Mauna Loa Hawaii Map

Introduction

Mauna Loa Hawaii is a popular travel destination for its breathtaking natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and adventurous outdoor activities. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Loa is renowned for its impressive volcanic landscape, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best that Mauna Loa has to offer.

Top Attractions

Volcanoes National Park

One of the most popular attractions in Mauna Loa is the Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and various volcanic formations. The park also offers ranger-led tours, educational programs, and cultural demonstrations.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Another must-visit attraction in Mauna Loa is the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. This park is a sacred site that served as a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Hawaii through guided tours, traditional ceremonies, and hands-on activities.

Hidden Gems

Hamakua Coast

The Hamakua Coast is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of waterfalls, lush forests, and rugged coastline. Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails, botanical gardens, and quaint towns. The best way to experience the Hamakua Coast is by taking a scenic drive along the coast and stopping at various lookout points.

Punalu’u Beach

Punalu’u Beach is a black sand beach that is famous for its sea turtles. Visitors can watch the turtles bask in the sun or swim in the crystal clear waters. The beach also offers picnic areas, restrooms, and showers.

Food Scene

Poke

Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish that consists of raw fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Mauna Loa has several poke shops that offer a variety of poke bowls and sushi rolls. Some popular poke shops in Mauna Loa include Da Poke Shack, Suisan Fish Market, and Umeke’s.

Plate Lunch

Plate lunch is another popular Hawaiian dish that consists of rice, macaroni salad, and a meat entrée. Mauna Loa has several plate lunch spots that offer local favorites such as kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, and loco moco. Some popular plate lunch spots in Mauna Loa include L&L Hawaiian BBQ, Puka Puka Kitchen, and Kona Mix Plate.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Stay in a Hostel

Mauna Loa has several hostels that offer affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Some popular hostels in Mauna Loa include Hilo Bay Hostel and The Big Island Hostel.

Cook Your Own Meals

Another way to save money in Mauna Loa is by cooking your own meals. Many accommodations in Mauna Loa offer kitchen facilities that allow guests to prepare their own meals. Local grocery stores such as Safeway and KTA Super Stores offer a wide variety of affordable groceries.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Mauna Loa has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. Some popular hiking trails in Mauna Loa include the Kalalau Trail, the Napali Coast Trail, and the Waimea Canyon Trail. Visitors can also explore the island’s volcanic landscape by hiking the trails in the Volcanoes National Park.

Snorkeling

Mauna Loa is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. Visitors can explore the island’s vibrant marine life by snorkeling at popular spots such as Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, and Kapoho Tide Pools.

Family-Friendly Activities

Hawaiian Cultural Center

The Hawaiian Cultural Center offers hands-on activities and educational programs that teach visitors about the history and culture of Hawaii. Visitors can learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts, music, and dance. The center also offers cultural demonstrations and performances.

Mauna Kea Observatories

The Mauna Kea Observatories offer a unique educational experience for families. Visitors can tour the observatories and learn about astronomy and space exploration. The observatories also offer stargazing programs that allow visitors to view the night sky through high-powered telescopes.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a secluded valley that is home to a black sand beach, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore the valley’s hiking trails and take a guided horseback tour. The valley is accessible by a steep and narrow road that is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles.

Kalapana

Kalapana is a small town that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1990. Visitors can explore the town’s lava fields and see the remains of the destroyed buildings. The town also offers unique attractions such as the Star of the Sea Painted Church and the Kalapana Farmers Market.

Natural Wonders

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and various volcanic formations. The park also offers ranger-led tours, educational programs, and cultural demonstrations.

Mauna Kea Summit

The Mauna Kea Summit offers stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit and stargaze through high-powered telescopes. The summit is also home to several astronomical observatories.

Vibrant Nightlife

Kona Brewing Company

The Kona Brewing Company offers a lively atmosphere and a wide variety of craft beers. Visitors can enjoy live music and delicious pub food while sampling the brewery’s signature brews.

Hilo Town Tavern

The Hilo Town Tavern offers a unique nightlife experience with a local twist. Visitors can enjoy live music, karaoke, and a variety of local beers and cocktails.

Local Markets

Hilo Farmers Market

The Hilo Farmers Market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious local food. Visitors can explore the market’s various vendors and enjoy live music and cultural performances.

Puna Farmers Market

The Puna Farmers Market offers a unique experience with a focus on sustainability and community. Visitors can shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs while supporting local vendors.

Beaches and Mountains

Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is a popular white sand beach that offers crystal clear waters and stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on the beach’s wide expanse of sand. The beach also offers showers, restrooms, and picnic areas.

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is the highest peak in Hawaii and offers stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit and stargaze through high-powered telescopes. The summit is also home to several astronomical observatories.

Cultural Immersion

Hawaiian Cultural Center

The Hawaiian Cultural Center offers hands-on activities and educational programs that teach visitors about the history and culture of Hawaii. Visitors can learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts, music, and dance. The center also offers cultural demonstrations and performances.

Hula Halau

Hula Halau is a traditional Hawaiian dance school that offers classes and performances for visitors. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of hula and experience the beauty of this traditional dance.

Art and Music Scene

East Hawaii Cultural Center

The East Hawaii Cultural Center offers a variety of art exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the center’s galleries and attend cultural events such as concerts and theater performances.

Volcano Art Center

The Volcano Art Center offers a unique experience with a focus on local artists and culture. Visitors can explore the center’s galleries and attend cultural events such as art exhibits and workshops.

Walking Tours

Hilo Historic Walk

The Hilo Historic Walk is a self-guided walking tour that explores the town’s history and architecture. Visitors can follow the tour’s map and learn about the town’s colorful past and cultural heritage.

Kailua Village Walking Tour

The K