Punaluu HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Punaluu, Hawaii.
1. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
ICONIC BLACK SAND SHORE
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is famed for its striking black basalt sand, formed from rapidly cooled lava. Visitors are often treated to the sight of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the beach, making it a prime spot for wildlife observation and photography. The scenic shoreline, swaying palms, and unique geology make it a must-visit destination on the Big Island.
2. Punaluu Bake Shop
FAMOUS LOCAL BAKERY
Punaluu Bake Shop is known as the southernmost bakery in the United States and offers an array of sweet breads and local treats. Travelers and locals alike stop in for their famed Hawaiian sweet bread, malasadas, and seasonal pastries. The shop features a quaint garden and makes for a tasty, memorable stop near Punaluʻu.
3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
SPECTACULAR VOLCANIC LANDSCAPES
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors the chance to witness two of the world's most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park boasts diverse hiking trails, stunning rainforests, dramatic lava tubes, and, when conditions allow, glowing lava flows. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a highlight for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts.
4. Kaʻu Coffee Mill
COFFEE FARM EXPERIENCE
Kaʻu Coffee Mill offers guided tours of its coffee farm and processing facility, providing insight into Hawaii's renowned coffee industry. Guests can sample award-winning Kaʻu coffees, enjoy the scenic grounds, and purchase local products in the gift shop. The mill stands as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage and innovation.
5. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
RARE GREEN SAND BEACH
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world, created by the mineral olivine. The beach requires a moderate hike or local shuttle ride to access, rewarding visitors with unique scenery and a distinctive swimming spot. Its remote location and striking color make it a bucket-list destination on the island.
6. Sea Mountain Golf Course
COASTAL GOLFING GEM
Sea Mountain Golf Course provides golfers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the black sand coastline. The course's lush fairways are complemented by cool sea breezes, making for a scenic and challenging round. Its proximity to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach allows visitors to combine recreation and sightseeing.
7. Aloha Mix Food Truck
LOCAL HAWAIIAN EATS
Aloha Mix Food Truck serves up authentic Hawaiian cuisine with favorites like poke, shrimp, and plate lunches. This popular roadside stop is known for fresh ingredients and friendly service, offering a flavorful taste of the island's culinary traditions. Visitors appreciate the convenient location between Pahala and Naalehu for a quick, delicious meal.
8. Whittington Beach Park
SCENIC COASTAL PARK
Whittington Beach Park is a peaceful spot known for its rugged coastline, tidal pools, and opportunities for picnicking. While swimming is not recommended due to currents, the area is perfect for fishing, photography, and exploring tide pools. The park's tranquil setting makes it a favorite among locals and travelers seeking a quiet retreat.
9. Punaluʻu Fishpond
HISTORIC AQUACULTURE SITE
Punaluʻu Fishpond is a centuries-old traditional Hawaiian fishpond that demonstrates ancient aquaculture techniques. The site is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers insight into the ingenuity of early Hawaiian communities. While not always open for tours, the area is rich in cultural and historical significance.
10. Paradise Meadows Orchard & Bee Farm
FARM STAND AND GALLERY
Paradise Meadows Orchard & Bee Farm is a locally owned farm featuring a variety of products like honey, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruit. Visitors can browse the art gallery, sample products, and enjoy scenic views of the orchard. It's an ideal stop for locally made gifts and island-grown treats.
11. Punaluʻu Bakery Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET
Punaluʻu Bakery Farmers Market is a lively gathering place where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and prepared foods. Visitors can explore the market's stalls and enjoy a taste of life in Hawaii's rural south. The market typically operates on weekends, making it a vibrant stop for fresh finds and community interaction.
12. Kaimū Black Sand Beach
REBORN VOLCANIC BEACH
Kaimū Black Sand Beach is a new black sand beach that formed after a volcanic eruption in the 1990s destroyed the original shoreline. Visitors can walk across fresh lava flows and newly sprouted coconut groves to reach the beach. The site offers a dramatic view of nature's power and ongoing volcanic regeneration.
13. Kaneele'ele Shopping Center
SMALL TOWN SHOPPING HUB
Kaneele'ele Shopping Center provides a variety of shops and services catering to locals and visitors in southern Hawaii. Small boutiques, local food vendors, and grocery options make it a practical stop for essentials or souvenirs. Its friendly, laid-back atmosphere reflects the spirit of the community.
14. Wood Valley Buddhist Temple
TRANQUIL SPIRITUAL SANCTUARY
Wood Valley Buddhist Temple, nestled in lush greenery, welcomes visitors seeking meditation, tranquility, or architectural beauty. The temple hosts retreats and events that share Buddhist teachings and Hawaiian cultural values. Its serene environment offers a peaceful escape from the bustling coastlines.
15. Pahala Hongwanji Mission
HISTORIC LOCAL TEMPLE
Pahala Hongwanji Mission is a historic Buddhist temple that serves as a center of cultural and spiritual life in the community. Visitors can admire its traditional architecture and well-tended gardens while learning about the local Japanese-American heritage. The mission often opens its doors for festivals, ceremonies, and community gatherings.