Tucked into the windward cliffs and green folds of Hawaii’s northern coastlines, these 10 towns—scattered across Kauai and the Big Island—share more than just seclusion. They exist on the margins, both geographically and culturally, bound by trade winds, heavy rain, and a quiet resistance to change. These are not the beach-resort Hawaii towns fed by tarmac and tour buses. They’re places like Honomū, Pa‘auilo, and Laupāhoehoe on the Hāmākua Coast, where the highway narrows and the sea cliffs drop steeply into whitewater. Or Kīlauea and Anahola on Kauai’s North Shore, where sugar once reigned, the roads still wind slowly, and the past feels remarkably present.
In Hawaiian tradition, the windward side—where the moisture-laden trade winds meet land—is the side of growth. These regions collect the rain. They feed taro in the valleys, mangoes on the slopes, and green that never quite fades. The abundance is visual and literal. But this lushness comes with remoteness: these towns are harder to reach, less likely to be developed, and more likely to hold onto older ways of living.
Sugar built many of them. Plantations brought workers, rail lines, and economies that vanished almost as quickly as they arrived. What’s left now are communities shaped by deep family ties, subsistence agriculture, and landscapes too steep or too sacred to bulldoze. In towns like Kapa‘au and Hāwī, the road simply ends—both figuratively and literally—where cliffs drop and the world quiets down.
These towns weren’t designed for tourism, and that’s their appeal. Their geography keeps them tucked away, their histories keep them grounded, and their position—on the windward north edge of each island—gives them a shared identity: lush, layered, and just far enough off the map to feel like you’ve stumbled onto something meant to be kept.
10. Ookala, Big Island
Ookala is a tiny hamlet on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island with a population of just a few hundred residents. The town’s charm lies in its vast, verdant landscapes and the gentle sound of the nearby waterfalls.
There’s not much in terms of commercial attractions, which is perfect if you’re looking to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. The main industry here revolves around agriculture, particularly sugar cane in the past, and now diversified farming.
What makes Ookala truly secluded is its untouched surroundings and the sense that time moves a bit slower, offering a tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a peaceful hike, explore hidden streams, or simply sit back and relish the panoramic ocean views.
Where is Ookala?
Located on the northeastern coast of the Big Island, Ookala sits between the towns of Laupahoehoe and Honokaa. Its seclusion is amplified by the winding routes that lead you through lush valleys and along cliffsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Getting there typically involves taking the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 19), which offers breathtaking scenery along the way. The remoteness comes from its distance from major urban centers like Hilo and Kona, making Ookala a hidden jewel that feels worlds apart from the usual tourist spots.
9. Haena, Kauai
Haena is a small community at the very end of the road on Kauai’s lush north shore, home to just a few hundred people. Haena is enveloped by dense tropical forests, towering cliffs, and some of the most secluded beaches you’ll ever find.
The area is perfect for hiking the famous Kalalau Trail, exploring sea caves, or simply soaking up the sun on the quiet sands of Ke’e Beach. There aren’t many businesses here, so the primary activities revolve around outdoor adventures and appreciating the natural beauty.
What makes Haena particularly secluded is its limited accessibility and the fact that it’s literally at the end of the main road, giving it an untouched, serene atmosphere.
Where is Haena?
Haena is nestled on Kauai’s northern coastline, past the town of Hanalei and over a series of one-lane bridges that add to its remote charm. The seclusion comes from the rugged terrain and the frequent road closures due to weather, which reduce the flow of visitors.
To get there, drive along Kuhio Highway until the pavement ends, enjoying the breathtaking cliffs and ocean views along the way.
The end-of-the-road location means Haena is surrounded by the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park, reinforcing its sense of isolation and natural wonder.
8. Anahola, Kauai
Anahola is a small Hawaiian Homestead town with a population of around 2,000 people, offering a peaceful coastal environment largely untouched by tourism.
The town has a strong cultural presence, with many residents actively maintaining traditional Hawaiian practices and community values. Anahola Beach is a hidden gem where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking without the crowds.
The local economy is modest, with some agriculture and small businesses supporting the community. What makes Anahola secluded is its off-the-beaten-path location and the emphasis on preserving the local way of life, providing a genuine and tranquil Hawaiian experience.
Where is Anahola?
Situated on the east coast of Kauai between Kilauea and Kapaa, Anahola is easily overlooked by those sticking to the main tourist routes. Its seclusion is due in part to the lack of major resorts or tourist infrastructure, which helps maintain its quiet atmosphere.
To get there, take Kuhio Highway north from Lihue, watching as the bustling towns fade into serene landscapes.
The town’s proximity to Anahola Mountain and the Kalalea Mountain Range adds to its secluded feel, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat immersed in nature and culture.
7. Kilauea, Kauai
Kilauea is a charming town on Kauai’s north shore with a population of about 3,000. Its sweeping views of the mountains and ocean are truly captivating, especially from the famous Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge.
The town has a strong sense of community, with local farmers’ markets, small boutiques, and cozy cafes. While agriculture plays a significant role here, including organic farming and tropical fruit cultivation, tourism is minimal compared to other parts of the island.
Kilauea’s seclusion comes from its tight-knit community and the emphasis on preserving the natural environment, offering a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Kilauea?
Located on the northern tip of Kauai, Kilauea is nestled between Princeville and Anahola. Its seclusion stems from limited through traffic and its distance from larger towns. To reach Kilauea, drive along Kuhio Highway, enjoying the lush landscapes that line the route.
The town’s position near the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge contributes to its secluded feel, as the surrounding protected lands ensure that development remains minimal and nature takes center stage.
