Summer should be a time of joy, rest, and connection. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or caring family member, finding activities that are affordable and engaging can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this guide: to help families across the Big Island, especially in East Hawaiʻi, discover the many free or low-cost ways to enjoy the season while creating meaningful memories.
We’ve rounded up some of the most helpful programs for individuals and families so you can make the most of your summer without breaking the bank.
Food Support for the Summer
Hawai‘i Food Help
Got keiki in school? You might qualify for Hawai‘i SUN Bucks, also known as Summer EBT, a program that gives families $177 per eligible child to help with groceries over the summer.
SUN Bucks is typically for school-aged children whose households meet income eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals. It’s an easy way to help cover the cost of food when school’s out.
Free Summer Meals at Public Schools
This summer, 68 public schools across Hawai‘i are offering free meals to all children 18 and under — no need to be enrolled in the school or in a summer program to participate.
- Breakfast: 7:15–8:45 a.m.
- Lunch: 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Must be eaten on-site, no grab-and-go options are available
This is part of the USDA’s Seamless Summer Option (SSO), created to make sure no child goes hungry just because school’s out.
Hawai‘i Island Participating Schools include:
- Hilo High
- Honokaʻa High & Inter.
- Kapiʻolani El.
- Kaʻū High & Pāhala Inter.
- Keaʻau El.
- Keaʻau Middle
- Kealakehe El.
- Keaukaha El.
- Konawaena El.
- Mountain View El.
- Nāʻālehu El.
- Paʻauilo El. & Inter.
- Pāhoa High & Inter.
- Waiākea High
- Waiākea Inter.
E Heluhelu Kākou: Let’s Read!
2025 Summer Reading Challenge: “E Heluhelu Kākou – Mele”
From June 1 through July 31, 2025, the Hawai‘i State Public Library System invites readers of all ages to dive into poetry, chants, and music with this year’s theme: “E Heluhelu Kākou – Mele.” Best of all, it’s free to join! It’s a joyful tribute to the powerful sounds and stories that bring us together. Earn prizes the more you participate and read, with a Grand Prize of Four Round-Trip tickets with Alaska Airlines!
Empowering Families with Special Needs
Leadership in Disabilities & Achievement of Hawai’i Summer Learning Labs
Leadership in Disabilities & Achievement of Hawai‘i (LDAH) offers Virtual Summer Learning Labs for parents and caregivers of children receiving special education services. Be part of the solution for your child receiving specially designed instruction under IDEA.
Their “Building Leaders in Parents” program provides:
- Support navigating special education under IDEA
- Tools to advocate for your child’s needs
- A community of other parents who understand your journey
Visit ldahawaii.org to register or learn more.
Family-Friendly Activities
Big Island Substance Abuse Council – 11th Annual Summer Jam
Join BISAC for a full day of free, family-friendly fun focused on health, wellness, and strong community vibes at Wong Stadium Parking Lot on Saturday, July 26. Whether you’re there to compete, cheer, or just eat, you don’t want to miss this!
Here’s what’s going down:
- Truck Pull – 8 AM (Registration opens at 7 AM) Come on down and support Team NPP! Several of our strong staff members will participate in the Truck Pull!
- Eat the Street Hilo & Craft Fair – 9 AM
- Strongman & Strong Woman Competition – 9 AM
- ʻOhana Health Fair – 10 AM
- Event ends at 2 PM
Bring your family, your friends, and your strength. It’s going to be an epic day of food, fitness, fun, and community!
More Local Resources to Explore
Here are a few other East Hawai‘i resources that can make your summer easier and brighter:
Neighborhood Place of Puna
That’s us! We’re here to support families with:
- Parenting classes
- Family strengthening programs
- Basic needs support
- Referrals to community services
Call us at (808) 965-5550 or visit this page for more info about our Family Resource Center.
Free Keiki & ʻOhana Activities
Explore Lava Tree State Monument (Puna)
Take a short, stroller-friendly walk through hauntingly beautiful lava molds of trees created in an 18th-century lava flow. Educational plaques add a learning twist!
Pāhoa | Free | Open daily
Visit Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Hawaiʻi’s only tropical rainforest zoo is home to peacocks, lemurs, and over 80 animal species. Don’t miss the playground and petting zoo area!
Hilo | Free admission (donations welcome)
Open daily except holidays
Swim at Onekahakaha Beach Park
A favorite among Big Island families, this beach offers calm, shallow waters, picnic tables, and restrooms. Perfect for keiki of all ages.
Hilo | Free | Lifeguard on duty most days
Splash Around at Richardson Ocean Park
Tide pools, black sand, and even the occasional honu!
Hilo | Free
Stroll Through Liliʻuokalani Park & Gardens
Enjoy wide paths, bridges, and a Japanese garden-inspired landscape ideal for keiki to run around and parents to unwind.
Hilo Bayfront | Free | Great for photos & picnics
Attend Story Time at the Public Library
The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System offers weekly children’s story times, craft activities, and reading challenges throughout the summer.
Hilo, Pāhoa, Keaʻau | Free | Check local branch calendar, like the Hilo Public Library
Walk Coconut Island (Moku Ola)
A short bridge from Liliʻuokalani Park takes you to this tranquil island ideal for picnics, tide pool exploration, and safe swimming.
Hilo Bay | Free
Summer doesn’t have to come with pressure. With these free and low-cost resources, East Hawai‘i families can stay nourished, supported, and connected all season long. Whether you need a hot lunch, a good book, or a community event to lift your spirits, you’re not alone, and support is just around the corner.
If you know of more summer resources or events, let us know — we’re always updating and sharing!