Hawi on Hawaii’s Big Island offers thrilling windsurfing, coastal hikes, and challenging road biking routes. This quiet town is a perfect basecamp for adventurers eager to catch strong trade winds, scenic vistas, and authentic Hawaiian culture.
Hawi on Hawaii’s Big Island offers thrilling windsurfing, coastal hikes, and challenging road biking routes. This quiet town is a perfect basecamp for adventurers eager to catch strong trade winds, scenic vistas, and authentic Hawaiian culture.
Adventure Awaits in Hawi, Hawaii’s Wind and Wave Town
On the northern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, Hawi unfolds as a rugged playground where wind and waves dictate the pace and scenery captivates the senses. This small town’s blend of epic outdoor challenges and cultural richness makes it a compelling destination for those yearning to experience raw island energy beyond the usual tourist trails.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Hawi, Hawaii special.
★ 7.8⌖ 5.15 milesEasyExplore the 8-mile Kapaa Bike Path along Kauai’s coastline. An easy route, ideal for biking, walking, and running with coastal views. Great for families and nature lovers, especially in winter for whale watching.
★ 8⌖ 5.58 milesEasyExplore Kēōkea Beach Park on Hawaii's Big Island, known for its black lava rock coastline and vibrant marine life. Enjoy family-friendly snorkeling, hiking, and birdwatching in this serene spot accessible year-round, offering stunning ocean views and cultural heritage.
★ 7.8⌖ 6.14 milesEasyExplore Lapakahi State Historical Park on Hawaii’s Big Island, featuring easy hiking among ancient Hawaiian village ruins and coastal lava fields. Enjoy birdwatching, snorkeling, and scenic ocean views in a peaceful, culturally rich setting best visited spring through fall.
★ 8.8⌖ 6.65 milesModerateExplore Pololū Valley on this moderate hike to a stunning black sand beach. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and lush greenery in this secluded paradise. Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.
★ 6.2⌖ 14.63 milesEasyLocated near Waimea on Hawaii’s Big Island, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site offers an easy walking tour around a large ancient Hawaiian temple. Enjoy cultural insights, volcanic landscapes, and coastal views with peaceful surroundings. Suitable for hikers and history enthusiasts alike.
★ 7.2⌖ 15.27 milesVisit Mau'umae Beach on Hawaii's Big Island for peaceful snorkeling in clear waters and scenic beach walks. Known for its tranquility, this less crowded beach offers relaxation with views of lava rock formations. Drive-in access makes it an accessible getaway.
★ 8.5⌖ 16.06 milesExplore Kaunaʻoa Beach, a serene spot on the Kohala Coast. Known for its calm swimming waters, snorkeling, and frequent turtle sightings. Drive-in access makes it a family-friendly destination. Popular year-round, but especially busy in summer.
★ 8.8⌖ 16.91 milesExplore Hapuna Beach on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, a family-friendly spot for beach activities. Enjoy snorkeling, bodyboarding, and picnics. Busy in summer, this beach offers beautiful ocean views and whale watching in winter.
★ 8.7⌖ 16.97 milesExplore Hapuna Beach, a gem on Hawaii's Big Island. Enjoy half a mile of pristine sands, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Snorkelers will love the vibrant marine life, while body surfers catch winter waves. Rated as one of Hawaii's top beaches, this family-friendly spot is ideal year-round.
★ 8⌖ 17.66 milesEasyWaialea Beach offers calm waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming, with frequent winter whale sightings. Located near Waimea, this easy-access beach provides a serene Hawaiian experience for travelers, away from crowded spots.
★ 8.7⌖ 17.86 milesHardExplore Hiilawe Falls, a challenging hike rewarding you with breathtaking views of one of Hawaii's tallest waterfalls. Best visited in spring or fall, enjoy the remote natural beauty and cultural significance. Note: steep terrain requires hiking experience.
