Paauilo is a peaceful rural town on Hawaii Island’s Hamakua Coast offering hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching in lush landscapes near Mauna Kea Forest. A quiet basecamp for nature lovers seeking authentic Big Island adventure.
Paauilo is a peaceful rural town on Hawaii Island’s Hamakua Coast offering hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching in lush landscapes near Mauna Kea Forest. A quiet basecamp for nature lovers seeking authentic Big Island adventure.
Outdoor Adventure in Paauilo, Hawaii
Located on the scenic Hamakua Coast of Hawaii Island, Paauilo is a quiet town ideal for travelers wanting to explore Hawaii’s rich natural beauty away from crowded tourist spots.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Paauilo, Hawaii special.
8.59 miExplore Laupāhoehoe Beach Park on the Big Island's Hamakua Coast. Known for dramatic black lava rocks and tide pools, it's a striking spot for photographers and adventurers alike. Be aware of rough waves and bring sturdy shoes for tide pool exploration.
8.515 miExplore Waipi’o Valley Park on Hawaii’s Big Island. This moderate adventure leads to a black sand beach and historic taro fields. Ideal for hiking, swimming, and horseback riding, the area is quiet year-round but have strong currents.
8.715 miExplore Hiilawe Falls, a challenging hike rewarding you with breathtaking views of one of Hawaii's tallest waterfalls. Best visited in spring or fall, enjoy the remote natural beauty and cultural significance. Note: steep terrain requires hiking experience.
9.216 miExplore Mauna Kea in Hawaii, towering at 13,796 ft. This summit offers outstanding views and world-class stargazing. Drive to the visitor center for guided tours. Be prepared for cold weather and the possibility of altitude sickness. Best visited from late autumn to early spring.
8.519 miExplore Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve near Hilo, Hawaii. This high-altitude volcanic summit offers hiking, stargazing, and unique geological sights in a cool alpine setting. Remote and quiet, it’s ideal for adventure seekers wanting to experience contrasting tropical and volcanic environments.
9.119 mi‘Akaka Falls, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, features a short 0.4-mile loop trail offering views of a 442-foot waterfall. The trail is easy with scenic views and is partially accessible. Enjoy hiking, photography, and observing diverse plant life.
8.519 miExplore the easy 0.4-mile Akaka Falls Trail in Akaka Falls State Park near Hilo, Hawaii. Enjoy stunning views of the 442-foot waterfall and lush rainforest. Ideal for families, the trail is perfect for hiking, flora observation, and picnicking. Open year-round.
8.721 miExplore the stunning and cultural coastlines of Hawaii with rocky shores and lush greenery. Visit from April to November for the best weather. Nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers more adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy hiking and tide pool exploration.
7.523 miExplore Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area near Waimea, featuring moderate hikes across volcanic lava fields with great views and photo opportunities. This rugged area offers quiet scenic vistas and a chance to experience unique volcanic terrain with minimal facilities.
8.226 miKaulana Manu Nature Trail – A Hidden Gem in Hilo
8.826 miExplore Pololū Valley on this moderate hike to a stunning black sand beach. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and lush greenery in this secluded paradise. Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.
8.827 miExperience waterfall rappelling at Kulaniapia Falls near Hilo, Hawaii. Descend a 120-foot waterfall with guidance and gear provided. Suitable for adventure seekers, this activity offers private access and is best enjoyed year-round.
Discover curated outdoor adventures and verified guided tours in Paauilo, Hawaii, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your journey.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Paauilo, Hawaii.
12 bookable experiences
Waimea, Hawaii
29.46 mi awayHilo, Hawaii
Hakalau, Hawaii
Hakalau, Hawaii
6.70 mi awayHonokaa, Hawaii
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Waikoloa, Hawaii
Honomu, Hawaii
Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.
Make the most of your visit to Paauilo, Hawaii with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected public lands.
Paauilo, Hawaii is surrounded by pristine national parks, forests, and wilderness preserves offering backcountry trails and scenic recreation.
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge protects native Hawaiian forest birds and their high-elevation rainforest habitat on the Big Island of Hawaii, offering unique wildlife viewing and ecological research opportunities.
Kalopa State Recreation Area offers a rich rainforest environment and a tranquil setting ideal for nature escapes on the Island of Hawaii.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden offers visitors an immersive experience with over 2,000 species of tropical plants in a lush, ocean-side setting along the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island.
Umauma Stream Management Area is a vital freshwater ecosystem on Hawaii’s Big Island, offering unique scenic beauty and important habitat protection along the Umauma River corridor. It supports diverse recreational activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing in a lush tropical setting.
Pack sun protection and insect repellent for forest hikes.
Road biking routes have light traffic but uneven shoulders.
Limited commercial services; bring supplies from nearby larger towns.
Respect local agricultural lands and stay on designated trails.
Always check local regulations, park permits, trail advisories, and weather forecasts before embarking on any adventure around Paauilo, Hawaii. Respect wildlife and preserve our shared outdoors with Leave No Trace ethics.