6 Best Downtowns In Hawaii
When considering the best downtowns in Hawaii, Honolulu's downtown area stands out as the most prominent option. As the largest city in the state, it is home to iconic landmarks such as Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha statue, and Aloha Tower, all within walking distance and representing the heart of Hawaiian culture. However, nothing compares to strolling the downtown districts in some of Hawaii's smaller communities. Downtown Hilo, for example, is recognized for its well-preserved plantation-style architecture, vibrant farmers market, and unique art scene, offering a more laid-back, historic feel than Honolulu. In addition to Hilo, explore five other towns in Hawaii to see why they have some of the best downtowns in the state.
Hilo
Hilo, the largest populated area on the Big Island of Hawaii, boasts one of the state's most charming and historically rich downtowns. At the heart of it all is the Pacific Tsunami Museum, a captivating destination narrating the devastating tsunamis that have hit Hilo. The Lyman Museum and Mission House is another gem. Visitors can delve into the two buildings to witness immersive displays that bring to life the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and natural history and to step into a historic early 19th-century home.
The downtown area is also an entertainment, art, and culture hub. There is something for everyone, whether it is a concert or movie showing at the Hilo Palace Theater or exhibitions at the East Hawaii Cultural Center. The Hilo Farmers Market, one of the town's most popular events, offers fresh produce, specialty foods, crafts, and gift items. It is a must-visit, especially on its busiest days, Wednesday and Saturday.
Visitors can also take in Hilo's stunning natural surroundings. Stroll through the Liliʻuokalani Gardens, a serene haven with fishponds, pagodas, rock gardens, Japanese stone lanterns, and a teahouse. The Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo, the country's only rainforest zoo, and Wailuku River State Park are also noteworthy attractions in Hilo. A 45-minute drive from downtown is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the most famous sights in the state.
Paia
Paia, a small town on the northern coast of Maui, features a vibrant downtown area lined with restaurants, shops, art galleries, and other tourist-oriented businesses. Grab a coffee at Story Maui, order a fish burger at Paia Fish Market, or enjoy wood-fired pizzas at Flatbread Company before heading to one of the local parks. Ho‘okipa Beach Park, for example, is a popular spot for windsurfing and notable for its white sand beach. H.A. Baldwin Park, another destination, offers swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking activities.
Retail options include Indigo Paia, a mom-and-pop store with artwork, Afghan rugs, antiques, jewelry, and gifts. There is also Rip Curl, an ideal place to shop for swimwear and surfing items. Trendy shops like Alice in Hulaland and Mahina Boutique offer stylish clothing and accessories. The Kim McDonald Art Gallery is highly exclusive for art enthusiasts, so an appointment is required to view its paintings and prints featuring Maui landscapes and Polynesian culture.
Hanalei
Hawaii's Hanalei is a small town on the northern shore of Kauai. Its downtown area is home to the Ching Young Village Shopping Center, which features artisanal retailers, eateries, and boutiques. Enjoy a variety of locally owned restaurants that are exclusive to the area, such as Hanalei Poke, which serves fresh poke, kombucha, and other Hawaiian favorites, while spending the day shopping for everything from handcrafted jewelry to clothing with an island vibe. A nearby historic site that provides insight into Kauai's past is the Wai'oli Mission House. First-come, first-served house tours are available on some days of the week.
Hanalei Bay is one of the town's must-see locations. Its three beaches, Waioli Beach, Hanalei Beach, and Black Pot Beach, offer something for everyone. In addition, Hanalei Pier, constructed in 1892, is a famous landmark in Hanalei Bay. The Hanalei Valley Lookout, located east of town, provides views of taro fields and mountains. There is also a public observation location at the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, a fantastic area for seeing native birds and other species.
Kailua-Kona
On the Big Island's western coast, Kailua-Kona is a beach town in the heart of the Kona district with a bustling downtown uniquely representing Hawaii. Hulihee Palace, a former Hawaiian royal vacation home, is a must-see. It now displays historical items and Hawaiian furniture. Its plantation-style construction, beige-and-teal color scheme, and immaculately kept landscape on the coastline make it a lovely sight.
The town's most popular event, Kokua Kailua, happens on a Sunday once a month. Talented artisans display handcrafted goods such as jewelry, apparel, natural oils, soaps, jellies, jams, and carved koa wood art. Live entertainment by local musicians and performers adds to the lively ambiance. The December event, held right before the holidays, features more entertainment, concerts, and additional craft and art vendors.
Haleiwa
Just an hour from Waikiki, Haleiwa is a charming town on the northern shore of Oahu. It’s a popular destination for surfers who enjoy the large waves at Waimea Bay Beach Park, one of the world's top surfing spots. The town's downtown area, Haleiwa Town, is a popular shopping and dining destination. Shop for unique Hawaiian items and souvenirs at SoHa Living, Coco's Trading Post, and Aoki's North Shore Trading Company. Snoopy’s Surf Shop offers distinctive apparel and keepsakes, while Malibu Shirts sells Hawaiian aloha shirts.
Haleiwa Town is also known for its local restaurants. Café Haleiwa is a popular breakfast spot serving waffles, omelets, and French toast. Waialua Bakery & Juice Bar is ideal for sweet treats or fruit smoothies. For regional Hawaiian cuisine, try Poke for the People or The Smoking Boar & The Coconut, which serve kalua pork, poke bowls, traditional plate lunches, and fresh fish. Beyond Haleiwa Town, visitors can explore the Polynesian Cultural Center, which is 30 minutes away, to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii and Polynesia.
Makawao
Located on the mid-slopes of Maui's Haleakala volcano, Makawao is a small town with a rich cultural heritage and a reputation for adventure. It is best known for its paniolo or Hawaiian cowboys. The Makawao Rodeo, held annually during the Fourth of July weekend at the Oskie Rice Event Center, is Hawaii’s largest paniolo competition. It features classic rodeo events and a parade.
Makawao's downtown is also home to unique destinations, such as the T. Komoda Store & Bakery, a local favorite since 1916. Known for its stick donuts and cream puffs, the bakery is best visited early in the morning. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around town to explore shops, boutiques, and art galleries like Hot Island Glass, where you can watch glassblowers in action. The Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center offers exhibits, workshops, and classes for art lovers. Try Freshies Maui, Casanova Italian Restaurant, or Polli’s Mexican Restaurant for a nice sit-down meal.
These Hawaii Towns Have The Best Downtowns
From Haleiwa to Makawao, these towns showcase Hawaii’s charm with stunning beaches, active volcanoes, a thriving surfing culture, local restaurants, and cultural events like the paniolo rodeo. Towns like Hilo and Kailua-Kona also offer a rich history within their downtown districts. From Maui’s northern coast to the Big Island’s western coast, Hawaii’s towns boast some of the best downtowns in the state.
