Wahiawa, HI

County: Honolulu

History

Wahiawa, Hawaii

Wahiawa is a community located in the central part of the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii. Its history dates back to ancient times when it was primarily inhabited by native Hawaiians. The name "Wahiawa" translates to "place of noise" or "place of rumbling" in the Hawaiian language, which likely refers to the sound of the nearby Kaukonahua Stream.

The area of Wahiawa was traditionally used for farming and agriculture, with taro and sweet potatoes being some of the main crops cultivated by the indigenous people. It was also an important gathering place for Hawaiian chiefs and priests.

In the late 1800s, the kingdom of Hawaii faced increasing pressure from Western forces, including the influx of missionaries, traders, and settlers. This ultimately led to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893. Shortly after, the Republic of Hawaii was established, and in 1898, Hawaii became a territory of the United States.

During the early 1900s, the government of the territory began efforts to diversify and expand agriculture, particularly the sugarcane industry. Wahiawa's fertile lands and ample water supply made it an ideal location for pineapple and sugarcane plantations. Companies like Dole and Del Monte established large-scale operations in the area. The plantations attracted a diverse population, including immigrants from Japan, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Portugal, who came to work on the plantations.

Wahiawa's population continued to grow, and in 1941, during World War II, the U.S. military established the Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield in the area, which became integral to the defense of the Pacific region. The military installations brought more people to Wahiawa and further contributed to the area's development.

After the war, Wahiawa's economy shifted away from agriculture, and pineapple and sugarcane plantations gradually declined. The community shifted towards a more residential and commercial focus. Today, Wahiawa serves as a hub for the surrounding communities, offering various amenities and services.

Wahiawa is known for its military presence, as well as its proximity to popular attractions such as the Dole Plantation and the Kukaniloko Birth Stones, considered a sacred site and ancient birthing place for Hawaiian royalty. The community continues to celebrate its diverse cultural heritage through events, festivals, and community activities.

Attractions

Dole Plantation

Dole Plantation

This iconic attraction offers guided tours, a pineapple garden maze, and the opportunity to learn about and taste different pineapple varieties.

Schofield Barracks

A US Army installation located in Wahiawa, Schofield Barracks offers visitors the chance to learn about military history and experience unique military culture.

Wahiawa Botanical Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant species, walking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll surrounded by tropical vegetation.

Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area

A popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and camping. It features a beautiful lake and offers various water activities like boating and paddleboarding.

North Shore Beaches

While not technically in Wahiawa, the town is conveniently located near famous North Shore beaches like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. These beaches are known for their world-class surfing conditions.

Sacred Falls State Park

This tranquil park was closed to the public following a tragic landslide in 1999. However, it is still worth mentioning as it was once a popular attraction known for its stunning waterfall and hiking trails.

Historic Wahiawa Town

Explore the historic downtown area and discover unique shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Dillingham Airfield

Located nearby, this airfield offers visitors the chance to go on thrilling skydiving experiences or take scenic glider rides over the beautiful Oahu landscape.

These are just a few of the attractions in and around Wahiawa, HI. The area is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and military history.

Climate

Wahiawa, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, has a tropical wet and dry climate, also known as a tropical savanna climate. This type of climate is characterized by warm and dry summers, and cool and wet winters.

Summers in Wahiawa, which typically last from May to October, are warm and relatively dry. Average high temperatures range from 81°F (27°C) to 85°F (29°C), while average low temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). The summer months see less rainfall with July being the driest month, receiving around 0.7 inches (18 mm) of precipitation.

Winters, lasting from November to April, are cooler and wetter. Average high temperatures range from 77°F (25°C) to 79°F (26°C), while average low temperatures range from 61°F (16°C) to 64°F (18°C). The winter months experience more rainfall, with December being the wettest month, receiving an average of 5.6 inches (142 mm) of precipitation.

Overall, Wahiawa experiences a relatively consistent climate throughout the year with warm temperatures and a moderate amount of rainfall. The area is known for its lush vegetation and scenic landscapes due to its favorable climate.

Neighborhoods

Wahiawa is a small town located in central Oahu, Hawaii. While it is relatively small in size, it is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Wahiawa:

Wahiawa Heights

Located on the hillsides of Wahiawa, this neighborhood offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. It is known for its cooler temperatures and lush greenery. Many homes in this area are nestled among trees and have larger lots, providing a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere.

Whitmore Village

Situated towards the northern part of Wahiawa, Whitmore Village offers a mix of residential and agricultural areas. This neighborhood is known for its farms, where residents grow a variety of crops such as bananas, avocados, and coffee. Whitmore Village also has a rural feel with larger lots and a close-knit community.

Iliahi

Iliahi is a residential area located south of the Wahiawa town center. It is characterized by a mix of single-family homes and apartments. Iliahi is close to Wahiawa Shopping Center, which provides residents with easy access to various amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Wahiawa Town

The heart of Wahiawa, this neighborhood is where most of the town's commercial activity is concentrated. It is home to various shops, restaurants, banks, and other businesses. Wahiawa Town is the central hub for residents, offering easy access to essential services and amenities.

Royal Kunia

While not technically part of Wahiawa, Royal Kunia is an adjacent neighborhood known for its residential developments. It is located northeast of Wahiawa and offers a suburban feel with housing communities, parks, and recreational facilities. The neighborhood has good transportation links, making it a popular choice for commuters working in other parts of the island.

Overall, Wahiawa and its various neighborhoods provide a range of living options, from rural and agricultural areas to more urban and commercial districts. The town's central location on Oahu allows residents to enjoy the scenic beauty of the island, as well as easy access to nearby cities and attractions.

Nearby Cities