A southeastern Hawai'i community full of potential
On the island of Hawai'i’s southeastern coast, the community of Hawaiian Paradise Park - known to locals as “HPP” - is as full of potential as it is of mango trees and undeveloped land. Originating as grazing land for cattle due to its otherwise unfertile soil, Hawaiian Paradise Park now offers residents abundant greenery, a naturalistic character and distance from big-city action. “There are over 8,000 lots, and some of them are low enough where you can put in wells," says Denise Nakanishi, a Realtor with Real Broker LLC. This is notable due to the absence of a public sewer system and reliance on catchment water. "You’ve got bigger lots, and homes are usually newer than what you can find in town in Hilo. There’s also new shopping and restaurants in the area." Nearly 15,000 residents call Hawaiian Paradise Park home, counting retirees, Hilo commuters and the environmentally conscious among their number. Healthcare, food services and retail form the backbone of this city’s largely services-based economy. Though HPP may not have strong cell coverage or paved roads, this community’s immersion in nature helps shape its appeal.
HPP's affordability compared to other parts of Hawaii attracts a diverse mix of residents, including families, retirees, and individuals seeking a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Many residents appreciate HPP's blend of natural beauty, space, and community spirit.
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Vintage homes and vacant lots alternate along HPP's rural roads
First developed in the 1950s, Hawaiian Paradise Park is defined by grid-patterned and numbered avenues with ranch-style homes and vacant lots throughout. Though much of HPP’s housing dates from the 1960s to 1990s, homes built as recently as the 2020s are among this city’s more expensive properties. It’s common to hear roosters crowing from chicken tents kept on certain properties, and many of HPP’s lots remain vacant and open for construction. HPP retains a rural feel both due to this semi-agrarian atmosphere and the absence of modern amenities like public sewage, trash collection or paved roads and its reliance on catchment water. “Anything grows there, and, if you’re at the top of the subdivision, you get more rain," Nakanishi says. "As you go down toward the ocean, you have more sunshine and ocean breeze, as the vegetation is less thick there. You can have farm animals, and you can even do a second dwelling, which you couldn’t do for a long time.” This city’s HOA charges around $300 yearly for road maintenance, while trash collection runs on a self-haul system. Hawaiian Paradise Park has a median sale price of $515,000, nearly in line with that of nearby Hilo, although newer beachfront properties can sell for up to $1.75 million and plenty of properties sell for far below the local and Hilo averages.
The area receives ample rainfall, supporting its lush environment but also requiring residents to manage challenges like mold and road maintenance.
The subdivision's roads vary in condition, with some paved and others remaining unpaved, affecting accessibility during heavy rains.
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Waterfront views from Maku'u Point and Paradise Cliffs
Hawaiian Paradise Park feels true to its name with its abundant shrubbery, many small green spaces and expansive waterfront. Rocky crags like Maku’u Point and Paradise Cliffs offer scenic views of Pacific waves, and many private residences have black sand back yards formed by volcanic activity. HPP has several public shoreline access points, although there are no sandy beaches in the area; instead, tidepools and cliffs are the main attractions of the shoreline. Within HPP, small green spaces like the Awapuhi Labyrinth and the Historic Puna Trailhead allow for jungle strolls and turtle encounters along the way.
Oceanfront housing in Hawaiian Paradise Park (HPP) offers dramatic views of the rugged Puna coastline and the vast Pacific Ocean.
While the coastline is rocky and not ideal for swimming, it’s perfect for tidepooling, whale watching, and enjoying the raw beauty of the lava-formed cliffs.
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Small shops and eateries along the Keaau-Pahoa Road
Hawaiian Paradise Park is almost entirely residential, although it is home to a few small businesses. Keaau-Pahoa Road serves as the main commercial thoroughfare, with eateries including a smash burger food truck, a Thai food shack and a tiki bar. The Nanala Sunset Farmers Market is open evenings the second and fourth Monday of every month, selling fresh produce and garden plants. The nearest grocery store is the Malama Market in Pahoa, 7 miles down Keaau-Pahoa Road.
While HPP offers a rural lifestyle, it's conveniently located near the towns of Keaau and Pahoa, where residents can access shopping, dining, and other services.
Stop by Countryside Cafe in nearby Keaau for a hearty lunch and dinner menu.
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Career-centered education at Keaau High School
All of Hawaii’s schools belong to the Hawaii Department of Education, a singular school district that receives an A-minus rating from Niche. HPP’s students may attend Keaau or Keonepoko’s schools. Keaau High School and Pahoa Intermediate-High School each receive C-plus ratings from Niche. Keaau High, the larger of the two schools, has a robust Career and Technical Education department and an expanding number of extracurriculars; the school is currently building a new gym for after-school sports.
Established in 1999, Keaʻau High School is a public high school located in Keaʻau, Hawaii, serving grades 9 through 12.
Keaʻau High School's campus spans 55 acres and includes facilities such as sports stadiums, a cafeteria, and specialized classrooms for various educational programs.
