Big Island
Living on the Big Island
The Big Island is the largest island in the Hawaiian chain (ergo “Big” Island); it is also the youngest. There are 7 main regions on the Big Island: Hamakua Coast, Hilo, Kau, Kona, Kohala Coast, North Kohala and Puna.
Hamakua Coast
Hamakua Coast is located on the northeastern part of the Big Island. It is known for the Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive, a road along the coastline that passes lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls and lovely seaside views. Hamakua Coast neighborhoods and districts include Ahualoa, Honokaa, Kukuihaele, Laupahoehoe, Ninole, Paauilo, Waipio.
Hilo
In the Hilo region, you will find magnificent waterfalls, abundant rainforests and bountiful gardens. It is also the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Hilo neighborhoods and districts include Hakalau, Hilo, Honomu, Kaiwiki, Kaumana, Keaukaha, Onomea, Papaikou, Paukaa, Pepeekeo, Puueo, Sunrise Ridge, Wainaku.
Kau
The Big Island’s southernmost region is Kau. It seems almost untouched by civilization except around the small towns of Naalehu and Pahala. It is an area that definitely moved along at its own pace. Kau neighborhoods and districts include Discovery Harbor, Naalehu, Ocean View, Pahala, Sea Mountain, Volcano Golf Course.
Kona
In Hawaiian, Kona means leeward (dry side of the island). Along the expansive area of Kona, you’ll find everything from coffee farms to historic landmarks. Kona neighborhoods and districts include Holualoa, Kaloko, Keauhou, Makelei Estates, North Kailua Kona, Puu Lani Ranch.
Kohala Coast
The geographic opposite of Hilo, the rugged lava fields surrounding the Kohala Coast is something to marvel at. Almost always under bright sunny skies, it is the ideal tropical playground. It is the reason why you’ll find some of the island’s finest resorts here. Kohala Coast neighborhoods and districts include Hualalai, Kohala By The Sea, Kohala Estates, Kohala Ranch, Kohala Waterfront, Kukio, Mauna Kea Resort, Mauna Lani Resort, Puako, Waikoloa Beach Resort, Waikoloa Village.
North Kohala
To the north of Kohala Coast is the lush, undeveloped country of the North Kohala region. You’ll find some of the most historically significant sites on the Big Islands in this region including the birthplace of King Kamehameha. North Kohala neighborhoods and districts include Halawa, Hawi Kaiholena, Kapaau, Makapala, Niulii, Puakea.
Puna
Situated on the eastern tip of the Big Island is the Puna region. Here you will find black sand beaches, a spring warmed by the volcano’s stream, and the rugged landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Puna neighborhoods and districts include Hawaiian Acres, Hawaiian Beaches, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Hawaiian Park, Hawaiian Shores Recreational Estates, Hawaiian Shores Subdivision, Kaimu-Kehena, Kapoho, Keaau, Kurtistown, Mountain View Pahoa, Pohoiki-Opihikao, Volcano-Glenwood.
