13 Prettiest Small Towns In Hawaii
Hawaii is a beautiful state with many famous locations like Honolulu for tourists and adventurers alike, but there is a certain charm found in small towns. These towns are some of the prettiest in the state and are perfect for a getaway for anyone looking to get out of their comfort zone and explore someplace new and unique.
Whether you’re looking to explore the lush forests of Volcano Village, the famous surfing opportunities of Haleiwa, or the unique cowboy culture of Makawao, there is something for everyone in Hawaii. Those who are seeking breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and a break from the rush of everyday life should look no further than the prettiest small towns in Hawaii detailed below!
Hawi
Hawi, a highlight on the Big Island, is a peaceful haven home to local art galleries, vibrant boutiques, and restaurants. The streets are lined with colorful buildings housing everything from homemade fudge and crafts. The Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery was once rated as 'Excellent' by Zagat and is a must-stop location for an island-style meal like Soba, Thai Coconut, and Lilikoi Margarita.
Once the hub of the area's sugar industry, this historic town is full of beautiful foliage and nature. If you’ve heard of it before, that’s because it is the turnaround for the annual Ironman World Championship. And then there is the Upolu Point, a cooled lava formation looking over Mahukona Beach.
Hanapepe
Hanapepe marks the way to explore everything special in Kauai from nature to historic buildings, and unique stores. The Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, built twice in the 1900s, spans the Hanapepe River and attracts tourists and children for its swaying thrill. Meanwhile, Salt Pond Beach Park promises calm waters and family-friendly surf for all to enjoy. The tide pools in the area are known as home to many exotic fish and sea turtles.
Manawaiopuna Falls or the easier to call Jurassic Falls is also a part of the Valley and was used as the background for many scenes in Jurassic Park from 1993. A helicopter ride with Island Helicopters is slightly expensive at $404/person but allows for a closer look.
Honokaa
Honokaa, once the heart of Hawaii’s sugar plantation industry, is now a charming town known for its historic character and as the gateway to the breathtaking Waipi‘o Valley. The Honokaa People’s Theatre, a 1930 construction, is one of the last surviving plantation-era theaters and continues to host films, concerts, and cultural performances. Additionally, the Honoka'a Heritage Center describes the town’s past with exhibits on plantation life, a visitors center, field trips, and a souvenir shop.
A chocolate tour is also on the cards with Honoka'a Chocolate Co. Mike Pollard, the founder, takes visitors on a 120-minute that includes tastings and a walk around the VIP Cacao Farm. Then there is the Tex Drive-In for its renowned malasadas—fluffy Portuguese donuts made fresh to order.
Lanai City
Lanai City, the only major settlement on the island of Lanai, was once a bustling plantation town built by the Dole Pineapple Company in the 1920s. The Lanai Culture & Heritage Center provides an in-depth look at the island’s impressive history, from its Native Hawaiian roots to its pineapple plantation past. The Lanai Art Center is a hotspot for local artists to showcase their work, with hands-on workshops, a glass shop, and even pottery classes.
Just outside town, visitors have access to miles of untouched beaches, including Hulopoe Beach, best known for its pearly-white sands and waters ideal for snorkeling.
Makawao
Makawao is Maui’s historic cowboy town, where the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) have shaped the community for over a century. Komoda Store & Bakery, a local institution from the 1910s, is famous for its melt-in-your-mouth cream puffs and iconic donuts on a stick—arrive early before they sell out. Art lovers have the opportunity to participate in workshops for ceramics, drawing, glassblowing, and photography at Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center, a 1917 estate dedicated to creative expression.
If visiting in early July, don’t miss the Makawao Rodeo, Hawaii’s largest paniolo competition, where traditional and modern cowboy skills steal the show. Some highlights include steer roping, bull riding, and barrel racing.
Hana
Hana is one of the most remote towns in Maui. It is notable for its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and unspoiled landscapes, accessible via the winding Hana Highway or HI-360. Waiʻānapanapa State Park, a 122-acre coastal gem, features a striking black sand beach, lava caves, sea arches, and ancient Hawaiian burial sites, making it a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts.
Furthermore, Wailua Falls cascades 80 feet into a tropical pool, perfect for those wanting a quick yet breathtaking stop. Another beautiful spot is the Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, a secluded cove with striking red cliffs, reached by a steep and narrow trail. It is a standout boasting surreal blue waters like Kool-Aid, apt for a calm dip.
Paia
Pāʻia, Maui’s bohemian surf town, flaunts a free-spirited atmosphere reminiscent of the 1960s. Baldwin Beach Park shelters a protected cove for swimming and frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles. Alternatively, Ho‘okipa Beach may be among the world’s best windsurfing spots. It promises a stunning stretch of white sand, big waves, and a chance to watch professional surfers and windsurfers in action.
The nearby Maui Dharma Center, home to a Tibetan Buddhist stupa, is a peaceful retreat for meditation, Dharma talks, or a quick getaway from city bustle. Meanwhile, in Pāʻia’s colorful streets, visitors can pop into locally owned art galleries, surf shops, and eateries like the iconic Paia Fish Market Restaurant. It takes pride in its marine theme and serves fresh seafood, fish burgers, and lunch platters.
