8 Stunning Small Towns In Hawaii

Between breathtaking beaches, extraordinary volcanoes, and world-class surfing opportunities, "The Aloha State" invites you to a world of striking contrasts. Say yes to paradise in a place where endless adventures and a warm tropical climate await. These destinations may be sizzling, but you can cool off with the refreshing ocean breeze as you lose yourself in the magic of this Pacific gem. From Kihei to Lanai City, explore these eight stunning small towns in Hawaii to add to your bucket list today.

Kihei

Soak up the sun in Kihei, a captivating coastal town in Southwest Maui, where the days are bright and the beauty is boundless. With six miles of beaches stretching along the shore, you can go swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling on Kamaole Beach Park, spot sea turtles, and capture spectacular sunset photos from Charlie Young Beach. Practice your aim in a scenic setting at Maui Nui Golf Club, where you will find a challenging 18-hole course and a lovely place for lunch, dinner, or drinks at Gilligan’s Bar and Grill. Identify exquisite plant varieties in South Maui Gardens, as you explore one of the most stunning small towns in Hawaii.

Waimea

Discover Waimea, an endless evergreen paradise renowned for its vibrant landscapes and luxurious spas. Meander through the eye-catching trails of Ulu La'au, also known as Waimea Nature Park. This gorgeous 10-acre reserve is set along the Waikoloa Stream. Uncover jaw-dropping vistas from Waimea Canyon State Park, overlooking the magnificent canyon and the surrounding landsdape. Stretching 14 miles long and over 3,600 deep, it is no wonder it was nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” From there, rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in Mauna Kea Spa by Mandara, where various transformative healing services are offered, and see what goods you can find in the multi-vendor Kamuela Farmers Market.

Hanalei

On the north shore of Kauai lies Hanalei, where natural beauty and timeless culture come together. Book a boat tour at the 19th-century built Hanalei Pier. Situated at the mouth of the Hanalei River, the opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, sunset sailing, whale watching, tubing, and other adventure activities here are endless. Pay a visit to the Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church dating back to 1834, where you can admire the American Gothic style architecture and see the historic Mission Bell. Spend some time in the quaint shops, incredible restaurants, activity centers, and galleries of Ching Young Village Shopping Center, where all kinds of treasures await.

Waimānalo

Escape to the peaceful oasis of Waimānalo, the perfect place to experience the beauty of the East Oahu Coast. Between extraordinary ocean views from Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail, home to the 1909-built Makapu‘u Lighthouse and the exquisite mountainous landscapes of Bellows Field Beach Park, you will quickly find out why Waimānalo is one of the most stunning small towns in Hawaii. Treat your tastebuds to some delicious Garlic Ahi or smoked meat in Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack, a lovely spot to try fresh Hawaiian cuisine by the ocean. You can top off your journey with exciting animal encounters with Bottlenose Dolphins, California Sea Lions, and even Whitetip Reef Sharks at Sea Life Park Hawaii.

Hilo

Magic awaits in Hilo, one of the best places to unravel the beauty of this Pacific paradise. Located on the Big Island, this area is filled with natural wonders; picture lush rainforests, gorgeous waterfalls, and breathtaking gardens. Meander through the Lili'uokalani Gardens, where historic Lanterns, carved stone Monuments, and a specialty Japanese Tea House can be found. With its protected lava rock wall, Leleiwi Beach Park is a wonderful spot for snorkeling. Here, you will also see tide-pool coves and natural lava rock pools by the Pacific. Dive into the underworld in the extraordinary Kaumana Cave, where you can descend on a lava tube created by Mauna Loa’s lava flow in 1881. 30 miles southwest of Hilo lies Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Prepare to be amazed by Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, in this striking environment.

Hana

Ditch the crowds to explore one of the most serene, stunning small towns in Hawaii. Home to Waiʻānapanapa State Park, a magnificent site for camping, hiking, and shore fishing in Maui, you will encompass otherworldly landscapes like never before. Black Sand Beach will wow you with its dramatic contrasts formed by volcanic activity, along with the spectacular sea caves and mysterious lava tubes. Push beyond your comfort zone venturing through the underground Hana Lava Tube and discover a variety of lush native plants in Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden.

Paia

Explore one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Hawaii with a fascinating trip to Paia. Situated on Maui’s North Shore, Ho'okipa Beach Park is known as the Windsurfing Capital of the World, due to its persistent winds and large waves reaching up to 25 feet. Watch the professional competitions that are hosted here or keep an eye out for all kinds of sea creatures such as Starfish, Seals, Dolphins, Turtles, and Sea Horses. Enjoy freshly caught local fish as you try Polynesian cuisine in Mama’s Fish House, and inquire about the daily specials with a warm latte or refreshing cocktail in hand at Paia Bay Coffee & Bar.

Lanai City

Whether you are looking for a luxurious experience or a peaceful getaway, Lanai is a wonderful destination to see the unspoiled beauty of Hawaii. Discover otherworldly landscapes like Keahiakawelo. Otherwise known as the Garden of the Gods, you will feel like you have landed on Mars; this rock garden seems extraterrestrial. Learn about the region’s heritage as you unravel the stories of the past in Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center and see the incredible 1940s tanker at Shipwreck Beach. For golf enthusiasts, Manele Golf Course is a breathtaking clifftop course overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Sign up for fascinating new adventures in Hawaii, a land where beautiful beaches, lush forests, and striking volcanoes come together, to form picture-perfect landscapes beyond your wildest dreams. Whether you prefer the evergreen inland vistas of Waimea, the expansive ocean landscapes of Waimānalo, or the jaw-dropping caves of Hilo, the 50th state is filled with wonders left, right, and center. Soak up the magic as you learn about Aloha culture across the islands, in each of these eight stunning small towns in Hawaii.