Once home to kings and taro terraces, the valley today marks the end of the roadliterally and figuratively.
That last stretch of Highway 240 doesnt just bend toward the ocean; it drops into another tempo altogether.
Down here, the Wi-Fi fades, and the wild takes over.
By W Nowicki – Own work, CC BY 3.0
The region surrounding Waipio Valley isnt crowded with resorts or gift shops.
The pace is slower here, but it isnt sleepy.
Its alert, attentive.
You notice the sound of the waves and the way clouds sit heavy on the ridgelines.
These ten secluded towns arent just remotetheyre intentional, holding onto a kind of quiet that feels increasingly rare.
Here are 10 places where the island breathes differently:
10.
Where is Paauhau?
Its remote setting far from major urban centers enhances its peaceful atmosphere.
The towns distance from the islands main highways and limited development contribute to its sense of isolation.
The towns main street features historic buildings housing boutique shops, cafes, and the celebrated Honokaa Peoples Theatre.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby hikes or visit the Waipio Valley lookout for breathtaking views.
Its seclusion is due to its location away from Hawaiis main tourist hubs, offering visitors a peaceful retreat.
Where is Honokaa?
The towns setting amidst rolling hills and panoramic ocean views adds to its tranquil appeal.
The surrounding landscapes and its distance from larger cities contribute to its quiet, laid-back vibe.
Reaching Honokaa involves a scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast, making the journey part of the serene experience.
The Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park offers a quiet place for picnics and contemplation by the sea.
The towns historical connection to the railroad and sugar industry is commemorated at the Laupahoehoe Train Museum.
Its seclusion arises from its remote coastal location and minimal commercial development.
Where is Laupahoehoe?
Located halfway between Hilo and Honokaa along the Hamakua Coast, Laupahoehoe is accessible via Highway 19.
The villages setting on a remote shoreline away from major towns enhances its tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors can reach Laupahoehoe by car, enjoying panoramic coastal views along the way.
The town itself offers a handful of quaint shops and cafes, reflecting its laid-back atmosphere.
The limited development and focus on local businesses contribute to its secluded feel.
Agriculture remains a key industry, with nearby farms producing tropical fruits and flowers.
Where is Honomu?
Despite its proximity to Hilo, the towns small size and surrounding rainforest landscapes give it a secluded ambiance.
The dense foliage and lack of urban sprawl enhance its sense of isolation.
Pepeekeo: Rural Retreat Amidst Tropical Beauty
Pepeekeo is a quiet community with an approximate population of 1,700 residents.
The town offers scenic views of the ocean and access to the lush Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden nearby.
Outdoor activities include exploring the Onomea Bay Trail and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Historically rooted in sugar cultivation, Pepeekeo now thrives on agriculture and small-scale farming.
Its secluded atmosphere comes from its rural location and the dense vegetation that characterizes the area.
Where is Pepeekeo?
Located just 8 miles north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast, Pepeekeo is accessible via Old Mamalahoa Highway.
The towns position away from major tourist areas and its enveloping tropical landscapes contribute to its peaceful environment.
The winding roads and overhanging foliage create a sense of retreat from the outside world.
Visitors can reach Pepeekeo by car, immersing themselves in the scenic beauty of the journey.
Activities in the area include coastal walks and exploring hidden waterfalls.
Agriculture is a mainstay, with local farms producing coffee, cacao, and tropical fruits.
Ninoles sparse population and minimal development enhance its secluded charm.
Where is Ninole?
Ninole is situated between Honomu and Hakalau along the Hamakua Coast, accessible via Highway 19.
Its remote location along a lesser-traveled stretch of road contributes to its sense of isolation.
The surrounding cliffs and valleys add to the towns seclusion, creating a peaceful haven away from busier locales.
Visitors can reach Ninole by car, enjoying the tranquil drive through one of the islands most picturesque regions.
The towns history as a sugar plantation community is still evident in its rustic charm.
Hakalaus seclusion is accentuated by its surrounding natural beauty and lack of commercial development.
Where is Hakalau?
Its remote setting amidst dense vegetation and rolling hills enhances its secluded feel.
The limited number of roads and the areas focus on conservation contribute to its isolation.
Visitors can reach Hakalau by car, often encountering little traffic, which adds to the peaceful journey.
The town offers picturesque landscapes with panoramic ocean views and lush green surroundings.
Outdoor activities include exploring nearby trails and enjoying the serene environment.
Historically a plantation town, Ookala maintains a quiet, rural lifestyle with agriculture remaining a key industry.
Its minimal development and remote location make it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility.
Where is Ookala?
Ookala is situated along the Hamakua Coast, north of Laupahoehoe, and is accessible via Highway 19.
The towns location away from major tourist routes contributes to its sense of seclusion.
Surrounded by lush forests and agricultural lands, it provides a glimpse into traditional rural Hawaiian life.
Activities in Paauilo include visiting local farms, hiking, and enjoying the peaceful countryside.
The main industries are agriculture and ranching, reflecting the towns plantation heritage.
Where is Paauilo?
Located along the Hamakua Coast between Honokaa and Laupahoehoe, Paauilo is accessible via Hawaii Belt Road.
The towns remote setting amidst rolling hills and farmland enhances its tranquil ambiance.
Limited traffic and the surrounding open spaces contribute to its sense of isolation.
Visitors can reach Paauilo by car, experiencing the unspoiled beauty of the region along the way.
The town offers stunning vistas and an authentic, secluded Hawaiian experience.
Visitors can embark on hikes into the valley, explore black sand beaches, and witness towering waterfalls.
Agriculture, particularly taro farming, is a significant part of the local economy.
Kukuihaeles limited development and proximity to the majestic Waipio Valley make it a tranquil retreat.
Where is Kukuihaele?
The winding roads and dramatic cliffs enhance the sense of isolation.
Visitors can reach Kukuihaele by car, culminating in an unforgettable journey to one of Hawaiis most serene locations.
