Waimea, Hawaii Travel Guide
Introducing Waimea, Hawaii! Located on the Big Island, Waimea is home to about 7,000 residents and is the heart of Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture. This town has plenty of culture, art, and nature to see! While you’re here, try Hawaiian BBQ staples and fine dining at many excellent restaurants. Located near Kailua-Kona, HI (50min, 40 miles) and Hilo, HI (1hr 10min, 55 miles), Waimea is a fantastic day trip for visitors to explore some of Hawaii’s culture.
Waimea has a deep Paniolo culture. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of Parker Ranch Headquarters to learn about Paniolo-style ranching. Also head to the Paniolo Heritage Center to learn more about Paniolo culture, get handmade gifts, and enjoy the farmer's markets. If you like art, Waimea is for you. Stop by Gallery of Great Things, Isaac’s Art Center, and Firehouse Gallery to appreciate art and maybe take a piece home for yourself! Want to spend time admiring the rainforests? See the waterfalls and hike in Pu’u O Umi Nature Area Reserve. While you’re in Waimea, be sure to see W.M. Keck Observatory for a tour.
Hawaii is known for its excellent food, and Waimea is no exception! Start your day with breakfast, like banana macadamia nut pancakes from Hawaiian Style Café. For lunch, have Hawaiian-style BBQ from The Fish and the Hog or Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ. Nearby cultural favorite restaurants include Moa Kitchen for Japanese favorites, Dom de Luca’s Restaurant for Italian, and Yong’s Kal-Bi for Korean staples. Thirsty? Head to Big Island Brewhaus for craft beer, burritos, and fish bites. For dinner, have unforgettable meals at Merriman’s Big Island featuring Mai Tais and fine dining or Paniolo BBQ Dinner, which includes Hawaiian cowboy cuisine on a working Paniolo farm.
Need a place to stay near Waimea? Take a break from the beach and resorts and book a room at Kamuela Inn. Want a whole place to yourself? Consider booking a Vrbo. Here are some of our favorites: Family Home for 4, Cozy Garage Cottage for 2, and a Wide Open Ranch for 5.
Want to visit Waimea but not sure when? Consider coming for the Fourth of July Rodeo or the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival. Whatever you’re into, Waimea, Hawaii has something worth seeing. We hope this travel guide gives you a glimpse into life in Waimea that can inspire a future visit.
Happy Travels!
The Modern Travel Guide
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