Honokaa

Honokaa is a quaint town located on the Hamakua Coast of Hawaii's Big Island. It serves as the gateway to the stunning Waipiʻo Valley, offering visitors access to its dramatic scenery and natural beauty. The town is characterized by its charming main street, where you'll find the historic Honokaʻa People's Theatre and a variety of unique shops. With a population of 2,699 as of the 2020 census, Honokaa embodies a strong sense of community and captivates visitors with its picturesque streets and lush surroundings. 

Honokaa, Hawaii, was primarily built due to its association with sugar plantations. The area's history dates back to the establishment of the Honokaa Sugar Plantation in 1876 by Messrs. Siemsen and Marsden. Initially spanning 500 acres, the plantation likely served as a catalyst for the development of the surrounding area, including the town of Honokaa. The town's growth was further facilitated by the establishment of various businesses and amenities, such as John Jose Andrade's building, erected in 1924, which housed the Honokaʻa Cafe, the Andrade Hotel, and a dance hall. This indicates that Honokaa's development was tied to the economic activities driven by the sugar industry, with businesses and infrastructure emerging to support the needs of plantation workers and residents.