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Environmental considerations in HPP
Though public energy is available, lack of access to other public utilities means that many residents opt for solar panels and lithium-ion home batteries for energy. The city also encounters volcanic smog in the wake of volcanic eruptions, the last of which occurred in 2018, and its low elevation means high humidity and heat. Crime data for the city is not readily available.
The area is known for its lush vegetation, with many properties featuring tropical plants, fruit trees, and ornamental gardens.
The community stretches from Highway 130 down to the Pacific Ocean, offering residents both inland and oceanfront properties.
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Access to Hilo and healthcare
Hawaiian Paradise Park is generally regarded as an outer-ring suburb of Hilo, which sits 16 miles up state Routes 130 and 11. This highway is known to experience heavy traffic, and HPP residents must drive in order to collect their mail, buy drinking water, fill propane tanks for gas appliances and haul their own trash in addition to commuting to work. Hilo is both an employment and healthcare center; it is home to both the Hilo Benioff Medical Center and The Queen’s Health Care Center.
HPP is located just 20 minutes east of Hilo.
Residents of Hawaiian Paradise Park are never far from the conveniences in nearby Hilo.
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Written By
Jacob Adelhoch
Photography Contributed By
Paul Peck
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Denise Nakanishi,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI sell after 94 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI over the last 12 months is $525,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This large custom built home is located in the most sought after area of Hawaiian Paradise Park Subdivision.....AND it is priced under the current going rate of dollar per square foot that builders are charging for new homes in the area!! Peek a Boo Oceanviews from the second and third bedroom windows and of course you can hear the Ocean with the windows open and experience wonderful tradewinds!!
BACK ON THE MARKET !!! NO FAULT OF THE PROPERTY !! This is the ONLY OCENFRONT licensed STVR currently on the market in Hawaiian Paradise Park!! FULLY PERMITTED ACTIVE VACATION RENTAL!! RARE OCEANFRONT opportunity to own an established, turn key legal/licensed Short Term Vacation Rental! STVR Sold Fully Furnished! The setting is idyllic - with the sound of the ocean waves, the classic palm trees
Better than New! Experience elevated island living in this impeccably maintained 4-bed 2-bath hm with over 2,700sqft underroof includes lanai & garage. Offering screened lanai, fruit orchard, fully owned PV solar, greenhouse and fenced all on 1-acre. VIDEO: Comfortable indoor-outdoor living in a peaceful private landscaped setting. Conveniently on a paved road between Kaloli & Shower Dr. Short
Sophia YunisColdwell Banker Island Properties - Hilo
Thoughtfully designed, this custom home blends clean construction with elevated island character. Inside, you will find approximately 9-foot ceilings with subtle paneled ceiling detailing reminiscent of classic plantation-era box ceilings, along with engraved bamboo wall accents that are refined and understated, adding quiet dimension and a distinctive touch of island craftsmanship. The layout is
Tucked away at the end of Makuu Drive on 30th Avenue, this lightly wooded, 1-acre parcel in Hawaiian Paradise Park offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience. Located on a dead-end street, you’ll enjoy peace and quiet with minimal traffic — an ideal setting to build your island dream home. The lot features lush natural vegetation, giving you the opportunity to create your own tropical
Discover an exceptional opportunity in the oceanside community of Hawaiian Paradise Park on the East side of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. This custom-built, single-level home offers 1,973 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space on a private 1-acre lot along 2nd Avenue, surrounded by other quality custom homes and located just a short distance from the ocean.This inviting residence
Located on a paved road just a few blocks from the dramatic ocean cliffs, this brand-new custom home offers refined island living in one of the area’s most scenic settings. Enjoy coastal breezes, nearby ocean views, and beautifully manicured neighboring properties that enhance both privacy and curb appeal. With 1,664 square feet of interior living space and an expansive 703 square foot garage,
Expansive Ocean View Lot on Paradise Ala Kai Dr – Hawaiian Paradise Park Welcome to your dream property in one of the most desirable locations on the Big Island! Situated on the highly sought-after Paradise Ala Kai Drive in Hawaiian Paradise Park, this impressive 22,216 sq ft lot offers the perfect blend of peace, privacy, and panoramic ocean views—without the burden of flood insurance. This
Welcome to your private slice of paradise in the heart of Hawaiian Paradise Park! Tucked away at the peaceful, dead-end of 2nd Avenue off Kaloli Drive, this beautifully maintained property offers the serenity, space, and lifestyle you've been dreaming of—just moments from the ocean and close to the scenic Shipman Beach Park. Set on a gated, full acre surrounded by a custom stone wall, this
Build your Hawai‘i dream home on this 1 acre vacant lot on Loke Rd in Hawaiian Paradise Park (HPP) ideally located just a couple blocks from the stunning Kaloli Cliffs, where dramatic ocean views, crashing waves, and coastal breezes create an unforgettable island setting. Imagine being able to take a short walk from your future home to enjoy beautiful ocean scenery and sunrise views along the
$5,000 seller credit back to the buyer at closing! Welcome to this beautifully designed 3 bedroom, 2 bath home located near the top of the desirable Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision, offering both comfort and convenience on sought after 26th Ave. Step inside and enjoy a thoughtfully designed split living floor plan that provides privacy and functionality for everyday living. The spacious
This large custom built home is located in the most sought after area of Hawaiian Paradise Park Subdivision.....AND it is priced under the current going rate of dollar per square foot that builders are charging for new homes in the area!! Peek a Boo Oceanviews from the second and third bedroom windows and of course you can hear the Ocean with the windows open and experience wonderful tradewinds!!
