There’s A Little Town Hidden In The Hawaii Rainforest And It’s The Perfect Place To Relax
By Megan Shute|Published March 08, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
There are countless incredible towns and cities scattered across the six main Hawaiian Islands, many of which are nestled along the Aloha State’s 750 miles of gorgeous coastline. These are Hawaii’s most popular destinations for relaxation, but sometimes, you need a different kind of getaway. One that takes you high above sea level, to a charming little rainforest town on the slopes of one of Hawaii Island’s volcanoes where you will find seclusion and peace. This is Volcano, and it’s one census-designated place you’ll love visiting.
Tucked away near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at nearly 4,000 feet in elevation, Volcano is home to 2,500 residents, plenty of artistic vibes and art galleries, two general stores, a post office, a farmers market, some mouthwatering restaurants, and phenomenal views.
Nestled in the heart of one of the world’s most pristine rainforests, it doesn’t get any better than the sleepy community of Volcano Village. This rustic spot seems worlds away from the island’s resort destinations despite being on the doorstep of one of Hawaii’s most famous attractions, and is famous for its beauty and tranquility.
You won’t find traditional hotels in Volcano, but you will find countless bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and other unique accommodations — many of which feature fireplaces and hot tubs. What’s more relaxing than that?
You can visit many of these painters, sculptors, fabric makers, jewelers and woodworkers in their home galleries, or at the Volcano Art Center Gallery, a gallery nestled within the national park that features the work of more than 300 artists. Whether you are an artist yourself or just appreciate beautiful things, you’ll love your creative retreat to Volcano village.
Did you know that Hilo is the orchid capital of the world? Don’t worry, we didn’t either! Tour the Akatsuka Orchid Garden’s 8,000-square foot showroom that displays 500 unique orchids, wander through an orchid maze, participate in a guided hands-on orchid planting activity, have lunch, and tour the greenhouse growing facility.
Volcano is home to some incredible restaurants sure to satisfy any craving you have.
For Italian food, check out Ohelo Cafe, and for breakfast or brunch, head to Eagles Lighthouse Cafe. There’s also Tuk Tuk Thai Food Wagon, and Cafe Ono (pictured above), which serves up mouthwatering vegetarian fare in a serene garden setting.
What better way to relax than with a glass of local wine at Volcano Winery?
Founded in 1986, Volcano Winery is the only winery on Hawaii Island, and one of only three commercial wineries in Hawaii. It is also the southernmost winery in the United States. With eight acres of vineyards and organic teas, you won’t find a winery quite like this one anywhere in the world. Tropical fruits – like yellow guava, star fruit or the exotic jaboticaba berry – are blended with traditional wine grapes to create vibrant wines that perfectly capture the Hawaiian spirit.
If you prefer hiking and exploration as a means of relaxation like I do, head to the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
With more than 323,000 acres to explore, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the state’s largest national park – and it’s still growing! The park is also home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive subaerial volcano. Within this incredible park, you will find countless incredible natural wonders, magnificent hiking trails, and even a scenic drive with volcano and ocean views.
Ready for a relaxing weekend getaway? Look no further than this charming community nestled in the rainforest on the slopes of an active volcano.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket, though: due to the town’s elevation, the temperatures can dip to 40 degrees at night during the winter, and 55 in the summer months.