Waikoloa Village, HI

County: Hawaii

History

Waikoloa Village, Hawaii

Waikoloa Village is a census-designated place located on the Island of Hawaii in Hawaii, United States. The area has a rich history dating back several centuries.

Before the arrival of Europeans, Waikoloa Village was inhabited by Native Hawaiians. The region was primarily used for fishing and farming, with taro being the main crop cultivated. The area was also known for its freshwater ponds, abundant fish, and access to the coast.

In the late 1700s, the arrival of European explorers and traders brought change to the region. Captain James Cook, the British explorer, made landfall in Waikoloa in 1778. His arrival introduced Western contact and began a period of significant change in Hawaiian history.

During the 1800s, the Kingdom of Hawaii underwent major transformations due to the growing influence of the United States. Sugar and ranching industries grew, and Hawaii saw an influx of immigrants from various countries to support the labor needs of these industries.

In the 1960s, the state of Hawaii initiated the development of resorts along the Kohala Coast, which includes areas like Waikoloa Village. This marked a turning point for the region, as it transitioned from predominantly agricultural land to a tourist destination. The development of resorts contributed to the growth of Waikoloa Village and the surrounding area.

Waikoloa Village was designated a census-designated place in 1980 to account for the growing population in the region. The village offers a mix of residential areas, commercial centers, and recreational facilities.

Today, Waikoloa Village serves as a vibrant community and popular tourist destination. Its location along the Kohala Coast provides easy access to beautiful beaches, golf courses, shopping centers, and luxury resorts. The community has also preserved some of its historical sites, including petroglyphs and ancient trails, showcasing its rich Native Hawaiian heritage.

In recent years, Waikoloa Village has continued to evolve, with ongoing development projects and infrastructural improvements. It remains a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking a blend of modern amenities, natural beauty, and a touch of Hawaii's history and culture.

Attractions

Waikoloa Beach

Waikoloa Beach

This popular spot offers a beautiful white sand beach where visitors can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or simply relax under the palm trees.

Kings' Shops

This shopping center is home to a variety of upscale stores, boutiques, and art galleries. It also hosts live entertainment and cultural events throughout the year.

Dolphin Quest

Located at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, Dolphin Quest offers an opportunity to interact and swim with dolphins in a controlled environment. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve

This historical preserve showcases ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs carved into lava rock. Visitors can stroll along the walking trails and learn about the island's rich cultural heritage.

Waikoloa Village Golf Club

This scenic golf course offers stunning views of the Kohala Coast, with challenging fairways and beautifully maintained greens. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round surrounded by lush landscapes.

Mauna Lani Resort

Located nearby, this luxury resort features beautiful beaches, gourmet restaurants, and a variety of water activities. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, play golf, or simply enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Anaehoomalu Bay (A-Bay)

This picturesque bay offers calm waters that are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. It is also a popular spot for observing stunning sunsets.

Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve

Just a short drive from Waikoloa Village, this preserve features even more ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. Visitors can explore the lava fields and discover these unique cultural artifacts.

Waikoloa Anchialine Ponds

These rare coastal ponds are home to various marine life, including the brightly colored Hawaiian shrimp. Nature enthusiasts can explore the trails and observe the unique ecosystems.

Helicopter Tours

Many helicopter tour companies operate in the area, offering breathtaking aerial views of the volcanoes, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes of the Big Island. It's an opportunity to experience the island's natural beauty from a different perspective.

Climate

Waikoloa Village, located on the island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), has a tropical desert climate. It experiences hot, dry, and sunny weather for most of the year.

The average temperature in Waikoloa Village ranges between 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C) throughout the year. The months of June to October are generally the hottest, with temperatures occasionally reaching the 90s (32-37°C). During the winter months of December to February, temperatures can drop to the mid-60s (15-18°C) during the night.

Rainfall in Waikoloa Village is relatively low, with an annual average of around 7-12 inches (18-30 cm). The majority of the rainfall occurs during the winter months, from November to March. The rest of the year is relatively dry, with little to no rain.

Due to its location on the leeward side of the island, Waikoloa Village is shielded from much of the rainfall brought by the trade winds, resulting in a desert-like environment. The area is known for its lava fields, sparse vegetation, and dry landscapes.

It's important to note that despite the dry climate of Waikoloa Village, the nearby coastal areas and higher elevations of the island can experience more rain and different microclimates.

Neighborhoods

Waikoloa Village is a community located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. Although it is a small area, there are a few notable neighborhoods within Waikoloa Village. Here are some of them:

Waikoloa Village

This is the main neighborhood and heart of the community. It offers a mix of residential areas, commercial centers, and recreational facilities. The Waikoloa Village Golf Course is a popular spot for golf enthusiasts, and there are also tennis courts and a community swimming pool. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Kilohana Kai

This newer neighborhood is located on the southern side of Waikoloa Village. Kilohana Kai offers a range of modern single-family homes and townhouses. One of the highlights of this neighborhood is the proximity to the Waikoloa Dry Forest Preserve, a protected area with walking trails and native Hawaiian plants.

Sunset Ridge

Situated on the northern side of Waikoloa Village, Sunset Ridge offers a mix of single-family homes with beautiful views of the ocean, mountains, and golf course. Many homes in this neighborhood have spacious lanais (porches) that allow residents to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets for which the area is known.

Paniolo Estates

Located in the southern part of Waikoloa Village, Paniolo Estates is a smaller neighborhood consisting of single-family homes. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and larger lot sizes, providing residents with ample space. The neighborhood is close to amenities like the Waikoloa Stables and is only a short drive away from beautiful beaches.

Overall, the neighborhoods in Waikoloa Village offer a variety of housing options, stunning natural surroundings, and convenient access to amenities. Whether you are looking for a vibrant community atmosphere or a more secluded setting, you can find a neighborhood in Waikoloa Village that suits your preferences.

Nearby Cities