Have you ever heard of Kea’au? Hidden away in the lush forests of Hawaii, Kea’au (sometimes written as Keaau or Kea-au) is a true gem that you don’t want to miss out on. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is a sight to behold – from its towering waterfalls to the sparkling streams and vibrant wildlife that inhabit the area. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking to escape into a serene and secluded paradise, Kea’au has something to offer everyone. So, join me on a journey to discover the enchanting beauty of Kea’au and all that it has to offer.
Location and Geography of Kea’au
Kea’au is a census-designated place located on the east side of the island of Hawaii, in the United States. It covers a total area of 2.5 square miles and has a population of 1,195, according to the latest census. The community is situated between Hilo and Pahoa, with Hilo located 8 miles to the north. The junction of Hawaii Belt Road and Keaau-Pahoa Road is situated in the northern part of the community. The population of Kea’au decreased by 12.1% from 2,253 at the previous census. The community is bordered to the southwest by Mountain View. The officially designated name for the populated place is Kea’au, and it was recognized as such in 2003.
History of Kea’au
Keaʻau is a district in Puna, Hawaii, that was formerly a part of the Olaʻa sugar plantation. The original name of Kea’au was ‘Ōla‘a, which is where the Ola’a Sugar Company got its name. This district is known for its unique history, which dates back to the early 19th century. Olaʻa, which was formerly called Laʻa, was a legendary area for collecting bird feathers. Later on, it became known for its vast forest lands that were home to a variety of trees and plants, including the ʻohiʻa and koa trees, as well as the hapuʻu tree fern.
At the Mahele (the land redistribution proposed by King Kamehameha III), Olaʻa was retained by the Crown and was described as a very large land cut off from the sea by Keaʻau. Keaʻau is the northernmost of around 50 ahupuaʻa (the Hawaiian term for a large traditional socioeconomic, geologic, and climatic subdivision of land) found in the district of Puna and extends from the ocean fishery some 26 miles inland and reaches an elevation of about 3900 feet. Keaʻau was also formerly a part of the Olaʻa Sugar Company, which played a significant role in the economic development of the region in the early 19th century.
The Ola’a Sugar Company
The Olaʻa Sugar Company was founded in 1899 by Harry A. Baldwin, who later became governor of the Territory of Hawaii. The company’s headquarters were in Hilo, Hawaii, and it was one of the largest producers of sugar in the state during its time. The plantation was situated on around 44,000 acres of land that was leased from the Hawaiian government. It had a workforce of around 4,000, most of whom were Japanese and Filipino immigrants.
The Olaʻa Sugar Company had its own hospital, infirmary, and doctor’s offices, and also provided housing, schools, and recreational facilities for its workers. The sugar plantation era ended in Hawaii in the late 20th century, and the Olaʻa Sugar Company ceased operations in 1994. Despite this, the legacy of the sugar industry remains an important part of Keaʻau’s history and cultural heritage.
Population and Demographics of Kea’au
Keaau is a small town in Hawaii, USA with a population of 1188. The town has a median age of 49.5, and there are slightly more females than males. The majority of the population in Keaau are US-born citizens, and there are also non-US-born citizens and non-citizens residing in the town. Approximately 40.69% of the population have high school diplomas, while 16.8% have a bachelor’s degree. The top three means of transportation used by people in Keaau to get to work are cars, buses or trolley buses, and walking. The average annual household income in Keaau is $82,164, and the median annual household income is $75,756.
In Keaau, there are 395 households, which consist of around three members each. Family establishments represent the majority of these households. White-collar workers make up 58.74% of the working population, while blue-collar employees account for 41.26%. The town has a low poverty rate of 16.48%. Of the 395 occupied housing units, 71.39% are owner-occupied and 28.61% have renters living in them. The median rental cost and the median house value are yet to be determined.
The highest rate of high school graduation is among White people, while the highest rate of bachelor’s degrees is also among White people. The largest group in Keaau that speaks a non-English language is Asian and Pacific Island languages. The race most likely to be in poverty in Keaau is Hispanic, while the race least likely to be in poverty is Multiple. A total of 72.97% of residents in Keaau were born in the United States, and the largest percentage of those not born in the United States are from Asia. Keaau has a declining population rate, but is a beautiful place to live.
