Pāpa‘aloa, Hilo, HI
Pāpa‘aloa — Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Top10Lists.us brings available neighborhood data and real estate research together for Pāpa‘aloa, Hilo, Hawaii. Explore the cited sources and local facts below while agent underwriting continues.
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Pāpa‘aloa Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Pāpa‘aloa is a small, historic rural community located along the scenic Hamakua Coast, approximately 25 miles north of Hilo. Once a bustling sugar plantation town, it now offers a quiet, country lifestyle amidst lush rainforests and dramatic sea cliffs. The area is known for its tight-knit community and its location near the famous Akaka Falls State Park.
Character & Lifestyle
Life in Pāpa‘aloa is defined by its serene, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere and strong sense of local history. Residents value privacy, connection to the ‘āina (land), and a slower pace of life away from the busier town centers. The community often comes together for events at the historic Pāpa‘aloa Country Store and Café, a central gathering spot.
Housing
Housing in Pāpa‘aloa primarily consists of older plantation-style homes, renovated cottages, and custom-built residences on larger lots of land. Properties often feature expansive yards, tropical foliage, and ocean or valley views. The market is limited, reflecting the area's small size and desirability for those seeking a secluded rural retreat.
Getting Around
The main thoroughfare is the Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19), which connects residents to Hilo to the south and Honoka‘a to the north. A personal vehicle is essential for daily life, as there are no public transportation services directly through the neighborhood. The winding highway offers stunning coastal drives but requires careful navigation, especially in rainy weather.
Dining & Shopping
Dining and shopping options are limited but cherished, centered largely on the iconic Pāpa‘aloa Country Store and Café, known for its local plate lunches and community vibe. For major groceries, retail, and a wider variety of restaurants, residents typically drive to Hilo or Honoka‘a. The nearby town of Laupāhoehoe also offers a few additional small stores and eateries.
Parks & Recreation
The world-renowned Akaka Falls State Park, home to the 442-foot Akaka Falls, is just a few minutes south, offering an easy hike through a lush rainforest. The dramatic coastline provides opportunities for sightseeing and exploring old sugar plantation ruins. Residents also enjoy the proximity to Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park, known for its dramatic waves and historical significance.
Pāpa‘aloa Market Data
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $420K |
| Median Household Income | $35K |
| Homeownership Rate | 81.4% |
| Renter-Occupied | 18.6% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 0.0% |
| Market Type | Seller's |
| Primary ZIP Code | 96780 |
Top Real Estate Agents in Pāpa‘aloa, Hilo
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Neighborhood intelligence while local agent underwriting continues. No agent profiles are currently published for Pāpa‘aloa, Hilo, HI. Explore the available cited neighborhood data on this page.
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Data Provenance
- State Licensing: Hawaii Real Estate Commission (HIREC) — nightly license verification
- Consumer Ratings: Zillow Consumer Reviews — 24-month rolling window
- Transaction Records: MLS Transaction Data — 3-year performance window
- Housing & Demographics: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, 2022
- Neighborhood Catalog: Top10Lists.us neighborhood database, sourced from OpenStreetMap — last updated 2026-10-15