Hawi
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Hawi
Hawi is a small town located on the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii. It is situated in the Kohala district, which is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical forests, and stunning landscapes. Hawi is a charming community that offers a unique blend of traditional Hawaiian culture and modern amenities.
The town is known for its historic buildings, art galleries, and eclectic shops, as well as its vibrant farmer’s market, which features fresh local produce and handmade crafts. Hawi is also home to several restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines, including local Hawaiian fare.
One of the most notable attractions in Hawi is the Pololu Valley Lookout, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy hiking, swimming, and exploring the nearby beaches and parks.
Overall, Hawi is a wonderful place to live or visit, offering a laid-back lifestyle and plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Hawi: Lay of the Land
Housing in Hawi is primarily made up of single-family homes, with a variety of architectural styles available. Many homes in the area are designed in the plantation-style, which is a popular architectural style in Hawaii that features a large covered lanai, high ceilings, and an open floor plan. Other common styles in Hawi include contemporary, ranch-style, and Mediterranean.
The climate in Hawi is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The town receives an average of 60 inches of rainfall annually, with the wettest months being from November to March. However, the northern tip of the Big Island can be windier and cooler than other parts of the island.
In terms of job opportunities, Hawi is a small town with a limited job market. However, there are opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and retail. The town is also within driving distance of larger cities such as Waimea and Kailua-Kona, which offer more job opportunities.
Hawi offers a number of amenities, including several restaurants, art galleries, and shops. The town also has a grocery store, a post office, and a public library. Recreational spots in the area include hiking trails, beaches, and parks. In addition to the Pololu Valley Lookout, other notable attractions include the Hawi Farmers Market and the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, which features several important historical sites.
Overall, Hawi is a wonderful town that offers a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful scenery, and a tight-knit community. While job opportunities may be limited, the town has plenty to offer in terms of recreation, amenities, and housing options.
papakeacollection
March 10, 2026
Tourism in Hawi
While tourism is an important industry on the Big Island of Hawaii as a whole, the town of Hawi is not a major tourist destination. However, the town does attract visitors who are interested in exploring the northern part of the island, as well as those who are seeking a more laid-back and authentic Hawaiian experience.
Some of the main attractions in the area that draw visitors include the Pololu Valley Lookout, which offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding valleys; the Hawi Farmers Market, which features locally grown produce, crafts, and other goods; and several nearby beaches and parks, including Hapuna Beach State Park.
Despite not being a major tourist destination, many businesses in Hawi do cater to visitors. There are several restaurants and shops in the town that offer goods and services to tourists, and some residents also offer vacation rentals and other accommodations. Additionally, some visitors to the island may choose to make Hawi their home base for exploring the northern part of the island.
Hawi: A unique Lifestyle
The lifestyle in Hawi is generally laid-back and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on community and outdoor recreation. The town has a small population of around 1,000 people, which contributes to its close-knit community feel.
In terms of restaurants, Hawi offers a variety of dining options. Some popular restaurants include Sushi Rock, which offers sushi and Japanese cuisine; Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery, which serves a mix of Hawaiian and Asian-inspired dishes; and Kohala Coffee Mill, which features locally grown coffee and light fare.
Art galleries are also a prominent feature of Hawi, with several galleries showcasing the work of local artists. One notable gallery is the Kohala Gallery, which features the work of more than 50 artists and offers a range of media, including paintings, sculpture, and photography. Another popular gallery is the Hawi Gallery, which specializes in Hawaiian and Pacific Island art.
In terms of shops, Hawi offers a mix of boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty stores. Some notable shops include Aloha Mantra, which offers locally made clothing and accessories; Elements Jewelry & Crafts, which features handcrafted jewelry and art; and Kohala Book Shop, which specializes in local and regional books and gifts.
Recreational activities in the area include hiking, swimming, and exploring the nearby beaches and parks. One popular hiking trail is the Pololu Valley Trail, which offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding valleys. There are also several beaches in the area, including Hapuna Beach State Park, which is known for its white sand and clear waters.
The people who live in Hawi come from a variety of backgrounds, including local Hawaiians, transplants from the mainland United States, and residents from other parts of the world. Many residents are drawn to the town’s natural beauty, sense of community, and laid-back lifestyle.
Subdivisions and Condos in Hawi
Subdivisions
Hawi is a relatively small town, there are several subdivisions in the surrounding area that offer a range of housing options.
- Ala Lai Subdivision: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1990s.
- Hawi Village: A residential subdivision located in the heart of Hawi, with homes built in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Kaauhuhu Homesteads: A residential subdivision located on the eastern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1990s and 2000s.
- Kaauhuhu Makai: A residential subdivision located on the eastern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Kahei – Puuepa 2nd: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1990s.
- Kahei Homesteads: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Kahei Houselots: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s.
- Maliu Ridge I: A residential subdivision located on the northeastern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Pahoa – Kahei: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Pahoa Beach Estates: A residential subdivision located on the northern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1990s.
- Puuepa – Kokoiki Homesteads: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Puuepa 1st & 2nd & Kokoiki: A residential subdivision located on the southern outskirts of Hawi, with homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
A History of Hawi
Hawi has a rich history that dates back hundreds of years. The area was originally inhabited by native Hawaiians, who were known for their agricultural practices, including growing taro, sweet potatoes, and other crops.
In the late 18th century, the area that is now Hawi became a hub for the sandalwood trade, which brought merchants and traders to the area. As the sandalwood trade declined, the area became known for its sugar plantations, which were owned by wealthy landowners.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hawi experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of schools, churches, and other community
buildings. The town also became a hub for ranching and agriculture, with many residents working in these industries.
In the mid-20th century, Hawi experienced a decline in population as many residents moved to urban areas in search of work. However, in recent years, the town has experienced a resurgence, with new businesses and residents moving to the area.
Today, Hawi is known for its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit, and it continues to be an important part of the cultural and economic landscape of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Make Hawi your Home
Hawi is a charming town located on the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii. It offers a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful natural scenery, and a tight-knit community that is welcoming to visitors and residents alike. If you enjoy outdoor recreation, exploring local art and culture, and a sense of community, you’ll love Hawi.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Hawi. And with its diverse range of restaurants, shops, and galleries, the town offers a unique and authentic Hawaiian experience that you won’t find elsewhere.
If you’re thinking about making Hawi your home, the Papakea Collection Real Estate team can help. With their expertise and local knowledge, they can help you find the perfect home to fit your lifestyle and budget. From plantation-style homes to contemporary designs, there is a wide range of housing options available in Hawi, and the Papakea Collection Real Estate team can help you navigate the market and find the home of your dreams.
So why not make your Hawaiian dream a reality and let the Papakea Collection Real Estate team help you find your perfect home in Hawi? With its unique charm, natural beauty, and welcoming community, there’s no better place to call home on the Big Island.
