Most People Don’t Know These 16 Super Tiny Towns In Hawaii Even Exist

Highlighting 16 of the smallest and most charming towns in Hawaii, each with unique features and populations under 800.

The charm and unique way of life found in a small town is undeniable, and even the smallest of towns deserve recognition. These 16 Hawaiian towns are some of the tiniest– less than 800 residents in each, some even have a population of less than one hundred. We think these are the best small towns in Hawaii!

1) Kapalua, Maui

With a population of 353, Kapalua is located along Maui’s northwest coast, and is home to Kapalua Resort. This small town in Hawaii is home to tons of great outdoor fun!

2) Kalihiwai, Kauai

At the 2000 census Kalihiwai was home to 717 residents, but the town has since decreased in population to 428, as of the 2010 census. It’s a wonderful place to find a little peace and quiet.

3) Honomu, Big Island

With a population of little more than 500 people, Honomu is small – we’re talking approximately 0.5 square miles.

This is one of the best small towns in Hawaii, and offers plenty of things to do.

4) Manele Bay, Lanai

One of only two census-designated places on the island of Lanai is Manele, which is the least populated city in Hawaii with 29 residents. It is home to the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.

It’s gorgeous though, calming and serene at the smallest town in Hawaii.

5) Makena, Maui

Prior to 2010, 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.

With volcanoes and beaches, this is one of the best small towns in Hawaii.

6) Haena, Kauai

Often referred to as the "end of the road," this location marks the end of the Kuhio Highway. It is also home to several ancient Hawaiian sites, and sea caves estimated to be more than 4,000 years old.

Talk about one of the best Hawaiian towns to visit!

7) Kawela Bay, Oahu

Located adjacent to Oahu’s popular Turtle Bay Resort is Kawela Bay, with a population of 330, which is a 19 percent decrease from the 2000 census. It’s a wonderful place to escape to!

8) Paauilo, Big Island

Home to the Hawaiian Vanilla Company, Paauilo is 1.2 square miles, and has a population of 595.

This Hawaiian small town has plenty to see, including a vanilla farm!

9) Maalaea, Maui

Despite its small population – just 352 people live here – Maalaea is home to a small boat harbor, as well as the popular Maui Ocean Center.

This Hawaiian town is one of the smallest and most beautiful.

10) Pakala Village, Kauai

Once home to the temporary living quarters for employees of the Gay & Robinson sugar plantation, the village now has a population of 294. While mostly empty, there’s plenty of big sky to view.

11) Olowalu, Maui

Located a mere four miles south of Lahaina, this tiny town with a population of 80 is under consideration for a major real estate development, which would dramatically increase the town’s population.

There’s so much history in this small town in Hawaii.

12) Paukaa, Big Island

Located near Hilo, Paukaa is a small town with 425 residents located within just half of a square mile. The Big Island is home to many small towns in Hawaii.

13) Maunaloa, Molokai

Located on the western side of Mollokai is Maunaloa, population 376, not to be confused with the Big Island volcano.

Maunaloa , one of the smallest towns in Hawaii, is still worth a visit!

14) Waikane, Oahu

Encompassing 7.2 square miles on Oahu’s windward coast is Waikane, a census-designated place with a population of 778. If you’re visiting Oahu, it’s a beautiful small town to visit.

15) Wainiha, Kauai

With a population density of 14 people per square mile and an overall population of 365 people, Wainiha is actually quite large in area.

This Hawaiian town is filled with beautiful natural history.

16) Waiohinu, Big Island

With a population of 213, this town 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.

This quiet small town in Hawaii is absolutely beautiful.

Tell us, do you hail from one of the best tiny towns in Hawaii, or did we miss your small town? Share your hometowns in the comments below!

Looking for small towns in Hawaii with great amenities? These Hawaii small towns also have vibrant downtown areas.

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