Hauula

Hauula is a quiet northeastern Oahu community in Koolauloa, known for mountain views, rural homes, nearby beach parks and easy access to Laie, Kahuku and Kahana Bay.

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Hauula

Hau'ula, Oahu

Hau'ula is a small town located on Oahu's northeastern shore, about 30 miles (48 km) north of Honolulu. There is a small commercial center, with a few shops and a supermarket in the town's center. Hau'ula Beach Park is a popular gathering and camping place among local residents, especially during weekends. A fringing reef extends off the shoreline.

In the Hawaiian language, hau'ula means “red hau” (hau is a type of tree, the Hibiscus tiliaceus). In the past, sugarcane was grown in the area around Hau'ula, along the narrow coastal plain inland from the highway.

Key Features

Quiet northeastern Oahu community in the Koolauloa District
Located along Kamehameha Highway between Laie and Kaaawa
Known for Koolau mountain views and windward shore scenery
Beach parks and shoreline access sit close to residential areas
Nearby places: Laie, Kahuku, Kahana Bay and Kaneohe
Drive times can change with weekend beach traffic and weather
Most visitor services are in nearby windward and North Shore towns
Population: 4,018 at the 2020 Census
ZIP code: 96717

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hauula mean?

The name is often connected with the Hawaiian words for red hau, a coastal plant. Like many Oahu place names, it reflects local landscape and plant life.

What makes Hauula different from Laie?

Hauula is more residential and rural, while Laie has Brigham Young University-Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Center and more visitor traffic.

Why is Hauula connected with the Koolau mountains?

The town sits at the base of the Koolau range, where steep green ridges and narrow valleys shape the view from many roads and neighborhoods.

How far is Hauula from Honolulu?

The drive from Honolulu can take about an hour or more, depending on traffic, weather and whether you travel by the windward side or through central Oahu.

What should photographers look for in Hauula?

Look for mountain ridgelines behind the town, ironwood-fringed beaches, morning light on the windward shore and roadside views along Kamehameha Highway.