8 Small Towns in Hawaii to Visit for a Weekend Getaway

With holidays looming around the corner, there is no doubt many visitors will seek tropical waters to escape the cold and perhaps ring in the New Year's on a warm beach instead. And what better way is there to enjoy festivities while bathing in the sun than on the famous island state of Hawaii?

When outsiders think of Hawaii, their minds will most often veer towards cities such as Honolulu or Kahului, where the scenery is incomparable and the nightlife is bustling. While it is always a good idea to flock to where tourism is booming, here are eight small towns in Hawaii that will provide guests with something different for a weekend getaway.

Hana

Located on the gorgeous island of Maui, Hana is known to many as the "real Hawaii" due to its stunning natural landscapes and unspoiled beauty. There are vast beaches filled with red or black sand for visitors to explore, as well as the Untamed Kahanu Garden, which contains what is believed to be the world's largest lava-rock structure and a place of ancient worship in Polynesia. Hana is also surrounded by dense natural rainforests, where tourists can stand under tall waterfalls and have a refreshing swim.

However, the road to Hana is the most exciting part of the trip! It is only 52 miles from Kahului, the most-populated city in Maui, but drives may take up to 2-4 hours due to its narrow one-lane bridges and sharp turns. But there is no doubt the incredible natural views make it all worth it. From glistening azure waters to trees that seemingly reach up to the sky, the journey to Hana is just as unforgettable as the quiet town itself.

The best place to stay in Hana is the Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt Residence. While a little expensive, the resort is right by the iconic highway, "The Road to Hana," and offers a luxurious spa and pool. 

Hawi

Looking for a small town in Hawaii filled with restaurants, art galleries, and more? Hawi is the perfect little getaway for those who want a mini break from endless beaches and rolling waters. While overlooking the ocean, Hawi has many small, colorful buildings with restaurants and boutiques decorating its streets. It is also best known as the bicycle turnaround for the annual IRONMAN World Championship, typically held every October. 

For lodging, visitors should look for village inns or cozy bell tents to immerse themselves in the experience of a small Hawaiian town. More luxurious hotels will be located a few miles from Hawi, while places such as Kohala Village Inn are in the heart of the town and offer a new perspective.

Naalehu

If there were a town that perfectly encompassed the feeling of a big warm hug, Naalehu would make the top of that list. Located on the southern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, this little town is a sleepy, relaxing destination for a weekend getaway. The locals know one another, and while it may be described as a "simple" destination, there is still much to do.

Lush forests surround the tranquil community along with coffee plantations and, of course — volcanoes. Many tours are designed to observe these natural wonders, where guides take visitors to waterfalls near volcanoes or isolated areas to look at the stars. Naalehu is genuinely the perfect escape from a big city.

Haleiwa

Roughly an hour from the world-famous Waikiki lies a historic surf town known as the North Shore's cultural hub. Tradition is embedded in its streets with vibrant colors in its buildings or signs and many surf shops or boutiques for locals and tourists alike to hit the waves. Travelers will be able to have a delicious meal at one of the many food trucks by the streets and head on over to the famous beaches of Waimea Bay.

Because Haleiwa is primarily a surf town, most lodgings are small resorts or Airbnb's near the beach. If you've ever wanted to live out those cottagecore dreams for a weekend, Haleiwa is the place to be.

Lahaina

Lahaina is filled to the brim with history. In the 1800s, it was known as the center of the global whaling trade, and its historic district in the center of the town is a beautiful national landmark. The blue beaches and white sands surrounding this community are stunning and provide color and relaxation for locals and tourists. In terms of lodging, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is one of the best on the island and is unmatched in terms of comfort and natural views.

But what makes Lahaina stand out is the tragedy of recent events. Multiple wildfires burned through West Maui starting from the evening of August 8, 2023, and Lahaina was, unfortunately, the area that was affected the most. Many local businesses, resorts, and, most importantly, people are in difficult positions. To help this beautiful town, consider donating to Hawaii Community Foundation's Maui Strong Fund. 

Koloa

There is so much fun to experience and witness in Koloa, and it would be a waste not to visit this small town if going to Kauai. Activities such as canyon tours, ziplines, backroad tours, snorkeling adventures, and more are provided. The sightseeing in Koloa is unlike any other, and surfing lovers will surely find something up their alley with the multiple surf schools and locations on Koloa's beaches.

When looking for lodging, Koloa has a great variety of choices. The Sheraton Kauai Resort Villas offers a private pool for guests to relax, and the Ko'a Kea Resort will overlook the gorgeous sunset every night on Po'ipu Beach.

Lanai City

Want to experience true remote luxury while staying beside the beach? Look no further than Lanai City in Maui County! Every day on Lanai truly feels like having your own private getaway since it is far from the hustle and bustle of tourism while staying true to the experience of authentic island living.

Sometimes referred to as the "Pineapple Island," Lanai has a long history of pineapple farming with its current vastness of plantations. While the pineapple is a great tropical fruit to eat while enjoying the beach, Lanai is best known for its private atmosphere since the island is mainly uninhabited, with only 3,000 residents living there. Lanai City is in the center, where locals gather to take advantage of its many restaurants, shops, and businesses.

Because this area is remote, the best place to stay would be the Four Seasons Resort. Transportation is convenient, and many cuisines are available to tailor people's tastes. Of course, if travelers are looking for more of a remote stay, Hotel Lanai perfectly encaptures the feeling of having the entire island to themselves.

Pahala

Pahala has a certain vibrancy and peacefulness that few pictures can capture well. Similar to many Hawaiian small towns, visitors will be able to find black sand beaches surrounding the community. Many guided tours will take people to see the Big Island's active volcanoes, coffee mills, and sailing excursions.

A few places visitors can stay in Pahala include the Hawaii Island Resort and the Volcano House.

Much More To Discover

The Hawaiian experience is all about taking in what this unique island state has to offer — and while suntanning on beaches and enjoying the bustling nightlife makes Hawaii so attractive to visitors, there is a whole other side in its small towns that many tend to overlook. 

So, if you're headed to Hawaii for the holidays, explore places that may be out of your comfort zone. There are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.