Ka'a'awa
Ka'a'awa is a small coastal town on Oahu's scenic windward shore, known for its tranquil beaches, dramatic mountain backdrop, and the lush Ka'a'awa Valley - home to Kualoa Ranch and famous movie filming locations. Its name, meaning “the yellow wrasse fish,” reflects the area's connection to Hawaiian marine life. Ka'a'awa offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty and local culture.
Ka'a'awa, Oahu
Ka'a'awa is a small town on Oahu's windward (eastern) coast in the district of Koolauloa. Foreigners often times stumble over the town's name and think it may be misspelt because it has three vowels in a row. In the Hawaiian language, it is written Ka'a'awa. Each one of the "a" vowels is pronounced separately and distinctly. That's why it is set apart by the two okina in the middle, the little hooks that look like apostrophes. They are actually a letter in the Hawaiian language, meaning that the vowels have to be emphasized while pronouncing the word. "Ka'a'awa" means "the yellow wrasse fish" in Hawaiian. These yellow wrasse fish, 'a'awa, are common reef fish in Hawaii.
Ka'a'awa is north of Kaneohe Bay, located right on the ocean. Its shore is fronted by a broad fringing reef with a narrow beach (Ka'a'awa Beach Park) that's perfect for long strolls. Swanzy Beach Park is located just to the north. Kamehameha Highway (Route 83), the highway that goes around the island, passes right through the town. A long valley, the Ka'a'awa Valley, extends inland and is part of Kualoa Ranch. Here, various Oahu tourist activities, such as horseback rides, ATV rides and movie tours are being offered. Many popular Hollywood movies have been filmed in this valley, including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, 50 First Dates and Pearl Harbor.
Key Features of Ka'a'awa
- Windward coast town: Located north of Kaneohe Bay, fronted by a narrow reef-lined beach ideal for strolls and sunrise views.
- Ka'a'awa Valley: A dramatic inland valley offering movie tours, horseback rides, and ATV adventures at Kualoa Ranch.
- Hollywood film site: The valley has been featured in blockbusters like Jurassic Park, Godzilla, and Pearl Harbor.
- Authentic Hawaiian pronunciation: The town's name features two 'okina and is pronounced with each “a” vowel distinct.
- Population: 1,421 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96730
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Frequently Asked Questions
What movies were filmed in Ka'a'awa?
Many films were shot in Ka'a'awa Valley, including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, 50 First Dates, and Pearl Harbor.
What is Kualoa Ranch?
Kualoa Ranch is a popular activity destination in Ka'a'awa offering ATV tours, horseback riding, ziplining, and film location tours.
Is Ka'a'awa Beach good for swimming?
Ka'a'awa Beach is more suitable for walking and relaxing due to its shallow reef and limited swimming area.
Where is Ka'a'awa located?
Ka'a'awa is on Oahu's windward (east) coast, just north of Kaneohe Bay along Kamehameha Highway.
How do you pronounce Ka'a'awa?
The town name is pronounced with a glottal stop at each 'okina: "Ka-ah-ah-va", with emphasis on each vowel.