While life is certainly a little slower across the Hawaiian Islands, there are undoubtedly some places more peaceful than others, more removed from the hustle and bustle of Hawaii’s capital, and our popular resort destinations. These 13 small towns in Hawaii offer serenity, seclusion, and little more than the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, or a gentle breeze swaying through the palm trees.

1. Hanapepe
Hanapepe, HI, USA
Alexander Rabb/Flickr
With the greatest concentration of artists on the island, Hanapepe is known as "Kauai’s Biggest Little Town." Its historic, plantation-style buildings are now home to charming shops, eateries and a surprising amount of art galleries - and it’s a beautiful place for a weekend retreat.
2. Kaunakakai
Kaunakakai, HI, USA
Jshyun/Flickr
The largest Hawaiian town on the island of Molokai, Kaunakakai has a population of approximately 3,400 residents, and was once the location for King Kamehameha V's royal summer residence. The port town was bustling back in the days of pineapple and sugar exports, but has since calmed down tremendously.
3. Haaula
Hauula, HI, USA
Chris Hoare/Flickr
This small town on Oahu’s northeastern shores might be far away from the big city, but that is what makes it so serene and stunning. Better yet, you aren’t likely to find any tourists at Hauula Beach Park, or on the Hauula Loop Trail.
4. Hawi
Hawi, HI 96719, USA
Ewen Roberts/Flickr
Often described as one of Hawaii Island’s best-kept secrets, Hawi is perched along the northern coastline of the Kohala coast, and is home to some incredible skydiving, ziplining, farm tours, and a pretty charming vibe. Two decades ago, a new generation of entrepreneurs and artists flocked to the former plantation village and, with the help of longtime residents, moved bookstores, galleries, boutiques and restaurants into the town’s decaying storefronts.
5. Hana
Hana, HI 96713, USA
Clark Weber/Flickr
They say that it’s not the destination, but the journey that it takes to get there, and nowhere is this more true than Hana. The infamous Road to Hana is full of twists, turns, several one-lane bridges, waterfalls, and incredible vistas - and as one of the most isolated communities in the state, Hana will certainly appeal to anyone who truly wants to get away from it all.
6. Waimea
Waimea, HI 96743, USA
Dru Kelly/Flickr
The first European settlers to reach Hawaii landed in Waimea in 1778, and I’m sure they were absolutely blown away by the stunning coastline. The historic town is home to approximately 1,700 residents, and is full of charm. Check out Waimea Canyon State Park for a gorgeous getaway.

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7. Hanalei
Hanalei, HI, USA
Brodie Guy/Flickr
With a small one-lane bridge leading into town and an unusual mix of shopping and dining options, the very small town of Hanalei– approximately 0.8 square miles – is full of old world charm. Fun fact: If you’re a musical junkie like me, you’ll love to know that scenes from the 1958 musical South Pacific were filmed in this town, and at a neighboring beach.
8. Waiohinu
Waiohinu, HI 96772, USA
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
With a population of 213, Waiohinu is located near the southern tip of the Big Island. Mark Twain supposedly visited Waiohinu in 1866, and allegedly planted a monkey pod tree here.
9. Kapa'a
Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
John Verive/Flickr
A small Polynesian paradise, Kapa’a was recognized as one of America’s prettiest towns by Forbes. The small-town Hawaiian vibe with a ton of hotels and vacation rentals pairs perfectly with lovely little shops, and some ono grinds from one of the town’s amazing fish taco trucks.
10. Honumu
Honomu, HI 96728, USA
Ruthdaniel3444/Flickr
With a population of little more than 500 people, Honomu is one of the best small towns in Hawaii, and it sure is small. We’re talking approximately 0.5 square miles, and offers little more than stunning views, and pastel-colored houses.
11. Volcano
Volcano, HI, USA
Rosa Say/Flickr
Tucked into Hawaii Island's Puna district near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Volcano Village is home to 2,500 residents, and little else.
12. Makena
Makena, Wailea-Makena, HI 96753, USA
David Winnie/Flickr
Prior to 2010, the Hawaiian town of Makena was grouped into Wailea-Makena, but now is considered its own census-designated place with a population of fewer than 100 individuals – 99 residents, to be precise. One major highlight is the beautiful Makena State Park.
13. Lanai City
Lanai City, HI 96763, USA
Chris Christensen/Flickr
The only town on the Island of Lanai sits at 1,645 feet above sea level, boasting a population of just 3,200. The historic plantation village was built in 1924, and not much has changed since then, preserving the town’s original charm – but increasing the home prices, of course.

While these 13 small towns in Hawaii offer peace, these 12 cities are perfect for a weekend getaway, these 12 historic towns will transport you to the past, and these 18 towns have the prettiest scenery in all of Hawaii.

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More to Explore

Towns in Hawaii

Danielle Schwartz | September 18, 2022

Are there any hidden gems in Hawaii?

Yes, there are plenty of great hidden gems in Hawaii for you to explore, whether you're a local looking to spice up your typical routine or a visitor looking for a unique experience outside of the major resorts. Check out the amazing Redwood Trail in Maui's stunning Polipoli State Park to see the rare redwood trees that have lived on the island since the 1920s. If you really want to get away from it all, scuba dive 100 feet below the surface to see the Corsair Plane Wreck, which has been underwater here since 1946 and is surrounded by marine life that you'll get to observe. Another majestic nature walk you can take is in the Bamboo Forest in Maui. You'll see tall bamboo all around you in addition to incredible waterfalls and other natural phenomena that will make you stop and stare.

What is the most unique town in Hawaii?

When you've seen all the major cities and even a good number of the small towns in The Aloha State, you might find yourself wondering about unique towns in Hawaii, and we've found one that you absolutely need to visit as soon as you can. Pa'ia is located on the island of Maui and its colorful and cheery atmosphere will capture your heart and make you want to stay long enough to fully experience everything it has to offer. There's a vibrant and exciting art scene here, and you'll see evidence of it all around you while you're here. There's also lots of adventure here, so if you want to surf, stand-up paddle, or even take a helicopter ride to see the view from above, this is the spot for you.

What is the oldest town in Hawaii?

The oldest town in Hawaii is Hilo, where missionaries settled it in the early to mid-1800s. It's a busy town today, with a population of about 45,000 residents and a charming and fun feel. If you're a fan of artistic pursuits, you'll have a great time here browsing the galleries and enjoying theatrical productions. You'll also have a chance to learn about the town's long history, including its time as a center for sugar plantations, European missionaries, and how the art scene evolved.

 

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