Mountain View Things To Do
Things to Do near Mountain View Town on Big Island
Mountain View is a small inland town above Hilo on the eastern side of the Big Island. A town with a name like Mountain View has to fulfill its namesake’s promise, and there’s no doubt that this quaint town on the Big Island does just that! One of the world’s tallest mountains that also happens to be a volcano is Mauna Kea, and it has an unmistakable presence in the skyline.
Directions to Mountain View
From the city of Hilo and Hilo International Airport, head south on the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11) for over 14 miles. Mountain View sits along this corridor, making it a simple east-side stop by car. Many visitors are able to make their way efficiently on a shuttle from the airport, which is an affordable option in comparison to taking a taxi.
Regardless of your itinerary, Mountain View is easily accessible along your road trip around the Big Island. It sits just seconds from the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11).
The adventurous atmosphere of this mountain town is a direct result of the biking and hiking trails through the lush, scenic landscape that surrounds the town. You can even find ATV tours of the area to experience even more nature. Instead of focusing on recreational activities in the ocean, you can wander through the stunning tropical rainforest of this landlocked town.
It's not unusual for visitors of Mountain View to catch glimpses of the morning and evening light against the towering, magnificent silhouette of Mauna Kea.
A Brief History of Mountain View
As a result of Mountain View’s proximity to fertile farmland, the town was once a site for sugar cane production and connected to the city of Hilo to boost the sugar trade. Now, the sugar industry in Hawaii has tapered off, leaving the town to find a new industry: coffee production. The town is dotted with coffee mills; one of which is the well-known Hilo Coffee Mill. More on that later!
The Mountain View Theater is a historic landmark, right in the commercial district. Thought to be haunted, the Mountain View Theater is just a reminder of the town’s existence many decades ago. The theater is important to the Big Island, as it is one of the last few remaining rural theaters in the area, with an unusual, Wild West-like facade.
Mountain View, though situated in the tropical rainforest of the Big Island, experiences warm but not extremely hot temperatures year-round. Rain can fall throughout the year, with a shorter drier stretch often arriving in late summer. The area is similar to other towns on the eastern side of the Big Island, making it easy to prepare for your adventures in Mountain View.
Hilo Coffee Mill
Hilo Coffee Mill is one of Mountain View's main attractions. It draws visitors in to experience authentic Hawaiian coffee in a tour that takes guests through the farm and shows them how coffee beans are roasted perfectly. Tours are, of course, finished with a sampling of the mill’s fine coffee. You can also grab the perfect souvenir to take home and enjoy at the Hilo Coffee Mill’s store, from roasted beans to at-home roasting options.
Hilo Coffee Mill is right in the heart of Mountain View, making it easy to add to any day’s itinerary while you’re visiting the town.
Big Island Tea
With small beginnings in 2001, Big Island Tea has grown to be well-known for its quality, delicious Hawaii-grown teas. The acreage is home to over 6,000 tea trees. Check current visitor options before you go, and look for teas that highlight sustainable growing practices in East Hawaii.
To get to Big Island Tea, head south from Mountain View along the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11). Then, turn right onto North Glenwood Road, turning right again to stay on North Glenwood Road. After that, you will arrive!
Photo provided by Dimple Cheek Cafe
Dimple Cheek Cafe & Local Market
Dimple Cheek Cafe & Local Market is another local restaurant that is easily found within Mountain View. The cafe offers breakfast and lunch in a comfortable atmosphere. There’s even a patio to enjoy the sunshine during your meal. Check the current menu before you go, then settle in for a relaxed meal after a long day of adventures.
Use a current map listing before you go, since local cafes and market hours can change.
Mountain View has all of the delicious stops you could ask for on a Hawaiian vacation!
