The Onomea and Donkey Trails are public trails in the state Nā Ala Hele program, starting from the old Hawaiʻi Belt Road, the scenic route between Pāpaʻikou and Pepeʻekeo, on the Hilo side of the Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden office. The County describes the Onomea Bay Trail as pedestrian access to Onomea Bay from Old Mamalahoa Highway at the old garden entrance, and parking is limited, on the shoulder at the trailhead. Much of the Onomea Trail is paved; it follows the old government road and splits at Alakahi Stream, with one branch to Kukilu Bay and one to the east side of Kahaliʻi Stream. Across Kahaliʻi Stream, the Donkey Trail, part of a Hawaiian Kingdom government cart road once used to haul goods from the landing at Onomea, goes to the point between Kenenue and Kahaliʻi Bays. The Donkey Trail is steep, uneven and often slippery, and the stream may be forded to connect with it. Nā Ala Hele and the County warn of cliffs, shorebreak, waves, strong currents, flash floods and hazardous footing. Stick to the named public trails, because side trails and roads may be private property, and bring mosquito repellent.
Limited shoulder parking on Old Mamalahoa Highway at the trailhead, on the Hilo side of the garden office.