Wowza! Convene with mother nature at her best! Not many oceanfront parcels available in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Well established neighbor on one side, new neighbor under construction on the other. Well cared for homes in this area!
Discover the perfect blend of space, flexibility, and privacy in this beautifully designed 5 bedroom, 4 bath home located on the desirable Kaloli dead end of 14th Ave. With no through traffic, this property offers a peaceful setting ideal for those seeking both comfort and convenience. This home features a highly sought after multi generational floor plan with separate upstairs and downstairs
This lovely lot is inviting you to build your dream home!!! Located in an area called the "Sun Belt" of Hawaiian Paradise Park, this property is only about 575 ft. from the ocean--you can hear the sounds of the sea! Driveway, house pad, and wastewater hole were previously ripped and rolled, saving you lots of money and time. Native vegetation creates nice privacy buffer--No invasive trees were
Property Id: 2564191This is an excellent property for a large family. The unit upstairs is a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, with a loft that is approximately 1850 sqft. It has vaulted ceilings and a spiral staircase that leads to a large loft space. There is a gorgeous kitchen with custom cabinets and quartz counter tops. The laundry room is located in the sunroom adjacent to the kitchen. The
Property Id: 1699863Furnished 3 bedroom and 3 baths house on pavement. Prefer to haver max 3 or 4 people. Located in popular Hawaiian Paradise Park. This home has beautiful front and back yard with Hawaiian plants. 10k gallon catchment, UV water filtration, 2 car enclosed garage, washer and dryer included, beautiful stone wall gated entry and many more. This house is located in just
Property Id: 1478323Lovely 4 bedroom 3 bath home in Hawaiian Paradise Park Subdivision. The property is fenced with a gated entrance. The 4th bedroom has a separate entrance with an ensuite bathroom and is located off of the back lanai which is accessible from the main bedroom and dining area. This home has granite countertops and tiled flooring throughout. Appliances included:
Property Id: 2564150Great Place to call home! This well maintained 3 bedroom, 1 1/4 bathroom home in Hawaiian Paradise Park is located near the top of the subdivision for convenient access to Hilo, Keaau or Pahoa! Inside the home, you will find a clean, open-concept living space with large windows, LVT flooring, updated light fixtures and lots of natural light! The bedrooms are spacious
Property Id: 2302519Charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 570 SQFT unit with private entrance comes fully furnished with modern amenities. This setting is ideal for traveling nurse or digital nomad.We are in lower Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision on Hawaii island. Walking distance to Paradise Cliff. 20 minutes from Hilo, about 45 minutes from Volcanoes National Park.Living
Charming 2BED 1BATH home available 15 min from Hilo in Hawaiian Paradise ParkTucked away on a private half-acre lot, this stand alone home offers a peaceful setting with plenty of space to enjoy island living. If you’re looking for a quiet place with privacy, outdoor space, and a relaxed atmosphere, this could be a great fit.Conveniently located:• Around 10 minutes to
Cute 1 bedroom and 1.5 bathroom on 23rd in Hawaiian Paradise Park. The large lanai makes for a great space to hangout and relax.1 bedroom/ 1.5 bath home in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Rent: $2,000.00 Security Deposit: $2,000.00 Included in rent: Electric, water, internet and lawn maintenance.Kitchen includes refrigerator, range and dishwasher.You can apply
$2,700 per month
Brand New 3-Bedroom Home in Hawaiian Paradise Park
>>For Rent: Brand New 3-Bedroom Home in Hawaiian Paradise Park**Rent Price **$2,700/month$2,700/security deposit Pets: No dogs, cats ok with pet deposit Tenant to open own HELCO account for electricity.Available June 5th ** Home Description:Be the first to live in this beautifully constructed home located in the desirable Hawaiian Paradise Park
Step into this bright and thoughtfully designed studio, offering the perfect blend of modern comfort and cozy charm. Built in 2025, this partially furnished space feels fresh, stylish, and ready to enjoy from day one. Clean lines, contemporary finishes, and an efficient layout make it easy to settle in and make the space your own.Large windows bring in natural light, creating an airy
Rent: $290000 Security Deposit: $2900.00 Amount Refundable: $2900. Application Fee: $50.00Solar Power $300/moPet deposit $1000 ( if applicable)Tenants responsible for water(catchment), phone, rubbish, lawn care and internet. Spacious and comfortable furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in desirable Hawaiian Paradise Park! Offering 1,332 square feet of
Don't miss this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Hawaiian Paradise Park! Offering comfort, convenience, and island-style living.The property features a UV light water filtration system and an enclosed garage. Appliances include a refrigerator, gas range (tenant to supply propane), dishwasher, washer, and dryer.Enjoy indoor-outdoor living on the lanai—perfect for relaxing
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