Paukaa

Paukaa is a neighborhood situated on the windward side of Hawaii’s Big Island, at the base of Mauna Kea volcano. It is known for its peaceful and serene setting, surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and valleys. The neighborhood offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

Paukaa has a rich local culture with a strong sense of community and respect for the land and its history. Local farms and agricultural operations provide fresh produce and goods to residents and visitors. The area has several local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Despite its rural atmosphere, Paukaa is conveniently located near Hilo, the largest city on the Big Island. Visitors can access various amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Overall, Paukaa is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic Hawaiian experience. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and convenient location make it a perfect place to relax, explore, and immerse in local culture.

Flights To Paukaa

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Paukaa

  • Book in advance: Airfare prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so it’s generally a good idea to book your flight as far in advance as possible. This can help you lock in a lower price and give you more time to plan the rest of your trip.
  • 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 possible, try to be flexible with your travel dates and consider traveling during off-peak times or during the week instead of on weekends.
  • Use flight comparison websites: There are many websites and apps that allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines at once, making it easier to find the best deal. Some popular options include SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsawayMycityflights and Google Flights.
  • Look for budget airlines: There are several budget airlines that serve Hilo International Airport, including Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. These airlines often offer lower prices than the major carriers, but be aware that they may charge extra fees for things like checked bags and seat assignments.
  • Sign up for airline loyalty programs: Many airlines offer loyalty programs that allow you to earn points or miles for each flight you take. These points can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades, which can help you save money on future trips.
  • Consider alternative airports: While Hilo International Airport is the closest airport to Paukaa, flights to other airports on the Big Island or neighboring islands may be cheaper. Consider comparing prices for flights to Kona International Airport (KOA) or Honolulu International Airport (HNL) as well.

Places To Visit

Beaches
  1. Richardson Beach Park: This beach is located in Hilo and offers a variety of amenities, including a lifeguard, picnic tables, and restrooms. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
  2. Onekahakaha Beach Park: This beach is located in Hilo and offers a variety of amenities, including a lifeguard, picnic tables, and restrooms. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and bodyboard.
  3. Leleiwi Beach Park: This beach is located in Hilo and offers a variety of amenities, including a lifeguard, picnic tables, and restrooms. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and scuba dive.
Historical Attractions
  1. Lyman Museum: This museum is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits on Hawaiian history, culture, and natural history. Visitors can learn about the geology, archaeology, and ethnology of Hawaii.
  2. Pacific War Museum: This museum is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits on World War II in the Pacific. Visitors can learn about the history of the war, see artifacts and memorabilia, and hear personal stories from veterans.
  3. Laupahoehoe Point: This historic site is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of amenities, including a picnic area, restrooms, and a memorial. Visitors can learn about the history of the site, which was the site of a tsunami in 1946 that killed 24 people.
Natural Attractions
  1. Akaka Falls State Park: This state park is home to two beautiful waterfalls, including the 442-foot Akaka Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. Visitors can hike through a lush rainforest to see the falls up close.
  2. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: This beautiful park is located in Hilo and features a Japanese-style garden, complete with koi ponds, stone bridges, and a teahouse.
  3. Wailuku River State Park: This state park is home to the Wailuku River, which is the longest river in Hawaii. Visitors can hike along the river and see the Boiling Pots, a series of natural pools and waterfalls.
Cultural Attractions
  1. Pacific Tsunami Museum: This museum is located in Hilo and tells the story of the tsunamis that have affected Hawaii over the years. Visitors can learn about the history of tsunamis, see exhibits on the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis, and learn about tsunami preparedness.
  2. Hilo Farmers Market: This farmers market is located in downtown Hilo and offers a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local goods. Visitors can sample local cuisine, buy souvenirs, and learn about Hawaiian culture.
  3. Imiloa Astronomy Center: This science and technology center is located in Hilo and offers exhibits on astronomy, Hawaiian culture, and the environment. Visitors can learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies, and see a planetarium show.
Outdoor Recreation
  1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and volcanic formations. Visitors can see the Kilauea Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
  2. Mauna Kea Summit: This mountain is the tallest mountain in Hawaii and offers a variety of hiking trails and scenic views. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit to see the stars and learn about astronomy.
  3. Hilo Bay: This bay is located in Hilo and offers a variety of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales.
Family-Friendly Attractions
  1. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens: This zoo is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits, including a petting zoo, a rainforest exhibit, and a bird exhibit. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, lemurs, and parrots.
  2. Hilo Skate Park: This skate park is located in Hilo and offers a variety of ramps, rails, and other features for skateboarders and rollerbladers. Visitors can enjoy a day of skating or watching the locals.
  3. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: This garden is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits, including a rainforest exhibit, a waterfall exhibit, and a palm exhibit. Visitors can learn about the plants and animals of Hawaii and see a variety of tropical flowers.
Wellness Attractions
  1. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: This park is located in Hilo and offers a variety of amenities, including a Japanese garden, a pond, and a walking path. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing setting.
  2. Big Island Yoga: This yoga studio is located in Hilo and offers a variety of classes, including hatha, vinyasa, and restorative yoga. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga practice.
  3. Hawaii Massage and Bodywork: This massage studio is located in Hilo and offers a variety of massages, including Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massage. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing and therapeutic massage.
Shopping and Dining
  1. Hilo Hattie: This store is located in Hilo and offers a variety of Hawaiian-themed souvenirs, clothing, and gifts. Visitors can buy aloha shirts, ukuleles, and other local products.
  2. Cafe 100: This restaurant is located in Hilo and offers a variety of local cuisine, including loco moco, musubi, and plate lunches. Visitors can try local dishes and learn about Hawaiian food.
  3. Hilo Bay Cafe: This restaurant is located in Hilo and offers a variety of seafood, steak, and vegetarian options. Visitors can enjoy a fine dining experience with a view of Hilo Bay.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Paukaa Beach: This beautiful and secluded beach is located in Paukaa and offers a variety of amenities, including a lifeguard, restrooms, and picnic tables. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the clear blue waters.
  2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: This national park is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Visitors can see the active Kilauea volcano, explore lava tubes, and learn about the geology and history of the area.
  3. Hilo Bay: This picturesque bay is located in Hilo and offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the bayfront, visit the Hilo Farmers Market, or take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales.
  4. Akaka Falls State Park: This state park is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. Visitors can see the beautiful Akaka Falls, which is a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.
  5. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens: This beautiful park is located in Hilo and offers a variety of amenities, including a Japanese garden, a pond, and a walking path. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing setting, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
  6. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: This garden is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits, including a rainforest exhibit, a waterfall exhibit, and a palm exhibit. Visitors can learn about the plants and animals of Hawaii and see a variety of tropical flowers.
  7. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens: This zoo is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits, including a petting zoo, a rainforest exhibit, and a bird exhibit. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, lemurs, and parrots.
  8. Laupahoehoe Point: This historic site is located on the Big Island and offers a variety of amenities, including a picnic area, restrooms, and a memorial. Visitors can learn about the history of the site, which was the site of a tsunami in 1946 that killed 24 people.
  9. Lyman Museum: This museum is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits on Hawaiian history, culture, and natural history. Visitors can learn about the geology, archaeology, and ethnology of Hawaii.
  10. Pacific Tsunami Museum: This museum is located in Hilo and offers a variety of exhibits on the history of tsunamis in Hawaii. Visitors can learn about the science of tsunamis, see artifacts and memorabilia, and hear personal stories from survivors.

