Honoka'a

Honoka'a is a historic Hamakua Coast town known for Mamane Street, plantation-era character, Honoka'a People's Theatre and nearby Waipio Valley scenery.

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Honoka'a

Honoka'a, Big Island

Honoka'a is the largest town on the Hamakua Coast (and once was the third largest in all of Hawaii, after Honolulu and Hilo) with a rich history due to the dozens of sugar plantations and cattle industry it had more than a hundred years ago. The last sugar plantation in Honoka'a (Hamakua Sugar Company) stopped its operation in 1994, but the townspeople and their rich heritage have lived on up to this day.

The heart of the town features a few timber-framed stores along the wooden boardwalk of Mamane Street. New and innovative ways to revive the town's economy have made local and foreign entrepreneurs invest in ranching, tourism and farming.

One of Honoka'a attractions is the Art Deco Honoka'a People's Theater, which was built in 1930 and still features occasional movie screenings and musical performances, as well as the Hamakua Music Festival each year in October. Then there's the Hawaiian Shop, also located on Mamane Street, a nice place to find a unique souvenir.

A 60 megawatt power plant is also operational in the area, which sells power to the rest of the island. Although there are no nearby beaches in Honoka'a, there is a wide range of activities to do, such as hiking, cycling and hunting. A public sport gymnasium where you can play baseball, tennis and run on a tracking field is also accessible in the area.

Key Features

Hamakua Coast town: Largest community along this stretch of the Big Island's northeast side
Plantation history: Former sugar and ranching center with deep local roots
Mamane Street: Main street with shops, cafes, services and historic buildings
People's Theatre: Art Deco community landmark dating to the 1930s
Waipio gateway: Common stop before the Waipio Valley area
Activity fit: Good base for sightseeing, hiking, private tours and ranch-country outings
Population: 2,699 at the 2020 Census
Zip code: 96727

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Honoka'a on the Big Island?

Honoka'a is on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island, northwest of Hilo and east of Waimea. The town sits along Mamane Street near the road toward Waipio Valley.

What is Honoka'a known for?

Honoka'a is known for plantation-era history, Mamane Street shops, local restaurants, Honoka'a People's Theatre and access to Hamakua Coast scenery.

Is Honoka'a near Waipio Valley?

Yes. Honoka'a is one of the main towns near Waipio Valley, although access rules and road conditions for the valley can change. Check current guidance before planning a visit.

What activities fit a Honoka'a visit?

Honoka'a pairs well with Hamakua Coast sightseeing, hiking-focused outings, private tours, scenic drives and ranch-country experiences around North Hawaii.

Are there places to stay near Honoka'a?

Yes. Visitors can look for vacation rentals around the Hamakua Coast, Honoka'a area and nearby Waimea, depending on whether they want lush coastal countryside or cooler upland ranch country.