If you’re yearning for a peaceful escape in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, the eastern, windward side of the Big Island offers some of the most secluded and charming towns you’ll ever find. I’ve explored this region and discovered hidden gems where tranquility reigns and nature is at its most breathtaking.
From quaint coastal villages with dramatic ocean views to rainforest sanctuaries near active volcanoes, these towns provide the perfect backdrop for anyone looking to unwind away from the hustle and bustle. Join me as I count down 10 of these serene locales, each offering their unique blend of seclusion and Hawaiian charm.
10. Ninole: Tranquil Coastal Living
Ninole, with a population of just over 200 people, is a peaceful seaside community that seems frozen in time. I love strolling along its rugged coastline, where you can find hidden tidal pools and perhaps spot humpback whales during the migration season.
The main activities here revolve around enjoying the natural beauty, like hiking through lush vegetation or picnicking by the waterfalls that dot the area. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tropical fruits and coffee, is the backbone of the local economy.
What makes Ninole truly secluded is its minimal development; there are no big resorts or crowded tourist hotspots, just unspoiled landscapes and the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Where is Ninole?
Ninole is located on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island, about 19 miles north of Hilo. The town’s seclusion comes from its position along the scenic Hawai’i Belt Road, where steep cliffs and dense forests naturally limit expansion and traffic.
Getting there involves a leisurely drive along Highway 19, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush, verdant hills on the other. The journey itself feels like a step back into old Hawaii, enhancing the sense of escape that Ninole provides.
9. Papaaloa: Secluded Hideaway Near Scenic Waterfalls
Papaaloa is a small village with approximately 500 residents, offering a quiet retreat nestled near some of the most stunning waterfalls in Hawaii. I enjoy visiting the nearby Laupahoehoe Point, where the rugged coastline meets the deep blue ocean in a dramatic fashion.
The community is close-knit, with local farms producing everything from macadamia nuts to tropical flowers. Papaaloa’s seclusion is accentuated by its lush greenery and the absence of commercial tourism, making it a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
Where is Papaaloa?
Situated along the Hamakua Coast, Papaaloa lies about 24 miles north of Hilo. Its location off the main tourist routes contributes to its peaceful ambiance.
The town is accessible via Highway 19, but the turnoff to Papaaloa leads you through winding roads bordered by towering trees and sweeping fields. This detour from the main highway ensures that only those who seek it out will find this hidden haven, preserving its tranquil atmosphere.
8. Ookala: Serenity in a Small Sugar Town
With a population hovering around 400, Ookala is a tiny community that offers solitude amidst expansive landscapes and echoes of old Hawaii. The town’s history is rooted in the sugar plantation era, and wandering through Ookala feels like stepping back in time.
I like exploring the remnants of the sugar mills and enjoying the quiet ambiance of the village. The main industry has shifted towards agriculture and ranching, and the vast open spaces contribute to the town’s secluded charm.
Where is Ookala?
Ookala is located on the northeastern coast of the Big Island, approximately 27 miles north of Hilo. Its isolation is due in part to its distance from larger towns and the relative scarcity of road signs pointing the way.
To get there, you take the scenic Highway 19 and turn off onto local roads that meander through lush pastures and rolling hills. The journey reinforces the feeling of leaving the busy world behind as you approach this serene locale.
7. Hakalau: Peaceful Living by the Sea
Hakalau is a quaint village with around 250 residents, offering expansive ocean views and the tranquility of rural seclusion. I find peace in walking along the old plantation roads, now quiet pathways bordered by tropical flora.
The town’s economy revolves around small-scale farming and ranching, with an emphasis on sustainable practices. Hakalau’s seclusion stems from its location away from major tourist destinations and limited commercial development, allowing visitors to experience a slice of authentic Hawaiian lifestyle.
Where is Hakalau?
Located 15 miles north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast, Hakalau is tucked away off Highway 19. Its remoteness is enhanced by the absence of large signs or attractions pulling in crowds.
Access is via a narrow road that winds down towards the sea, making the journey part of the charm. The town’s setting between the ocean and the towering cliffs amplifies its feeling of seclusion, making it a perfect escape for those seeking quietude.
6. Pepeekeo: A Hidden Gem Amidst Tropical Flora
Pepeekeo is home to about 1,700 residents and is a secluded haven surrounded by lush vegetation and the tranquility of nature. I enjoy visiting the nearby Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which showcases the incredible biodiversity of the area.
The town itself maintains a slow pace of life, with agriculture and small businesses supporting the local economy. Its seclusion is a result of its dense tropical surroundings and lack of large-scale development, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Where is Pepeekeo?
Pepeekeo is situated along the Hamakua Coast, just 8 miles north of Hilo. Despite its proximity to the city, it feels worlds apart due to its tucked-away location off the main highway.
Access is via scenic routes that pass through rainforest and offer glimpses of the ocean. The combination of its geographic setting and limited tourist traffic contributes to the town’s secluded atmosphere, making it a hidden gem worth discovering.
5. Laupahoehoe: Coastal Seclusion on the Hamakua Coast
Laupahoehoe, with a population of around 600, is set along rugged coastlines with dramatic ocean views away from tourist trails. I find the Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park to be a place of serene beauty, despite its history with the tragic 1946 tsunami.
The town offers activities like fishing, picnicking, and simply enjoying the raw power of the ocean. The local economy is modest, centered on small businesses and agriculture. Its remote location and the rugged terrain amplify Laupahoehoe’s sense of seclusion.
Where is Laupahoehoe?
Located approximately 25 miles north of Hilo, Laupahoehoe sits along Highway 19 but remains relatively unnoticed by passing traffic. Its seclusion is due to the steep descent from the highway to the coast, deterring large numbers of visitors.
The winding road down to the town offers spectacular views but requires careful navigation. This natural barrier helps maintain the town’s tranquil environment, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude.
4. Pahala: Quiet Plantation Town in Ka’u
Pahala is a small community of about 1,350 people, steeped in plantation history amidst rolling fields and distant from city life. I appreciate the town’s historic charm, with its old buildings and the nearby Ka’u Coffee Mill, where you can learn about local coffee production.
Agriculture remains the main industry, with coffee and macadamia nut farms dotting the landscape. Pahala’s seclusion comes from its location in the sparsely populated Ka’u district, offering a quiet lifestyle far from the tourist crowds.
Where is Pahala?
Pahala is located in the southern part of the Big Island, about 55 miles south of Hilo. Its remote setting is enhanced by the vast stretches of lava fields and open land surrounding it.
Accessing Pahala involves a drive along Highway 11 through uninhabited areas, reinforcing the sense of isolation. The town’s distance from major urban centers and limited infrastructure contribute to its peaceful seclusion.
3. Honomu: Gateway to Waterfalls and Tranquility
Honomu is a quaint village with a population of just over 500, located near the famous Akaka Falls. I enjoy the charm of its old wooden buildings and small shops selling local crafts and products. Adventure awaits with nearby hiking trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls and lush rainforest.
The town’s economy is driven by agriculture and tourism, but it retains a peaceful atmosphere due to its small size. Honomu’s secluded feel comes from its off-the-beaten-path location and the surrounding natural beauty.
Where is Honomu?
Situated 11 miles north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast, Honomu is accessed via a turnoff from Highway 19 onto a scenic route lined with tropical foliage. The town’s seclusion is due in part to its setting away from major highways and urban areas.
Getting there involves a leisurely drive through the countryside, and the absence of large tourist facilities keeps the village quiet and serene. This makes Honomu an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil experience close to nature.
2. Hawaiian Beaches: A Coastal Hideaway
Hawaiian Beaches is a peaceful oceanfront town on the east side of the Big Island, nestled in the lush, tropical landscapes of Puna. With a population of 4,280 at the 2010 census, the town offers a laid-back, residential retreat away from the hustle of major tourist destinations.
Life here revolves around simple pleasures—watching breathtaking sunrises over the Pacific, strolling through shaded coastal parks, and feeling the salty breeze against your skin. The ocean’s presence is constant, creating a tranquil environment that attracts those seeking a slower, more connected way of living.
Despite its secluded charm, Hawaiian Beaches enjoys proximity to the conveniences of Pahoa, a nearby town known for its eclectic vibe and small-town hospitality. The region is rich with lava-formed landscapes, tide pools, and black sand beaches, all contributing to the area’s rugged, untamed beauty.
Where is Hawaiian Beaches?
Hawaiian Beaches sits along Hawaii Route 130, forming its western border and leading 18 miles north to Hilo, the island’s largest city. The town is flanked by Hawaiian Paradise Park to the north and Nanawale Estates to the south, with the Pacific Ocean stretching endlessly to the east.
The drive to Hawaiian Beaches takes you through lava fields, tropical forests, and picturesque coastal roads, highlighting the raw and natural essence of Puna. Its location ensures a sense of seclusion, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to embrace the quieter side of island life while remaining within reach of essential amenities.
1. Volcano Village: A Lush Sanctuary Near the Volcanoes
Volcano Village, home to around 2,500 residents, is nestled in a rainforest at the edge of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. I love the serene atmosphere created by the towering ohia trees and abundant fern understory.
The village offers art galleries, cozy cafés, and access to some of the most unique hiking experiences around the active Kilauea volcano.
Tourism and hospitality are main industries, but the area retains a quiet charm due to its natural setting. The seclusion comes from its elevation and the enveloping forest, providing a peaceful retreat unlike any other.
Where is Volcano Village?
Located 30 miles southwest of Hilo, Volcano Village sits at an elevation of about 4,000 feet. Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding national park and the lack of nearby urban development.
Access is via Highway 11, but once you turn into the village, you’re greeted by winding roads canopied by dense vegetation. The combination of altitude, climate, and geography creates a feeling of being nestled away from the rest of the world, making it a perfect sanctuary for nature lovers.
