About 14,225 people call Puna home, with a median age of about 45.5 years and an average individual income near $23,143.

Natural beauty and creative spirit define this Big Island region.

Puna—stretching across Hawai‘i Island’s southeastern corner—is known for its wild coastlines, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes that continue to shape the land. Rooted in resilience and individuality, the community embraces a laid-back lifestyle infused with art, culture, and a deep connection to nature. From the black sands of Kehena Beach and the lava fields of Kalapana to vibrant farmers’ markets and eclectic local gatherings, life in Puna offers a balance of off-the-grid adventure and close-knit community. It’s a place where creativity flourishes, nature leads the way, and living feels truly free-spirited.

* Unique homes and off-grid retreats surrounded by lush rainforest and lava-formed landscapes
* A strong sense of individuality and community, shaped by Hawaiian traditions and a creative spirit
* Laid-back, eclectic living where neighbors connect at markets, festivals, and local gatherings
* Easy access to black sand beaches, lava fields, and hidden jungle trails
* Residences that blend rustic charm with modern comforts, reflecting Puna’s free-spirited lifestyle

Puna draws people from all walks of life—families, growers, artists, and free spirits—who are inspired by its wild beauty and close-knit community. The landscape itself is unforgettable, with lush rainforests, black-sand beaches, and lava fields that tell the story of the island’s ever-evolving spirit. Community here feels genuine and grounded, whether it’s neighbors chatting at the farmers’ market, friends gathering for local celebrations, or artists sharing their creations in vibrant village spaces. Rooted in resilience and the aloha spirit, Puna offers a lifestyle that feels both deeply connected to the land and welcoming to all who call it home.

Puna is a region where rugged beauty meets a strong sense of community. Its food scene is as eclectic as its people, from roadside fruit stands and farm-to-table cafés to local food trucks serving everything from fresh poke to hearty island comfort foods. Locally grown produce and tropical flavors take center stage, with farmers’ markets and co-ops offering the abundance of Puna’s fertile land.

Community gatherings often center around these markets and festivals, where neighbors connect, share stories, and celebrate local culture. Puna’s artistic side shines through in small galleries, open-air studios, and community spaces that showcase the creativity inspired by its rainforests, lava fields, and coastline.

Exploring Puna reveals more than just food and art—it’s a lifestyle grounded in nature and togetherness. Whether it’s enjoying a casual meal with friends, browsing handcrafted goods at a weekend market, or joining in a local celebration, life here feels authentic, connected, and deeply rooted in the spirit of Hawaiʻi.

Puna is a place where untamed nature and close-knit community come together. Stretching from rugged lava fields to lush rainforests and black sand beaches, it offers endless opportunities to connect with Hawaiʻi’s wild beauty. Whether it’s soaking in natural hot ponds, exploring hidden coastal trails, or discovering new growth sprouting from old lava flows, Puna is a land of renewal, adventure, and awe.

Beyond its landscapes, Puna thrives on creativity and resilience. From the Painted Church and lava-hewn landmarks to vibrant art collectives and community centers, the region celebrates both its cultural roots and its innovative spirit. Farmers’ markets are a staple here, overflowing with tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and locally grown abundance that reflect the richness of the land.

Life in Puna flows at its own rhythm—relaxed, authentic, and deeply connected to nature. Neighbors know one another, gatherings feel welcoming, and every corner of the community carries a sense of aloha. Living here means embracing beauty, history, and community spirit in one of Hawaiʻi’s most dynamic and inspiring regions.

Students in Puna are served by schools within the Hawaiʻi Department of Education’s Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa complex area. Families in the region benefit from schools that emphasize academics, cultural learning, and opportunities for growth:

* Keaʻau Elementary School
* Keaʻau Middle School
* Keaʻau High School
* Pāhoa Elementary School
* Pāhoa High & Intermediate School