6 Reasons to Love Honoka‘a on Hawai‘i Island

Often considered just the gateway to Waipiʻo Valley, this town is a destination on its own thanks to its plantation past, paniolo roots and colorful array of local businesses.

Waimea is widely talked about for its paniolo culture, but its neighbor in the east, Honoka‘a, deserves attention, too.

The historic town is situated on the Hāmākua Coast and shares some of its neighbor’s rugged charm while boasting its own distinct and endearing qualities.

Throughout town are relics showcasing the lasting contributions of immigrants who arrived in the 1800s to work in the island’s sugarcane and ranching industries. Today, the town, while still surrounded by farms and ranchland, is home to an eclectic collection of local businesses.

Here are six reasons why Honoka‘a deserves to be a destination rather than just a pit stop on the way to Waipiʻo Valley.

1. Honokaʻa’s History Tour

Stop by the Honokaʻa Heritage Center to pick up a free map that points out historic buildings around town. Some are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the structures on Honoka‘a’s main strip, Mamane Street, have been restored to reflect what they looked like in the early 20th century.

Stroll down the street and you’ll notice new businesses in old buildings that reflect the charming architecture of the past, from coffee shops like Fudge ’n Coffee and Lean-To Farm to cute stores like Wehi’s Boutique. You’ll also find the famed Honokaʻa People’s Theatre, originally built in 1930.

2. Malasadas from Tex Drive In

The signs along Hawai‘i Belt Road read: “World famous malasadas” and “ʻOno kine food.” They lure folks off the highway and into Tex Drive In, the perfect rest stop with an expansive lunch menu and restrooms. Plus, you can walk away with a box stuffed full of fresh, hot malasadas.

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3. Starting Point for Activities

Not only can you grab a bite to eat in Honoka‘a, but it’s also a good place to get gas (ʻOhana Fuels) and snacks and provisions for a picnic (Honoka‘a Country Market). The area holds hidden gems, including the Hawaiian B Natural Farm Tour, the Honoka‘a Chocolate Farm Tour, All About the View ATV Tours and Kalōpā State Recreation Area.

4. It’s the Gateway to Waipiʻo Valley

Though nonresidential access to Waipi‘o Valley has been restricted (the only way visitors can access the valley is via a tour), a venture to the lookout is still recommended. Peering down into the “Valley of the Kings” gives visitors a chance to reflect on the past and learn about the cultural significance of the area. The valley was where King Kamehameha the Great was raised, and was also an important site for political and religious life in ancient Hawaiʻi.

5. Paniolo Pride

While the neighboring town of Waimea is widely known for its paniolo culture, Honoka‘a shares the same cowboy tradition due in part to its terrain, which is still ideal for ranching.

Before sugar, ranching dominated the Hāmākua Coast, thanks to King Kamehameha III, who brought Mexican vaqueros to teach Native Hawaiians how to manage the wild cattle that had overpopulated the area.

6. Exciting Events

That paniolo pride is best seen during Western Week, an annual celebration typically in May. The festivities include a parade and block party, along with other events celebrating local cowboy culture.

Weekly gatherings like the Hāmākua Harvest Farmers Market and annual events like the Hāmākua Sugar Days Festival and the Honoka‘a Renaissance Festival draw Hawaiʻi Island residents and visitors alike.

Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku is a contributor to HAWAIʻI Magazine.