7 Overlooked Towns In Hawaii Worth Visiting

Most excursions to Hawaii center on popular tourist destinations such as Waikiki Beach and Volcanoes National Park. While these sites attract a large number of delighted visitors due to their stunning natural environment, they can get too crowded for comfort, preventing you from having a fulfilling experience. Fortunately, the Aloha State has no shortage of wonderful destinations, including hidden gems that promise a similarly satisfying getaway without the added rivalry.

Charming communities scattered around the islands, steeped in culture, history, and natural beauty, offer a true Hawaiian experience away from the tourists. From the coastline landscape and gorgeous sunsets in Hanalei to the quiet surroundings and lush woods of Hawi, these underappreciated Hawaiian villages are worth visiting and should be included on your next trip to the United States.

Kaunakakai

Molokai is one of Hawaii’s least visited islands, and it’s a shame that even its most popular settlements don’t attract the number of tourists they deserve. This is the situation in Kaunakakai, a charming rural village with breathtaking natural beauty. Its mountainous coastline has calm and secluded beaches, including Murphy’s Beach, which is ideal for swimmers, beachcombers, and sunbathers who value privacy. Kaunakakai is a vibrant habitat for various island animals, and animal lovers are encouraged to seek for colorful species at Kakahaia National animals Refuge.

Beyond the outdoors, visitors can enjoy local cuisines at the different diners and joints in downtown. Those with a sweet craving can visit Kamoi Snack-n-Go for a tasty ice cream treat. Meanwhile, Paddlers Restaurant and Bar offers delicious burgers and artisanal cocktails.

Hanalei

Despite being quieter than resort destinations, Hanalei delights visitors with its peaceful rural environment, lush forest settings, and historical sites. Every tourist’s itinerary in Hanalei includes a visit to Hanalei Beach, which offers a sandy stretch, mild waves, and stunning views of Hanalei Bay, framed by high mountains. The historic Hanalei Pier, built in the 1890s, provides an ideal platform for a leisurely promenade while taking in the surrounding landscape, including the Hanalei River.

Hanalei is also recognized as a hospitable community. When you shop at the Hanalei Farmers Market, you will be treated with genuine Hawaiian warmth. This neighborhood meeting place brings together dozens of local vendors to create enjoyable mingling possibilities.

Kapa’a

Kapa’a is an unpretentious hamlet on Kauai’s eastern tip, recognized for its stunning coastal landscape and genuine warmth. Beaches are a major draw for the few tourists who visit the area, with many opting to relax and unwind on the pristine sands of Kealia Beach. This half-mile beach has mild waves that are perfect for beginner surfers. Away from the coastlines, visitors can find an unspoiled beauty at Wailua River State Park. This breathtaking paradise sits between the Wailua River Valley and a picture-perfect waterfall in the midst of lush tropical surroundings.

But Kapa’a is more than just its spectacular scenery; it also has nice natives with whom you may interact in the Coconut Marketplace. This open-air retail center features a great mix of boutiques, kiosks, and casual diners, making it a popular gathering place with the ideal ambiance for robust chats.

Naalehu

Naalehu, located 65 miles from Hilo, is a hidden treasure on the southwestern corner of the Big Island that is sometimes neglected in favor of the adjacent Volcanoes National Park. Despite this, Papakolea Green Sand Beach stands out as a natural beauty. This breathtaking area is known for its green sand granules, which are a rare occurrence caused by silica in the lava from a previous eruption.

Haleokane Lookout is one of the town’s most popular outdoor places, offering a combination of quiet serenity and breathtaking ocean views. Perched on a stunning cliffside, the site overlooks a rough coastline against a backdrop of beautiful Pacific waves. Naalehu also has the Mark Twain Monkey Pod Tree, a historical marker that the famed author is said to have planted during his visit to the region in 1866.

Hawi

Hawi is one of Hawaii’s most undervalued towns since it is far away from other towns on the northern border of the Big Island and has a small population. Nonetheless, it has a great assortment of attractions that will entice even the most hesitant visitors. The Hawi Farmers Market offers a flavor of island friendliness, with friendly merchants welcoming visitors to enjoy locally produced fruits, baked foods, souvenirs, crafts, and other things. Art enthusiasts will also consider visiting Olena Gallery to view handmade jewelry and other forms of art.

Kohala Zipline offers zipline tours that allow thrill seekers to enjoy the rich natural scenery. This adrenaline-pumping activity lets guests to swing from one tree to another over the deep canopy of Hawi’s jungle at breakneck speeds.

Lanai City

Lanai City is a remote hamlet in the interior of pristine Lanai Island, notable for its lack of paved roads and low population density. However, this wonderful place draws some attention due to its cultural and historical treasures. The Lanai Culture and Heritage Center allows visitors to learn about the region’s history by showcasing artifacts and hosting programs focusing on local traditions. Meanwhile, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a must-see for visitors. This unique cat shelter houses over 600 felines and provides them with medical treatment, food, and warmth.

The “Garden of the Gods” is another must-see for first-timers in Lanai City. This windswept rock garden has a strange configuration of rocks and boulders, as well as fascinating legend that attempts to explain its origins. It is ideal for hikers and tourists seeking outdoor activities.

Koloa

This peaceful town in southern Kauai has a long history associated with sugarcane growing. It contains a well-preserved Old Koloa Town, which replicates plantation life with Victorian businesses, restaurants, and homes. The easily walkable region allows visitors to discover important sights and treasures. Koloa celebrates its rich culture with a series of annual events, the most popular of which is the Kauai Poke Fest at Koloa Landing Resort. Those who enjoy the outdoors can join a guided tour of Allerton Garden to appreciate the town’s picturesque setting. This 80-acre paradise features a vibrant display of Hawaiian flowers and native shrubs, as well as meandering walkways.

In Summary

Hawaii is so much more than its postcard-famous beaches and bustling tourist hubs such as Pearl City. By venturing beyond the usual stops to secluded countryside in Hana and Kaunakakai, you open yourself up to the heart of the islands. Here, local traditions thrive, natural wonders remain unspoiled, and the pace invites you to slow down and truly soak it all in. These overlooked towns in Hawaii are worth visiting, offering a more peaceful and personal experience and giving you a chance to connect with the authentic spirit of aloha.