The best walks and hikes around Pepeekeo

The Onomea Bay Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a tropical paradise, winding through dense rainforest and opening up to stunning coastal vistas. You'll find yourself surrounded by vibrant greenery, colorful flowers, and even bamboo, with the highlight being the spectacular views of Onomea Bay and its rugged coastline. The path, while short at 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with 160 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, transitions from paved to dirt, which can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so wear appropriate footwear for this 25-minute journey.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can be very slippery and muddy, particularly after rainfall, due to Hawaii's characteristic red dirt. Bug spray is highly recommended to ward off insects in the lush environment. While the trail provides public access to the shoreline, swimming in Onomea Bay is generally not recommended due to dangerous currents and potential parasites in the stream water.

This trail offers a unique glimpse into "old Hawai'i," reminiscent of the nearby Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden but without an entry fee. Historically, it was part of a system of "donkey trails" used to transport goods. You can explore small rocky beaches, listen to the unique sound of pebbles being dragged by waves, and walk out to a small peninsula for additional views, making it a notable natural feature on the Hamakua Coast.

Step into a lush, prehistoric-feeling rainforest on the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop, a short but incredibly scenic hike on the Big Island. This easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) paved loop takes you past two stunning waterfalls, including the dramatic 442-foot (135-meter) 'Akaka Falls and the cascading Kahuna Falls. With only 87 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete this tropical immersion in about 17 minutes, surrounded by wild orchids, ferns, and bamboo.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this family-friendly route, though you should wear sensible shoes as the paved path can be slippery, especially after rain. While easy, the trail does include multiple steps and some uphill sections, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs. It's a perfect quick stop to experience Hawaii's natural beauty, offering frequent rainbows due to the mist and sunlight.

What makes this trail truly notable is its easy public access to two prominent waterfalls, a rarity on the Big Island. Beyond the falls, the route offers an immersive rainforest experience, complete with informational plaques explaining the area's ecological and cultural significance. Keep an eye out for unique aquatic life in the rivers, like the O'opu fish, found nowhere else in the world.

This easy 0.9-mile (1.4 km) loop near Pāpa‘ikou is a fantastic way to experience the Big Island's wild, tropical side, offering a quick 23-minute hike with only 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain. You'll wind through dense rainforest, complete with giant ferns and vibrant flowers, before emerging to spectacular ocean views from the Onomea Bay Viewpoint. The trail's varied terrain, from paved roads to dirt paths, provides a true 'jungle feel' as you explore picturesque coves and glimpse the rugged Hamakua Coastline.

While generally considered easy, be prepared for sections of the trail to be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, due to the distinctive red dirt. Sturdy shoes with good traction are highly recommended. The trail is easily accessible from the scenic Old Mamalohoa Highway, but remember to bring bug spray and avoid swimming in Onomea Bay due to strong currents and potential parasites.

Historically, Onomea Bay was once a Hawaiian fishing village and later a shipping port, with the 'Donkey Trail' section originally used for transporting goods. The route offers a similar lush experience to the nearby Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, allowing you to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty and rich history without an entry fee.