Hawi, Hawaii
Tucked on Hawaii's Big Island, Cozy Hawi is a Mellow Place with a Cute Downtown and a Nearby Black Sand Beach
On the northern end of the Big Island of Hawaii, cozy, mellow Hawi rests in the verdant, sparsely populated North Kohala district. It and neighboring Kaapu (population 1,200) are often considered one community.
Once a sugar plantation town, Hawi has struggled since the 1970s but is making a comeback as a tourist destination. Its downtown consists of colorful, renovated plantation buildings, many of which now house art galleries, craft shops, candy stores and some top notch eateries.
At least two of the local restaurants host live music. There is a twice-a-week farmers’ market, a hotel, a grocery and a holistic healing center.
Most homes sit on large, lush lots and range from modest frame structures to unique multi-story residences with ocean views. Guest houses are sprinkled about town.
Recreational possibilities are abundant. Horseback riding and zip lining are available at Kohala Mountain, and “fluming” (slow kayaking) the Kohala Ditch, a plantation irrigation system, is popular. Hawaii Island Sky Diving is based out of the nearby Upolu Airport.
Population: 2,100
Median Home Price: $1.2 million
Climate: On average, this area receives 50 inches of rain each year, and it comes fairly evenly throughout the seasons (although summers are a little drier). Temperatures are in the 60s, 70s and 80s year round.
Crime Rate: Below the national average
Age 45 or Better:Â 36%
Hospital: Kohala Hospital, six miles away
Public Transit:Â Yes, but it is limited.
Political Leanings: Liberal
Is Hawaii Retirement Tax-Friendly: Yes
Drawbacks: The earthquake risk is above the national average.