Onomea Trail

Onomea Trail is a short path that descends from the hillside Old Mamalahoa Highway down to a couple small bay areas.

Set on the island's rainy eastern shore, the trail descends down a paved and hardpacked gravel path, crossing over Hanawi and passing through the private Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, ending at Onomea Bay. Descending about 125 feet over the rolling path, the trail starts off with views over the wild feeling bay. Waves wash up in shady coves against the forested rocky outcroppings.

After a short descent, a clear trail branches off to the right which parallels the stream, and ends at a small cove. Upon passing the Bioreserve and Garden, the path passes between two chainlink fences, as the private garden sits on both sides. After a short climb and a second descent, the trail reaches a larger bay. Crossing the stream and climbing out to the point will place you at the precipice of a lush tropical rainforest standing over a swirling sea.

Continuing further will place you on the Donkey Trail, which climbs back up to the highway near the Gardens office.

From the bay, you can return the way you came. In all, the hike down and back is pretty quick. 

The out and back to the bay is .7 miles round trip. There are no amenities along the hike. Rain and mosquitos are to be expected here, so come prepared.

There is limited parking along the shoulder, and it is along a blind curve on the highway, proceed carefully.