Ninole Hills

Hawaiʻi the Big Island


Eroded hills from Mauna Loa's geologic past are visible from Hwy 11 between Naʻalehu and Pahala.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Hawaiʻi the Big Island attractions

1. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach Park

3.69 MILES

Beyond the nearly omnipresent green sea turtles basking in the sun, or the rare hawksbill turtles that lay their eggs here (be careful where you walk),…

2. Kaneʻeleʻele Heiau

3.73 MILES

Also referred to as Punaluʻu Nui, 800-year-old Kaneʻeleʻele Heiau was the region's luakani, or place of human sacrifice. A large flat stone below the…

3. Henry Opukahaʻia Chapel

3.73 MILES

A small rock chapel and cemetery above Kawa Bay is dedicated to Punaluʻu resident, Henry Opukahaʻia. Several years after watching his parents get killed…

4. Kawa Bay

4.81 MILES

Repeatedly a flash-point for coastal-access and land-rights issues, Kawa Bay is now a quiet, pebbly cove. It's bounded by a creek and cliff-top heiau …

5. Kaʻu Coffee Mill

5.18 MILES

This down-to-earth, someday-to-be hydro-powered coffee farm roasts its own award-winning beans – the wonderful aroma floors you – which some connoisseurs…

6. Whittington Beach Park

6.83 MILES

Northeast of Naʻalehu, this small park has tide pools, an ancient Hawaiian fishpond frequented by birds, and the photographic ruins of a historic pier…

7. Wood Valley Temple

7.19 MILES

Its official name, which translates to 'Immutable Island of Melodious Sound,' perfectly captures the valley's wind and birdsong. Just outside Pahala, you…

8. Honuʻapo Bay Overlook

7.35 MILES

For killer coastal views, pause at the scenic lookout above Honuʻapo Bay northeast of Naʻalehu. This sweep of shoreline and scrub is part of the longest…