pieces of art.
  2. Pahoa Celtic Festival: This annual festival celebrates Celtic culture and heritage with a variety of activities, such as music, dance, and food. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and learn about Celtic traditions.
Outdoor Activities
  1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is located just a short drive from Pahoa and offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and volcano watching.
  2. Pahoa Skate Park: This skate park is located in the heart of Pahoa and offers a variety of ramps, rails, and other features for skateboarders and BMX riders.
  3. Kehena Beach: This black sand beach is located near Pahoa and is popular with locals and visitors alike. The beach is known for its strong currents and is recommended for experienced swimmers only.
Wellness and Relaxation
  1. Aloha Aina Massage and Wellness: This wellness center offers a variety of massage and spa treatments, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and hot stone massage.
  2. Sacred Roots Healing: This holistic healing center offers a variety of services, such as acupuncture, reiki, and sound healing. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit.
Shopping and Dining
  1. Pahoa Village: This charming village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can browse through the local boutiques, sample the delicious cuisine, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
  2. Kau Coffee Mill: This coffee farm and mill offers tours, tastings, and a variety of coffee-related products. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the best coffee on the Big Island.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Isaac Hale Beach Park: This beautiful beach park is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The park features a black sand beach, a natural warm pond, and a variety of water activities. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and fishing.
  2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology, volcanology, or natural history. The park offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, and volcano watching. Visitors can explore the park’s lava tubes, steam vents, and other geological features.
  3. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: This beautiful park features Japanese gardens, a pond, and a variety of cultural exhibits. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian and Japanese culture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is a great spot for picnicking, jogging, and relaxing.
  4. Pahoa Village: This charming village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can browse through the local boutiques, sample the delicious cuisine, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The village is also home to a variety of cultural events, such as music festivals and art exhibits.
  5. Kehena Beach: This black sand beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is known for its strong currents and is recommended for experienced swimmers only. Visitors can also enjoy the beach’s clothing-optional policy and the lively atmosphere.
  6. Kapoho Tide Pools: These natural tide pools are located on the coast near Pahoa and offer a unique opportunity to snorkel and swim in crystal-clear water. The pools are home to a variety of marine life, such as fish, sea turtles, and coral.
  7. Pahoa Skate Park: This skate park is a great spot for skateboarders and BMX riders of all skill levels. The park features a variety of ramps, rails, and other features for skaters to enjoy.

Where To Stay

  • Islander Inn: A budget-friendly option located in Pahoa, offering basic rooms and a short walk to the town center.
  • Kilauea Lodge: A charming lodge located in Volcano, about a 20-minute drive from Pahoa. It features cozy rooms, a restaurant, and beautiful gardens.
  • Volcano House: This unique accommodation is the only lodging inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, about a 35-minute drive from Pahoa. It features rustic rooms with stunning views of the Kilauea volcano.
  • Aloha Crater Retreat: A vacation rental located in Volcano, approximately a 25-minute drive from Pahoa. It offers a cozy cottage and a treehouse for a unique lodging experience.
  • Tiki Hostel & Cottage: A budget-friendly hostel located in Pahoa, offering dormitory-style rooms and a short walk to the town center.
  • Ohana BB: A budget hostel situated in Pahoa, offering dormitory-style rooms and a shared kitchen.
  • Kalani Honua: A retreat center and community eco-village located in Pahoa, about a 10-minute drive from the town center. It offers shared accommodations, private rooms, and camping options.
  • Hedonisia Hawaii Eco-Hostel: An eco-hostel located in Pahoa, about a 10-minute drive from the town center. It offers dormitory-style rooms, private cabins, and camping options.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Pahoa, Hawaii, is from April to October. During these months, the weather is generally warm, sunny, and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting the beach, and exploring the natural attractions in and around Pahoa.

The average temperature in Pahoa ranges from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-30 degrees Celsius) during these months. The rainfall is also lower, with fewer rainy days compared to the wetter winter months.

However, it’s essential to note that Pahoa is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, which has a diverse climate due to its volcanic terrain. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly.

Additionally, if you plan to visit during the winter months (November to March), you may have a chance to see the humpback whales that migrate to the waters around Hawaii.

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