Laie, Hawaii | The Ultimate Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Laie, situated on Oahu's scenic northeastern coast, is an idyllic town bursting with Hawaiian charm and cultural richness. The town's name, Laie, comes from the Hawaiian word for the 'ie'ie vine, a sacred plant found in the area. Laie, Hawaii is known for being home to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Hawaii Temple, the Brigham Young University–Hawaii campus, and the Polynesian Cultural Center, which showcases the diverse cultures of Polynesia. The community here is deeply interconnected, rooted in a strong spiritual heritage that has shaped its identity and made it a unique place to call home.
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Where Laie is Located
Laie is nestled on the northeastern coast of Oahu, approximately 34 miles from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and about 35 miles from Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii. It is bordered by Hau'ula to the south and Kahuku to the north. Here's a quick distance overview:
- To Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: 34 miles (1 hour drive)
- To Honolulu: 35 miles (1 hour 10 minutes drive)
- To Hau'ula: 2.5 miles (7 minutes drive)
- To Kahuku: 3.5 miles (8 minutes drive)
Is Laie considered North Shore?
Yes, Laie is often considered part of the North Shore of Oahu due to its location on the northeastern coast of the island. However, when locals refer to the North Shore, they're often referring to the area around Haleiwa and the famous surf spots like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach.
What it's Like to Live in Laie
Living in Laie is like stepping into a world where time slows down, allowing you to soak in the surrounding natural beauty and immerse yourself in a community grounded in spiritual faith and cultural heritage. With a population of just over 6,000 residents, it offers a small-town vibe that is welcoming and tight-knit. The community is characterized by its hospitality and the value placed on education and family. Residents can enjoy the quiet life while having access to necessary amenities, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural activities.
Laie weather boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Winter temperatures range from lows in the mid-60s to highs in the mid-70s °F, while summer temperatures reach the mid-80s to low 90s °F. The area experiences rain throughout the year, with November through March being the wettest months. Despite the rain, Laie enjoys plenty of sunny days, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
How does Laie compare to border towns: Hauula & Kahuku
Laie finds its niche as a cultural and educational hub nestled between Hauula and Kahuku. While it shares the lush landscapes and beautiful beaches characteristic of its neighbors, Laie stands out with the presence of the Polynesian Cultural Center and Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Hauula, to the south, offers a similar quiet, rural lifestyle, but lacks the cultural and educational amenities found in Laie. To the north, Kahuku is best known for its famous shrimp trucks and the Kahuku Farms, providing a more agricultural ambiance compared to Laie.
Living in Laie brings you close to an array of amenities and recreational activities. The Polynesian Cultural Center, one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions, is right in the heart of Laie, offering a unique insight into Pacific Island cultures. Beach lovers will appreciate the beautiful Laie Point State Wayside Park, a peninsula that offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Laie Falls Trail, a scenic 7-mile round-trip hike leading to a beautiful waterfall.
Things to Do in Laie
Laie is a treasure trove of activities for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. From exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center, one of Hawaii's top tourist attractions, to hiking the Laie Falls Trail or spending a day at the beach, there's always something to do. Don't forget to visit the Laie Hawaii Temple, an imposing architectural wonder set amidst lush green gardens.
If you're looking for a Laie beach day, here are some notable ones to explore:
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Hukilau Beach: Known for its white sandy shore and clear turquoise water, Hukilau Beach offers an authentic Hawaiian beach experience. It's a perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the sun. Moreover, it's adjacent to the BYU campus and carries a fun history— the beach got its name from a large Polynesian luau, Hukilau, that used to take place here annually.
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Malaekahana Beach: This secluded beach park is known for its beautiful shorelines and excellent camping facilities. It offers a wide stretch of fine white sand, azure waters, and greenery providing ample shade. It's a favorite amongst locals for swimming, bodyboarding, and picnicking. Plus, it provides a beautiful view of Goat Island, a small islet offshore.
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Laie Point State Wayside (Laie Bay): This spot offers a rocky shoreline with dramatic cliffs, providing fantastic views of the ocean and windward coast. While not suitable for traditional beach activities, it's great for sightseeing, fishing, and observing local wildlife. The highlight is a natural sea arch in one of the offshore islands.
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Pounders Beach: Named after the pounding shorebreak, this beach is a popular spot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. It's also home to a small lagoon that offers calmer waters, perfect for families with young children.
Popular Restaurants in Laie
In Laie, you're in for a treat with a range of eateries offering delectable local and international cuisine. A must-visit is the Hukilau Cafe, an iconic Hawaiian eatery known for its mouthwatering breakfast plates, and the inspiration for the restaurant featured in "50 First Dates" -- though its not the actual restaurant. For some authentic island cuisine, visit Tita's Grill and Catering at Hukilau Marketplace - their garlic shrimp and BBQ are local favorites. And if you're in the mood for Polynesian flavors, dine at Pounders which offers a variety of dishes inspired by the Pacific islands.
Laie Real Estate
Homes for sale in Laie reflect a limited variety of options, from older plantation stsyle single-family homes with charm to luxurious Hawaii beach houses offering breathtaking ocean views. The community is primarily composed of owned rather than rented homes, with many properties exhibiting the distinct island-style architecture. The tranquil, scenic surroundings combined with the tight-knit community make Laie a sought-after location for homebuyers seeking a peaceful island lifestyle.
More about Laie, Hawaii
How safe is Laie?
Laie is generally considered a safe community with a lower crime rate than the national average. However, like any place, residents are advised to take normal safety precautions.
What does Laie mean in Hawaiian?
The word "Laie" in Hawaiian means "the ie leaf," which is a type of creeping vine native to Hawaii. The town was named after this plant.
Is Laie a good place to live?
Yes, Laie is considered a great place to live, particularly for those who enjoy a tranquil, small-town feel with a strong sense of community. Its natural beauty, access to outdoor activities, cultural sites, and good schools make it a desirable location.
What side of the island is Laie on?
Laie is located on the northeastern coast of Oahu, commonly referred to as the North Shore.
How did Laie get its name?
Laie got its name from the Hawaiian word for the 'ie'ie vine, a native plant found in the area.
What is the zip code for Laie?
The zip code for Laie is 96762.
Is Laie dry?
Laie is not particularly dry; it experiences a tropical climate with a good amount of rainfall throughout the year. However, the weather can vary, and there are drier periods, usually in the summer months.
Where is Laie Bay?
Laie Bay, also known as Bathtub Beach, is located on the northeastern coast of Oahu, right next to Laie Point State Wayside. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy the beautiful Hawaiian oceanfront.
What is the driest part of Oahu?
The leeward (western) coast of Oahu, including areas like Kapolei and Waianae, tends to be the driest part of the island.
How do you pronounce Laie, HI?
Laie, Hawaii, is pronounced "Lah-ee-ay".
How long is the Laie Falls hike?
The Laie Falls Trail is a relatively long hike, approximately 7 miles round-trip. Depending on your pace, it can take around 4-6 hours to complete.
Schools in Laie
Laie serves its community with a good selection of schools. Laie Elementary School and Kahuku High & Intermediate School are the public schools serving the area. In addition, the community is home to Brigham Young University-Hawaii, a private university offering a broad range of undergraduate programs.
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