Hau'ula Hawaii | The Ultimate Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Hauula, a serene coastal town tucked away on Oahu's windward coast, offers a tranquil lifestyle steeped in authentic Hawaiian culture. Its name, derived from the Hawaiian term for "red hau," a native Hibiscus tree, perfectly encapsulates the area's vibrant natural beauty. Hauula is a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu.
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Hauula is renowned for its picturesque scenery, encompassing pristine beaches, verdant mountains, and lush tropical foliage. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with many residents tracing their ancestry back to the island's original Hawaiian settlers. Hauula's tight-knit community fosters a sense of ohana (family), deeply ingrained in everyday life. The town is also home to the Hauula Forest Reserve, which offers extensive hiking trails and captivating views of the surrounding landscapes.
Living in Hauula
Living in Hauula is akin to embracing a slower, more peaceful pace of life. The town's small size and tight-knit community foster a strong sense of belonging, and its distance from the bustling city centers ensures that residents can enjoy the tranquility of their surroundings. With the ocean on one side and mountains on the other, outdoor activities such as surfing, fishing, hiking, and simply enjoying nature are a significant part of life here.
Things to Do in Hauula
Despite its small size, Hauula offers a variety of recreational opportunities. You can enjoy hiking in the Hauula Loop Trail, which offers splendid views of the ocean and the windward coast. The town's location makes it easy to access the beaches, and Hauula Beach Park is a favorite spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the sun. The nearby Sacred Falls State Park, while currently closed due to safety concerns, is an iconic location that holds a special place in the hearts of locals.
Popular Restaurants in Hauula
Hauula hosts several beloved local eateries that offer a variety of cuisines. A few highlights include:
- Papa Ole's Kitchen: This local gem serves delicious Hawaiian comfort food, from kalua pork to macadamia nut pancakes.
- North Shore Tacos: Known for their fish tacos, this spot provides a taste of Mexican cuisine with a Hawaiian twist.
- Tita's Grill: Located nearby in Kahuku, Tita's Grill is a favorite among locals for its hearty breakfasts and plate lunches.
Weather in Hauula
Hauula, like most of Oahu, enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The town receives ample rainfall, particularly during the winter months, contributing to the lush, green landscapes that define the area. However, residents also enjoy plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities and beach days.
Where is Hauula Located?
Hauula is located on the northeastern side of Oahu, between Laie and Punaluu. Its distance from notable locations are as follows:
- Honolulu International Airport: About 34 miles (Approx. 1 hour drive)
- Popular beaches: Hauula Beach Park is within the town, while the famous Sunset Beach is about 12 miles away.
- Nearest military bases: Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Base is approximately 18 miles away and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is about 30 miles away.
During rush hour, commutes can take significantly longer due to increased traffic. However, outside of rush hour, travel times are typically shorter.
Best Places to Live in Hauula
Hauula's residential areas are characterized by single-family homes and small apartment complexes, most of which offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or the verdant mountains. The town's favorite communities include:
- Puuwai Place: A peaceful neighborhood offering modern, spacious homes with large yards and stunning views.
- Hakipuu Estates: Nestled at the foot of the mountains, Hakipuu Estates offers large lots and a serene, natural setting.
- Oceanfront Residences: Along Kamehameha Highway, you'll find numerous oceanfront residences, where the beach is just steps away from your front door.
Hauula Compared to Border Towns: Laie and Punaluu
Hauula shares many characteristics with its neighboring towns of Laie and Punaluu. All three towns are relatively small, with tight-knit communities and a relaxed pace of life. However, each has its unique characteristics. Laie is known for being the home of Brigham Young University - Hawaii and the Polynesian Cultural Center, making it a hub for education and cultural activities. Punaluu, on the other hand, is famous for its black sand beach and rural charm.
Hauula strikes a balance between these two extremes, offering a peaceful residential atmosphere without being too remote or too bustling. Its small size allows for a strong sense of community, but it also has enough amenities and recreational opportunities to keep residents engaged and entertained.
Things to Do in Hauula
Hauula may be a small town, but it's packed with things to do. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and beachcombing. The Hauula Loop Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the lush greenery of the Koolau Mountains. The town is also home to Hauula Beach Park, a perfect spot for swimming and picnicking.
Additionally, Hauula's proximity to the Polynesian Cultural Center in neighboring Laie provides residents with easy access to cultural activities and performances. Hauula is also just a short drive from the North Shore, known for its world-class surfing spots and food trucks.
Popular Restaurants in Hauula
Hauula offers a mix of local eateries and familiar chains. Some popular local spots include:
- Papa Ole's Kitchen: Known for its delicious local comfort food like garlic chicken and mac salad. Link to restaurant
- Tita's Grill: This family-owned eatery offers mouth-watering plate lunches and has become a favorite among locals and visitors. Link to restaurant
- North Shore Tacos: A must-visit for taco lovers, offering a variety of delicious and fresh tacos with a Hawaiian twist. Link to restaurant
Real Estate in Hauula
Hauula's real estate market offers a range of properties, from quaint beach cottages to larger family homes. Despite its stunning natural beauty and oceanfront location, Hauula remains more affordable than many other parts of Oahu. The median home price in Hauula is lower than the Oahu average, making it a great option for those looking for a more affordable way to live in paradise.
What is Hauula known for?
Hauula is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including pristine beaches and lush greenery. It's also recognized for its strong sense of community and relaxed, rural lifestyle.
How safe is Hauula?
Like many rural towns in Hawaii, Hauula is generally considered safe. However, crime rates can vary, so it's always a good idea to check recent statistics and speak with locals when considering a move.
What does Hauula mean in Hawaiian?
In Hawaiian, Hauula means "red hau," in reference to the hau tree with red blossoms common in the area.
Is Hauula Hawaii a good place to live?
Yes, many people enjoy living in Hauula for its relaxed pace of life, beautiful natural surroundings, and friendly community. It is one of the more isolated communities on Oahu which means commute times can be long.
What side of the island is Hauula on?
Hauula is located on the northeastern side of Oahu, often considered part of the island's Windward Coast.
What is the zip code for Hauula?
The zip code for Hauula is 96717.
What is Hauula known for?
Hauula is known for its beautiful beach parks, notably Hauula Beach Park and Kokololio Beach Park. It's also renowned for its lush greenery, serene environment, and the Hauula Loop Trail, a popular hiking spot.
Is Hauula considered North Shore?
While Hauula is located on the northeastern side of Oahu, it's not typically considered part of what is colloquially known as the "North Shore," which primarily refers to the northern coastline from Kaena Point to Kahuku Point.
Where is Hauula Beach?
Hauula Beach is located within Hauula Beach Park, which is centrally located in Hauula, right off Kamehameha Highway. It's a beautiful location known for its soft sand and clear water.
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