8 Best Downtowns In Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most unique states in the United States of America, as it is an archipelago made up of 137 islands. Across the main islands are incredibly warm, welcoming downtowns that offer something special not found on the mainland. From communities like Kapa'a, with its rich history, to Hilo, with its mix of lush greenery and museums, and Hale'iwa, which provides access to beaches and the ocean, these downtowns are extraordinary with their combination of nature and relaxed vibes, making them must-visit destinations. These downtowns also welcome people from all over with their tropical vibes, wooing all to the gentle sway of palm trees and the island vibe abounding, making for an incredible journey.

Hilo

The census-designated place of Hilo is the largest community on the Big Island and offers the best of the tropics, with a historic downtown featuring colorful wooden storefronts and a laid-back atmosphere. The Palace Theater was built in 1925 as the "Pride of Hilo" and hosts local plays, musicals, and live performances, as well as community events, keeping the night young and entertaining. Just next door is the Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery, where visitors can view and purchase breathtaking photographs of nature and art by Bruce Omori. Another wonderful museum to visit is the Pacific Tsunami Museum, which educates its visitors about the dangers and history of tsunamis that have affected the state throughout the decades.

Down on Kilauea Ave is the Lotus Garden of Hilo, where guests can relax and unwind in nature-oriented rooms and suites, enjoy organic coffee to begin the mornings, and host events and meetings in the 2,000-square-foot Lotus Space. Across the street is the Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine, which serves New American cuisine for patrons to enjoy. Pineapples Island also serves specialties like Coconut Ginger Mussels, the Hilo Local plate, and Kabocha Pumpkin Curry, and accepts reservations.

Hāwī

On the northern tip of the Big Island is the census-designated place of Hāwī, with a charming, walkable downtown featuring colorful plantation buildings and unique boutiques. Within walking distance of Hāwī-Ni’uli’i Road is the Kohala Village Inn, which offers its guests lush Hawaiian-style rooms and suites and hosts incredible events in the Barn and Hale, no matter the occasion. Up the street is the Hawi Coffee Company, where patrons are greeted with locally crafted coffee, breakfast, and lunch in a calm setting, with outdoor seating.

On the other side of Hāwī-Ni’uli’i Road, people can enjoy lovely, warm, and welcoming shops, restaurants, and art galleries, including Olena Gallery, which showcases art, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and much more by local Big Island artists in a cozy space surrounded by tropical trees. Just west of the Gallery is the Bamboo Restaurant and Gallery, serving freshly made island cuisine and other diverse menu options to keep meals exciting and mesmerizing. Another thing that sets the Bamboo Restaurant apart from other restaurants is its own art gallery, where people can enjoy and purchase art created by local artists, such as quilts, kitchen utensils, tropical handbags, and much more.

Kapa'a

The census-designated place of Kapa'a is the largest community on the island of Kaua'i, boasting a walkable downtown with instant access to the ocean. Pono Kai Resort is the place to spend the weekend or a few days, as guests can enjoy rooms and suites gazing upon the ocean, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and tennis courts. Further up Kuhio Highway is Lana's Cafe, which serves fruit smoothies and shaved ice to keep cool while enjoying the sunny scenery.

Kapa'a Beach Park is just next to downtown and offers calm swimming conditions, making it an excellent spot for relaxing. There are picnic areas, shaded grassy areas, and parking. A great place to enjoy after the beach is Big Wave Dave's Bar and Grill, where patrons can enjoy incredible bar food, locally crafted drinks, and the big games, and the place hosts karaoke nights.

Kailua-Kona

On the western end of the Big Island is Kailua-Kona, a community with a bustling downtown right on the coast, historic sites, and delightful restaurants and shops. On Ali'i Drive is Hulihe'e Palace, a landmark vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, a stunning museum showcasing cultural artifacts, and a venue for local community events. The rest of Ali'i Drive offers visitors and residents stunning ocean views, along with cozy restaurants and shops to enjoy along the way. The Fish Hopper is one of those restaurants that serve delicious seafood while overlooking the Kailua Bay.

