The 6 Tiniest Towns in Hawaii Worth Visiting
Posted by Maris on 16th Sep 2024
Hawaii is a paradise for anyone who wants to get away from it all and spend time in the sun, with many resorts and retreats to pick from. The little communities on these stunning islands have much character and history waiting to be found, even though these all-inclusive resorts provide everything you could want.
Makawao
Entering Makawao feels like entering a time machine. Paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, and the island's plantation inhabitants historically gathered in this upcountry village of Maui. The town possesses a hint of the Wild West vibe mixed with the Asian elements common to Hawaii.
A paniolo parade and rodeo are held in this quaint village over the Fourth of July weekend, making for an impressive spectacle. There is still much to do if you happen to be there at any other time of the year. This creative region is well-known for its glassblowing, sculpting, and painting. Don't forget to explore the town's many stores that showcase regional artists. Maybe you'll find something special to bring home.
Paia
Paia, formerly the hub of Maui's sugarcane plantation society, has managed to preserve its unique identity and allure. This town is a great spot to spend a day because of its vibrant stores and some of the nicest people you will ever meet.
Paia has an artistic community, much like the other little villages on Maui, with galleries that proudly display the work of local artists. Take a leisurely stroll through the stores and have a peaceful dinner at one of the neighborhood eateries. When you're through, visit Hookipa Beach before dusk falls. It's no longer as much of a secret, but around this time sea turtles have been observed to relax on the beach. Don't touch them; let them carry out their natural functions. However, We wouldn't dare pass up the fantastic photo opportunity with you.
Hawi
Hawi is just one of the little Hawaiian communities that have ingeniously positioned themselves as centers for artists. The village of Hawi is still thriving, with its organic food shops and unique handmade goods like handcrafted jewelry.
Hawi, situated on the northernmost tip of the Hawaiian island, is well worth visiting for hipsters who like unique stores housed in bizarre storefronts. It's probably also worth mentioning that there's an ice cream and sweets store that doubles as a kava bar at night. Should you prefer something other than soothing tea, make sure to visit the Kohala Coffee Mill, where they serve 100% of that delicious Kona coffee.
Koloa
Koloa has a rich history because it was home to Hawaii's first commercial sugar mill. Following a full day of exploring the Koloa Heritage Trail, unwind and take in the scenery at the historic town center.
Several eateries and retail establishments can now be found inside the once-ancient plantation houses tucked away in southern Kauai. Nonetheless, photographs and descriptions of these structures' past are affixed to the exteriors of the buildings, making their history difficult to forget.
Hanalei
Hanalei's charming family-run boutiques and art galleries provide a cozy small-town atmosphere for visitors looking to escape the resort regions. It's also worth visiting the beach that encircles this town. You may understand how brutal these waves can be by looking at the famed Irons brothers, who used to surf here. There are also SUP and kayak shops in town for the less daring.
Together with shoppers and surfers, this small village also draws foodies. It has been said that people come from all over to Hanalei only to check out the food truck scene. It's that fantastic, truly. Everything is freshly made, including the delicious fried katsu and traditional Hawaiian poke. Kauai has long championed a sustainable culinary sector that highly emphasizes locally acquired ingredients.
Hanapepe
Hanapepe, arguably the most well-known tiny village on Kauai, has maintained most of its plantation appearance. Like many other tiny villages in Hawaii, its traditional wooden buildings have been renovated for modern use.
This is the town with the greatest concentration of art galleries on Kauai, and Fridays are late nights in the peaceful town. Open to the public, local artists and galleries invite guests and residents to mingle over delectable local fare and upbeat music.