Puna is a district on the southeast side of the Big Island in Hawaii.
It is sometimes possible to see the lava flowing into the ocean in the Kalapana area. The county has signs up and marked paths for tourists. Bring water and good shoes.
Puna can be considered the Big Island's "ghetto." Unemployment and poverty are widespread, and crime and drugs are major problems. The combination of poverty, drugs and people with something to hide can make parts of Puna seem unfriendly. This area sees very few tourists, so respect the locals and try not to stand out too much.
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