8 Secluded Towns in Hawaii
In need of a little relaxing getaway with breathtaking nature, beaches, and lively culture? Hawaii is the perfect destination to check all those boxes. Nicknamed the Aloha State, Hawaii is made up of eight islands that form an archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean. Among these stunning islands are famous beaches, towering waterfalls, iconic palm trees, and mind-blowing volcanoes. Wait no more and step into the tropical adventure that awaits in Hawaii. These towns tucked away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities in Hawaii offer a calm and more secluded getaway to enjoy.
Haleʻiwa
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, visitors can enjoy the charming views and outdoor excursions in the historic town of Haleʻiwa. A must-see attraction is the Rainbow Bridge, which is built above the Anahulu River. Visitors can go paddle boarding or kayaking while admiring views of picture-perfect palm trees. For another thrilling adventure, put on some scuba diving gear and jump in the Haleiwa Trench for a chance to see some turtles, octopuses, lobsters, and even sharks swimming around. If you are craving a delicious meal, the town of Haleʻiwa is known for having top-notch restaurants and food trucks to satisfy that appetite. Make sure to stop by Haleiwa Joe's restaurant, Brazilian food truck Crispy Grindz, and Matsumoto Shave Ice. Haleʻiwa is also home to the only macadamia nut farm on Oahu, the North Shore Macadamia Nut Company. While indulging in macadamias, enjoy breathtaking views as this local farm grows trees on the foothills of Mt. Kaala.
Honokaa
Visit the charming town of Honokaa, which is also referred to as the gateway to the Hamakua Coast. This town might be small in size and population, but the town’s streets are beaming bright with history. In the 20th century, Honokaa was the hotspot for sugar production at the Hamakua Sugar Company. For all the movie lovers out there, Honokaa is also home to the Honoka'a People's Theatre. Built in 1930, this historic theater is one of the last surviving theaters from the plantation period on the Hāmākua Coast. The vibrant culture doesn’t stop there; visitors can also stroll around the Hamakua Harvest Farmers’ Market and buy fruit, bread, coffee, and cheese from local farmers and food vendors. While in town, don’t miss out on visiting Gramma’s Kitchen, a restaurant specializing in delicious Portuguese-style dishes. For some natural scenery, hike to Waipiʻo Valley for stunning coastal cliff views or take an excursion to Hi'ilawe Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state of Hawaii.
Pahala
Next up is Pahala, a quaint, peaceful town that was once home to a bustling sugar cane plantation. While exploring the area, make time to stop by the Ka'u Coffee Mill, where visitors can go on a fascinating tour and learn all about the award-winning coffee production process. For an attraction for those curious about Buddhism and seeking serenity, step foot in the Wood Valley Temple for a quick visit or book a retreat here for a mindful escape with insightful events and teachings about Buddhism. Pahala is home to one of Hawaii’s most iconic natural sights, the Punaluu Black Sand Beach. This beach has formed from the region's volcanic activity, and it will be a jaw-dropping view to photograph and walk on.
Kona
The adorable town of Kona is calling all adventure lovers to make this a must-see destination on their bucket list. Kona is located on the slopes of Hualālai, which is known as the third youngest of the five volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii. The biggest volcano in the area of Kona, and known as the biggest active volcano in the world, is Mauna Loa, which rises about 4,170 metres above the Pacific Ocean. For all the coffee lovers out there, book a tour at Greenwell Farms to learn how the award-winning specialty coffee is brewed. Kona is also home to Parker Ranch, the largest and oldest cattle ranch in the United States. If you're in the mood for basking in the sun or making a splash in the water, Magic Sands Beach is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy beach activities and to admire the whimsical scenery.
Waimānalo
On the Eastern side of Oahu, nestled between the Koolau mountain range and Waimanalo Bay, is the small town of Waimanalo. Wandering through this town emanates a simplistic local energy. The town is full of rural areas, farms, and even wild chickens waddling around. Check out Shima’s Market, a quaint grocery store full of fresh seafood and produce for local shopping. While stepping foot in this gem of a town, make a stop by Kaiona Beach Park for some breathtaking snorkeling, where visitors are very likely to spot the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Waimanalo Bay Beach Park is another beach paradise where you can get wild and wild. Coconut fans rejoice as across from Waimanalo Bay Beach Park, visitors can find a handcrafted stall where a local Waimanalo resident sells delicious, ice-cold coconuts.
Hawi
At the end of Kohala Mountain Road on the northern edge of the Big Island is the vibrant town of Hāwī, which is well known for being the bicycle turnaround for the annual IRONMAN World Championship in October. The drive to Hāwī is an attraction in itself, full of views of the countryside and mountain landscapes. Once in town, shop at the Hawi Farmers’ Market every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The market is jam-packed with vendors from nearby towns selling produce, crafts, and sweet treats. The Bamboo Restaurant and Gallery should be a bucket list attraction for all visitors travelling to the Big Island. This restaurant serves up classic Hawaiian dishes, including fresh seafood, and offers a lively and memorable dining atmosphere. Not only does Hāwī provide natural scenery, but other feasts for the eyes include a trip to Tiffany’s Art Agency. This gallery is focused on displaying artwork of Hāwī locals and is a great way to feel inspired and admire artwork from a different culture.
Makawao
Sitting on the mid-slopes of Maui’s Haleakalā volcano is the charming town of Makawao, which was once named one of the top 25 arts destinations in the United States. Makawao is locally known as Upcountry Maui and is famous for its Hawaiian cowboys, or paniolo. On the fourth of July every year, the town hosts Hawaiʻi's largest paniolo competition, the Makawao Rodeo. The town also beams with creativity, diverse shops, and boutiques. Visitors can witness working artists on the streets shaving wood sculptures, blowing glass and more. Head to the Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center to admire free art displays or take art classes. For a sweet treat, indulge in the famous cream puff from the iconic bakery called T. Komoda Store, which was established in 1916.
Pāʻia
On Maui’s North coast, visitors can venture to the historic town of Pāʻia. Every corner in Pāʻia promises entertainment as it is known to be the interesting spot for people-watching in all of Hawaii. The town oozes a vibrant atmosphere, complete with plenty of shops and boutiques for visitors to buy a cute souvenir or a new outfit. For a yummy bite to eat, why not grab a fish burger from the iconic Pāʻia Fishmarket restaurant? Pāʻia is also known as the windsurfing capital of the world, so visitors ought to stop by Hoʻokipa Beach to witness pro windsurfers and kite surfers ride the waves. Many other beaches are within walking distance from the heart of Pāʻia, such as Paia Bay, Baldwin Beach Park, and Baby Beach.
From sunbathing on the beach to chasing a fresh waterfall, delicious cuisine to breathtaking hikes, Hawaii will check off everything and more on anyone's travel list. This one-of-a-kind state is a paradise with the perfect balance, offering both relaxation as well as thrilling adventures for those wanting a bit more adrenaline. No matter which town travelers decide to visit, they will be far from the chaos and throngs of people in these secluded locales.
