- The list below includes 47 free or cheap things to do in or near Papaikou, Hawaii, including 38 different types of inexpensive activities like Botanical Gardens, Food Tours, Beaches and Parks.
- From Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden to Onomea Tea Company, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Papaikou and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Hilo, Pahoa, Hakalau and Honomu.
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81
1.2 Miles
96%
1221 votes
27-717 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Papaikou, HI 96781
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Located in Papaiku, Hawaii, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a tranquil gem on the shore of Onomea Bay. Its property includes hundreds of plant species, many of which are endangered or found nowhere else in the world.
0.9 Miles
Onomea Tea Company makes teas of many different flavors and varieties. Tours/tastings are available where visitors can see the growing fields and processing areas and then try some of freshly brewed, organic teas.
2.7 Miles
When you are on the Big Island, take the time to go where the locals choose to ride the waves, Honoli'i Beach Park. Stretch out in the grassy areas and watch the surfers or hunt for interesting rocks, this is a peaceful, happy beach area or all to enjoy.
4.5 Miles
If you are looking for a place to go snorkeling, Keaukaha Beach Park, should be your first choice. The lava rock formations create pools of water where the sea turtles hang out, and there are grassy areas for a family picnic.
4.7 Miles
The Pacific Tsunami Museum is housed in one of the few buildings which resisted the tsunami in 1946. It has a collection of photos and survival stories, as well as an interactive map of the 1946 tsunami.
4.8 Miles
Covering 28 acres, the Coconut Island was made famous by the show Gilligan's Island. It has now the only laboratory built on a coral reef in America, and it is a part of the University of Hawaii.
4.8 Miles
Mauna Loa Observatory is a working atmospheric research facility that has been collecting climate related data since 1950. Tours are by appointment and only on selected days, visitors to this remote site will enjoy the stunning views on the drive up the mountain.
4.9 Miles
82%
49 votes
308 Kamehameha Ave, Suite 109, Hilo, HI 96720
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Featuring educational exhibits detailing the ecological history of the region, Mokupapapa Discovery Center offers visitors aquariums filled with native sea life. The center features displays with life sized animal models like seals, sharks, and more.
4.9 Miles
During the golden years for American movie theaters, the Palace Theater in Hilo, opened in 1925 to an excited public. Known for its excellent, natural acoustics, today the venue hosts live shows, entertainment, and movies.
5.0 Miles
Take a guided tour of the Lyman family Mission House, Hawaii's oldest wood frame building, and explore the history of the state through seashell and mineral collections, permanent and special exhibits at the Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum.