Flaunting countless alluring beaches, Hawaii is one of the most popular travel destinations that offers a delightful escape. From dramatic cliffs to active volcanoes, the state is fortified with a myriad of marks left by Koreans, Japanese, and Chinese groups. To delve into the essence of Hawaiian culture, a mesmerising visit to majestic small towns in Hawaii is a must to include in your itinerary and enjoy this popular destination to its best. Whether you are seeking a breezy beach vacation or a romantic destination for your honeymoon, Hawaii is an ideal escape for every traveller.
9 Picturesque Small Towns In Hawaii
From Haleiwa, a famous surf destination, to Paia, the Wind Surf Capital of the World, Hawaii is packed with countless towns, each with its own unique charm. Set off on a visual venture where we explore some of the picturesque small towns in Hawaii:
1. Haleiwa
Flourishing the beachy vibe and known as a famous surf destination, Haleiwa is one of the wonderful small towns in Hawaii drawing thrill seekers from all over the world. Nestled on the North Shore of Oahu Island and in proximity to Honolulu, this majestic town is dotted with countless souvenir shops and art galleries. For those seeking a lavishing island lifestyle and want to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture, Haleiwa is the perfect place to rely on for your vacations. The town also boasts numerous food spots and restaurants where you can treat your taste buds with delicious Hawaiian delicacies.
Places To Visit: Clark Little Gallery, Puaʻena Point Beach Park, Shave Ice, and Anahulu River
Places To Stay: Shark’s Cove, Waimea Point Oceanfront House, Waimea Bay Cottage
Must Read: Hang Gliding In Hawaii
2. Makawao
Witness the Hawaiian cowboy culture and explore the natural wonders at Makawao Forest Reserve at the Makawao which is counted among the best small towns in Hawaii. Capturing the attention of people with sweet teeth, the town is famous for serving delectable varieties of desserts including fresh pastries, cream puffs, doughnuts, and guava malasadas. Flaunting the echoes of paniolo heritage, and hosting a crowd-puller annual Makawao Rodeo event, Makawao town is packed with rustic buildings, wooden storefronts, local art galleries and handicraft stores. The town is a perfect place for adventurous souls and offers them numerous recreational activities such as barrel racing, bull riding and roping.
Places To Visit: Maui Gold Pineapple Farm, Makawao Forest Reserve, Marowak History Museum
Places To Stay: Lumeria Maui, Bamboo Valley Inn, Robbins Estate Haiku
3. Lanai City
Perched at the shore of Lanai Island, Lanai City is one of the small beach towns in Hawaii that invite locals and tourists from far and wide to spend a mesmerising vacation with peaceful serenity. Embracing the rich culture and heritage of Hawaii, the town is known for its bustling pineapple industry. The major attraction of the town is the Lanai Culture and Heritage Center where you can explore a great variety of masterpieces crafted by local artists and flaunts the unique essence of Hawaiian culture.
Places To Visit: Lanai Cat Sanctuary, Mike Carroll Gallery, Manele Golf Course
Places To Stay: Papakea F-310, Four Seasons Resort Lana’i, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Suggested Read: Beach Hopping In Hawaii
4. Hana
Embracing the unspoiled natural beauty, Hana is one of the must-visit small towns in Hawaii situated at Maui’s eastern coastline. A perfect place for history buffs and curious minds where they can learn interesting facts about Hawai’s culture and heritage. There are countless attractions in Hana including white-sand beaches, evergreen forests and peaceful surroundings capturing the attention of tourists from far and wide. Packed with historic sites, astonishing museums, lava tubes and sea caves, Hana is home to Hawaii’s major tourist attractions worth exploring on your next visit here. For adventure-seekers, this amazing town boasts various thrilling and recreational activities such as beachcombing, snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Places To Visit: National Tropical Botanical Garden, Pi’ilanihale Heiau, Hana Cultural Center and Museum
Places To Stay: Hana-Maui Resort, Kailani Suite at Hana Kai Resort, Pau Hana Paradise
5. Naalehu
Hold the dignity of being the southernmost town in the US, Naalehu is one of the spectacular small towns in Hawaii that welcomes vacationers to spend an unforgettable time at volcanic black sand beaches. Nature admirers are welcome to witness the most glorious sunset from South Point Park which is one of the major attractions of Naalehu. Loaded with a myriad of beach parks and flaunting the most breathtaking vistas of nature, this amazing town is worth a visit and included in your itinerary.