Transportation in Kea’au
Kea’au has a limited transportation system. The main mode of transportation is personal vehicles, as there are few public transportation options available. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in the area. However, the cost of these services can be quite expensive for frequent travel.
For those who prefer to walk, the village has sidewalks along the main road. This is a good way to explore the village and its surrounding areas. Moreover, biking is popular in the area, and bicycle rental services are present, making it a convenient transportation option for tourists. It is important to note that traffic in Kea’au can be congested during peak hours, so planning ahead is recommended.
Attractions in Kea’au
Kea’au offers several exciting attractions. One of the most popular among them is the Pacific Floral Exchange. Spread across an expansive 20-hectare greenhouse, this exchange boasts an impressive collection of flora and fauna from around the world. Visitors can explore the stunning botanic garden and admire the beautiful plants, flowers, and trees that bloom there. The Pacific Floral Exchange is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a serene and peaceful environment.
Another popular attraction in Kea’au is the Hi’iaka Healing Herb Garden. This garden, located within the town’s borders, is known for its medicinal herbs and plants that have been used for centuries for their healing properties. With a myriad of unique plant species and an expert guide to lead the way, visitors can experience the garden’s calming and therapeutic atmosphere firsthand. The Hi’iaka Healing Herb Garden offers a memorable and educational experience for people of all ages.
Together, these two attractions provide visitors with a glimpse into the natural beauty and abundant flora of Kea’au. The Pacific Floral Exchange and Hi’iaka Healing Herb Garden are highly recommended for those looking to spend a peaceful and fulfilling day amidst nature. The tranquil ambiance, pleasant weather, and diverse species of flora and fauna make Kea’au a must-visit destination for all nature enthusiasts.
Surrounding Natural Features
Kea’au is a town surrounded by natural features that make it an excellent destination for travelers seeking adventure. One of the surrounding natural features is the Ohia forest, known for its towering tree ferns, native Ohia, and wild ginger that grow in abundance. The forest is the perfect place to explore and connect with the beauty of nature. The town is also home to black-sand beaches, one of its main attractions. The beaches are stunning and offer a unique experience to visitors. They were formed because of the volcanic eruption that took place on the Kilauea Volcano.
The black sand beaches are rich in basalt, making them genuine black sand beaches. One of the most popular black sand beaches in Keaau is Punalu’u Beach, located between Pahala and Na’a’ehu. The beach is home to endangered green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, camping, and picnicking, with lifeguards present to ensure safe activities. The beach is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with facilities such as restrooms, parking spaces, showers, picnic grounds, and boat ramps available.
Apart from Punaluu Beach, Keaau is also home to other black sand beaches such as Pohoiki Beach, which was formed by lava from the Kilauea Volcano, and Isaac Hale Beach Park Black Sand Beach. Visitors to these beaches can enjoy scenic walks, take in the breathtaking views, and explore the surrounding areas. However, swimming and snorkeling are not advisable due to the strong currents that can be present. Restrooms are available on the beaches, and visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Kehena Beach and waterfalls in botanical gardens.
Kea’au as a Bedroom Community for Hilo’s Workforce
Many residents of Kea’au commute to Hilo for work since it is the closest major city. Living in Kea’au gives residents the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, which are the two largest volcanoes on the island.
Kea’au also has access to essential services such as a shopping complex, banking, health clinics, police and fire stations. The County of Hawaii’s Coordinated Services senior community center is also located within the vicinity, providing support for seniors who need assistance with various daily activities. All of these amenities make Kea’au an ideal place for seniors who want to enjoy their golden years in a peaceful and supportive environment.
Many young families also call Kea’au their home due to low housing costs and a safe environment. This town is considered to be a tight-knit community that provides a nurturing and supportive environment for families. The town’s schools are also highly regarded, with many students consistently achieving academic excellence.
Despite its distance from Hilo, Kea’au is still connected to the rest of the island via public transportation services. The Hele-On bus system provides regular transportation to and from Hilo, making it easier for residents to access various city amenities and services. The bus system also connects Kea’au with other towns and cities on the island, making it easier for residents to travel across the island.