★ 8.5⌖ 18.02 milesModerateExplore Waipi’o Valley Park on Hawaii’s Big Island. This moderate adventure leads to a black sand beach and historic taro fields. Ideal for hiking, swimming, and horseback riding, the area is quiet year-round but have strong currents.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Hawi, Hawaii, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Hawi, Hawaii.
A full-day expedition from Hawi that pairs an eight-line aerial canopy with a seaside picnic and a swim beneath a secluded waterfall—this guide lays out the route, requirements, and what to expect.
⌖ 2.1 miStroll a living farm, take part in a traditional awa (kava kava) ceremony, and taste farm‑fresh pupus—this guide distills what to expect on Starseed Ranch’s signature cultural visit.
⌖ 2.1 miA 1.5-hour interpretive tour at Starseed Ranch that pairs close-up lessons in permaculture and agroforestry with fresh fruit tastings.
⌖ 2.1 miA two-hour-plus guided walk through permaculture orchards followed by a seasonally driven lunch showcasing organic vegetables, Polynesian starches and locally sourced proteins.
An approximately 2.5–3 hour aerial trek across eight zip lines, six sky bridges and a rappel through a private Kohala nature reserve — this guide clarifies what to expect, how to prepare, and the tour’s safety rules.
⌖ 7.4 miA focused guide to the Wrangler Open Range Horseback Ride — a multi‑hour, rider‑skill‑specific outing that maximizes opportunities to trot and canter.
⌖ 7.4 miA two‑hour private horseback experience on Ponoholo Ranch—ride to 3,000 feet at sunset with trotting and cantering opportunities for all skill levels.
⌖ 7.4 miA private, guided 3‑hour horseback loop across a vast Waimea ranch that delivers ocean views, ancient Hawaiian ruins and trotting/cantering opportunities—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 7.4 miA private, guided afternoon horseback ride on Kohala Mountain that pairs cooler upcountry weather with trotting and cantering opportunities—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 8.6 miA 2.5‑hour in‑the‑saddle horseback ride above Waikoloa Village that includes trotting and cantering, provided gear, and cooler upcountry temps—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 12.6 miA concise guide to a hands‑on, sustainable fishing excursion—three hours of trolling and bottom fishing designed to teach kids (3+) how to catch, clean, and take home dinner.
⌖ 12.9 miA private, full‑day (about 12‑hour) sightseeing tour that follows the celebrated 36‑mile Road to Hana, useful for planning stops, logistics, and what’s included.
⌖ 13.7 miA four‑day equipment rental from Kohala Divers in Kailua‑Kona that supplies premium snorkel gear and a mesh carry bag—this guide lays out what’s included and how the package supports both snorkeling and scuba exploration.
⌖ 13.7 miKohala Divers’ Six Day Rental supplies premium, high‑grade silicone snorkel equipment (with a mesh carry bag) for snorkeling or scuba under a weekly rate that applies for up to seven days.
⌖ 13.7 miA 48‑hour rental of premium snorkel equipment — this guide explains what’s included, how the rental works, and how to make the most of Kona’s marine sights.
Make the most of your visit to Hawi, Hawaii with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Hawi, Hawaii hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Hawi, Hawaii during the iconic Kohala Mountain Fair. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Hawi, Hawaii during the iconic Hawi Farmers Market. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Hawi, Hawaii during the iconic Big Island Windsurfing Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Hawi, Hawaii is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area offers a cool and refreshing escape high up on the slopes of Haleakalā, with stunning views, unique flora, and an array of trails.
Haleakalā National Park on Maui offers stunning views from its volcanic summit and rich biodiversity across distinct ecosystems, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, boasts unique volcanic landscapes showcasing active volcanic activity and dramatic geological formations.
Rent a sturdy bike to tackle Kohala’s rolling hills.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water for coastal hikes.
Book windsurfing lessons or rentals in advance during peak season.
Watch the weather: trade winds are strongest late morning through afternoon.
Pack layers — evenings can be cooler near the coast.
Respect local cultural sites and private lands.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Hawi, Hawaii. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.