The Hawaiian islands are the best example of a laid back place to live a peaceful lifestyle. From Kauai’s northern coast to the tiny island of Lanai, you can enjoy the incredible cities along with the wholesome communities.
If you are contemplating moving or visiting to one of the small towns in Hawaii, then here is your list of the best small towns in Hawaii to let you decide.
1. Haleiwa
Right in Oahu, the favorite small town by the Hawaii magazine is none other than Haleiwa. With its bustling Waikiki, you can enjoy the buzz and relax. There are also luxurious beaches, amazing restaurants and a wide range of shops. All in all, it is the best place for surfers as you can ride the waves in this capital of the surfing world.
2. Hana
Hana is the best place to discover the taste of unspoiled Hawaiian beauty. This town nestled in Maui is referred to as “real Hawaii” because of its abundant natural charm. The main attraction is driving on the Road to Hana which is filled with dramatic seascapes and lush forests.
3. Honokaa
Big Island’s Honokaa is a town full of charm. This vibrant place has many entertaining spots like Mamane Street. The shops and restaurants are the perfect place for spending hours of time. Moreover, the local boutiques and historic Honokaa People’s Theater are the go-to places in this small town.
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4. Hawi
Nestled on the slopes of Kohala Mountain, Hawi is a town rich in history and community. This quaint island town is where you will find the most authentic vibe of the tourist destination.
Here, the local market has over 200 vendors from Hamakua, Kau, North Kohala and more. The fresh produces are wonderful, and you will also find wonderful authentic crafts.
5. Hanalei
Hanalei is a stunning beauty nestled on Kauia’s north shore. The unspoiled rugged beauty of this town is reserved at its finest. The golden sandy beach stretches up to 2 miles. Also, the best attraction of this one is its tropical plant which is spread over 17 acres of land with rare species.
6. Naalehu
A less known town, but surely you will have an unforgettable experience in Naalehu. Here, you can enjoy a dip in aquamarine waters. The cliff jumpers of the town will give you the best views as well. Moreover, the Papakolea Green Sand Beach of this town will make you want to revisit.
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7. Lanai City
Just 3 miles away from the Lanai Airport, you will find the heart of Lanai Island which is Lanai City. The city was a plantation town that boomed the pineapple industry in the area. With its rich culture, history and entertainment spots, Lanai is a unique town.
8. Lahaina
On Maui, Lahaina was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Presently, it has gained popularity as a popular tourist destination on Maui. You can stroll along the historic trails and even see the oldest living banyan tree in Maui. Just after 100 feet down the area, you will find the mysterious marine life of Atlantis Submarine.
9. Kaunakakai
For enjoying the tranquil small town of Molokai, you need to visit Kaunakakai. Since the 1900s, this town has remained unchanged, so you can find the real taste of the simplistic lifestyle of Hawaii. Located on the south shore of Molokai, you can explore the 19th century churches or visit the Kaunakakai Harbor.
10. Koloa
Nestled in Kauai’s charm, Koloa is a quaint town with its old-fashioned storefronts and repurposed plantation buildings. The rich heritage of the town is fantastic, and you can explore it more once you visit the Koloa History Center. You can also enjoy hiking, driving and biking on the Koloa Heritage Trail.
11. Paia
The historic Paia is a vibrant and colorful town located in Maui. In the town, the old west style buildings and eclectic shopping boutiques are beautiful to explore. There are also art galleries, shopping stores and restaurants. Again, if you want to sunbathe on the golden sandy beach, head to Hookipa Beach.
12. Makawao
With only 7000 residents, Makawao is a small town in Maui which is well known for its ruralness and agriculture. It is situated near the Makawao Forest Reserve. One of the prime attractions of the town is the No’eau Visual Arts Center. It is an area that exhibits and holds interactive programs on the historic estate of the area.
13. Kapa’a
Looking for a peaceful vacation destination? Kapa’a is a notable mention. Actually, this cute town is a paradise for shopaholics. The Wailua Shopping Plaza and Kinipopo Shopping Village are the prime spots for both locals and tourists to enjoy a shopping spree.
14. Kalapana
You need to add Kalapana to your must-visit list if you want to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime views. The place actually holds evidence of destructive power of nature.
It was a historical residential area, but after a jagged black lava exploded, the town turned barren. You can visit and see the black sand beaches presently there and another great factor is that no human lives were lost after the eruption.
15. Volcano Village
Nestled within Hawaii island’s Puna district, you will find the Volcano Village. It is situated near the Hawaii Volcanoes National Par. Home to over 2500 villagers, the area also provides countless galleries to explore.
16. Hilo
Hilo is a town on Hawaii, commonly called the Big Island, in the state of Hawaii. It’s known for Wailuku River State Park, featuring Waianuenue, or Rainbow Falls, with its colorful mist effects. The bubbling basalt-lava rock pools known as the Boiling Pots are nearby. To the south is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to rainforests and the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.
17. Lahaina
Lahaina is the largest census-designated place (CDP) in West Maui, Maui County, Hawaii, United States and includes the Kaanapali and Kapalua beach resorts. As of the 2020 census, the CDP had a resident population of 12,702.
Hawaiian islands are home to diverse people with diverse residents. Whether you want a major move to Hawaii or planning a Hawaiian getaway, this list of the best small towns in Hawaii is the best place to start your search.