Things to do in Honokaa Town and surrounding areas on the Big Island

The sleepy western style town of Honoka’a is the gateway to Waipio Valley and a fun place to explore the main drag of the town. I always love to walk around town to find some cool boutique stores, antique shops and fantastic dining venues to enjoy in town.

On the entrance to Waipio, Honoka’a is worth a stop to explore the main drag and even have a nice meal in the area. I love visiting Honoka’a whenever I bring friends to see Waipio, enjoy a nice lunch and walk around the main drag in town to see what’s new.

Where is Honoka’a Town located in Hawaii

Honoka’a Town is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, specifically on the northern side of the island. Honoka’a Town is approximately 13 miles (21 kilometers) northeast of Waimea on the Big Island of Hawaii, making it about a 20 to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic and specific starting and ending points.

From Hilo Town drive down the Hawaii Belt Road or Hwy 19 about 41.4 miles until you hit the Honoka’a turn off, make a right and drive one mile to the downtown district.

The closest airport to Honokaa is in Hilo International Airport.

Some Honoka’a History

In the early 20^th century, Honoka’a was a busy community with a sugar plantation at the Honoka’a Sugar Company. The community became larger and included churches, shops and even a popular community theater at the Honoka’a People’s Theater which used to show international films and is now a community gathering place.

Today the city services the local community, tourism at Waipio and surrounding area and local agriculture in fruits, vegetables and Big Island grown beef.

Things to do in Honoka’a

Here are some of my favorite things to do in and around Honoka’a Town

Stroll down the main street

I love walking around Mamane street with the various galleries and eateries in the area. It’s fun to check out some of the old favorite places and other new discoveries when I walk through the main drag.

Thrift and Antique shopping in Honoka’a

Antique shopping is big in Honoka’a with a variety of Antique and consignment shops around town to visit

1. The Salvation Army Family Store

• Address: 45-511 Rickard Place, Honoka‘a, HI 9672
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 2 PM – 6 PM; Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM
• Phone: (808) 775-734
• Details: Offers clothing and other goods. Donations accepted at the table; furniture and mattresses not accepted 

2. Da’ Temple Basement Store (Honoka‘a Hongwanji Mission)

• Address: 45-516 Lehua Street, Honoka‘a, HI 9672
• Hours: Fridays: 11 AM – 4 PM
• Details: Operated by the Buddhist Women’s Association and the Honoka‘a Hongwanji Mission, this store offers a variety of items including furniture, housewares, clothing, and collectibles. Donations are accepted during operating hours 

3. All for You Thrift & Boutique

• Address: 45-3468 Mamane Street, Honoka‘a, HI 96727
• Phone: (808) 775-003
• Details: A boutique-style thrift store offering a curated selection of secondhand treasures and unique items 

4. Green Chair Consignment & Gift Shop

• Address: 45-3468 Mamane Street, Honoka‘a, HI 9672
• Phone: (808) 747-4046
• Details: Offers a variety of consigned items and gifts 

5. Chi Chi La Fong

• Location:Honoka‘a, HI
• Details: a local thrift shop with found objects and collectibles

Support local grass-fed beef and shop at the beef store butcher

Address: 45-3745 Honokaa-Waipio Rd, Honoka‘a, HI 96727

Phone: (808) 775-7744

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Closed Sunday

Highlights: Offers fresh, local grass-fed beef at reasonable prices. Many cuts are vacuum-sealed, making them convenient for transport. ​

Visit the Hamakua Harvest Farmers market at downtown Honokaa on Mamane street and Hwy 19

Enjoy a nice local meal in town

Whenever I’m in town, I love to have a nice meal and visit these local venues. These are all popular for local style, seafood or even sweet bakeries to check out.

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Local Hawaiian & Plate Lunch

• Gramma’s Kitchen
  • Cozy diner feel, known for comfort food and classic plate lunches.
  • Try the loco moco or kalbi ribs.
• Tex Drive-In
  • Famous for malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts) with various fillings.
  • Also serves burgers, plate lunches, and breakfast items.

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Seafood & Poke

• Honoka‘a Fish Co.
  • Small spot for fresh poke bowls and seafood plates.
  • Limited hours, but high quality and friendly service.

