9 Adorable Small Towns In Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands chain presents an unparalleled vacation paradise, unlike any other corner of the world. These islands boast lush rainforests teeming with exotic fauna and flora, cliff edges that offer breathtaking panoramic views of nature, and dramatic, active volcanoes. Moreover, Hawaii has distinctive green-sand beaches and a limitless, awe-inspiring oceanic panorama.
Over time, various cities and towns have blossomed across these islands, attracting those yearning to escape the bustle of their everyday lives and immerse themselves in endless sun-soaked beach days and pristine, crystal-clear waters.
If you're contemplating becoming part of Hawaii's tightly-knit community, the charming small towns we highlight below will have you picking out homely furnishings and appealing wallpapers in no time.
Paia, Maui
Nestled on Maui’s stunning north shore, Paia is an idyllic bohemian paradise that evolved from a small sugar plantation town into one of the most beautiful places to visit in Hawaii. The town’s vibrant art scene and eclectic shops (like Alice in Hulaland) add to its unique allure. If Paia is on your Hawaii vacation itinerary or if you’re looking for a freestanding forever home, you won’t be disappointed with what it has to offer. Here you can venture to Ho’okipa Beach Park to surf the huge waves or go snorkeling in search of cute sea turtles. (You’ll even find these gorgeous sea creatures on the walls as part of a series of murals that make this town even more beautiful).
Don’t forget to check out Mama’s Fish House, a local favorite where you can enjoy a magnificent ocean view and a delectable lunch or dinner. Also, the Paia Fish Market will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters with its seafood platters, pasta, and tacos. For those who don’t like seafood, the market also offers burgers, salads, and a range of appetizers.
Waialua, Oahu
On Oahu’s north shore, the hidden gem Waialua awaits. This small town, with its rich agricultural past, was once a go-to location for sugarcane and pineapples. Today, Waialua boasts several local coffee farms, with the Green World Coffee Farm teaching visitors about the coffee-making process.
If you’re looking for a town with a true laid-back Hawaiian beach atmosphere, you won’t go wrong with Waialua. It is located further from the touristy areas, which means you can soak up the sun and local culture without fighting crowds. On a hot summer’s day, there is nothing better than the shaved ice cream at Island X Hawaii, made from fruit, coffee, and chocolate, while the nearby Kaena Point Trail offers some of the best views on the island.
Holualoa, Big Island
There is a thriving artist community just waiting to welcome you to Holualoa on the Big Island of Hawaii. This quaint haven is renowned for its coffee plantations and magnificent art exhibitions. Here you can stroll through the Holualoa Gallery and delight in the works of local artists or participate in one of the many community events.
One of the most popular celebrations on Holualoa is the First Friday After Dark event, which celebrates music, art, food, and culture. Another event enjoyed by locals and tourists is the Music & Light Festival, during which Santa Clause makes his way down the street in a convertible, and the big local Norfolk pine is lit for the festive season.
In this cute town, you’ll find 20 historic buildings, including the 1906 Christian Church, the Sasaki Store built in 1919, and the Holualoa School established in 1897, which is one of the oldest in Hawaii.
Holualoa is also home to the Mi Taqueria Potosina Mexican restaurant and the La Bourgogne French Restaurant, both of which offer delicious meals.
Hanapepe, Kauai
Known as Kauai’s Biggest Little Town, Hanapepe boasts colorful historic buildings and an artsy atmosphere. This enchanting town, once top of the salt trading industry, is lined with galleries and charming stores. If you choose to make a home here, you have lots of options when it comes to exploring.
The 300-year-old Hanapepe Swinging Bridge is both a daily pathway for residents and a tourist attraction. Salt Pond Beach Park, which lies alongside the natural salt ponds of Kauai, has an excellent family-friendly beach with calm waters and gorgeous horizon views. The tidal pools on the beach’s eastern side are filled with colorful fish and sea turtles, and several picnic spots beckon families to take some time out to appreciate nature.
And then there’s Jurassic Falls (Manawaiopuna Falls) located in Hanapepe Valley. The area served as the backdrop for several scenes in the 1993 Jurassic Park film and can only be toured via helicopter.
Back on the ground, there is the Hanapepe Art Walk to enjoy, as well as delectable baked goods from the Hanapepe Café & Bakery.
