These 11 Cities In Hawaii Aren't Big And Aren't Too Small - They're Just Right
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Megan Shute
Author
The Hawaiian Islands are home to several incredible towns – from the bustling capital city of Honolulu to tiny towns with fewer than 1,000 residents. Most people aren’t interested in extremes and tend to prefer mid-sized cities with a perfect blend of big city amenities and small town charm. With populations between 10,000 and 30,000 and listed from the larger cities to the smaller ones, you’ll love calling any of these 11 Hawaiian cities home.
The first homes in Mililani went on sale in 1968, and the city is now home to approximately 27,000 residents - not including Mililani Mauka. In 1986, Mililani was named an All-American city, the first in the state to receive such a distinction. This family-centric community, where approximately 75 percent of residents own their homes and 58 percent are married, is a wonderful place to settle down and raise a family.
While Kahului serves as Maui’s retail and business center, it is not devoid of all fun – the city is, in fact, home to countless beautiful beaches, museums, art galleries and eateries. Kahului is located nearby the lush and serene Iao Valley, and is home to Maui’s main airport.
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On Maui’s sunny southwest shore is Kihei, a beautiful little town home to six miles of magnificent beaches. Once a popular destination for vacationing Hawaiian royalty, Kihei is ideal for both lazy days on the beach and bustling nightlife – from karaoke bars and dance clubs to sports bars and restaurants.
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This census-designated place located on the slopes of the Waianae Mountains above Kapolei, Makakilo translates to "observing eyes" in Hawaiian, an apt description for a town that’s home to incredible views of the entire island. This residential area is home to 18,000 residents, and experiences blowing trade winds.
Home to more than 17,000 residents, Wahiawa is located between the island’s two volcanic mountain ranges on Route 99, the road most commonly taken by those traveling to the North Shore from Honolulu. But if you were to stop in town and take a look around, you would see that there is more than meets the eye in this small inland city.
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Maui was named the best island to raise a family by Islands Magazine for its outdoor activities, cultural significance and history, as well as natural beauty. And nowhere on the island is better than Wailuku. Because Wailuku – along with its neighbor, Kahului – comprises the major business, commercial and industrial center of the island, commutes are short.
Hawaii officials have dubbed Kapolei the "second urban center" of Oahu, and much of the growth planned for Oahu’s future population is projected for the Kapolei area. The current population of the city is approximately 15,000. Easy access to beaches, excellent schools, shopping centers, restaurants, and city and state government offices makes this the perfect place for young families.
There are three communities that make up the Ewa District on Oahu – Ewa Villages, Ewa Beach, and Ewa by Gentry, and all have shown remarkable dedication to education and young families. Ewa Beach, closest to the ocean, is home to nearly 15,000 residents and is the perfect retreat from Honolulu, if you don’t mind a commute, that is.
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This beachside town is a golf lover’s dream, with low annual rainfall, stellar views, and towering palm trees. The city also boasts a lower cost-of-living than nearby resort destinations, and a small town feel, despite the hospital, airport, and tourists.
Once a crazy whaling town and the original seat of Hawaiian royalty, Lahaina has since been tamed and is now full of restaurants, surf shops, boutiques, and galleries lining the city’s Front Street. Perfect for those who want to be on the water as much as possible, Lahaina Harbor is home to a variety of fishing charters, whale watch tour boats, snorkel tours, and sunset cruise options.
With a population of just more than 10,000, Kapaa is a charming small town located on Kauai’s eastern shore. 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.
Not looking for a new place to call home? Check out these 12 cities throughout Hawaii perfect for a weekend getaway.
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