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Casual & International Fare

• Cafe Il Mondo
  • Local pizza joint with a wood-fired oven and housemade sauces.
  • Offers pasta dishes and fresh salads too.
• El Maguey
  • Mexican food with a local twist.
  • Known for tacos, burritos, and friendly prices.

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Cafes & Bakeries

• Waipi‘o Cookhouse Coffee & Bakery
  • Fresh-baked pastries, coffee drinks, and light breakfast options.
  • Great stop before heading to Waipi‘o Valley lookout.
• Honoka‘a Chocolate Co.
  • Boutique bean-to-bar chocolate shop with tastings and tours.
  • Also has a small café area with drinks and sweet treats.

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Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly

• Sweet Potato Kitchen
  • Mostly plant-based, farm-to-table dishes.
  • Smoothie bowls, salads, and seasonal plates.

Weather and best time to visit Honoka’a

I always try to plan a visit to Honoka’a on the Big Island of Hawaii when the weather is good to enjoy the outdoors and venues around town.

Weather Overview: Honoka’a enjoys a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. However, it’s important to note that the town’s location on the windward (eastern) side of the Big Island means it receives more rainfall.

Wet Season (October – April):

• Rainfall: Honoka’a’s wet season, from October to April, can bring heavy rainfall and more overcast days. The eastern side of the Big Island is generally wetter during this time.
• Considerations: While the wet season can still be enjoyable, it’s important to be prepared for rain, and some outdoor activities may be limited.

Festivals and Events:

• Honoka’a Western Week (May): Experience a taste of the Wild West with rodeos, parades, and cowboy-themed events.
• Paniolo Parade and Ho’olaule’a (September): Celebrate Hawaiian cowboy culture with a lively parade and festivities.

Conclusion: The best time to visit Honoka’a depends on your preferences. The dry season, from May to September, offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities.

However, if you’re interested in witnessing waterfalls at their peak and don’t mind occasional rain, the wet season can provide a unique and lush experience. Regardless of when you visit, Honoka’a’s rich heritage and stunning natural beauty await your exploration.

Other things to do around Honoka’a area

If you are looking for fun things and places nearby, check out these posts below.

Visit the main attraction at Waipio Valley

The lookout point at Waipio is not to be missed and from the parking lot, just a short walk to the observation area

Check out my post on visiting Waipio Valley here for more inspiration

Take a fun outdoor adventure

There’s a variety of cool recreation activities to do around Honoka’a area including ATV, horseback riding and tours down into the Waipio Valley. Here’s some of our favorites to do:

Kona: Heavenly Hamakua Guided Day Trip with Hotel Pickup

Hamakua Coast Waterfalls and Valleys Safari

Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour

Big Island: Full-Day Sightseeing & Waterfalls Adventure Tour

Check out these places to visit along the Hamakua coast

Visit Kalopa park

Explore Akaka Falls

Stroll the sleepy hamlet of Honomu

Drive down to scenic Lapahoehoe Point along the Hamakua coastline

Visit and hike to Pololu Valley

Visit Waimea, Hawaii

Conclusion to visiting Honoka’a town

In conclusion, a visit to Honoka’a town in Hawaii is like stepping into a charming and historic Hawaiian time capsule. This picturesque town, nestled on the lush Hamakua Coast, captivates visitors with its quaint streets, unique shops, and a sense of community that exudes the spirit of Aloha.

As you explore Honoka’a, you’ll encounter local flavors, vibrant arts, and a deep connection to the island’s heritage. Whether you’re strolling down Mamane Street, savoring fresh produce at the farmers’ market, or simply enjoying the breathtaking surroundings, Honoka’a offers an authentic Hawaiian experience that celebrates its past while embracing the present.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of Honoka’a during your Hawaiian adventure.

Author Bio – Noel Morata

Noel Morata is a freelance photographer/journalist and travel and lifestyle blogger. Having lived in Hawaii for over 15 years, I’ve explored all the historic and cultural sites, tried delicious traditional food, fusion and local style dishes and learned a lot about growing and sustainability.

Hawaii for me is ever changing and I visit many of these places regularly for inspiration, changes that may occur, seasonality and cultural practises. I hope to share with you all the fascinating things and places I’ve learned grown appreciation for and hope that you will find the information helpful to visiting the islands.

Every time I visit Waipio Valley, I always stop by Honoka’a to have a nice lunch or even go thrift shopping in town, it’s a fun place to visit and explore.