Kealakekua, Big Island
On the western coast of the Big Island, Kealakekua awaits those with a keen interest in history. This adorable town is home to Kealakekua Bay which was a sacred site for ancient Hawaiians. It is also the place that Captain James Cook sighted on January 17, 1779, the first European to do so.
Today, Kealakekua Bay houses the well-known Captain Cook Monument, which is accessible via hiking trails or boat tours.
Fun activities in Kealakekua include snorkeling, scuba diving, and seaside picnics along the coastline. If you traverse the shore here, you may spot spinner dolphins frolicking in the water or brightly colored fish flitting by in the shallow surf.
Remember to stop by Discovery Antiques to enjoy some tropical ice cream while searching for your next collectible.
Lanai City, Lanai
Lanai City offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii’s plantation era with its quaint, historic architecture. The island of Lanai is one of the smallest in the Hawaii chain, but its way of life and untouched natural spaces are unmatched.
If a tranquil lifestyle is what you’re after, Lanai City is the place for you. Here, spinner dolphins and humpback whales call from the waters of Hulopoe Beach, while Shipwreck Beach offers a full view of the eerie YOGN-42, a WWII concrete fuel tanker deliberately sunk in 1954. A trail leading from this beach will take you to Poaiwa Valley, where petroglyphs have been carved on lava rock boulders. These petroglyphs depict warriors and animals and have been immortalized in the rocks for generations.
Another trail called Fisherman’s Trail opens up to fantastic coastal views as you hike along ancient temples and other ruins. And then there is the Gardens of the Gods with its alien-like landscape filled with rock towers and boulders.
While visiting Lanai City, don’t miss the chance to dine at the Lanai City Bar & Grill, known for its mouthwatering Pacific Rim cuisine.
Kaunakakai, Molokai
The relaxed atmosphere of Kaunakakai on the island of Molokai is just one of the draws of this cute little town. Once a port town and home to King Kamehameha V’s summer residence, Kaunakakai is the largest town on Molokai. It is also the place you’ll find one of the last of Hawaii’s royal coconut groves, established in the 1860s, as the longest pier in all of Hawaii.
If you find yourself in this little slice of heaven, don’t miss out on the ‘hot bread’ made fresh by the Kanemitsu Bakery daily. Take your hot bread down to Murphy’s Beach when palm trees and lazy days await. If you take a walk on the west end of Molokai at night, you will see the lights of Honolulu in the distance.
Laie, Oahu
Laie is located on the northeastern coast of Oahu and is deeply tied to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Here, in this small town, you will learn about the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands through captivating performances and exhibits.
You can also take a walk to the Laie Hawaii Temple, a religious site significant for the local Latter-Day Saint Community.
The nearby Laie Point State Wayside Park is home to the Mokualai Islet Seabird Sanctuary and learn more about the incredible Laniloa the Mo’o legend. Laie is also the place you’ll find the Laie Falls, which is a 15-foot waterfall surrounded by tropical forests.
For a delightful dining experience during your visit, try the delicious shrimp dishes at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp.
Kapaau, Big Island
Our final Hawaiian small-town destination brings us to the pretty town of Kapaau on the northern coast of the Big Island. Here you’ll step back in time as you explore the statue of King Kamehameha I, a tribute to Hawaii’s first monarch, who was born nearby.
The Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is where you’ll find the king’s birthplace, known as Mookini Heaiu. This ancient temple dates back more than 1500 years and is one of the most sacred places in Hawaii.
If you happen to take a tour of Kapaau on June 11th, you can immerse yourself in Kamehameha Day, during which the town comes alive with colorful parades, Hawaiian music and dance performances, and various cultural activities.
After a day of celebrations, you can satisfy your appetite at the Sushi Rock in North Kohala, where you’ll find unique sushi creations and live music. If you want something a little meatier, the Kohala Burger & Taco offers island-inspired tacos and gourmet burgers in the nearby Waimea.
Final Boarding Call
We hope that this compilation of nine enchanting Hawaiian towns has sparked your curiosity to veer off the well-trodden paths in Hawaii and explore the unique charm and rich history intrinsic to the Hawaiian Islands. So, slip into your most cherished pair of flip-flops and let your Hawaiian adventure commence!
