Hawaiian Beaches, HI

County: Hawaii

History

Hawaiian Beaches, Hawaii

Hawaiian Beaches is a small community located in Puna District on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The area that makes up Hawaiian Beaches today was once covered in lush rainforests and was primarily used for agriculture by the native Hawaiians.

The modern history of Hawaiian Beaches began in the early 1960s when developers recognized the appeal of the area's beautiful coastline and proximity to the ocean. The first phase of the Hawaiian Beaches development started in 1961 with the construction of homes and the subdivision of land.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Hawaiian Beaches experienced rapid growth and became a popular destination for tourists and retirees. The community began to see the establishment of essential amenities such as a community park, a shopping center, and paved roads. Over time, the area transformed into a mixture of permanent residents, vacation rentals, and second homes.

The eruption of the Kilauea volcano in 2018 had a significant impact on Hawaiian Beaches and the surrounding area. Lava flows destroyed homes and roads, displacing many residents. Despite the destruction and challenges faced, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover.

Today, Hawaiian Beaches is a tight-knit community known for its laid-back, beachside lifestyle. The area offers access to beautiful, black sand beaches, coastal activities like swimming and snorkeling, and scenic drives along the picturesque coastline.

Hawaiian Beaches has evolved from its agricultural roots to become a residential and vacation destination loved by both locals and visitors. The community continues to develop while maintaining its natural beauty and preserving the unique Hawaiian culture and spirit.

Attractions

Pahoa Village

Pahoa Village

A historic town with eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Lava Tree State Monument

A unique park featuring lava molds of tree trunks created during a volcanic eruption.

Kehena Black Sand Beach

A beautiful black sand beach known for its stunning views and occasional dolphin or whale sightings.

Kapoho Tide Pools

Natural pools formed by volcanic activity, perfect for swimming and snorkeling among colorful coral reefs.

Kalapana Lava Viewing Area

Offers a chance to witness the glowing lava flow from Kilauea volcano (checking volcanic activity beforehand is recommended).

Lava Tree State Park

A peaceful park with scenic trails and lava molds of trees, ideal for family picnics.

MacKenzie State Recreation Area

A park with rugged cliffs, stunning coastal views, picnic areas, and whale-watching opportunities.

Ahalanui Park/Hot Pond

Features a thermally heated ocean pool, providing a unique swimming experience.

Isaac Hale Beach Park

Also known as Pohoiki Bay, it offers swimming, picnic areas, and boat access.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center

A popular spot to learn about macadamia nuts and taste a variety of products.

Remember to check the availability, as some attractions or parks may be impacted by natural events such as volcanic activity or changes in beach conditions.

Climate

Hawaiian Beaches, HI experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. It falls under the Köppen climate classification as a tropical rainforest climate (Af). Here are some key features of the climate in Hawaiian Beaches:

Temperature

The average annual temperature in Hawaiian Beaches ranges from around 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C). The temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year due to the proximity to the ocean, with minimal variations between seasons.

Rainfall

Being a tropical rainforest climate, Hawaiian Beaches receives a significant amount of rainfall. The wet season generally occurs from October to April, with peak rainfall in December and January. Rainfall during this period can be heavy, and occasional storms and thunderstorms are common. The dry season is from May to September when rainfall is significantly reduced.

Humidity

Hawaiian Beaches has high humidity levels throughout the year, typically between 70% and 80%. The combination of warm temperatures and high humidity can make the weather feel quite sticky and oppressive.

Winds

The trade winds that blow across the Hawaiian Islands have a significant influence on the climate of Hawaiian Beaches. These winds help to moderate the temperatures and provide a cooling effect. However, they can also contribute to increased rainfall on windward sides of the island where Hawaiian Beaches is located.

Sunshine

Despite the occasional rain showers, Hawaiian Beaches experiences a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. On average, there are around 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. However, it is important to note that some days may be partly cloudy or overcast due to the tropical climate.

Overall, the climate of Hawaiian Beaches, HI is characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. It is advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, and be prepared for occasional rain showers when visiting this area.

Neighborhoods

Hawaiian Beaches is a small residential community located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. It sits just outside of the town of Pahoa, in the Puna District. While Hawaiian Beaches is technically unincorporated, it is considered a neighborhood subdivision with distinct districts and sections within its boundaries. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Hawaiian Beaches:

Hawaiian Beaches

This is the main neighborhood within Hawaiian Beaches. It consists primarily of single-family homes and a few vacant lots. It offers a range of housing options, from modest to more upscale homes. The neighborhood is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lush tropical surroundings.

Hawaiian Shores

Located adjacent to Hawaiian Beaches, this neighborhood is similar in many ways. It offers a mix of residential properties and vacant lots, with a variety of home styles. Hawaiian Shores offers a community center, swimming pool, and access to a private park for its residents.

Hawaiian Parks

This is another section of Hawaiian Beaches that is situated towards the northern end. It features larger lots and a more rural feel, with many properties having more extensive landscaping and privacy. Hawaiian Parks also has a community center and recreational facilities.

Nanawale Estates

While technically a separate subdivision, Nanawale Estates is located nearby Hawaiian Beaches and is worth mentioning. It is a larger community that offers a wider range of amenities, including a community center, swimming pool, and even a golf course. Nanawale Estates has a mix of residential properties and undeveloped lots.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Hawaiian Beaches, HI, offer a quiet and laid-back lifestyle with access to some shared amenities. Residents are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Big Island, with nearby beaches, parks, and hiking trails. It is a desirable area for those looking for a peaceful and close-knit community atmosphere in Hawaii.

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