Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Museums
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Hawaiian Paradise Park, often called HPP, is a tranquil, unincorporated community on the Big Island's eastern coast, known for its lush greenery, residential charm, and access to the Puna District's natural and cultural sites.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The full official name of this community is Hawaiian Paradise Park. It is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) located in Hawaiʻi County, in the District of Puna, on the island of Hawaii (the "Big Island"), in the state of Hawaiʻi, United States . The county of Hawaii is coterminous with the Big Island itself, an island renowned for its active volcanoes, diverse climate zones, and stunning natural landscapes, from lush rainforests to black sand beaches.
Date of Establishment and Age
Hawaiian Paradise Park is a residential subdivision that was developed in the mid-20th century. As a master-planned community, it lacks the ancient founding legends of older Hawaiian towns. It is governed by the Hawaii Paradise Park Association, which holds board meetings and manages road maintenance fees for property owners .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Hawaiian Paradise Park is situated on the eastern, windward side of the island of Hawaii .
- Geographic Coordinates: 19°35′25″N 154°58′33″W (19.590388, -154.975734) .
- Location Relative to Natural Features: The CDP is bordered to the northeast by the Pacific Ocean . It's a coastal community with terrain that rises from sea level. It is located near the Puna coast.
- Elevation: The elevation of the community ranges from sea level along the shore to approximately 150 meters (490 feet) in its southern corner, with the center around 40 meters (140 feet) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: Geographically, it is a low-lying coastal residential subdivision, characterized by lush, tropical vegetation.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Hawaiian Paradise Park is primarily a residential community. Its economy is not independent but is linked to the broader Puna District and the nearby city of Hilo, which is about 13 miles (21 km) to the northwest . Many residents likely commute to Hilo for work, which serves as a commercial and governmental hub for the east side of the island. The community serves as a base for those seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle while still having access to the services and jobs in Hilo.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the population was 14,957 .
- Population Class: This population size would classify it as a small town or large census-designated place. It is one of the larger communities in the Puna District.
- Demographic Features: The population is notably diverse, reflecting Hawaii's multi-ethnic character. According to the 2010 Census, the racial makeup was 34.71% White, 18.84% Asian, 11.76% Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander, and 32.26% from two or more races .
"City's Calling Card" (In Short)
Hawaiian Paradise Park is a slice of rural, residential Hawaii on the Big Island's lush Puna coast. It's a place to experience everyday island life, staying in a quiet community while using it as a launchpad to explore nearby natural wonders like Lava Tree State Monument, black sand beaches, and the geothermal and volcanic landscapes that define this region. It offers an authentic, non-resort alternative for experiencing the island's beauty .
Geography
Volcanoes and Volcanic Features
While there are no volcanoes within the CDP itself, it is located in the District of Puna on the eastern flank of Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Kīlauea's lower East Rift Zone has been the site of significant eruptions in recent decades, shaping the landscape and occasionally impacting the region. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which encompasses the summits of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, is located about 30-40 miles (48-64 km) to the southwest, a drivable distance for a memorable day trip .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
Hawaiian Paradise Park itself does not contain large rivers or lakes, but the region is known for its natural springs and coastal waters. The area is characterized by high rainfall, which contributes to the lush, green landscape. The Pacific Ocean is its northeastern border.
Beaches and Coastlines
The coastline along Hawaiian Paradise Park is rugged and rock-bound, typical of this section of the Puna coast. For classic Hawaiian beaches, one must travel a short distance.
- Ha'ena Beach: Located just south of the community, this beach is a known spot, but access requires a 2.5-mile (4 km) hike through private property, starting from south of the beach . This makes it a destination for adventurous hikers seeking a secluded experience.
- Nearby Beaches: The nearby CDP of Hawaiian Beaches borders it to the southeast, indicating that accessible beach areas are just outside HPP's boundaries .
National and Natural Parks
The area around Hawaiian Paradise Park is home to several notable state and national parks and monuments.
- Lava Tree State Monument: This is a key attraction located very close to Hawaiian Paradise Park . This public park preserves a mold of a forest cast by a lava flow in 1790. Visitors can walk a 0.7-mile (1.1 km) paved loop trail through a field of tall lava tree molds, some reaching heights of several feet, creating an otherworldly landscape.
