Hawi Travel Guide

Rain and wind have eroded away the northeastern part of the island, creating the dramatic Pololu Valley and and distent islets. I suggest you to go down the trail to the black sand beach (it takes about 15-20 minutes each way). But take note: it can get knee-high muddy. Take some water with you (or better, A LOT), otherwise you'll die, lol.

A good place to get a feel for the North Kohala coast - popular both with locals and visitors. Decor that feels straight out of a 1940s movie. Food that is satisfying, tasty, and which retains an authentic feel. ForSunday brunch I ordered one of the local favorites: a BBQ pork sandwich with fresh rice on the side. Lots of seafood on the menu, too. Excellent salads with interesting lettuces. And be sure to get one of their special Smoothies: mango and passion fruit are both in demand here!

(Under the same roof is an interesting gallery highlighing work of local artists. I picked up a low numbered, attractively designed print here at a reasonable price.)

Favorite thing: An interesting example of 19th century Hawaiian "gothic", the Sacred Heart Catholic Church is on SR270 as you drive into town from the west. Like many churches I found on the Big Island, the doors were open in the middle of the afternoon - if you want to look inside,it's nice not to have to go scouring around to find someone with a key.