The District of South Kohala is a district located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawaii Island. It is situated between North Kohala to the north and Kona to the south. South Kohala covers an area of approximately 351.7 square miles (910.2 square kilometers) and has a population of around 17,000 people.
South Kohala: lay of the land
The district is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, volcanic fields, lush rainforests, and mountain vistas. One of the main attractions in the area is the Waikoloa Beach Resort, which features luxury hotels, world-class golf courses, and upscale shopping and dining options.
South Kohala is also home to several historic and cultural landmarks, including the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, which is an important cultural site and one of the largest restored heiaus (Hawaiian temple) in Hawaii. Other notable landmarks include the Lapakahi State Historical Park, which showcases the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, and the King’s Trail, which is an ancient footpath that was once used by Hawaiian royalty.
South Kohala offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. The housing market in the area is generally considered to be upscale, with many properties featuring high-end amenities and luxury finishes.
There are a variety of condo complexes in South Kohala, particularly in the Waikoloa Beach Resort area. These condos range from studio units to spacious three-bedroom residences and offer a low-maintenance lifestyle with access to resort amenities such as pools, spas, and fitness centers.
The lifestyle in South Kohala is generally laid-back and focused on outdoor activities such as golfing, beach-going, and hiking. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, including Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea Beach, which offer excellent swimming, snorkeling, and surfing opportunities.
In addition to outdoor recreation, South Kohala offers a range of cultural and educational opportunities, including art galleries, historical sites, and museums. The area also features a variety of dining and shopping options, with many restaurants and boutiques located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort area.
Real Estate
South Kohala offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. The housing market in the area is generally considered to be upscale, with many properties featuring high-end amenities and luxury finishes.
Housing prices in South Kohala can be relatively high compared to other parts of Hawaii, particularly for oceanfront or golf course properties. However, there may be investment opportunities for those looking to purchase property in the area, as South Kohala is a popular destination for vacation rentals and second homes.
Condos and vacation rentals in South Kohala can provide a source of rental income, particularly during the peak tourist season, which runs from December through April. The area’s popularity as a vacation destination means that there is often strong demand for rental properties, and some owners have been able to generate substantial income from short-term rentals.
Overall, the housing market in South Kohala offers a range of investment opportunities for those looking to purchase property in the area. However, it is important to note that property values and rental income can be subject to fluctuations based on factors such as the overall economy, tourism trends, and changes in government regulations related to vacation rentals.
Luxury area
There are several luxury resort areas in the district of South Kohala on the Big Island of Hawaii. These resorts offer a range of high-end amenities and services, including world-class golf courses, spas, restaurants, and shopping centers. Here are some of the most notable luxury resort areas in South Kohala:
Waikoloa Beach Resort: This is one of the largest resort areas in the district, featuring two large hotels, several condo complexes, two golf courses, a marina, and a shopping center with upscale retailers and restaurants.
Mauna Lani Resort: This is a luxury resort area that features several hotels and condo complexes, two golf courses, a spa, a beach club, and a historic fishpond.
Fairmont Orchid: This is a luxury hotel located in the town of Puako, featuring several pools, a spa, and access to a private beach.
Hilton Waikoloa Village: This is a large resort complex located in Waikoloa, featuring several pools, a spa, a dolphin encounter program, and a tram that transports guests around the expansive property.
Overall, South Kohala is known for its high-end resorts and upscale amenities, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a luxurious and pampering vacation experience.
South Kohala has all the best sandy beaches
The best white sand beaches are almost all in South Kohala, here are a few
Hapuna Beach: This is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in the area. It features a wide expanse of white sand, crystal clear waters, and excellent swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding conditions.
Mauna Kea Beach: This is another popular beach located adjacent to Hapuna Beach. It features a wide stretch of white sand and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Waialea Beach (Beach 69): This is a smaller, secluded beach located just north of Hapuna Beach. It is known for its calm waters, soft sand, and excellent snorkeling conditions.
Kaunaoa Beach: This is a small, crescent-shaped beach located in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. It features fine, white sand and calm waters, and is an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Spencer Beach Park: This is a popular beach park located in the town of Kawaihae. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, shady picnic areas, and excellent snorkeling and swimming conditions.
Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay): This is a popular beach located within the Waikoloa Beach Resort. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, calm waters, and a variety of water sports and activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Overall, the district of South Kohala offers a variety of sandy beaches, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions.
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frenifyTowns, cities and villages in South Kohala
Puako is a small, coastal town located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the district of South Kohala. It is situated between the larger resort communities of Waikoloa and Mauna Lani and offers a quiet and secluded alternative to these more bustling areas.
The town is known for its beautiful beaches and pristine coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters off the coast of Puako are home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and even dolphins and whales during certain times of the year.
In addition to its natural beauty, Puako has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its architecture and landmarks. The town features several historic homes and buildings, including the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve, which is a park that contains more than 3,000 ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) that date back to the early Hawaiian civilization.