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: As mentioned, this world-famous park is a major draw for visitors staying in the area, offering the chance to see Kīlauea's caldera, steam vents, and, during active periods, flowing lava .
Unique Landscapes
The entire Puna District, where Hawaiian Paradise Park is located, is a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. The lava fields, the lush tropical growth, and the coastline's interaction with ancient and recent lava flows create a unique and ever-evolving environment. The area is known for its natural springs and the "Puna Geothermal" plant, a testament to the volcanic heat just beneath the surface.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Hawaiian Paradise Park has a tropical rainforest climate (Af) under the Köppen climate classification, though it experiences trade wind influences. It is characterized by consistently warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall throughout much of the year . The weather is heavily influenced by the northeast trade winds, which bring moist air from the Pacific Ocean, leading to frequent cloudiness and precipitation.
Average Monthly Temperatures
The temperature in Hawaiian Paradise Park is remarkably stable year-round, with average highs and lows varying by only a few degrees. The hottest months are August and September, and the coolest months are January through March .
- Average Highs: Range from 78-79°F (26°C) in the winter to 82-83°F (28-29°C) in late summer .
- Average Lows: Range from 64-65°F (18°C) in the winter to 69-70°F (21°C) in the summer .
- Extremes: It is extremely rare for the temperature to go above 86°F (30°C) or drop below 60°F (16°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The community receives significant rainfall. The wettest period is from late autumn through early spring, with April typically being the wettest month, averaging around 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain . A drier, but still humid, period occurs in the summer, with June being the driest month, averaging around 2.7 inches (68.8 mm) .
- Wet Days: There is a high chance of rain on any given day (between 28% and 34% year-round) .
- Humidity: The area experiences extreme seasonal variation in perceived humidity. The muggiest period is from mid-April to late December. August has the most muggy days, with nearly the entire month (27.2 days) feeling oppressive. February has the fewest muggy days, but still with 7.6 days of high humidity .
Wind
The community is noticeably windy. The windiest period is from March to May, with average speeds around 12-12.7 mph (19-20.4 km/h). The prevailing wind direction is consistently from the east, which is the trade wind direction .
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit for warm-weather activities is almost year-round, from early November to early October, according to the tourism score . A travel guide suggests the period between December and April offers cooler and drier weather, while the shoulder months of May and October are good for avoiding crowds and finding lower accommodation rates .
- Summer (June-October): The warmest time of year, with the most sunshine (up to 75% clear sky in August) and slightly lower rainfall, but with the highest humidity. Perfect for beach trips and water activities .
- Winter (November-March): Comfortable temperatures prevail, though it is cloudier and rainier. It is an excellent time for hiking and exploring the island's lush interior without the intense heat, and it's also the peak season for humpback whale watching off the coast .
Landmarks and Attractions
[Lava Tree State Monument]
Just a short drive from Hawaiian Paradise Park, this is one of the most unique geological attractions in the area.
- Description: Lava Tree State Monument preserves the molds of trees that were engulfed by a lava flow in 1790. As the lava cooled against the tree trunks, it formed hollow casts. The trees themselves burned away, leaving behind upright, hollow lava towers, some several meters tall. An easy, paved 0.7-mile (1.1 km) loop trail winds through this strange and fascinating field .
- Location: Near the intersection of Highway 130 and Paradise Drive, very close to the CDP.
[Macadamia Nut Farm & Garden]
- Description: One of the top things to do in the area is to visit a local macadamia nut farm. These farms often have beautiful, manicured gardens and offer visitors the chance to sample and purchase macadamia nuts and related products . It provides a perfect taste of Hawaiian agriculture.
- Location: In the vicinity of Hawaiian Paradise Park.
[Hilo Coffee Mill]
- Description: Located nearby, the Hilo Coffee Mill is a working coffee farm. Visitors can tour the roasting facility and the farm itself. Tours can last around 1.5 hours, or a shorter 20-minute option is available. Their retail shop offers freshly roasted local coffee, making for a great souvenir .
- Location: Just a short drive from the community.