Housing and Cost of Living in Kea’au
Kea’au is a beautiful place to reside in, located in Hawaii. However, the cost of living in Kea’au is relatively high, with housing expenses that are 47% higher than the national average. This cost variation is dependent on different factors, including average salary in one’s career, location, and the real estate market in the area.
In addition to housing, utilities in Kea’au are 112% higher than the national average, while transportation expenses like bus fares and gasoline prices are 51% higher. Grocery prices are also significantly higher, with prices being 52% higher than the national average. Healthcare services are 19% higher than the national average. These expenses usually take up a large percentage of one’s budget, so it’s crucial to be aware of the cost of living in Kea’au when budgeting for expenditure.
About half of the Kea’au population owns their home, while the rest rent. The average cost of a single-family home is relatively high, which means that purchasing a home may require financial planning. State income tax rates, average housing rental prices, average property values, and cost of living indexes also play a significant role in making Kea’au a relatively costly city to live in.
Despite the high cost of living in Kea’au, it is a city with many benefits. The weather is pleasant, with many days having temperatures ranging from 50-90 F. The city is also ideal if you’re considering working remotely or looking for an affordable, U.S. city with outstanding education.
Traffic and Commuting in Kea’au
Residents and visitors in Kea’au, Hawaii are likely to experience varying traffic conditions as they commute in and around the area. Local traffic updates and real-time road information are available through different sources online. However, road closures, accidents, or construction may still affect traffic flow even if traffic monitors do not show it on the map. Drivers are encouraged to be cautious and considerate on the roads, and helpful in reporting road conditions to assist other drivers.
While traffic flow may differ from day to day, some common traffic issues in Kea’au include congestion, delays, and occasional accidents. Drivers may also encounter smoke or other weather-related alerts. Motorists are advised to stay alert and keep a safe distance to avoid accidents or collisions.
Kea’au’s traffic condition may also be impacted by natural events such as volcanic activities or hurricanes. In case of extreme weather conditions or road closures, drivers are advised to stay informed by watching local news updates and advisories.
For visitors and tourists renting a vehicle in Kea’au, it is essential to be mindful of the local traffic regulations and driving customs. Seat belts should be worn at all times, and speed limits must be obeyed. Additionally, drivers should be aware of specific road conditions, such as narrow roads and potholes, along with possible hazards, such as wildlife crossing.
Future Development and Growth of Kea’au
Kea’au is set to see substantial development in the coming years as a nearly $100 million plan to add nearly 1,000 residential units and commercial development to vacant lands in and around Keaau has been approved. The first phase of the project would construct a wastewater treatment plant, a commercial center, and add residential lots to several parcels of land. The project aims to create a “walkable transit-friendly regional town center concept” and could double Keaau’s population by adding approximately 940 residential units over the next 10 to 15 years. Though estimated to cost nearly $100 million, construction is still several years away as the project needs to go through rezoning, subdivision, and permitting processes.
The proposed development will take place in two phases and is expected to take 10 to 20 years to complete. While the first phase focuses on immediate development, the second phase will infill vacant lands throughout the village with additional residential units. The project is estimated to cost around $92 million, with approximately $40 million earmarked for the first phase. However, the cost estimates could be subject to change between now and when construction begins.
The development project is expected to add 470 new residential units, with 37.5 acres of commercial land in the first phase and 1.5 acres in the second. Both phases aim to improve existing parts of the town by extending pedestrian and bike infrastructure as well as neighborhood parks. A traffic impact report conducted for the area projected that surrounding infrastructure will continue to operate at “acceptable levels of service” if the project goes forward, so long as mitigation measures are implemented.
Conclusion
The advantage of Keaau is its proximity to the ocean, its favorable climate, and the fact that it is just a short distance to nearby Hilo’s shopping and university districts, while the towns of Keaau and Pahoa are also nearby. With a climate ideal for growing tropical fruits and plants, this area is known for an ideal blend of sunshine and showers. Additionally, with its access to the Hui Hanalike Beach park and the beautiful Shipman beach hike, Keaau is a prime location for those looking for an active lifestyle involving outdoor recreation.
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