The Puna District of the big Island of Hawaii lies just south of Hilo, on the Eastern tip of the Big Island.  Puna District is known for it's relaxed and charming atmosphere displayed by the friendly locals.  Visitors traveling to Puna for a holiday will be mystified by the black sandy beaches, rock pools, ancient forests and molten lava that was created many years ago.  If you are looking Puna Destination guide, you are at the right place.  We hope to provide you with information on some of the Puna activities and places to visit while in Puna.

If this is your first time in Puna Hawaii, or if you are looking for some attractions in Puna, you will find that this Puna travel guide is a good place to start.  Let's explore some of the Puna attractions waiting for you.                                       

Puna Attractions

Old Puna trail (BEACH ROAD), for those who love to be adventurous this five mile trail each way although not fully developed will offer the Puna visitor the opportunity to enjoy a nice bike ride along the coastline.  As you cycle from the Hawaiian Paradise Park to the Haena Beach you will travel past tropical fruit trees, rainforest and wild orchids.  When you reach Haena Beach you can visit the Nene goose sanctuary and may even see Hawaiian Monk seals there. 

Star of the Sea Painted Church, built in 1927-1928 under the direction of the Belgian Catholic missionary priest Father Evarist Gielen.  Open seven days a week without charge, while on holiday in Puna you will enjoy the story the paintings on the walls tell of Father Damien (of leprosy fame), who came to the Kalapana area of Puna in 1864, after his ordination.

Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse, known for surviving the volcanic eruption in 1960 that sent lava heading toward this lighthouse and then splitting into two streams that flowed to the sea, this lighthouse is a well-known attraction to many who come to Puna Hawaii for a visit.

Kapoho Tide Pools, for the Puna visitor who is in the mood for many hours of snorkeling exploration, Kapoho Tide Pools is the place to be The calm volcanic heated waters of the tide pools that at times extend 200 yards out into the ocean make it worth the visit for the divers and snorkelers looking for underwater scenery.  The best time to dive according to the locals is in broad daylight to avoid the sharp lava stones along the way.  Remember to wear you beach shoes or water socks to protect your feet.

These are just a few places to visit and serve as a starting point for you Puna Hawaii travel guide. 

Puna Beaches

Ahalanui Park, a walled-in natural pond next to the ocean will be an unusual aquatic adventure for the Puna Visitor.  There are picnic tables, lush green grass and palm trees that make this uncrowed tropical retreat a great place for the family to spend the day.  There is a lifeguard on duty.

Isaac Hale Beach Park, for the experienced surfer visiting Puna you will want to check out Isaac Hale Beach Park, known as the best surf spot in Puna.  If you enjoy boating or are a fisherman at heart you will also find the only boat ramp in Puna just waiting for you to enjoy a day on the water.

Puna Parks

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located in the Puna District and extending into the Kau District, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916 and spans over 323,000 acres.  This famous park attracts over one million visitors a year.  The Puna visitor will be awe struck by two of the world's most active volcanoes that offer insight to the birth of the Hawaiian Island and dramatic views of the volcanic landscapes.  This is a cant miss for a Puna travel guide.

 Resturants

When in Puna on holiday you will find a variety of restaurants that will entice your taste buds.  Puna restaurants offer Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Italian, Hawaiian and American cuisine so you will find something for everyone.

Shopping

If your looking to do a little shopping while visiting Puna, then you will want to visit Pahoa located in the region of Puna.  Puna visitors will find their treasures in the funky little shops that line the streets with their wooden sidewalks and storefronts that date back 100 years.

These are just a few places you will want to visit while on holiday in the Puna District of Hawaii.  Let this destination guide serve as your starting point for you Puna travels and enjoy the culture and history of old Hawaii that makes this quaint area worth the trip.