[Native Hawaiian Archaeological Sites]
- Description: The subdivision itself is home to numerous historic and archaeological preservation sites. These include Native Hawaiian petroglyphs (rock carvings), heiau (temple platforms), and burial sites . These sites are a tangible link to the area's ancient Hawaiian history, though they are often located on private property and not open to the public.
Transport
Nearest Major Airport
- Hilo International Airport (ITO): Located in Hilo, about 13 miles (21 km) northwest of Hawaiian Paradise Park, this is the primary airport for the east side of the Big Island . It handles inter-island flights from Honolulu and Kahului, as well as some direct flights from the U.S. mainland. Most visitors will rent a car here to reach HPP.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is limited, making a car essential for getting around .
- Hele-On Bus Route 402: The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency (Hele-On Bus) operates Route 402, which services Hawaiian Paradise Park, connecting it to neighboring communities like Hawaiian Acres and Ainaloa, and to the towns of Keaʻau (to the north) and Pahoa (to the south) . This route runs on weekdays and Saturdays, with no Sunday or holiday service . It is a vital link for residents without cars but offers limited frequency and coverage.
Major Highways and Roads
- Hawaii Route 130: This is the major highway that runs along the southwest edge of Hawaiian Paradise Park . It is the main artery connecting the Puna District to Hilo (via Keaʻau) and to the town of Pahoa, the district's commercial center .
- Driving: The best and most convenient way to explore the area, including nearby attractions, is by renting a car. It provides the flexibility to visit Volcanoes National Park, the beaches, and the various farmers' markets and shops .
Museums
Museums in Nearby Hilo
While Hawaiian Paradise Park itself is a residential community, the nearby town of Hilo, just a short drive away, offers cultural and historical attractions. One notable museum is the Lyman Museum (Lyman Museum) , located at 276 Haili St in Hilo . Visitors have noted that the museum features engaging exhibits, with a bottom floor dedicated to Hawaiian geology, botany, and zoology. The second floor provides a deep dive into Hilo-centric Hawaiian history, showcasing artifacts and displays in chronological order, many of which were donated by local families .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Higher Education Opportunities Nearby
Hawaiian Paradise Park benefits from its proximity to higher education institutions in Hilo. The nearest and most prominent is the University of Hawaii at Hilo (University of Hawaii at Hilo) , a public four-year university located about 11 miles away . It is recognized as a top public university in Hawaii and has an enrollment of nearly 2,800 students . For those seeking two-year programs or more affordable options, Hawaii Community College (Hawaii Community College) is also about 10 miles away, offering open admission and the lowest tuition in the area . Another option within the island chain is the University of Hawaii Maui College (University of Hawaii Maui College) , though it is further away, approximately 133 miles from Hawaiian Paradise Park .
Local Schools
For families, the local elementary school is Moanalua Elementary School, which has received strong ratings for its teaching excellence . Secondary school students in the area typically attend Keaʻau High School .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Hospitals and Medical Centers
Residents and visitors in Hawaiian Paradise Park have access to a range of healthcare services, with the primary facilities located in the surrounding communities. The main hospital serving the area is Hilo Medical Center (Hilo Medical Center) , a full-service hospital offering emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized treatments . It is a key healthcare provider for the entire region.
For primary care services, Puna Community Medical Center (Puna Community Medical Center) is another facility serving the community . Additionally, for non-life-threatening conditions and minor injuries, Keaau Urgent Care (Keaau Urgent Care) in nearby Keaʻau offers prompt care without an appointment . For specialized pediatric care, families can turn to Paradise Pediatrics (Paradise Pediatrics) .
Specialized Services and Laboratories
The area has several Clinical Labs of Hawaii locations for laboratory testing services, with facilities in Pāhoa, Hilo, and other nearby towns . Intensivists (critical care specialists) are also available in the region, with several physicians, including Dr. Robin A. Edwards and Dr. Craig S. Thomas, practicing at 1190 Waianuenue Ave in Hilo .
Community Health Overview
Compared to the rest of the United States, the Hawaiian Paradise Park area has a lower number of physicians per capita, with about 165 physicians for every 100,000 people, compared to the national average of 210 . The community's health is also reflected in its environmental factors. The area has a good air quality index of 83 (where 100 is best) and a strong water quality index of 77, both better than the U.S. average . The Superfund site index, measuring environmental contamination, is also favorable at 93 .