11 Most Underrated Towns In Hawaii
Hawaii is a wonderful destination known for its rich history, beautiful nature, vibrant culture, and sunny tropical weather. Popular spots like the capital city of Honolulu and the stunning volcanic island of Maui are must-see highlights. Even though the Hawaiian islands are relatively small, there's a fantastic variety of sights and activities, making each visit truly special and unlike any other place. Exploring lesser-known or underground destinations can also be a more budget-friendly way to enjoy your trip, offering unique experiences worth sharing when you return home. Most of these hidden gems are accessible by air or water, mostly on the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai, adding to the adventure of your journey.
Old Koloa Town, Kauai
A heavenly tropical town situated roughly 10 miles west of Lihue, differentiates itself with local culture and tradition, home to some of the coolest local shops. The Old Koloa History Center is the number one destination for visitors and is the best town to gain a better sense of what it’s like to be a resident. The small old town highlights include the MonkeyPod Trees planted in 1925, The Yamamoto Store that was once a plantation camp, and a service center. Enjoy ziplining across forests, ATV rides through the rugged dirt paths, and sea scuba diving to say hi to ocean life.
Puuwai, Niihau
The heart of Hawaii, Puuwai, is a small town on Niihau Island, also known as the "forbidden island." It is one of Hawaii’s most underrated towns because of its exclusivity. You can only access the island of Niihau if invited by locals or taken on a tour by officials. Therefore, visiting Puuwai is not impossible, but it may cost more than visiting other small towns in Hawaii. The island is surrounded by beaches and is accessible only by boat, scuba diving, or helicopter. Halalii and Halulu are two lakes in its center. If you are lucky enough to make the trek, you can meet some of the 170 residents who live this secluded life.
Haleiwa, Oahu
Haleiwa, known as "The Gathering Place," is the third-largest Hawaiian island. It’s one of the most populated islands, with Honolulu serving as its capital and a popular tourist spot. Often overlooked, Haleiwa is a small city on Oahu, located 30 miles north of Honolulu along Kamehameha Highway. The town has preserved its cultural roots for decades and is renowned as the surfing capital of the world, boasting several beautiful beaches. Laniakea Beach, also called turtle beach, is rich with sea turtles. For those who prefer hiking over surfing or swimming, Haleiwa offers multiple trails. It is also close to Pupukea Paumala Forest Reserve, a protected area with trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Holualoa, Island of Hawaii
On the island of Holualoa, everything is artistic and agricultural. It is relatively off the beaten path of typical tourist routes in Hawaii but is surrounded by many beaches and Holualoa Bay. The island is known for its coffee culture and is part of the Kona Coffee Belt, so visitors can expect to find a wide array of handmade art pieces and products. There are music festivals all year round, the most notable being the Music and Light Festive in December. Greenery covers the surface of Holualoa, offering a perfect balance of sand and grass beach life.
Makawao, Maui
Makawao, the home of the Hawaiian cowboy, is a rural town renowned for its wooden storefronts and traditional American-style layout. Despite its countryside charm, it provides a cosmopolitan atmosphere with upscale cafes, art galleries, and international cuisines. Locals are industrious, famous for crafting handmade soap and spices. Unlike typical Hawaiian beach towns, Makawao highlights agriculture and local crafts, moving away from the stereotypical beach vibe.
Heeia, Oahu
Home to the massive Heeia State Park, Heeia is a small country city with several distant neighborhoods and farms. Heeia is warm and muggy, rich in wildlife, and inhabited by seabirds, gobies, and more. Heeia's jungle vibes distinguish the town from other Hawaiian cities, and Kako o Oiwi is a famous nonprofit restoration that repopulates the land with native plants such as the Pau Kala, the Kou, and the Hinahina.
Volcano, Island of Hawaii
Volcano Village is a small town on the Big Hawaiian Island, known for its lush surroundings and active volcanoes. It offers a peaceful retreat with views of live-flowing lava from two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Must-see sites include the Kilauea Overlook summit, a perfect spot for relaxation and appreciating natural wonders. The rainforest is mostly covered by Kahili Ginger, and many roads are dirt trails and paths.
Lanai City, Lanai
One of Hawaii’s most productive towns, Lanai is a commercial hub, once responsible for over 40% of the world’s pineapple production. It is on the island of Lanai, one of the least inhabited islands of Hawaii to explore. Rich in culture, activities, and resorts, Lanai City is your go-to for all your shopping and entertainment needs when staying on Lanai Island, and Dole Park is the city’s main fairground for local festivals and events.
Honokaa, Island of Hawaii
Honokaa is a cute small town on Hawaii’s main big island, decorated with dramatic historic sceneries and welcoming small shops and boutiques. It was a hub for sugar plantations when sugar was among the most in-demand commodities worldwide. The town, dating from the 19th century, welcomes a range of diverse communities, such as Chinese, Japanese, and American nationalities, that took advantage of its agricultural potential. It is one of the best towns to understand the island’s history, culture, and production.
Hanapepe, Kauai
Hanapepe, which means crushed bay in the native language, rests on the south shore of west Kauai and is one of the island’s busiest towns. Unlike most calming, peaceful, relaxing small towns, Hanapepe is home to many bars, shops, and numerous local and worldwide art galleries. Some of the best art galleries include Amy-Lauren’s Gallery, Banana Patch Studio, The Bright Side Gallery, and The Bridge Gallery across from the famous swinging bridge.
Kaanapali, Maui
Home to some of the best beaches and most transparent waters, Kaanapali hosts daily cliff diving competitions and is renowned for its beautiful cliffs of Black Rock or Pu’u Keka’a. Located on Maui Island, however, away from the island’s busy, expensive island resorts, the small town has limited resources and no major shopping centers. Still, it offers visitors many activities and sightseeing opportunities, such as zipline tours and eco-adventure on the 3-mile beach.
The true Hawiaain experience comprises many aspects: history, culture, unique nature, and memorable experiences. Whether you are a local on the go or a tourist looking to get the most out of your trip, these towns offer everything you need for a magical tropical adventure. Do not limit yourself to trendy and popular towns; visiting the unknown is much more exciting and novel.
