Waiohinu, HI

Tucked into the lush green hills of the Ka'u district on the south side of Hawaii Island, Waiohinu offers a peaceful, slow-paced slice of rural island living. Translating to "shiny water," this quiet community sits along Highway 11 surrounded by open pastures, macadamia nut orchards, and sweeping views of the Pacific. Life here is simple and unhurried, with residents heading just a couple of minutes down the road to neighboring Naalehu for groceries, post office runs, and local dining.

The town has a rich history that still shapes its easygoing character today. Its most famous landmark is a sprawling monkeypod tree along the main road, originally planted by Mark Twain during his visit to the island in 1866 and regrown from a shoot after the original blew down in a storm. For anyone considering a move to the southern end of the island, Waiohinu offers cool trade winds, generous lot sizes, and a quiet, close-knit atmosphere.