Puako is a small community with a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. There are no large resorts or hotels in the area, and most of the accommodation options are vacation rentals and small bed and breakfasts. The town also features several small restaurants and shops that offer a taste of local Hawaiian cuisine and crafts.
Overall, Puako is a hidden gem on the Big Island of Hawaii that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and tranquility. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded retreat away from the crowds of the larger resort areas.
Waikoloa Village is a residential community located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the district of South Kohala. It is situated on the slopes of Mauna Kea, approximately six miles inland from the coast.
The village features a range of amenities and services, including a shopping center, golf course, community center, and park. It also has a small commercial center with several restaurants, shops, and a grocery store.
One of the main attractions in Waikoloa Village is the Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed golf course, which features 18 holes of championship golf set against the backdrop of Mauna Kea. The village also has a community center with a pool, tennis courts, and other recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The village is home to a mix of year-round residents and vacation homeowners, and the community is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. There are several parks and walking trails in the area, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Overall, Waikoloa Village offers a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle in a scenic and natural setting. It is a great option for those seeking a more residential and low-key experience on the Big Island of Hawaii, while still having access to a range of amenities and services.
Kawaihae is a small harbor town located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the district of South Kohala. It is situated between the larger resort areas of Waikoloa and Mauna Lani, and is known for its picturesque harbor and scenic ocean views.
The town is primarily a fishing and shipping community, and the harbor is home to a number of fishing boats and cargo ships. There are also several small businesses and restaurants in the area, offering a taste of local Hawaiian cuisine and crafts.
Kawaihae has a rich cultural history, which is reflected in its architecture and landmarks. One of the main attractions in the area is the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, which is a significant cultural site and one of the largest restored heiaus (Hawaiian temple) in Hawaii. Other notable landmarks include the Kawaihae Canoe Club, which celebrates the ancient Hawaiian tradition of outrigger canoe paddling, and the Kawaihae Petroglyphs, which are ancient rock carvings that offer a glimpse into the lives of early Hawaiian settlers.
Kawaihae is a small community with a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. There are no large resorts or hotels in the area, and most of the accommodation options are vacation rentals and small bed and breakfasts. The town also features a small park and beach, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Overall, Kawaihae offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and maritime tradition, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Waimea, also known as Kamuela, is a town located in the interior uplands of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the district of South Kohala. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,670 feet (814 meters) above sea level, and is known for its cool and temperate climate, rolling hills, and pastoral landscapes.
The town is home to a mix of residents, including ranchers, farmers, and artists, and is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. There are several art galleries, museums, and performance spaces in the area, as well as several annual cultural festivals and events.
Waimea is also home to several educational institutions, including Hawaii Preparatory Academy, which is a private school that offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, and the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s North Hawaii Education and Research Center, which offers undergraduate and graduate courses in a range of fields.
One of the main attractions in Waimea is the Parker Ranch, which is one of the largest and oldest ranches in the United States. Visitors can take guided tours of the ranch, which includes a historic home, museum, and gift shop, as well as opportunities for horseback riding and other outdoor activities.
Overall, Waimea offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and educational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more inland and rural experience on the Big Island of Hawaii.
papakeacollection
February 25, 2023School systems in South Kohala
Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School: This school serves students from kindergarten through 8th grade and is located in the community of Waikoloa Village.
Kohala Elementary, Intermediate, and High School: This school serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is located in the community of Kapaau in North Kohala, which is adjacent to South Kohala.
Private schools in South Kohala include:
Parker School: This is a co-educational, college preparatory school that serves students from preschool through 12th grade. It is located in the town of Waimea.
Hawaii Preparatory Academy: This is a co-educational, independent school that serves students from preschool through 12th grade. It is also located in the town of Waimea.
Daycare and Preschools
Bright Beginnings Learning Center: This is a preschool and childcare center located in Waikoloa Village. It offers a play-based curriculum and provides care for children from six weeks to six years of age.
Mauna Kea Child Care Center: This is a preschool and childcare center located in Waimea. It offers a Montessori-based curriculum and provides care for children from two-and-a-half to six years of age.
Waikoloa Community Preschool: This is a preschool located in Waikoloa Village. It offers a play-based curriculum and provides care for children from two-and-a-half to five years of age.
Tutu’s House: This is a nonprofit organization that offers early childhood education programs and resources for families with young children. It has locations in Waimea and Kona and offers a variety of services, including preschool programs, parenting classes, and developmental screenings.
Loli
ana Keiki O KaAina Family Learning Centers: This is a network of nonprofit childcare and preschool centers that serve low-income families and Native Hawaiian communities. It has locations in Waimea and Kona and offers a range of programs and services, including preschool programs, family support services, and cultural enrichment activities.
Overall, the district of South Kohala offers a variety of daycare and preschool options for families with young children, including both private and nonprofit organizations that offer a range of curriculums and services.
