Discover Historic Honokaa Town on the Big Island of Hawaii

Discover Historic Honokaa Town on the Big Island of Hawaii

Driving from the hills of Waimea through the Ahualoa forest, you are greeted by a proud—if slightly crooked—sign welcoming you to Historic Honokaa Town. The contrast between the deep blue ocean, bright sky, and lush greenery sets the stage for the charm ahead.

As you turn down Mamane Street, you’re transported back in time. The street is lined with single-walled wooden plantation-era commercial buildings, many proudly displaying their construction dates. The oldest building in Honokaa dates back to 1882.

A Rich Sugar Cane History and Cultural Blend

Once the epicenter of sugar cane production, Honokaa played a major role in the early 1900s as a gathering place for plantation workers to unwind after a long workday. The sugar cane industry shaped the town until the 1990s, and its legacy still lingers.

Honokaa became a true cultural melting pot, with immigrants from the Philippines, Japan, Portugal, China, and other countries arriving to work the plantations. Their influence is still felt in the town’s architecture, food, and community spirit. The town today feels like a blend of western cowboy culture and Asian influence, all wrapped in aloha.

Where to Eat and Shop in Honokaa

Despite its small size, Honokaa offers a surprisingly diverse selection of food and shops:

• Several restaurants, including vegan-friendly spots
• Two local cafés, perfect for a slow morning
• An Italian restaurant
• Classic Hawaiian food stops
• A laid-back local bar for an evening out

Mamane Street is home to small businesses proudly selling local goods—from handmade swimsuits and clothing to unique art galleries, locally roasted coffee, and fresh produce.

One highlight is The Lean To Coffee Shop, where all coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted by the owners. There’s also a zero-waste store, part of the town’s commitment to sustainability.

Local Attractions and Things to Do

• Honokaa Heritage Center: A free exhibit with historical photos and displays, providing insight into Honokaa’s plantation past
• Honokaa People’s Theatre: A restored 1930s movie theater that also hosts local events
• Hamakua Country Club: A relaxed, affordable 9-hole golf course where you can walk or rent a cart
• Hamakua Harvest Farmers Market (Sundays): Features food trucks, educational demonstrations, live music, and dancing—everything from western line dancing to hula

Major Community Events in Honokaa

Honokaa is a community-oriented town with events that celebrate its culture and heritage. Some annual highlights include:

• Western Week (Late May): One of Honokaa’s most celebrated events, featuring a full week of rodeos, silent auctions, parades, and cowboy culture
• Hamakua Harvest Festival: A celebration of local agriculture with food, music, and hands-on workshops
• Honokaa High School Events: As the heart of the town, the school hosts community-centered events throughout the year

Outdoor Adventures Near Honokaa

Just outside of Honokaa are two must-visit destinations:

• Waipio Valley: A breathtaking, historically significant valley filled with taro fields, waterfalls, and panoramic views
• Kalopa State Park: A peaceful forested area perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking

As you drive toward Hilo, you’ll pass large swaths of former sugar cane fields, now transformed into pastures, offering a visual reminder of Honokaa’s agricultural roots.

Why Honokaa Feels Like Home

Whether you’re visiting or considering a move to the Big Island, Honokaa offers something special: a close-knit, welcoming community rooted in its history and culture.

Locals often say, “In Honokaa, you’re bound to run into someone you know.” This “small town, big aloha” feeling is a rare treasure in today’s fast-paced world—and Honokaa is one of the few places where it’s still alive and well.

To learn more about things to do in Hamakua, click here