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Discovering the Hidden Gem of Hawaii’s Big Island: Exploring the Scenic Town of Waimea

Posted by benjamen.harper@gmail.com on May 25, 2025
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Waimea

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

  • The city has a population of around 9,200 people, according to the 2020 United States Census.
  • Waimea is situated in the center of the Big Island, about 40 miles northwest of Hilo.
  • The area is often referred to as Kamuela, which is the name of the post office and the main town within Waimea.
  • Waimea is known for its ranching history and is home to several large ranches, including Parker Ranch.
  • The city is situated at an elevation of around 2,670 feet above sea level.
  • Waimea is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural attractions.
  • The area is home to several historical sites, including the Waimea Valley and the Anna Ranch Heritage Center.
  • Waimea has a subtropical climate, with mild temperatures and moderate humidity levels throughout the year.
  • The city hosts several annual events, including the Waimea Cherry Blossom Festival and the Parker Ranch Rodeo.

Waimea: The Gem of Hawaii’s Big Island

When you think of Hawaii, images of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical rainforests come to mind. While these are certainly accurate, there’s another side to the Aloha State that’s often overlooked – Waimea, a charming town nestled in the heart of Hawaii’s Big Island. In this article, we’ll delve into what makes Waimea so special and why it’s an attractive option for prospective homeowners and visitors alike.

A Brief History of Waimea

Waimea, which translates to “red water” in Hawaiian language, got its name from the red soil that surrounds the area. The region has been inhabited since the early 18th century, but it wasn’t until the arrival of foreigners in the 19th century that the area started to flourish. The town’s history is rich, with influences from Native Hawaiians, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese immigrants, who came to work on the sugar plantations that dominated the island’s economy.

Era Key Events
18th century Native Hawaiian settlement
19th century Arrival of foreigners, sugar plantations
20th century Decline of sugar industry, tourism boom

Modern-Day Waimea

Today, Waimea is a thriving community with a strong sense of history and culture. The town is small, with a population of around 9,000 residents, but it punches above its weight in terms of amenities and attractions. From boutique shopping to fine dining, Waimea has it all.

Outdoor Activities

Waimea is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Some popular activities include:

  • Horseback riding through rolling green hills
  • Hiking through Waimea Nature Park
  • Stargazing at Mauna Kea, one of the world’s best stargazing spots
Mauna Kea Best stargazing in the world

Mauna Kea, home to some of the world’s most advanced telescopes, offers breathtaking stargazing opportunities.

Food and Drink

Waimea is renowned for its culinary scene, which showcases the island’s rich cultural diversity. Be sure to try:

  • Paniolo-inspired BBQ at Waimea Homestead Farmers Market
  • Fresh seafood at Merriman’s, a pioneering farm-to-table restaurant
  • Artisanal coffee at Kona coffee farm, Kohala Coast Coffee
Best Restaurants Waimea
Merriman’s Fresh seafood, farm-to-table
Waimea Homestead Farmers Market Paniolo-inspired BBQ

Real Estate

Waimea’s real estate market is characterised by a mix of old and new homes, many of which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. From historic plantation-style homes to luxurious estates, there’s something for everyone.

Property Type Price Range
Single-family home $500,000 – $2,000,000
Luxury estate $1,000,000 – $5,000,000
Condo $200,000 – $1,000,000

Looking to purchase or sell a property in Waimea? Contact Hawaii Elite Real Estate at 808-866-6593

Frequently Asked Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Waimea? Waimea is a global standards-based format for sharing DNA sequencing data.
  • Why is Waimea necessary? Waimea makes it easy for researchers to share and access DNA sequencing data, which accelerates scientific discovery and collaboration.
  • What types of data can be shared in Waimea format? Waimea supports the sharing of raw sequencing data, such as FASTQ files, as well as processed data like sequence alignments and variant calls.
  • Is Waimea only for DNA sequencing data? No, Waimea can be used to share other types of high-throughput data, like RNA-seq and amplicon sequencing data.
  • How do I prepare my data for Waimea format? To prepare your data, follow these steps:
  • Can I use Waimea with other bioinformatics tools? Yes, Waimea is designed to be compatible with a wide range of bioinformatics tools and pipelines.
  • Is Waimea free and open-source? Yes, Waimea is free and open-source, which allows the scientific community to contribute to its development and use.

Resources & Links

For Buyers & Sellers

Waimea: Navigating the Unique Market Dynamics for Home Buyers and Sellers

As a market observer, I’ve closely followed the Waimea real estate scene, recognizing its distinct characteristics that significantly impact home buyers and sellers. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Waimea (also known as Kamuela) offers a picturesque setting, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Impact on Home Buyers:
  • Limited Inventory: The Waimea market typically exhibits a low-inventory scenario, resulting in a competitive environment where buyers must act swiftly to secure their dream home.
  • High Demand: The area’s natural beauty, desirable quality of life, and access to outdoor recreation opportunities drive demand, often leading to multiple offers and higher sale prices.
  • Unpredictable Market Cycles: Waimea’s market is influenced by seasonal fluctuations, tourism trends, and global economic factors, making it challenging for buyers to navigate and make informed decisions.
  • Higher Prices: The combination of limited inventory, high demand, and Waimea’s reputation as a desirable destination drive prices upward, making it essential for buyers to act promptly and strategically.
Impact on Home Sellers:
  • Increased Competition: With limited inventory, sellers face increased competition for buyers, meaning they must price their homes competitively and be prepared for negotiation.
  • Strategic Pricing: Sellers must carefully consider their pricing strategy, taking into account recent sales data, market trends, and the area’s competitive landscape.
  • High-Pressure Negotiation: Multiple offers and swift decision-making create high-pressure negotiation situations, where sellers must balance their goals with the need to attract the right buyer.
  • Marketing Challenges: Sellers may face challenges in showcasing their properties to their target audience, particularly those who are not familiar with the local market or its unique characteristics.
Strategies for Success in Waimea’s Real Estate Market:

To thrive in Waimea’s market, home buyers and sellers should adapt to the unique dynamics and employ expert guidance. Effective strategies include:

  • Establishing a solid understanding of local market trends: Buyers and sellers should rely on experienced real estate professionals who are well-versed in Waimea’s market.
  • Controlling pricing and timing: Sellers must carefully time their listings and price their properties strategically to attract the right buyers.
  • Flexible negotiation approaches: Buyers and sellers should be prepared to adapt their negotiation strategies to meet the demands of the market and secure a successful transaction.
  • Creative marketing and exposure: Buyers and sellers should leverage digital platforms, social media, and local networks to showcase their properties to a broader audience.

By navigating Waimea’s market with a deep understanding of its unique characteristics, home buyers and sellers can set themselves up for success and achieve their real estate goals in this picturesque and sought-after destination.

New Listings & Properties for Sale in Waimea

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