Ewa Beach, HI

County: Honolulu

History

Ewa Beach, Hawaii

Ewa Beach, located on the western coast of the island of Oahu in Hawaii, has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years.

The area was traditionally inhabited by Native Hawaiians and was primarily a fishing and farming community. The fertile lands and plentiful seafood resources made Ewa Beach an attractive place for settlement. The local economy centered around sustainable agriculture, with taro, sweet potatoes, and fishing as the primary sources of sustenance.

In the late 18th century, Ewa Beach came under the control of Kamehameha the Great, the King of Hawaii, as he expanded his kingdom. During this time, Ewa Beach became a thriving agricultural region with extensive sugar cane plantations, which were worked by immigrant laborers.

In 1899, Hawaii was annexed by the United States, and the sugar industry continued to flourish. The Ewa Plantation Company, which operated a large sugar mill in the region, became a major employer and played a significant role in the development of Ewa Beach. Immigrants from various countries, such as the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Portugal, and China, came to work in the plantations, bringing their diverse cultures and contributing to the multicultural fabric of the community.

During World War II, Ewa Beach was heavily impacted by the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. The nearby naval air station at Ewa was heavily targeted and suffered significant damage. Despite the destruction, the military presence in Ewa Beach increased after the war as new housing developments were built to accommodate the growing population and military personnel stationed in the area.

In recent decades, Ewa Beach has experienced rapid residential and commercial growth due to its proximity to the state capital of Honolulu and its beautiful coastal location. The development includes new housing subdivisions, shopping centers, and schools. The expansion of nearby Kapolei, known as the "Second City" of Oahu, has also influenced the growth of Ewa Beach.

Today, Ewa Beach is a vibrant community that still retains its cultural heritage while embracing modern developments. Residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, golf courses, and outdoor recreational activities. The history and diverse influences of Ewa Beach contribute to its rich and unique character.

Attractions

Ka Makana Ali'i

Ka Makana Ali'i

A large shopping center with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Oneula Beach Park

A popular beach park with beautiful white sand, picnic areas, and perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

Hoalauna Park

A peaceful park with a playground, walking paths, and open grassy areas.

Koolina Resort

A luxurious resort area with several hotels, golf courses, spas, and beautiful lagoons for swimming and sunbathing.

Hawaiian Railway Society

A non-profit organization that runs train rides on historic tracks, offering a unique way to explore the area.

Barber's Point Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse with scenic views of the coastline and the surrounding ocean.

Pu'u o Ewa

A prominent volcanic cone that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Coral Creek Golf Course

A public golf course with stunning views and challenging holes.

Ko Olina Marina

A marina offering boat tours, fishing charters, and water sports activities.

Iroquois Point Beach

A less crowded beach with calm waters and great opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

Climate

Ewa Beach, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, has a warm tropical climate. The climate is classified as a tropical rainforest climate, with consistent temperatures throughout the year and high levels of rainfall.

Summers in Ewa Beach are generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) to the low 90s°F (around 32°C). The humidity can make it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Nights are usually cooler, with temperatures dropping to the mid-70s°F (around 24°C). The summer months also experience an increase in rainfall and occasional heavy showers due to the influence of tropical systems, such as hurricanes and tropical storms.

Winters in Ewa Beach are mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27°C). Nights can be slightly cooler, with temperatures dropping to the low 60s°F (around 15°C). Winter months generally experience less rainfall than summer but can still have some scattered showers.

Overall, Ewa Beach has a relatively high amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual rainfall of around 40 to 50 inches (around 1,000 to 1,300 mm). The rain is usually spread out over the months, with the wettest period being from November to February. The constant rainfall, combined with the warm temperatures, creates a lush and green environment in and around Ewa Beach, with beautiful vegetation and tropical landscapes.

Neighborhoods

Ewa Beach is a community located on the west coast of Oahu, Hawaii. It is known for its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and various neighborhoods. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Ewa Beach:

Ocean Pointe

This is a newer planned community with a mix of residential housing options such as single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. The neighborhood features well-maintained streets and sidewalks, community parks, and easy access to amenities like shopping centers and schools.

Ewa by Gentry

Another planned community, Ewa by Gentry is divided into several subdivisions with different housing options. It offers a blend of newer and older homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The community has multiple parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas.

Hoakalei Resort

Situated in the southern part of Ewa Beach, Hoakalei Resort is an upscale neighborhood with an emphasis on resort-style living. It features luxurious homes, waterfront properties, a private golf course, and access to a private beach club. The area is known for its well-manicured landscapes and high-end amenities.

Old Ewa Beach

This neighborhood provides a glimpse into the area's history and offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the newer developments. It is known for its older plantation-style homes, which add a distinct charm to the community.

Ewa Villages

Located inland, Ewa Villages offers a mix of older and newer homes. It is a more affordable option compared to the coastal neighborhoods. The area is surrounded by agricultural lands, bringing a rural feel to the community.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Ewa Beach, each offering its own unique characteristics and lifestyle options. Whether you prefer newer developments with modern amenities or a more traditional atmosphere, Ewa Beach provides a range of choices to suit different preferences.

Nearby Cities