Things To Do
in Hawaiian Paradise Park
Hawaiian Paradise Park is a large residential community on the eastern coast of the Big Island, offering sweeping ocean views, lush tropical surroundings, and a relaxed island vibe. The area sits in the Puna district, with easy access to lava-formed landscapes, hot ponds, and dramatic coastline drives. It blends native Hawaiian culture with modern conveniences, making it a good base for travelers who want space, nature, and a slower pace.
Be prepared for a rainier east coast climate and frequent opportunities to explore beaches, lava flows, and starry skies just beyond the neighborhood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh tropical fruit and Hawaiian coffee. After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the coastline, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Stop at the picturesque tide pools to explore the vibrant marine life that thrives in the shallow waters.
Spend your afternoon at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike through stunning landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Visit the Kilauea Visitor Center to learn about the history of the area and the culture of the native Hawaiians. As the sun begins to set, embark on a guided lava viewing tour to witness the glow of molten lava against the evening sky.
After an exhilarating day, enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant where you can savor fresh seafood and traditional Hawaiian dishes. Listen to live Hawaiian music while taking in the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Conclude your evening with a peaceful stroll along the beach, feeling the cool breeze and watching the stars twinkle above.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a trip to the nearby beaches. Rent snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant underwater world, swimming alongside colorful fish and coral reefs. Alternatively, try stand-up paddleboarding to enjoy the calm waters and stunning views of the shoreline.
In the afternoon, join a guided kayak tour to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches, gaining a unique perspective of the coastline. Look out for sea turtles and dolphins during your adventure, as they are often spotted in these waters. After kayaking, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying a picnic lunch.
As the day winds down, unwind with a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with fellow travelers. Enjoy the sounds of the ocean as you gaze at the fiery sunset illuminating the sky. Finish the night with traditional Hawaiian entertainment, perhaps a hula dance performance or a fire show.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Hotel or Airbnb nightly | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes
- Relatively affordable coastal living and outdoor access
- Limited public transportation and slower pace
- Weather can be unpredictable on the east coast and lava activity affects some areas
Places to Visit in Hawaiian Paradise Park
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic coastline with volcanic-black sands and dramatic sunset views—great for landscape and seascape photography.
Shorelines, tidal pools, and a calm surf backdrop ideal for coastal photography and family portraits.
A naturally heated, palm-fringed inlet perfect for action shots in warm turquoise water.
Crystal-clear tidal pools protected by rocky barriers; colorful marine life makes for vibrant underwater shots (snorkeling optional).
Ridge views of the coastline and lava landscapes; a sweeping vantage point for panoramic sunset or sunrise photos.
Food in Hawaiian Paradise Park
Hawaiian Paradise Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Diced raw fish tossed with soy, sesame, onions, and seasonings; widely available in markets and poke bowls across the island.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked pork cooked in an underground imu, typically served with rice, cabbage, and poi at luau-inspired meals.
Pork or seafood wrapped in taro leaves and steamed, a traditional Hawaiian preparation often found at local eateries.
A refreshing snow-cone style treat topped with syrups and condensed milk, perfect for warm days along the coast.
Mangoes, pineapple, guava, and papaya—enjoy them fresh at markets or as part of a fruit bowl in a plate lunch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts—great for trying poke, tropical fruits, and quick bites.
Casual beachside stalls and trucks offering snacks, grilled fish, and local plates with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful around heiau, temples, and culturally significant sites; ask for permission before entering or touching sacred objects.
Greet people with a friendly 'Aloha' and practice patience; local residents value courtesy and a relaxed pace.
Many homes prefer shoes removed before entering; follow hosts' lead.
Ask before photographing people or private property; respect privacy in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hawaiian Paradise Park
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard if service is satisfactory; at cafes and takeout, tipping is optional but appreciated for good service. For tours, guides, and hotel staff, a small tip is customary if service is helpful.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and many markets; cash is useful for street stalls and some farmers markets that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm temperatures with higher humidity; occasional afternoon showers; trade winds keep rainfall variable. Great for long beach days, snorkeling, and outdoor exploration, though crowds can pick up near popular coastlines.
Milder days and cooler nights; wetter on the windward side with more frequent showers. A good time for lush green scenery, volcanic park adventures, and stargazing on clear nights.
Pleasant temperatures and gradually decreasing rainfall; ideal for hiking and coastal drives without peak summer heat.
Comfortable weather with less rain than winter and fewer crowds than summer; good for exploring lava tubes, parks, and coastal trails.
Hawaiian Paradise Park at Night
Hiking in Hawaiian Paradise Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes that lead to tide pools and lava-tube features near the eastern coast.
A gentle loop through a forested area featuring lava-tree formations from historic lava flows.
Accessible hikes within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park with crater and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Hawaiian Paradise Park by plane.
Closest major airport serving domestic and some international flights; about a 30-60 minute drive from Hawaiian Paradise Park depending on traffic and routing.
A larger airport on the west side of the island; about 1.5 to 2.5 hours by car depending on route and lava conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant part of the community, with strong ties to culture, family, and place-based traditions.
Long-time residents who contribute to the local culture and community networks.
Many people choose the island for a relaxed lifestyle and access to nature.
Tourists and short-term residents who visit for lava viewing, beaches, and hiking.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Big Island life with various surf spots along the coast suitable for different levels.
Rich marine life in bays and tide pools; famous sites around the island offer colorful reefs.
Trails range from coastal walks to volcanic landscapes within and beyond the park system.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hawaiian Paradise Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many eateries; look for veggie plates, tofu or mushroom dishes, and fresh salads. When in doubt, ask for no meat or dairy, and consider poke bowls with tofu or veggie toppings.