The Kailua Bay and Pier is the place to be in town for people who own or rent boats to explore the glassy blue ocean, a perfect place to go swimming and snorkeling, a place to sight manta rays and humpback whales, and is the starting and finishing point for the 2026 Ironman World Championship race. Just west of the Pier is the Island Breeze Lū'au - He 'Ohana Kakou, where people are treated to a delicious dinner, show, and cultural experience, witnessing Polynesian culture from the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. The audience can participate in pre-show activities and experience an unforgettable night out on the town.

Hale'iwa

Near the northern part of the island of Oahu is Hale'iwa, a census-designated place with a historic plantation-era downtown that is incredibly walkable and is a more relaxed alternative compared to other cities. The Haleiwa Beach Park near downtown is the place to be to surf “gnarly” waves, enjoy some solid sunlight, fish, scuba dive, and much more. For the latest beach gear, visitors can explore Surf N Sea or Rip Curl - Haleiwa, which sells apparel, surfboards, wetsuits, and much more. Additionally, Surf N Sea offers surfing lessons for beginners and scuba diving tours, making for a truly memorable experience.

In town, people can enjoy gorgeous views of the ocean and landscape from Haleiwa Joe's, which serves memorable drinks and glorious seafood. Back near the water is North Shore Shark Adventures, where people can tour the ocean and see sharks from the boat and from underwater cages for a wild adrenaline rush.

Kaneohe

About 10 miles northeast of Honolulu is Kaneohe, with a very laid-back, upbeat downtown to enjoy on the eastern side of Oahu. Right on the eastern edge of downtown is the Bayview Golf Course, an 18-hole public course offering scenic views of the ocean and the Koolau Mountains while playing a challenging course. Further down the street is Zia's Caffe, where patrons have been treated to scrumptious Italian cuisine since 1998. Further up is Kizuna Sushi Bar and Grill, where visitors can enjoy delectable sushi, rolls, and other incredible Japanese entrees for a lovely dinner with friends and loved ones. Kaneohe also offers easy access to Kaneohe Bay, where calm waters, sandbars, and views of the Koolau Mountains create a peaceful setting for kayaking, boating, and enjoying the scenery.

Waimea

Just 20 miles south of Hāwī is the landlocked community of Waimea, which has Paniolo Heritage, unique markets, and a scenic landscape surrounding the town. The Paniolo Heritage Center is near downtown, where people can learn about the history of the Paniolo (the Hawaiian Cowboy), view exhibits featuring artifacts, visit the property's stables, and rent the facility for various events. Not too far from the Heritage Center is Kahilu Theatre, which hosts local plays, musicals, and workshops in a 490-seat theater.

Across the street from the theater is Ke Ala Kahawai O Waimea, a calm and simple 1.05-mile-long trail that is an excellent spot to go on a jog or relaxing walk, and is open year-round, where visitors can enjoy lush Hawaiian green all around them. An appealing place to spend the night or a weekend in town is the Waimea Country Lodge, which offers views of the hills, mountains, and Mauna Kea. The rest of the lodge has a warm rustic charm, easygoing rooms and suites, and is within walking distance of the local shops and restaurants in town.

Wai'anae

On the western end of Oahu is Wai'anae, with a rural, laid-back downtown and outstanding views of the adjacent cove. Pokai Beach is just near downtown, as it's a family-friendly beach that is calm, relaxing, and a fun place to go fishing, surfing, and hiking. The Beach House by 604 is an incredible restaurant to enjoy glorious views of the cove and landscape, while enjoying American and Pacific-inspired meals, listening to live music, and attending public and private events. Just west of downtown is the Wai'anae Small Boat Harbor, which provides people with a place to park and store boats, four boat ramps, and a convenience store. Across from the harbor is Wai'anae District Park, a quaint, low-key green space with a few tennis courts and easy access.

Explore These Amazing Downtown Areas In Hawaii’s Towns

There are incredible downtowns throughout the "Aloha State" for some adventurous memories throughout the different islands. From Hilo, with its history and cuisine, to Waimea, with its access to natural wonders, these towns are incredible places to visit, island hop, and explore during a vacation. On top of that, towns like Wai'anae and Kapa'a have beaches next to their downtowns, making for perfect places to unwind and enjoy the shimmering Pacific Ocean, while taking in the scenic beauty of Hawaii.