6. Honomu, Big Island
Honomu is a quaint plantation village on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island, with a population of just a few hundred. Its old-style buildings, house charming shops and cafes that preserve the spirit of old Hawaii.
The town is a gateway to Akaka Falls State Park, where you can witness the stunning 442-foot Akaka Falls surrounded by lush rainforest. The economy here is modest, focusing on small businesses and tourism related to the waterfall.
Honomu’s peaceful and uncrowded environment makes it secluded, offering a step back in time away from the crowded attractions.
Where is Honomu?
Situated north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast, Honomu is tucked away off the main highway. Its seclusion is enhanced by the scenic drive through winding roads flanked by sugar cane fields and tropical foliage.
Getting there involves taking the Hawaii Belt Road and then turning onto Old Mamalahoa Highway, which meanders through the heart of the village.
The lack of major development and its proximity to natural wonders make Honomu a serene spot that feels removed from the more hectic parts of the island.
5. Honokaa, Big Island
Honokaa is a historic town with a population of around 2,700, offering a relaxed pace and a strong sense of community. Its quaint downtown area features historic buildings housing local boutiques, antique shops, and eateries.
The town provides access to the breathtaking Waipio Valley, known for its majestic cliffs and black sand beach. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming, is central to Honokaa’s economy.
What makes it secluded is its location amidst rolling hills and farmland, away from the main tourist centers, allowing visitors and residents alike to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Where is Honokaa?
Honokaa is located on the northeastern part of the Big Island along the Hamakua Coast, northeast of Waimea. Its seclusion is a result of its location on the fringe of the Waipio Valley and the absence of major highways passing through.
To get there, drive along Highway 19 and then take Highway 240 into town, enjoying the scenic vistas of the coast and countryside. This out-of-the-way position makes Honokaa feel like a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking a quiet and authentic Hawaiian town experience.
4. Laupahoehoe, Big Island
Set on a rugged coastline, Laupahoehoe is a small community with a population of about 600. The town’s breathtaking ocean scenery, with waves crashing against the rocky shore at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park, is both powerful and serene.
There’s a rich history here, commemorated by a monument to those lost in the 1946 tsunami. The town is quiet, with few businesses, focusing mainly on agriculture and small-scale tourism.
What makes Laupahoehoe secluded is its remote location and the minimal tourist presence, offering a peaceful environment where the natural beauty takes center stage.
Where is Laupahoehoe?
Located along the Hamakua Coast between Hilo and Honokaa, Laupahoehoe is accessed via a scenic detour off the main highway. The seclusion comes from its position on a peninsula extending into the Pacific, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense vegetation.
To get there, take Highway 19 and look for the signs leading down to the coastal road, which winds its way to the point. The combination of its rugged setting and the sense of being tucked away from the main road contributes to Laupahoehoe’s tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
3. Paauilo, Big Island
Paauilo is a peaceful agricultural community on the Hamakua Coast with a population of around 600. The town is characterized by sprawling farms, rolling green pastures, and scenic ocean views that are incredibly soothing.
There’s a close-knit community vibe, with local events often centered around agriculture and ranching, which are the main industries here. Paauilo doesn’t have much in terms of tourist attractions, which is part of its charm and what makes it secluded.
It’s a place where you can experience the authentic rural lifestyle of Hawaii, away from the usual hustle and bustle.
Where is Paauilo?
Situated along the Hamakua Coast between Honokaa and Laupahoehoe, Paauilo lies off the beaten path. Its seclusion is due to its small size and the absence of major tourist draws. To get there, follow Highway 19 and take one of the exits leading into the heart of the countryside.
The town’s remote location amidst expansive farmland and the vast Pacific in the background contributes to its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for solitude and reflection.
2. Kapaau, Big Island
Nestled near Hawi in North Kohala, Kapaau is a small town with a population of about 1,700 that offers quiet rural charm and open spaces. The original King Kamehameha I Statue in the town center is a significant cultural landmark.
The area is rich in history and provides access to nature trails, scenic overlooks, and small art galleries featuring local artists. Agriculture plays a vital role in the local economy, with farming and ranching prevalent.
Kapaau’s secluded nature comes from its location at the northern tip of the Big Island and its laid-back pace, embodying the tranquil lifestyle of northern Hawaii.
Where is Kapaau?
Located at the end of the Akoni Pule Highway (Highway 270) in North Kohala, Kapaau is about as far north as you can go on the Big Island. The seclusion comes from its distance from major urban centers and the scenic yet lengthy drive required to get there.
You travel through rolling hills and past dramatic sea cliffs to reach Kapaau, soaking in the breathtaking views along the way. The town’s position, surrounded by vast open land and near Pololu Valley, adds to its serene and untouched ambiance.
1. Hawi, Big Island
Hawi is a small, historic town in North Kohala with a population of around 1,100. Known for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Hawi is a delightful escape from the hustle of more touristy areas.
The town is dotted with art galleries, boutiques, and charming restaurants that offer a taste of local flavors. Outdoor activities include hiking in the nearby Pololu Valley, visiting historical sites like the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, and enjoying the scenic coastal drives.
The main industries are agriculture and small businesses, embracing sustainable practices. Hawi’s seclusion is due to its remote location on the northern tip of the island and its focus on community and natural beauty rather than commercial development.
Where is Hawi?
Situated at the northernmost point of the Big Island along the Akoni Pule Highway, Hawi is a peaceful end-of-the-road destination. Its seclusion comes from the fact that it’s far removed from the island’s larger cities like Hilo and Kona.
To get there, take the picturesque drive along Highway 270, which offers sweeping ocean views and passes through rolling green landscapes. The town’s remote location, combined with its vibrant yet relaxed community, makes Hawi a perfect spot for those seeking a serene and authentic Hawaiian experience.
