Hawi Real Estate

About Hawi

Tucked way up at the north end of the big Island is the darling little town of Hawi. Pronounced Ha-Vee, Hawi is home to about 1200 year-round residents but is known for its touristy shops, fantastic restaurants, and fun coffee shops. Hawi is accessible along Highway 270 which runs north and south up the Kohala Coast and down the eastern side of the island.

It has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its unique shops and restaurants but, the scenery is really what makes Hawi stand out. Within the fertile streams of North Kohala, Hawi is excellent for growing taro, bananas, and are native sweet potatoes. But today, this diversified little town has shifted into an artistic enclave. There are organic food markets, shopping, fabulous restaurants, and some of the most beautiful scenery on the island in nearby Pololu Valley.

Known for its scenic beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, Hawi is a charming and historic town you don't want to miss. It might be your ideal spot for a vacation property or a new home sweet home.

Things to Do in Hawi

Hawi hosts weekly farmers' markets where locals and visitors can purchase fresh produce, locally-made crafts, and artisanal goods. These markets are an excellent opportunity to experience the farm-to-table lifestyle and support local businesses.

Of course Hawi offers amazing opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The North Kohala region, including Hawi, offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore nearby hiking trails, visit beautiful beaches like Pololu Valley, or go on a scenic horseback ride through the countryside. During the winter months, humpback whales frequent the waters off the coast of Hawi.

The tight knit community is sustained by gatherings throughout the year. Hawi hosts various community events, including festivals, cultural celebrations, and live music performances. These events are a chance for residents and visitors to come together, immerse themselves in local culture, and create lasting memories.

Historical Significance and Culture of Hawi

Hawi holds historical significance as one of the oldest towns on the Big Island. It was once a bustling center for sugar plantations, and remnants of its historical past can be seen in the preserved buildings and landmarks, including the original courthouse and the historic churches.

Hawi has a thriving arts community, and you'll find many local artists and craftsmen showcasing their work in the town's galleries and studios. The vibrant artistic scene is a reflection of the town's creative spirit and love for preserving its cultural heritage.

Location of Hawi

Hawi features a somewhat remote and secluded location that contributes to the peaceful atmosphere residents enjoy. Kailua Kona is about 53 miles south along Highway 270, which joins Highway 19. An alternate route is down Highway 250 to 190 through Waimea which is about 61 miles. Hilo, located on the east side of the island is about 76 miles from Hawi.

Homes

Most of the homes in Hawi are custom and set off the beaten path, not that Hawi isn’t already quite a ways off the beaten path. This is probably why people have chosen to live here. It’s quiet, quaint, has great restaurants and services, and if you don’t mind tourists once in a while, it makes a beautiful place to call home. There’s a wide range of properties as well as vacant lots to build a custom home.

Thanks to its hillside location, many homes in Hawi boast beautiful views of the outlying Valley and even far-reaching to the ocean. You’ll find a lot of backyard swimming pools, open lanai’s, and private sanctuaries. There are also a few subdivisions around Hawi such as Kapaau, Kapiko Estates and Maliu Ridge, but most neighborhoods in Hawi do not have a homeowners assocation. Home prices start at about $600,000.

Hawi is an ideal place to find homes for sale on the Big Island if you want to prioritize a peaceful, scenic setting as well as sustainability. The community of Hawi has a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious living. You'll find initiatives promoting renewable energy, organic farming, and environmental conservation, reflecting the residents' dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the area. These values are reflected in the design and features of many homes in Hawi.

Schools

Residents of Hawi are served by the Kohala Elementary School, the Kohala Middle School, and the Kohala High School. These schools are between one and 3 miles from most of the homes within the city limits of Hawi, and there are busses available to make all public education accessible. Public schools serving Hawi residents are a part of Hawaii Public Schools, the district responsible for the entire Big Island.

If you prefer a private education for your students, you can access several private schools that offer diverse educational experiences and cater to a range of students and families within a reasonable commute on the island. About half an hour away in Waimea you will find Hawaii Preparatory Academy (HPA), one of the most prestigious private schools on the island. HPA offers a college-preparatory education with a focus on academic excellence, character development, and outdoor education. The school's stunning campus encompasses beautiful landscapes and state-of-the-art facilities.

Also in Waimea is Parker School, a small, independent K-12 school that prioritizes personalized education and community engagement. The school's small class sizes allow for individualized attention, and its curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility.

For more information on Hawi homes and real estate feel free to browse available listings here or simply contact at (808) 217-2717.

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