Mountain View
Mountain View is a rural town in the Big Island's Puna District, known for its cool elevation, lush flower nurseries, and proximity to Mauna Kea. Once a sugar town, it now thrives on coffee farming and floral agriculture, offering scenic mountain views and local charm.
Mountain View, Big Island
True to its name, this town provides ample mountain views. In fact, one of the world's tallest mountains and volcanoes – Mauna Kea – looms next door. Located inland at an elevation of 1,440 feet (439 m), Mountain View has no lava shoreline or glimmering Pacific Ocean views. Nonetheless, there's no lack of scenic spots or activities. Biking and hiking are some of the activities that abound in the area.
Mountain View is also home to many nurseries specializing in anthuriums. The Hawaiian Flower Gardens Nursery, for example, is open daily and visitors are welcome.
Owing to the town's rich and fertile land, Mountain View was also historically involved in the sugar trade. It was once connected to the city of Hilo by the Hawaii Consolidated Road. Since the decline of the sugar industry in Hawaii, Mountain View has been involved primarily in coffee production. Today, the town is home to several coffee mills, including the most renowned of them all, the Hilo Coffee Mill.
Key Features of Mountain View
- Mountain scenery: Offers views of Mauna Kea from an inland elevation of 1,440 feet (439 m)
- Hilo Coffee Mill: Local coffee farm and tasting room producing award-winning Ka'u and Hilo blends
- Anthurium nurseries: Known for colorful flower farms and greenhouses open to visitors
- Cooler climate: Higher elevation means cooler temperatures than coastal areas
- Historical sugar town: Once connected to Hilo via the Hawaii Consolidated Railway
- Population: 4,215 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96771
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mountain View best known for?
Mountain View is known for its floral nurseries, especially anthuriums, and the Hilo Coffee Mill, a local producer of specialty coffee.
Can you see Mauna Kea from Mountain View?
Yes, Mauna Kea is visible from many parts of Mountain View, offering beautiful mountain vistas and photo opportunities.
What activities are available in the area?
Popular activities include visiting flower nurseries, tasting local coffee, hiking, and exploring scenic inland routes near Volcano and Hilo.
Is the weather in Mountain View different from the coast?
Yes, Mountain View has a cooler and wetter climate due to its higher elevation, making it a lush and green environment year-round.