Hotels

Top Hotels

  • Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located in downtown Hilo and offers stunning ocean views, a variety of amenities, and easy access to local attractions. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a fitness center, on-site dining, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
  • Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo: A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – This 4-star hotel is located on the waterfront in Hilo and offers beautiful views of Hilo Bay. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a fitness center, on-site dining, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
  • Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is located on the waterfront in Hilo and offers beautiful views of Hilo Bay. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a fitness center, on-site dining, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
  • The Palms Cliff House Inn: This 4-star bed and breakfast is located in the nearby town of Pepeekeo and offers stunning ocean views, a variety of amenities, and easy access to local attractions. Guests can enjoy a gourmet breakfast, an outdoor hot tub, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
  • Dolphin Bay Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is located in Hilo and offers beautiful views of Hilo Bay. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and spacious rooms with private balconies.

Budget Friendly Hotels

  • Hilo Bay Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in downtown Hilo and offers dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and a outdoor patio.
  • Arnott’s Lodge & Hiking Adventures: This budget-friendly lodge is located in Hilo and offers a variety of affordable accommodations, including dormitory-style rooms, private rooms, and camping. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and a outdoor pool.
  • Hi-Quality Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is located in Hilo and offers basic accommodations at an affordable price. Guests can enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk.
  • Naniloa Volcanoes Resort: This hotel is located in Hilo and offers affordable rooms with views of Hilo Bay. While it is a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, it sometimes offers discounted rates or promotions that can make it more budget-friendly.
  • Hilo Seaside Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is located in Hilo and offers basic accommodations with views of Hilo Bay. Guests can enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: The Big Island has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season (April to October) and a wet season (November to March). The weather in Paukaa is generally mild and pleasant year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, the wet season can bring more rain and cloud cover, especially in the afternoons.
  • Crowds: The Big Island is a popular destination year-round, but the peak tourist season is typically from December to April, when the weather is drier and cooler. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder season (May to October), when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
  • Activities: If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit is from December to April, when humpback whales migrate to the waters around the Big Island. If you’re interested in surfing or other water sports, the winter months (November to February) can bring bigger waves and stronger winds. If you’re interested in hiking or exploring the volcanoes, the summer months (June to August) can be a good time to visit, when the weather is drier and the trails are more accessible.
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