Visiting Hawaii is always a great idea. With its spectacular beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and its welcoming laid-back culture – you can’t help but feel relaxed. With the various Hawaiian Islands, you’re pretty much spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful islands to vacation on. If this is your first time to the Big Island of Hawaii, or it’s been a while – this guide will help you discover the treasure destination of Kamuela. Just north of the island’s resort areas is Kamuela, also known as Waimea. Here you’ll find rolling hills, cooler temps and a refreshingly different side of Hawaii. One way to describe this locale would be rustic luxury.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Kamuela so special, offering insights into the top attractions, where you can eat like a local, the best beaches, things to do in Waimea, Big Island and how booking a Kamuela vacation rental from iTravel Vacation Homes can give you a one-of-a-kind experience in Kamuela. Ready? Let’s get started!
Where Is Kamuela?
You can find Kamuela on the northern side of the Big Island, where it resides at approximately 2,600 feet above sea level! It’s right in the saddle between Mauna Kea and the Kohala Mountains, offering excellent mountain views and valley vistas that stretch toward the ocean.
Despite being on an island, Kamuela’s location is often cooler and mistier than coastal cities, which is a nice break from the tropical heat. Getting to Kamuela is about a 20-minute drive inland from the sunny Kohala Coast. It’s a pretty central location that leaves you with access to different beaches, hiking trails, restaurants, and attractions.
Fun fact: Kamuela is locally referred to as Waimea. However, with two other towns of the same name on Oahu and Kauai, the post office felt it was necessary to give it a secondary name to avoid confusion! The name Kamuela is the Hawaiian equivalent of Samuel, and Samuel Parker was the man who founded Parker Ranch, a ranch that settled in the area.
Unique Features of Kamuela
Kamuela is unique in many ways. With its green pastures and misty mountain views, it was the home to many cattle ranches. The community is steeped in a cowboy culture that dates back to the 1800s! Here you’ll find a blend of ranching history, native Hawaiian traditions, and eco-tourism.
The pace of life on Kamuela is slower and more peaceful. You can’t help but be drawn to nature, helping you slow down a bit and take in the view. Stop and smell the gardenias for a bit. In addition to the beach, you can go on hikes to waterfalls and volcanoes. Get a lesson in cowboy culture and deep Hawaiian roots. Kamuela is a place unlike any other and it’s well worth a visit.
Discover the Heart of Kamuela: Beaches, Markets, and Heritage
The upcountry, as Kamuela is affectionately referred to, should be explored. It’s more than just a pitstop on the way to the beaches of the Kohala Coast. It’s the perfect vacation destination offering a mix of natural wonders, homegrown foods and flavors, and the Hawaiian cowboy way of life. In this part of the blog, we’ll give you a roundup of some of Kamuela’s most memorable attractions. See for yourself why they deserve a spot on your Big Island itinerary.
Waialea Beach
Locals call Waialea Beach, Beach 69, because of the Island custom of naming beaches after the numbered utility poles at the entrance! The sands of Waialea are soft and warm, contrasting the shimmering turquoise waters. You’ll be drawn to the ocean, whether it’s for snorkeling or swimming. The surrounding reef is full of colorful fish that are reminiscent of sparkling gems in the water. You might even spot a sea turtle or an eel, peeking out to say hello from the coral. After a day in the water, relax under a shady kiawe tree for a picnic or a good nap. Here’s a pro tip: you’ll want to get there early so you can find the perfect spot on the shore.
Mahukona Beach Park
At Makuhona Beach Park, history meets adventure. This beach was once the site of a busy sugar mill and shipping port in the late 1800s. You can still find remnants of the old harbor framing the shoreline. The beach itself has a small patch of sand, but the calm waters and ruins make it a fun place to explore. Snorkel in the waters around the ruins to see more tropical fish and turtles. As you explore the area of Mahukona Beach Park, you’ll see the island’s character take shape. There is still much beauty that can be found in industrial ruins, the story of a time worth learning about.
Fresh Local Flavors at the Waimea Town Market & Kamuela Farmers Market
Who doesn’t love a farmers market? Fresh fruit and veggies, baked goods, delicious Hawaiian coffee –yum! Kamuela does farmers markets well. Sample some fresh produce that was cultivated and grown from farmers who know the land well and have worked the soil on the island for generations. In Kamuela, you get double the opportunity with the Waimea Town Market and Kamuela Farmers Market, both held on Saturdays.
The Waimea Town Market, located on the grounds of Parker School, features over 30 vendors offering everything from organic produce, artisan breads, Kona coffee and locally made honey. You’ll do well to grab some fresh fruit, a smoothie or a hot malasada – which is a Portuguese doughnut!
A short drive away, the Kamuela Farmers Market offers a similarly rich mix of farm-fresh goods and island-made products. The vibes of these markets are friendly and laid-back – as they should be. Come on by to select from an abundance of tropical fruits, fresh-cut flowers, and even pasture-raised meats from local ranches.
By visiting these markets and eating fresh and local, you’ll be connecting with the island and culture in Kamuela in a whole new way. Supporting these markets helps to sustain small farms and businesses, while you glean the benefits of fresh grown produce – there’s just nothing like it! Trust us, you haven’t tasted a real fruit until you’ve had one grown and harvested from Kamuela soil.
