The Quiet Fishing Town In Hawaii That Seems Frozen In Time
Located in the Ka’u region of Hawaii Island, just 33 miles south of Kailua-Kona, is a little-known town known as the “last Hawaiian fishing village,” according to a small wooden sign that sits near their community center. This is Miloli’i, and it is a stunning piece of Old Hawaii tucked away off the main road, away from luxury resorts, and tourism of any kind.
Reached only by a steep road off Mamalahoa Highway, Miloli’i is full of beautiful views, breathtaking beaches, and some pretty stellar snorkeling opportunities - and not much else.
The beautiful Miloli’i Beach Park is home to a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles, as well as a very small campground. While you will need a permit to camp here, there are no amenities, and guests are required to provide their own fresh water.
The residents who call this unincorporated community home do not have access to power lines or city water; each household is responsible for using solar panels and rainwater collection tanks to gain access to electricity and clean water.
The residents who call this unincorporated community home do not have access to power lines or city water; each household is responsible for using solar panels and rainwater collection tanks to gain access to electricity and clean water.
That church is one of the only public buildings in the village - there are no restaurants, bars, or hotels, just a quaint little fishing village that will immediately transport you to a bygone era of Hawaiian history. (There is a public restroom near the church, if you need it.)
Miloli’i is the most traditional Hawaiian village found throughout the islands, and has been sustainable over the centuries due to an innovative fishing method, which combines modern science, including the understanding of ocean currents and fish life cycle patterns, with traditional Hawaiian fishing techniques.
Have you ever visited this tiny Hawaiian fishing village? Don’t forget to visit Kailua-Kona while you’re in the area, and be sure to add these 7 charming towns to your Hawaiian bucket list!
