Things to do in Paukaa

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a truly unique attraction, home to two volcanoes, including Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. During your visit you will witness the breathtaking spectacle of the landscape changing in front of you, as lava flows sculpt the surrounding rock. The primal geological forces at work have earned this park a central role in native Hawaiian culture, and you will be able to learn all about the traditional beliefs and sacred rituals as you discover this natural wonder.
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park which includes tranquil scenes

2. Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls, set amid lush vegetation and incredible scenery, are jewels of the Hilo landscape. They are named for the miniature rainbows that appear at the foot of the falls in certain weather conditions. Come here to get close to nature and take photographs of the scenic cascade.
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Rainbow Falls showing a waterfall and a park

3. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

A trip to Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a magical experience for flora enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Pick any corner of this 40-acre (161,874-square-meter) conservation area to explore and be amazed by the countless varieties of plant and tree life that surround you. Look for a wide range of mammal, bird, reptile and insect species as you wander the twisting trails that guide you around this environmental treasure trove.
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Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden showing a garden and a waterfall

4. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

Step into the tranquility of a Japanese garden at Liliuokalani Gardens, an ornately landscaped public park near the Hilo oceanfront. Stroll through peaceful gardens beneath the banyan trees and gaze into koi ponds. Take in stunning views of Hilo Bay and Moku Ola (Coconut Island) and enjoy an aromatic pot of Japanese tea at the teahouse.
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This serene Hilo bayfront park offers the serenity of a Japanese garden, a lush canopy of banyan trees and beautiful views from a sacred ancient Hawai’ian island.

5. Akaka Falls

The dramatic volcanic landscape of Hawaii Island is home to many waterfalls. However they are often in remote locations that are a challenge to reach. Akaka Falls State Park is the exception to the rule. It is home to two of the island’s most spectacular waterfalls, the 30.5 metre Kahuna Falls and the 135 metre Akaka Falls. Both can be accessed with a minimum of physical effort, making this park a perfect excursion for all ages.
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Admire the breath-taking spectacle of some of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls at this family-friendly state park.

What to do in Paukaa

Popular places to visit

Rainbow Falls showing a waterfall and a park

Rainbow Falls

Rise early to come to this scenic waterfall for the best chance of seeing the beautiful rainbows that give it its name.

Rainbow Falls
Carlsmith Beach Park

Carlsmith Beach Park

Explore the great outdoors at Carlsmith Beach Park, a lovely green space in Hilo.

Carlsmith Beach Park
Coconut Island Park

Coconut Island Park

Enjoy the volcano viewpoints and explore Coconut Island Park, a lovely green space in Hilo. Wander the picturesque gardens and seaside in the area.

Coconut Island Park
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

This serene Hilo bayfront park offers the serenity of a Japanese garden, a lush canopy of banyan trees and beautiful views from a sacred ancient Hawai’ian island.

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Richardson\'s Ocean Park showing landscape views and a beach

Richardson's Ocean Park

This sheltered bay offers some of the best snorkelling spots on the coast, as well as a safe and family-friendly beach.

Richardson's Ocean Park
Onekahakaha Beach Park showing rocky coastline

Onekahakaha Beach Park

Spend a sunny day exploring the hidden charms of this tranquil cove, where protected tidal pools provide ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions.

Onekahakaha Beach Park
Keaukaha Beach Park featuring rugged coastline

Keaukaha Beach Park

Snorkel in the clear waters at this beautiful spot, where gaps in the volcanic ocean floor hide a wealth of marine life.

Keaukaha Beach Park

Port of Hilo

Explore the waterfront in Hilo with a trip to Port of Hilo. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Port of Hilo

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of Hawaii at Hilo during your stay in Hilo. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

University of Hawaii at Hilo
Hilo

Hilo