Isaacs Art Center Museum and Gallery
Switching gears a little bit, we turn to the Isaacs Art Center Museum and Gallery. This museum is located in a restored 1915 schoolhouse! Come inside and roam the halls and rooms where you’ll find an impressive collection of Hawaiian and Pacific art, including the largest collection of paintings, drawings and watercolors from Hawaiian artist Madge Tennent. Coming here will add to your inspiration.
Paniolo Heritage Center
Now, when you think of cowboys, Hawaii probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Usually, it’s the Wild West with figures like John Wayne. However, Kamuela is home to a rich Hawaiian cowboy traditions that go back to the early 1800s. This was the time when Spanish-Mexican vaqueros were brought to the island to teach cattle ranching skills. The Paniolo Heritage Center at Pukalani Stables celebrates this history with exhibits on ranching life, antique saddles, and photographs that display the heart and spirit of these Kamuela cowboys. When you visit the stables themselves, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back into the past. The center is also home to community events like a weekly farmer’s market (sensing a theme here?) and sometimes a rodeo!
Go on a Hike
Pololu Valley is located on the slope of the dormant Kohala volcano, meaning the sands of the coast are black. Hike down through misty jungle trails to the black sand beach below. It’s an unforgettable and beautiful experience. We recommend starting early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat.
Mauna Kea Stargazing
Drive from Kamuela to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for a nighttime stargazing experience. Due to the center’s location, you’ll feel as though you can touch the stars! On clear nights, the skies above Kamuela are some of the darkest and most star-filled in the world. There isn’t a nighttime guided program at this time, but the available telescopes encourage you to take a peek at the night sky.
Zipline Adventures
Northern Hawaii is known for its dense forests and valleys – perfect for soaring over in a zipline! Companies like Kohala Zipline offer multi-line courses where you can fly above treetops, canyons, and waterfalls – with the ocean ever in view. You won’t want to miss this excursion!
Volcano and Waterfall Tours
Take a guided tour in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In just a short day trip, you can see all there is to see – exploring lava tubes, craters, and more. Give yourself an added dose of island adventure by visiting the waterfalls like Akaka Falls or Rainbow Falls.
Best Places to Eat in Kamuela
Now that you know the best places to visit in Kamuela, you’re going to need to know where you can stay fueled for adventure ahead! These are our pics for the top spots to get a good meal in Kamuela.
Merriman’s Big Island
As you learned in this blog, Kamuela is all about farmers markets offering fresh Hawaii-grown produce. At Merriman’s, you’ll have a fresh farm-to-table experience with island flavors served up in creative and delicious dishes. Come on in for a nice dinner after a full day of things to do in Waimea, Big Island. Opt for the wok charred Ahi or the roasted chateaubriand of Hawaii island beef. You won’t be sorry!
Hawaiian Style Café Waimea
This is a popular local gem. If you want a delicious homecooked plate lunch, loco moco, or fresh haupia pancakes – this is the place to come to. The portions are large and the flavors are ono. Know before you go: This restaurant is cash only, so come prepared.
The Fish and The Hog
Come here for more Hawaiian comfort food. Enjoy dishes like the prime brisket plate, brisket mac and cheese, and French dip sandwich. The vibes are casual, the restaurant is rustic, and the food is outstanding.
Where Should I Stay?
Now that your travel itinerary is full of things to do in Kameula, Hawaii, you’ll need to stay someplace comfortable and central to the action. Hotels are convenient, but why not treat yourself to an authentic Kamuela experience? This can be done by booking a Kamuela vacation rental from iTravel Vacation Homes. These properties have been thoughtfully curated to give you an amazing Kamuela experience with touches of island style and luxury amenities. You’ll be ready to relax the moment you arrive.
Each rental has its own distinctive character, blending the local vibes of Kamuela with modern comforts. Take in the view from your private lanai with outdoor seating. Snuggle up in the soft cozy bedding of your master bedroom. Tap in to take care of any remote work, streaming or social media using the in-house Wi-Fi. Thoughtful touches like these make you feel right at home.
Stay close to all the action we mentioned earlier—from the hiking trails at Pololu to the Mauna Kea Center for stargazing. These rentals will keep you close to the fun while offering a sense of peace and privacy that can’t be found in popular resort stays.
The team at iTravel Vacation Homes is available to offer personalized support. If you need recommendations or if issues arise at your rental, we’re always just a call away.
Experience Kamuela the Right Way with iTravel Vacation Homes
By following the tips in this ultimate guide to Kamuela, you’ll find yourself wanting to return to this island destination again and again. Come experience the Kamuela state of mind. Feel the breeze as it stirs your senses in the morning, the air scented with the aroma of gardenias. Listen to the bird calls, stirring up your desire for adventure. Explore the rich landscapes and heritage of this upcountry gem.
Choosing the right home base for your Kamuela adventure will make the difference between an ok trip and an amazing one. Skip the tourist traps and live aloha like a local, with iTravel Vacation Homes.
Are you ready to explore Kamuela? Pack your sunscreen and your appetite for adventure (and fresh local produce) and come experience the Big Island’s upcountry in Kamuela! Book your Kamuela vacation rental today with iTravel Vacation Homes.