Kapa’a
Kapa‘a, a lively coastal town on Kaua‘i’s east side, delivers easy access to some of the island’s most picturesque beaches, hiking trails, and cultural experiences. The Kapa‘a Bike Path, or Ke Ala Hele Makalae, stretches nearly 8 miles along the shoreline, providing breathtaking ocean views for walkers and cyclists. Fuji Beach has shallow tide pools where visitors can observe marine life, including anemones, snails, and urchins. It is also a family-friendly spot, otherwise popular as Baby Beach, as the waves are calm for the kids to take a swim.
Lydgate Farms, a fifth-gen family-run cacao farm, presents in-depth tours where guests can taste award-winning Hawaiian chocolate and learn about Kaua‘i’s cacao-growing heritage. Just south of town, Opaeka‘a Falls stuns travelers with its 150-feet beauty.
Koloa
Kōloa, a historic town on Kaua‘i’s sunny south shore, is recognized as the birthplace of Hawaii’s sugar plantation era. The Old Kōloa Sugar Mill, now a landmark, marks the site of Hawaii’s first successful sugar plantation, dating back to 1835. Nearby, the Tree Tunnel—a mile-long stretch of 500+ eucalyptus trees—creates a spectacular entrance to the area.
Just minutes away, Spouting Horn is a dramatic natural spectacle as ocean waves rush through a lava tube, creating a seawater geyser. Kōloa is also the gateway to Po‘ipū Beach, a top snorkeling and swimming destination with periodic Hawaiian monk seal sightings. July is particularly festive with 10 days of Koloa Plantation Days festival since 1985. Visitors can experience the parade, fun runs, live performances, and sporting events.
Haleiwa
Hawaii is no short of surfing towns, and Hale‘iwa is another on the list. Home to legendary surf spots like Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and the Banzai Pipeline, it draws professionals and spectators alike during peak surf season. Beginners can take lessons from schools like North Shore Surf Girls, making it an excellent destination for all skill levels.
Beyond surfing, Hale‘iwa’s historic plantation-era buildings house unique boutiques, local art galleries, and must-visit eateries. For example, Matsumoto Shave Ice, a staple since 1951, has snow cones, syrups, and even gifts. If you are looking for more adventures, then head to Rainbow Watersports or Blue Planet Adventure Co. for kayak and paddleboard rentals to explore the Anahulu River.
Kaunakakai
Kaunakakai is your place if you wish to experience old Hawaii, untouched by large-scale tourism. Its centerpiece is the historic Kaunakakai Wharf, the longest pier in Hawaii, where local fishermen and boaters launch into the island’s waters. Nearby, Murphy’s Beach provides wonderful snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and recurring sea turtle sightings.
Unlike Hawaii’s busier islands, Kaunakakai embraces a slow pace of life—no traffic lights, no big resorts, just an authentic Hawaiian community. Visitors can stop by the 1922-established Kanemitsu Bakery for its favored “hot bread” served fresh from the oven at night. Molokai Ocean Tours makes adventures fun with options like whale watching, kayaking, windsurfing, and so much more.
Volcano Village
Volcano Village is seated in the lush rainforest 2 miles from Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This small community thrives amidst native ʻōhi‘a trees and ferns, providing a delicate contrast to the dramatic volcanic landscapes nearby. The Volcano Art Center highlights local artists and proposes workshops in painting, ceramics, and glassblowing.
Wine enthusiasts can visit Volcano Winery to sample tropical-infused wines made with local fruits and honey. Meanwhile, guided hikes through the national park reveal lava tubes, steaming vents, and the awe-inspiring Kīlauea Crater. Finally, on Sunday mornings, the Cooper's Center Farmers Market sells fresh produce, handmade crafts, and island-grown coffee.
Holualoa
Right in Kona coffee country, Holualoa is in the midst of nearly 600 coffee farms. Visitors can stop by Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farms & Konalani Coffee Bar to understand the region’s rich coffee-growing history and try freshly roasted Kona coffee. The town’s artistic spirit thrives in its small but vibrant galleries, such as the Glyph Art Gallery, through local paintings, ceramics, and woodwork.
The Holualoa Inn takes fame for the lovely sights of the coastline from its 30-acre estate filled with tropical gardens and coffee trees. The annual Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll celebrates the town’s dual passions, inviting visitors to meet local roasters and artists.
Experience the Timeless Beauty of Hawaii’s Small Towns
Hawai‘i’s small towns are more than just picturesque destinations in the United States—they are windows into the islands’ rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Even in the most remote corners, like the rugged shores of Lāna‘i City or the lava-lined forests of Volcano Village, these small towns capture the spirit of Hawai‘i in a way no resort ever could. From thriving art scenes to timeless cultural traditions, these prettiest small towns in Hawaii are ideal to experience the islands beyond the usual tourist trails.
