Best College Towns in Hawaii
One of Hawaii’s recent missions as a state is to improve the quality of education, and the state administration did an exceptional job at reaching this objective. In 2019, 46% of the adult state residents had a college degree or some level of post-graduate diploma. Hawaii colleges may not be the first that comes to mind when looking for the next best college town to relocate to. However, these cities all offer an exceptional experience that students will not find in any other state.
Manoa
Opening with one of the most popular options, Manoa is home to the University of Hawaii, with a few other branches in neighboring cities. The University of Hawaii in Manoa has over seven graduate colleges, including business, engineering, social sciences, and arts. According to the US News and World Report, The University of Hawaii ranks 166 amongst 443 national colleges, making it one of the top 200 universities in the US. The tropical town’s nature-centric vibe and affordable options make students gravitate to it as one of the best college towns in Hawaii. Cool places to visit include the Manoa Falls Trail, and Pu’u U’alaka’a State Park, while popular things include taking tours, hikes, and finding new nature-rich picturesque views.
Hilo
Another branch location for The University of Hawaii, Hilo, is known for its tropical environment, while its college is perfect for those looking to pursue an agricultural degree. Hilo is the county seat of Hawaiʻi and is in the District of South Hilo. The city overlooks Hilo Bay and has views of two shield volcanoes, Mauna Loa, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano. It is the island's business center, offering a range of diverse courses like business, natural science, and literature. Students looking for a course of a shorter duration can also consider the city's college, Hawaii Community College. The city also offers a few medicine-related programs at the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy. Hilo's emphasized nature-centric vibe is the number one reason to relocate to Hilo, to enjoy a peaceful calm town and breathtaking attractions such as the Rainbow Falls, Coconut Island, and the Kaumana Springs Wilderness Area.
Honolulu
Capital cities always offer some of the best educational institutions. This is the same case with Hawaii, as Honolulu is home to top-ranking universities, guaranteeing one of the best memorable college experiences for its diversity, range of entertainment options, and surrounding beaches. Chaminade University, Remington College, the University of Hawaii, and Hawaii Pacific University are among its best universities and colleges. Honolulu Community College works mainly to attract international students by offering over 14 different affordable diploma and certificate programs. In contrast, its neighboring University of Hawaii attracts locals from all over the state, as it is a convenient option for its many locations. The first thing that comes to mind when considering this city is its endless beaches, and vacation atmosphere, making it the perfect unique experience for students looking to escape the suburban-norm college towns.
Kapolei
Kapolei is more of a laid-back, easy-going city that escapes the touristy areas and is colloquially known as the "second city" of Oʻahu, in relation to Honolulu. The perfect contrast of sand and greenery, Kapolei is home to two university-level institutions, Hawaii Tokai International College, and the University of Hawaii West Oʻahu, with a mix of science and art programs. Despite being one of the fastest growing cities in Hawaii, Kapolei is highly embracive of traditions and culture, helping the city attract more curious travelers while staying true to its values. Rich in entertainment and things to do, students of Kapolei will never feel bored in their new town. Visit the island's only water park, learn to dive and snorkel, or even go on an off-road adventure on ATVs or hiking.
Laie
Finally, Laie is a college town famous for having only one university and being a dry Mormon town. Meaning no alcohol is sold in its streets, from bars to nightclubs, making it the ideal college town if you are looking to abstain or for strict parents to be at peace when sending you off. Laie is not for you if you are excited to move out and live young and recklessly for a few years. With a strong sense of tight Knit community, beautiful tropical sceneries, and plenty of community events, Laie is a hideout town for students serious about excelling in their studies. Brigham Young University-Hawaii is surrounded by densely green mountains offering a panoramic view from within the campus. Aside from the popular Pounders Beach, Clissolds Beach, and Laie Falls Trail, popular places to check out during your stay in Laie include the Polynesian Cultural Center and Laie Point State Wayside Park.
Hawaii is home to over 1.43 million residents and offers a unique college experience, whether trying to escape the norms or studying near your friends and family. Although the state is known to be slightly more expensive than other states for its high demand for real estate and tourism, a study experience is certainly a matter to consider as foreigners race to Hawaii to have a memorable college experience. Enjoy the tropical vibes island while exploring your new home, and indulge in local culture to get a feel of studying abroad without leaving the United States.
