Hamakua Coast

The Hamakua Coast runs along the northeastern flank of the Big Island from Waipio Valley south to Hilo, a sequence of deep stream-carved gulches, sea cliffs, and remnant sugarcane fields in various stages of reforestation. Highway 19 follows the cliff edge for much of the route, with pullouts at the edges of valleys revealing views of the rugged coastline and, on clear days, the snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea rising above the cloud layer inland. The coast's heavy rainfall supports lush vegetation including introduced eucalyptus forests and native fern gulches.