Hawaiian Acres, HI

Hawaiian Acres is a subdivision located on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the Puna District. Its history is closely tied to the larger history of Puna and the island as a whole.

Before European contact, the land that is now Hawaiian Acres was primarily used for agricultural purposes by native Hawaiians. They cultivated crops such as taro, sweet potatoes, and yams in the fertile volcanic soil. The area was also home to native flora and fauna, including endemic species found only in Hawaii.

In the late 18th century, Captain James Cook arrived in Hawaii, marking the beginning of European contact. The islands quickly became a hub for trade, and the population began to grow as more settlers arrived from Europe and other parts of the world.

During the 19th century, the sugar industry boomed in Hawaii, leading to the establishment of numerous plantations across the islands. However, Puna remained largely undeveloped due to its rugged terrain and lack of good natural harbors for shipping.

It wasn't until the mid-20th century that Puna and Hawaiian Acres saw significant development. This growth was primarily driven by the tourism industry, as people were attracted to the Big Island's natural beauty and unique culture. The Hawaiian Acres subdivision was established in the 1960s as a response to the growing demand for housing in the area.

The subdivision covers approximately 32,000 acres of land and consists of mostly residential lots. The lots vary in size, ranging from one to five acres, offering residents plenty of space and privacy. As the subdivision developed, infrastructure such as roads and utilities were put in place to support the growing population.

Despite the growth of Hawaiian Acres, the area has retained much of its natural beauty, with lush rainforests, stunning coastline, and a diverse ecosystem. This has made it a popular location for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities.

In recent years, Hawaiian Acres, like the rest of the Puna District, has faced challenges caused by volcanic activity. In 2018, the Kilauea volcano erupted, leading to extensive damage and destruction in the region. However, the community has shown resilience and has been working on rebuilding and revitalizing the area.

Today, Hawaiian Acres continues to be a diverse community, attracting residents from different backgrounds and lifestyles. Its location in Puna offers a mix of rural tranquility and easy access to amenities and attractions, making it an appealing place to live for many people on the Big Island.

Lava Tree State Monument

A unique park with lava-formed tree molds created during an eruption in the 1700s.

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens

A beautiful orchid farm that offers guided tours and showcases a wide variety of exotic orchid species.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm

A popular destination for macadamia nut lovers, offering guided tours, tastings, and a gift shop.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

A family-friendly zoo featuring a variety of animals and lush tropical gardens.

KapohoKine Adventures

An adventure tour company offering zipline tours, lava boat tours, and guided hiking excursions through the lava fields.

Rainbow Falls

A stunning waterfall located just outside of Hilo, offering breathtaking views and a nearby swimming hole.

Onomea Bay Scenic Drive

A scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast with beautiful views of the ocean, waterfalls, and lush vegetation.

Loko Waka Fish Pond

A traditional Hawaiian fishpond where visitors can learn about ancient fish farming techniques and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Mountain View Farmers Market

A local farmers market offering fresh produce, food stalls, and handmade crafts.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

A botanical sanctuary featuring a vast collection of tropical plants, waterfalls, and coastal views.

Hawaiian Acres is located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, which experiences a tropical rainforest climate. The climate of Hawaiian Acres is characterized by warm and humid conditions year-round with relatively consistent temperatures.

In Hawaiian Acres, the average high temperatures range from around 80°F (27°C) in the cooler months to the low 90s°F (32-35°C) during the summer. The average low temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (18-20°C) in winter to the low 70s°F (21-24°C) in summer. The temperature variation is fairly minimal, making the area consistently warm.

The rainfall in Hawaiian Acres is abundant due to its location on the windward side of the island, which is influenced by the prevailing northeasterly trade winds. This area is known to receive the highest amount of rainfall on the Big Island. The rainy season typically lasts from October to April, with the rest of the year experiencing drier conditions. Annual precipitation can vary but averages around 100-150 inches (250-380 cm), leading to lush vegetation and green landscapes. It is important to note that rainfall can be highly localized in Hawaii, with some areas receiving more rainfall than others even within short distances.

The climate in Hawaiian Acres supports abundant plant life, including various tropical rainforest species. It is common to see lush greenery, ferns, bamboo, and a variety of fruit trees throughout the area. The frequent rain also means that residents may experience high humidity levels, which can make the air feel heavier and more muggy.

Overall, the climate of Hawaiian Acres, HI is characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall, creating a tropical rainforest environment that supports diverse flora and is known for its natural beauty.

Hawaiian Acres is a rural subdivision located in the Puna District of the Big Island of Hawaii, specifically in the upper part of the island's southeastern region. The community is known for its lush green landscapes, beautiful forests, and peaceful rural lifestyle. While it is considered a single neighborhood, it is divided into several sections that offer slightly different environments and characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Hawaiian Acres:

Road 1 (Aina Moiwa)

This neighborhood is situated near Highway 11 (Volcano Highway) and offers relatively easy access to nearby towns, services, and amenities. Most lots in this area are one acre or larger, providing ample space for gardening or other activities.

Road 4 (Makuu)

Located near Makuu Drive, this neighborhood is characterized by larger acreage properties and a more secluded atmosphere. It is surrounded by a dense forest, offering tranquility and privacy to residents.

Road 8 (Kopua Farm Lots)

This area features larger lots, often with agricultural zoning, that are suitable for farming or ranching. The abundant open space and fertile soil make it an attractive option for those looking to live a self-sustainable lifestyle.

Road A (Olaa Reservation Lots)

This neighborhood is situated in the northern part of Hawaiian Acres and is known for its cooler climate due to its higher elevation. Properties here often offer expansive views of the beautiful Hawaiian landscape.

Komo'o Nui

Situated in the eastern part of Hawaiian Acres, Komo'o Nui is a relatively new subdivision within the community. It features larger lots and is still under development, attracting those looking to build their dream homes in a peaceful rural setting.

Overall, Hawaiian Acres offers a diverse range of neighborhood options, all sharing the common theme of rural living surrounded by natural beauty. The community's location also provides easy access to nearby attractions such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Pahoa town, and beautiful coastal areas.