Area guide · 02
Waimea, North Kohala, and the Hāmākua Coast: green country and old Hawaiʻi.
This guide covers the upcountry and northeast side of the island: the paniolo (cowboy) town of Waimea, the historic peninsula of North Kohala, and the lush Hāmākua Coast. If you want cooler air, green hills, deep history, and often more land for the money, start here.
Parker Ranch land, viewed from Holo Holo Ku, Waimea.
Kahua Ranch, atop Kohala Mountain, North Kohala.
Green ancient cinder cones on Kohala Mountain, viewed from the way to Waimea; the rainbow indicates more rainfall upcountry.
Akaka Falls, Hāmākua Coast.
What to know
A region of contrasts
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Waimea (also Kamuela)
An inland town at roughly 2,500 to 2,700 feet on the slopes of Kohala, the island's oldest volcano, with a cooler, greener climate than the coast. Kamuela is the US Post Office designation for the town and the surrounding area.
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Paniolo country
Waimea is the heart of Hawaiian cowboy culture and home to Parker Ranch, founded in 1847, one of the largest and oldest privately owned cattle ranches in the United States.
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North Kohala, the oldest land
This peninsula rose first from the sea. Hāwī, the island’s northernmost town, was a sugar mill town and is now an arts hub and the turnaround point of the IRONMAN bike course.
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The birthplace of Kamehameha
Kapaʻau displays the original bronze Kamehameha statue, and the king was born nearby at Kokoiki, close to the ancient Moʻokini Heiau.
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Pololū Valley
The first of seven valleys along the northeast side, with a black-sand beach and a steep, rewarding trail down to the shore.
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The Hāmākua Coast
Roughly 50 miles of rainforest coastline along Highway 19 from Hilo to Waipiʻo Valley, with waterfalls, sea cliffs, plantation-era bridges, and the 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls.
The local view
A different pace, worth understanding.
This side of the island attracts people who want space, character, and community over convenience. I help clients weigh the trade-offs honestly: climate and upkeep, commute realities, water and county considerations, and what each town offers day to day.
Red Water Cafe
65-1299 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea
4.5 · 548 reviews on Google
808-885-9299
Waimea staples for refueling between ranch visits and valley hikes. Always confirm hours before you go.
Thinking about going upcountry?
Tell me what draws you here, and I’ll help you understand whether this side fits the life you have in mind.