Aiea, HI

County: Honolulu

History

Aiea, Hawaii

Aiea is a census-designated place (CDP) located on the island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. Its name is derived from the Hawaiian term "Aiea," which means "reddish-brown" and refers to the color of the local volcanic soil. Here is a brief history of Aiea:

  1. Ancient History:

Before the arrival of Europeans, Aiea was inhabited by Native Hawaiians. The area was primarily used for agricultural purposes, with taro being a significant crop.

  1. Plantation Era:

In the late 19th century, the Hawaiian Sugar Planters' Association (HSPA) established the Aiea Sugar Plantation in the area. Immigrants, primarily from China, Japan, Korea, Portugal, and the Philippines, were brought in as laborers to work on the plantation, leading to a diverse population.

  1. Pearl Harbor and World War II:

Aiea gained prominence with the establishment of Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard in 1908. Many military personnel and civilian workers settled in Aiea due to its close proximity to the naval base. During World War II, Aiea experienced significant growth as the military presence increased. The area suffered great damage during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, resulting in civilian casualties and destruction.

  1. Post-war Development:

In the post-war era, Aiea went through significant redevelopment and expansion. The sugar plantation was closed, and the land was gradually converted into residential areas and commercial spaces. The military continued to play a role in the local economy, with several military installations and housing communities.

  1. Modern Aiea:

Aiea has continued to develop into a suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The completion of the Interstate H-1 freeway through Aiea in the 1960s further enhanced its accessibility and contributed to its growth.

Today, Aiea is known for its convenient location within the Honolulu metropolitan area, proximity to major military installations, and various recreational amenities. The community has a diverse population, reflecting its multicultural heritage and history.

Attractions

Pearlridge Center

Pearlridge Center

This shopping mall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a movie theater and a mini-golf course.

USS Arizona Memorial

Located in nearby Pearl Harbor, the memorial honors the sailors and marines who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Aiea Loop Trail

This popular hiking trail offers a scenic 4.8-mile loop around the ridge of the Halawa Valley, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Aiea Bay State Recreation Area

This beach park is a great spot for picnicking, swimming, fishing, and enjoying beautiful views of the ocean and mountains.

Aloha Stadium

Home to the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football team, this stadium also hosts various events and concerts throughout the year.

Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area

This park features lush forested trails, picnic areas, and the historic Keaiwa Heiau, a Native Hawaiian temple.

Waimalu Plaza Shopping Center

A popular shopping destination in Aiea, this plaza offers a variety of retail stores, eateries, and services.

Aiea Bowl

This family-friendly bowling alley has been a community staple for decades, offering bowling, arcade games, and a snack bar.

Neal S. Blaisdell Park

Located in nearby Pearl City, this park features sports fields, playgrounds, and a swimming pool, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation.

Kealoha Poi Factory

This local favorite serves traditional Hawaiian poi, as well as other Hawaiian dishes like lau lau and kalua pig, giving visitors a taste of Hawaiian cuisine.

Climate

The climate of Aiea, HI is considered to be a tropical rainforest climate, also known as a tropical wet climate. The area experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, with warm and humid conditions.

Aiea has a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season typically lasts from November to March, during which the area receives the majority of its annual rainfall. Precipitation is frequent, and heavy downpours are common during this time. The dry season, from April to October, tends to be drier and sees fewer rainfall days.

The average temperature in Aiea remains fairly constant throughout the year, with little variation. Average highs range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius), while average lows range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22 degrees Celsius).

Due to its location in the tropical region, Aiea is also prone to tropical cyclones, including hurricanes or tropical storms. These events can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the area. However, Aiea is not directly in the hurricane belt, meaning that it generally experiences minimal direct impacts from hurricanes compared to other parts of the Hawaiian Islands.

Overall, the climate in Aiea, HI is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, high humidity, and a distinct wet and dry season.

Neighborhoods

Aiea is a community located on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii. It is primarily a residential area with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Aiea:

Aiea Heights

This neighborhood is situated on the hills above Aiea and offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Pearl Harbor. It is known for its suburban atmosphere and relatively larger houses. Aiea Heights is popular among families looking for spacious homes in a peaceful setting.

Newtown

Newtown is a planned community within Aiea that consists of various housing complexes, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It offers amenities such as a community center, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a golf course. Newtown is known for its tight-knit community and numerous recreational opportunities.

Pearl Ridge

Pearl Ridge is a commercial and residential area in Aiea that is home to the Pearlridge Center, one of Hawaii's largest shopping malls. The neighborhood features a mix of high-rise condos, townhouses, and single-family homes. Pearl Ridge is a bustling area with numerous retail and dining options, making it a popular choice for those looking for convenience.

Halawa

Halawa is a neighborhood located in the northwestern part of Aiea. It is well-known for its sports facilities, including the Aloha Stadium, which hosts football games and concerts. The neighborhood also features a golf course, parks, and a few residential areas. Halawa is a diverse and vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces.

Ke Kumulani

Ke Kumulani is a newer neighborhood in Aiea that offers upscale housing options. It is a gated community that provides residents with a sense of exclusivity and security. Ke Kumulani is known for its luxurious homes, well-maintained streets, and proximity to the amenities of Aiea and Pearl City.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods in Aiea, HI. Each offers its own unique characteristics and attractions, allowing residents to find a community that suits their lifestyle and preferences. Whether you're looking for a suburban paradise, a bustling commercial area, or a luxurious enclave, Aiea has something to offer.

Nearby Cities