Waimea is Paniolo country, and home to some of the most stunning hikes on the Big Island.
Waimea (also know as Kamuela, curious why?) is the biggest town on the North side of the Island. This is - geologically speaking - the oldest part of the island, and home to the oldest of five volcanoes that make up the Big Island: Kohala. The climate here at 2500+ ft sometimes reminds of the Scottish highlands, with temperatures on average a bit cooler compared to the rest of the Island, and low clouds often obscuring the rolling lush pastures.
Waimea is Paniolo country, and home to some of the most stunning hikes on the Big Island. Paniolo's are the Hawaiian cowboys, and Waimea is a great place to saddle up and explore the rolling hills or rugged coastline on horseback or with hiking boots!
Until recently, Waimea was a company town and its life was largely determined by the Parker Ranch. With 135.000 acres, the Parker Ranch is now one of the biggest cattle ranches in the United states. There lingers still a strong ranch-town atmosphere in Waimea. You can sample it in the many restaurants, gift shops and cowboy clothing stores that thrive in this community.
If you are visiting around the 4th of July, don't miss the Parker Ranch Rodeo held at the Paniolo Park in Waimea! (back to top)
Why is Waimea also called Kamuela?
There are 3 different Waimea's in the state of Hawaii. One valley on O'ahu, one village on Kauai, and Waimea on the Big Island. Because this is confusing a naming committee was formed to choose another name for Waimea. They decided to honor the Parker Family, who owns much of the land around Wiamea and has played a big part in Hawaiian history. "Kamuela" is the Hawaiian equivalent of "Samuel".Samuel Parker (1853 - 1920) has a 3/4 native Hawaiian heritage and played a large role in Hawaiian politics during the assimilation of Hawaii into the United States.
Waimea is still the official name of the town, and if you speak to locals or read the road signs, Waimea is all you will see or hear. The only time that you will need to use 'Kamuela' Is when you will be sending letter by mail, or are researching information on Waimea online!
There are three farmers markets in Waimea where you can buy delicious fresh local products and a good breakfast. Market days are Saturday and Wednesday. You can find more information on Waimea's farmers markets here.
Directions to Waimea / Kamuela:
Waimea is a short drive from Kailua-Kona, and is accessible with free public transport via the hele-on bus. Hilo (56 miles, 1 hr 20 min), Kona (40 miles, 1 hr 10 minutes), and Volcano Village (85 miles, 2 hr 10 min) are all easily reachable by car. (back to top)
Practicalities:
There are several "Waimea's" on the Hawaiian Islands. One Waimea is located on the Island of Kauai. Waimea Bay (the world-famous surf spot) is located on the Island of O'ahu. Finally, The Waimea you are reading about now is located on the Big Island. (back to top)
This map of Waimea has clickable icons. The icons denote information on this website about local activities and accommodations. Clicking an icon will display more information. (back to top)
Are you looking for the map of another part of the Big Island? We also have interactive maps of Volcano Village, Kona and Hilo!
The Big Island is the youngest Island of Hawaii, but that will change in the future! As the island moves away from the hot spot responsible for the Hawaiian Islands, a new Island is already forming 15 miles southeast of the coast of Big Island: Loihi. The summit of Loihi has already risen by two miles, and it still has one mile to go until it breaks the ocean surface. In another 30 or 40 thousand years, Loihi will be born as the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands!
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