If most people were asked to name various cities throughout Hawaii, they would most likely give the same answer: Honolulu, Kailua-Kona, Lahaina, Lihue, or for anyone who is less familiar with the islands, Waikiki. While these cities are great, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some fantastic cities and towns that are off the beaten path, and often overlooked for their more popular neighbors. What if we were to tell you that there’s a tiny little town nestled along the Hawaiian coast that has a little bit of everything? Would you want to visit?
Let’s take a look:
Welcome to Koloa, a charming little town nestled on Kauai’s southern shore home to 2,200 residents and a little bit of everything. Here, you will find breathtaking vistas and a true sense of history in addition to phenomenal restaurants, lovely little shops, and several cool attractions.
On your way into town, you will go journey through this magical tunnel of trees.
The Holo Holo Koloa Scenic Byway serves as the gateway to Kauai's southern shore and is full of magnificent views and gorgeous stops, including Maluhia Road, a stretch of highway covered in a canopy of eucalyptus trees.
But it's what you'll find within this small community that will truly delight you.
Home to Hawaii’s first ever commercially successful sugarcane plantation, Koloa is a relic of days gone by.
The Koloa Sugar Mill opened in 1935, and by 1898, was producing approximately 225,000 tons of sugar each year. The mill moved in 1912, but production remained strong until 1996.
Stop by the Koloa History Center from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. any day of the week to learn about the heritage and history of this charming town.
You might also consider visiting during July for the town's Koloa Plantation Days, a multi-cultural heritage celebration that spans 10 days and is easily the best way to experience all Koloa has to offer.
The town has retained much of it's old world charm, with shops and restaurants now occupying the town's plantation buildings.
Some of our favorites are Kauai Nut Roasters, Koa Wood Jewelry, The Ukulele Shop, La Spezia, and Anuenue Cafe.
Looking for some more natural beauty? Koloa is home to some stunning beaches, including Poipu Beach Park...
Approximately 1,000 feet long and 50 feet wide, this popular beach on Kauai’s southern shore is known for the small boulder breakwater that creates a protected pool-like area perfect for small children. Outside this swimming area are ideal wave conditions for surfers and body boarders.
...and Spouting Horn Blowhole.
Perhaps the most spectacular blowhole in Hawaii, Spouting Horn can shoot as high as 50 feet in the air and is surrounded by a striking landscape. A fence installed around the blowhole was designed to block access, and it is best to view the blowhole from the lookout instead.
You might also want to check out the fascinating Makauwahi Cave.
This relatively unknown archaeological site is home to Kauai’s largest limestone cave that was formed when the once fossilized sand dune collapsed. After you squeeze through the mouth of the cave, you will be rewarded with stunning views of a spacious open-air amphitheater.
You can also find serenity at the nearby Allerton Garden.
Upon entering the enchanting Allerton Garden, you are sure to fall head over heels in love with this incredible destination. Established and curated by Robert Allerton, this 80-acre garden is tucked into the Lawai Valley on the southern shores of Kauai, and is transected by Lawai Stream. Within the garden, you will find fragrant flowers, awe-inspiring trees, and plants, as well as various sculptures and even man-made water features.
So, what are you waiting for? You'll find a little bit of everything in this historic and picturesque town perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
For more information about this historic town, check out the Old Koloa Town website. Are you from Koloa? Have you ever spent time in Koloa? Share your favorite Koloa destination in the comments below, and then click here to discover 13 of the best rural Hawaii towns.
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