What to do in Papaikou, HI

Activities, attractions and tours

A waterfall cascading over rocks in a lush forest.
A lush garden with tall palm trees, dense foliage, and red-leafed plants.
A waterfall in a forest with moss-covered rocks and ferns.
A waterfall in a lush forest with moss-covered rocks and dense vegetation.
A cluster of spotted lilies with purple and white petals.

Places to Visit in Papaikou

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Papaikou, Hawaii while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Papaikou attractions from , making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Papaikou tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Papaikou. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


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Top places to visit

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Occupying a huge area of 1,335 square kilometres across Hawaii’s Big Island, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to not one but two volcanoes, including Kīlauea, the most active anywhere in the world. Visitors flock to this spot to enjoy the beautiful scenery as well as the chance to learn about the area’s natural history.
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A coastal rock formation with a narrow passage through it, overlooking the ocean.

2. Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea, the tallest peak in Hawaii, towers over Hawaii’s Big Island, rising over 4,000 metres above sea level – and impressively, would be more than twice the height of Mount Everest if it was measured from the base of the volcano at the bottom of the sea. Over a million years old, Mauna Kea, with its snowy peak, is an iconic symbol of the island and from the top, visitors will be rewarded with captivating views out over the ocean.
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A starry night sky with the Milky Way visible, silhouettes of a dome and a telescope, and a person observing.

3. Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls, set amid lush vegetation and incredible scenery, are jewels of the Hilo landscape. They are named for the miniature rainbows that appear at the foot of the falls in certain weather conditions. Come here to get close to nature and take photographs of the scenic cascade.
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A waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and a clear sky.

4. Akaka Falls

All across Hawaii, there are many stunning waterfalls to marvel at and explore. However, many of them are hidden away in remote, hard-to-reach parts of the island, making them difficult or strenuous to access. The Akaka Falls State Park is far more accessible. It’s just a short drive away from Hilo, and is one of the most impressive you’ll find in Hawaii.
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A waterfall in a lush green forest.

5. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

A trip to Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a magical experience for flora enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Pick any corner of this 40-acre (161,874-square-meter) conservation area to explore and be amazed by the countless varieties of plant and tree life that surround you. Look for a wide range of mammal, bird, reptile and insect species as you wander the twisting trails that guide you around this environmental treasure trove.
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A lush garden with vibrant red flowers, green foliage, and moss-covered rocks.

Recommended things to do in Papaikou

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
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Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Papaikou


Stay near popular Papaikou attractions


 

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Day trip destinations from Papaikou

Frequently asked questions

Is Papaikou worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are plenty of great things to do in Papaikou. Be sure to discover the area's mix of unmissable sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Papaikou?
Carlsmith Beach Park and Keaukaha Beach Park are two great places to begin your holiday adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Papaikou while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Papaikou?
Carlsmith Beach Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Papaikou and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Papaikou?
If you only want to see the most popular attractions, three days is more than enough time for a getaway in Papaikou. Stay for a week or more for the chance to really experience the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and discover some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Papaikou with kids?
Deciding what to do in Papaikou with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.
What to do in Papaikou for adults?
Hawaiʻi Nui Brewing is one of the top things to do in Papaikou. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Papaikou?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Papaikou is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Carlsmith Beach Park is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.