What is the best time of year to visit the Big Island?

The Big Island is a fantastic destination year-round due to its pleasant weather. For fewer crowds and great deals, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are highly recommended. Winter (December-February) is our busiest season, but it's also the time for incredible whale watching.

What should I pack for a trip to the Big Island?

Pack for comfort and a variety of microclimates! We suggest bringing a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings, sturdy shoes for hiking to waterfalls, comfortable sandals for the beach, and plenty of light, breathable clothing. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a hat, and a light rain jacket.

What are the cultural dos and don'ts in Hawaii?

We are so happy you asked! The key is to embrace the "Aloha Spirit" with kindness and respect. Always remove your shoes before entering a home, and never touch or feed marine life. It is also customary to pull over on narrow roads to let locals pass. A simple "Aloha" (hello/goodbye) and "Mahalo" (thank you) go a long way.

Do we need to rent a car?

Yes, a rental car is essential for exploring the Big Island. Public transportation is very limited and won't get you to many of the island's natural wonders and hidden gems. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Is Hamakua Sunrise Farm a working farm, and will we be expected to participate in chores?

Hamakua Sunrise is a working farm, but your stay is purely for rest and relaxation. You are not expected to participate in any farm chores. We invite you to respectfully observe the farm's operations and enjoy a truly authentic experience.

What kind of fresh produce or food is available from the farm?

Guests often have access to fresh, seasonal produce from our property, such as avocados, bananas, and other tropical fruits. fresh eggs can also be collected from our happy, free-roaming chickens. Please ask your hosts what is available during your stay.

Is the property suitable for children?

Yes, our farm stay is a wonderful place for families! We have open spaces for children to play and connect with nature. For their safety, all children must be supervised by an adult at all times due to the natural landscape and the presence of farm animals.

Is there cell phone service and Wi-Fi on the property?

We provide high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the guest areas for your convenience. While cell service is generally reliable, please be aware that reception can vary depending on your service provider. Verizon & ATT works best. T-Mobil users struggle.

How do I book Hamakua Sunrise Estate?

Book directly on our site—tap Check Availability. We’re also on Airbnb/VRBO, but you’ll usually get the best rate and personal help when you book direct.

What’s the check-in / check-out process?

Easy self check-in with a smart lock. We’ll email directions and your code 24 hours before arrival. Check-in [4:00 PM], check-out [11:00 AM].

Can I request early check-in or late check-out?

When we can, yes. It’s based on availability and housekeeping windows—message us and we’ll try to make it work.

How many guests can you host?

Up to 10–16 guests when booking the full property (farmhouse + three farm cottages). See each listing for bed & bath details.

Is there a minimum stay or extra guest fee?

Minimums can vary by season. If an extra guest fee applies beyond base occupancy, you’ll see it before checkout.

What’s included with my stay?

Hotel-quality linens & towels, fully equipped kitchen, Starlink Wi-Fi, starter coffee/tea, basic paper goods & soaps, washer/dryer, and access to all outdoor spaces (lanai, BBQ, firepit, yoga deck, 10-acre grounds).

Do you offer mid-stay housekeeping?

Yes—on request for an additional fee. We deep-clean between every reservation.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Your selected policy appears at booking and in your confirmation email. If plans change, contact us—we’re humans first.

What are the best restaurants near Hamakua Sunrise Farm?

The Hamakua Coast offers a variety of fantastic dining options. We recommend exploring the local eateries in nearby Honoka'a, Waimea, Hilo & Kona for local Hawaiian "plate lunch" and fresh farm-to-table cuisine. We will be happy to provide our top recommendations upon your arrival!

What are some must-do activities on the Hamakua Coast?

The Hamakua Coast is known for its lush beauty and stunning waterfalls. We highly recommend a visit to Akaka Falls State Park, a scenic drive along the Hamakua Heritage Corridor, and exploring the historic sugar plantation towns. You can also book a tour to a local chocolate farm or coffee plantation.

Can we see lava flows from the farm?

The active lava flows from Kīlauea Volcano are not visible from the property. To experience this natural wonder, we recommend booking a tour or visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is a spectacular and easy day trip from our location.

What is the closest beach to the property?

The closest beach to our farm stay is Laupahoehoe Beach Park. While our property is nestled in the scenic Hamakua hills, you're just a short, beautiful drive from some of the Big Island's most famous black sand beaches and protected coves.

HOW FAR FROM THE AIRPORT IS YOUR LOCATION?

We are 30 minutes away from Hilo Airport & 1Hr 30min from Kona Airport/ Daniel K Inouye International Airport

Is there a grocery store close by?

Yes, Papaaloa Country Store & Cafe is just down the road from us. Head down there for live music, trivia nights, open bar & great local food, Ono Kine!

Are there any dangerous animals on the farm?

No, there aren’t any dangerous animals on the farm. But being in the Hawaiian country side you might come across bugs, critters & exotic geckos that not dangerous & totally normal.

Can We feed the ducks & chickens?

Yes, you can feed ducks & chickens and leftover scraps you might have but only near the coop area. Please do not feed them near residential buildings, it gives them bad habits.

Getting Here — Hamakua Sunrise Estate

Choose Your Airport

Hilo International (ITO) — closest, easiest

~45–55 min drive to Papaʻaloa along the Hāmākua Coast
Small, calm airport; quick baggage & car rental pickup
Best for: short trips, families, low-stress arrivals

Kona International (KOA) — more flight options

~1 hr 45–2 hr drive to Papaʻaloa (fastest via Saddle Road)
Larger airport; more nonstop routes from the mainland
Best for: wider fare choices, pairing with West Hawai‘i beaches

Check Availability (book your dates before you book your flights)

Already planning your flights to Hawai‘i? Touch down calm and head for ocean views, birdsong, and slow mornings at Hamakua Sunrise Estate in Papaʻaloa on the Big Island.

Flights to the Big Island (quick tips)

Popular airlines to Hawai‘i: Hawaiian, Alaska, United, Delta, American, Southwest
Interisland connections (if you fly into another island): Hawaiian or Southwest (limited)
Aim for daytime arrivals for the prettiest first drive and easy grocery stops
If you’re price-hunting: search “flights to Hawai‘i” for KOA and ITO, then choose the best combo of fare + arrival time

From

Hilo (ITO)

Kona (KOA)

Hilo Downtown

Hawai‘i Volcanoes NP

To Hamakua Sunrise Estate

30-45Minutes

1Hr 30 Min

30 Min

1 HR 30 Min

Notes

Scenic coastal drive; groceries in Hilo before heading north

Fastest via Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Hwy); beautiful daylight crossing

Easy day trips for markets, gardens, and lagoons

Best as a day trip (start early)

Car Rental & Getting Around

Rent a car: rideshare is limited along the Hāmākua Coast
Standard cars are fine; 4WD not required for our route
Free on-site parking at the estate
EV drivers: charging is limited on this coast—plan ahead
Bring/confirm child seats with your rental if needed

What to Pack for the Coast (ultra-short list)

Light rain jacket (passing showers = rainbows)
Closed-toe shoes with grip for waterfall paths
Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle
A small cooler is great for market finds and beach days

Grocery & Essentials (on the way)

Hilo: easiest place to stock up (groceries, pharmacy, farmers market)
Northbound pit stops: Honomū, Laupāhoehoe (small markets, snacks)
Arriving late? Ask us for after-hours essentials suggestions
Papaaloa Counry store & Cafe is also a great spot just minutes down the road from Hamakua Sunrise for Hot food, Supply replenishments, Drinks, live music & trivia nights.