7 Most Memorable Small Towns in Hawaii
Hawaii has a distinctive narrative and past, setting it apart from the rest of the United States of America due to its remote geographical position. Less than a year after Alaska joined the Union, Hawaii added the 50th star to the American flag in August 1959.
Hawaii upholds a rich heritage tied to its Native culture, serving as the home for the Kanaka Maoli or Indigenous Hawaiians. The initial inhabitants are said to have originated from Polynesia, embarking on their voyage and establishing themselves in Hawaii over one thousand years ago. Compared to the rest of the country, no other state is truly like Hawaii. To many, it is considered a paradise, thanks to its second-to-none scenery, lush hillsides, active volcanoes, and beaches that look as though they have been painted! The towns below are some of the most memorable places one can visit in Hawaii.
Volcano, Big Island
When entering the town of Volcano, big things await at every corner. Volcano lies on the edge of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, an unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage Site with two of the world's most spectacular volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
An expedition through contrasting landscapes is a traveler's dream here, as Mother Nature shows its allure and danger. Lace-up some trekking boots snugly, for the Kīlauea Iki Trail is located inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, this journey goes from the rainforest depths to the hardened lava belly of Kīlauea Iki Crater itself.
In Volcano, there is more to do than heading outdoors. For those who want to see some local art, check out the Volcano Art Center Gallery, found inside the historic Volcano House Hotel which features everything from paintings to finely made glass art. Horticulture enthusiasts will not want to miss taking a brief journey from Volcano and discover the impressive Akatsuka Orchid Gardens. Boasting an extensive assortment of orchids, the gardens also have some rare and exotic specimens. Visitors take tours observing these beauties, alongside having the opportunity to buy some to take back home.
Naalehu, Big Island
In the vast expanse of the United States, Naalehu marks the country's most southern tip. Not far from town, on Punalu'u Beach, visitors will discover stark black sand, an unusual sight for a beach. A brief car journey from the city leads to this remarkable display, which originates from volcanic eruptions.
Back in town, try out a Hawaiian specialty. The distinctiveness of Hawaiian sweet bread can be attributed to its pillowy softness and sugary flavor that sets it apart from other types of bread. The Punalu'u Bake Shop serves as a gathering spot for residents and visitors. The shop boasts mouth-watering baked items fresh out of the oven, and the sweet bread is one of them.
For coffee lovers curious about how the bean is farmed, Naalehu's surroundings form a segment of the renowned Kau region, famous for its coffee. The volcanic soil and climate conditions help give the coffee a distinct flavor. Guests here can even tour local coffee farms and taste the locally grown coffee.
Lanai City, Lanai
Seeking a place that combines beauty and tranquility? Lanai City is the perfect destination.
This town basks in the afterglow of its fruity past. Lanai was once known as the world's largest Dole Company pineapple plantation, producing 75% of the global supply. The town remembers this fact, too, and every year, they celebrate with the Pineapple Festival. Locals pay tribute to the enduring bond with our favorite spiky fruit with music, dancing, and, naturally, a lot of pineapple.
The area around Lanai City is characterized by stunning natural landscapes, including Munro Trail and Hulopoe Bay. Munro Trail, named after George Munro, a naturalist who introduced the island's signature Cook pines, stretches over 12.8 miles and leads hikers and off-road adventurers through rainforests, pastures, and highlands.
Hulopeo Bay is a pristine marine area that suits both snorkeling and swimming enthusiasts. Its immaculate white sands are perfect for beach days and its tide pools are populated with sea creatures.
Hawi, Big Island
Near Hawi on the Big Island, beaches roll off into the distance, with giant forested hills towering overhead. Guests looking for some of these undeniably Hawaiian views can take a short drive to Pololu Valley Lookout. It has dramatic cliffs, with the region’s lush landscapes on display. It is also the starting point for a hike to a gorgeous, remote black sand beach.
Very close to Hawi is another town called Kapaau. It is so close, it’s only about a 30-minute walk. There, travelers can find one of the original King Kamehameha statues. This sculpture has tremendous local importance since the Kohala region was the birthplace of King Kamehameha himself. Additionally, The Flumin' Kohala Ditch offers a directed kayak adventure through the Kohala Ditch System, an intricate 22-mile labyrinth of tunnels crafted over a hundred years ago for sugar farms. It is a great way to soak in the surroundings.
Hanalei, Kauai
The term picturesque is overused, but there are few other words to describe the beautiful mountains and ocean views of Hanalei, The hills behind the town of Hanalei on Kauai are the peaks of the Haupu mountain range, including the majestic Mount Namolokama, with its stunning waterfalls, particularly after heavy rains.
After soaking up the majestic peaks, turn around and look at the endless ocean. Its distinct crescent shape and clear waters are a haven for surfing, swimming, and much more. Sticking out into the bay, visitors can find the iconic Hanalei Pier, established in the 19th century. It enjoyed a brush with popularity in the movie “South Pacific," released in 1958. The harbor is perfect for taking in sunsets and enchanting views.
Since the state is so remote, Hawaii has many animals you simply cannot find anywhere else. Check out some of them at the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, home to several endangered birds like the Nene and Koloa Maoli, with the former being a big success story of conservation.
Haleiwa, Oahu
This would not be a list of Hawaii without bringing up a quintessential surfing town. Haleiwa is world-renowned for its great surf, and especially shines in winter and proudly stands as an embodiment of North Shore's moniker - "Surfing Capital of the World." For folks looking to carve waves, Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach top off many's lists, attracting world-class surfers from every corner of the globe.
Unlike many other towns and cities in Hawaii, Haleiwa has seen very little development in terms of modernity. The town retains its plantation-era design and is known for buildings built during the dawn of the 20th century.
Explore the town on foot, make sure to check out the Rainbow Bridge. The white double-arched bridge is one of the most well-known spots in town. For a more adventurous excursion, partake in an unruffled kayaking or paddleboarding adventure on the Anahulu River and enjoy a diversion from the surf beaches.
Waimea, Kauai
In Waimea, the beauty of nature combines with a region-changing history.
The Waimea Canyon should be at the top of everybody's must-visit list. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” its rich blend of red, green, and brown shades decorates a deep-ranging gorge. This wonder weaves itself across over 10 miles and plunges over 3,000 feet deep.
Waimea also holds relevance for a critical historical moment. Where the town now stands, Captain James Cook stepped onto Hawaii for the first time, forever changing the trajectories for the indigenous people already living in Hawaii. A statue and a small park near the mouth of the Waimea River commemorates this moment.
A fascinating ancient aqueduct, The Menehune Ditch, Kīkī an Ola, is only a mile from Waimea. The lore speaks of the imaginary Menehune, a race of dwarves in Hawaiian mythology who are said to have crafted it. The aqueduct shows the impressive engineering prowess practiced by Hawaiians and adds an aura of mystery to the area.
.Hawaii possesses a unique look and charm that is unparalleled. Not surprisingly, Hawaii is widely regarded as a haven. The majestic nature of the Aloha State, along with its deep-rooted cultural lineage and historical significance, make it shine. Each town gives a glimpse of Hawaii, whether the breathtaking volcanic eruptions or mesmerizing surf. It is not one of the most accessible states out of the fifty to reach, but once here, it will have all been worth it