Places To Visit: Whittington Beach Park, Mark Twain Monkey Pod Tree, Haleokane Lookout
Places To Stay: Quiet Duplex Near Black Sands, The Aloha Green House, Sea Mountain
Suggested Read: 15 Hawaiian Festivals
6. Hanalei
Perched at the North Shore of Kauai, Hanalei is one of the gorgeous small towns in Hawaii known for flaunting timeless beauty. For nature lovers, this small town is no less than a paradise. Embracing the unspoiled natural beauty and Kauai’s history, Hanalei boasts classic estate properties, historical sites and religious places. Take a mesmerising stroll on the local street and explore numerous art galleries, restaurants and boutiques offering warm hospitality to all the visitors. For those seeking a mesmerising holiday experience and want to lay back at sandy beaches, Hanalei is truly a paradise.
Places To Visit: Hanalei Beach, Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church, Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art
Places To Stay: Camp Magic 1 home, Makana Nui home, Hanalei Dream home
7. Lahaina
Nestled in the heart of Maui, Lahaina is one of the historic small towns in Hawaii that is also hailed as the “Jewel in the crown of Maui”. Packed with a myriad of historical buildings, a bustling waterfront and a harbour, the town attracts adventurous souls by offering amazing recreational activities such as sailing, diving, and snorkelling. Apart from flaunting its cultural charm, Lahaina also boasts countless galleries and art studios that draw the attention of art lovers from all walks of life. Don’t miss to delight your taste buds with delectable Hawaiian cuisine at one of the handful of restaurants here.
Places To Visit: Whalers Village Museum, Front Street Beach, Lahaina Historic Trail
Places To Stay: The Kulani Maui, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Suggested Read: 16 Picture-Perfect Places To Visit In Hawaii
8. Kaunakakai
Located on the south shore of Molokai, Kaunakakai is one of the peaceful small towns in Hawaii that take you back to the 1900s lifestyle of Hawaiian culture. Dotted with shopping stores and restaurants, this traffic-free town is home to the largest port and the longest pier in the region. Capturing the attention of history buffs and curious minds, Kaunakakai town is packed with numerous eateries which are famous for serving the most delicious food on the plates of locals and visitors alike. Furthermore, delve into a delightful shopping experience at countless boutiques and shops available at every corner of the town.
Places To Visit: Molokai Day Tours, St Joseph’s Mission Church, Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge
Places To Stay: Castle Molokai Shores, Ka Hale Kealoha, Wavecrest
9. Paia
Known as one of the small coastal towns in Hawaii, Paia is a wonderful town situated on the northern coast of Maui Island. Hailed as the “Wind Surf Capital of the World”, this town boasts picturesque landscapes, lush rainforests and stunning coastal views that leave visitors awestruck. The main attraction of the town is Paia’s town centre which is packed with numerous boutique shops, art galleries, handicraft shops and bustling storefronts and offers a mesmerising experience.
Places To Visit: Ho’okipa Beach Park, Baldwin Beach Park, Lower Paʻia Park
Places To Stay: Paia Inn, Mangolani Inn, The Inn At Mama’s Fish House
Further Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Hawaii
Hawaii is a picturesque destination which can be found on the list of every vacationer. There are countless majestic small towns in Hawaii that you can explore and make the most out of your trip. On your next trip to the USA, don’t let the above-mentioned destinations slide away from your itinerary to immerse yourself in an incredible experience and indulge in Hawaiian culture.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Towns In Hawaii
What are the best small towns in Hawaii?
Hawaii is one of the favourite places of vacationers which is also packed with countless picturesque towns:
- Hawi
- Lanai City
- Koloa
- Kailua
- Makawao
- Honolulu
- Naalehu
Why is Hawaii famous?
Embracing the breezy sand beach vibes and flaunting its unspoiled beauty, Hawaii is one of the best holiday destinations that attracts people from all over the world. From adventurous souls to thrill seekers, Hawaii is that destination worth including on your bucket list and witness the most breathtaking scenery.
What is the best time to visit Hawaii?
The ideal time to plan your Hawaii vacation is during the month of March to September. It's the best time to explore beaches and indulge in various activities as the weather remains pleasant with less rain.
What is the must-try food of Hawaii?
Some of the best foods that you must try during your Hawaiian vacation are as follows:
- Shave Ice
- Poke
- Manapua
- Spam Musubi
- Fish Tacos
- Huli Huli chicken
- Garlic Shrimp
What is Hawaii’s currency?
The official currency of Hawaii is the US dollar.
Which is the smallest town in Hawaii?
Manele on the island of Lanai is the smallest town in Hawaii which is also the least populated city in Hawaii with just 29 people.
People Also Read:
Small Towns In Ohio Small Towns In New Jersey Small Town In Texas
Get ready to wander the world through amazing visual tours that we provide via our blogs and stories. As a content writer, I love sharing incredible travel experiences that inspire readers to plan their own adventures and create unforgettable memories. From planning to execution, everything has already been served in these amusing tales. Let’s explore the world together, one destination at a time!
