Wahiawa
Wahiawa is a central O'ahu town nestled between the Wai'anae and Ko'olau mountain ranges, surrounded on three sides by Lake Wilson. Known for its proximity to military bases and agricultural lands, Wahiawa offers unique attractions like the Dole Plantation, botanical gardens, and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites.
Wahiawa, Oahu
Wahiawa is located in the center of Oahu, 4 miles (6.4 km) north of Mililani and about 20 miles (32 km) north of downtown Honolulu. It is situated in the island's central valley between the two mountain ranges that make up the island (Wai'anae Mountains and Ko'olau Mountains). What's unique about Wahiawa is that it is surrounded on three sides by Lake Wilson, also known as the Wahiawa Reservoir or Kaukonahua. Lakes and reservoirs are rare in Hawaii. To reach Wahiawa, one must drive over one of two bridges on Kamehameha Highway.
Wahiawa is surrounded by agricultural fields and military bases, including Schofield Barracks, Wheeler Army Airfield and East Range. Located in Wahiawa is also the U.S. Navy's Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific. The southern portion of Wahiawa is increasingly becoming more urbanized as more and more houses are being developed. "Downtown" Wahiawa is not really a tourist town. Mostly people affiliated with the military live here, and Wahiawa also has a large Filipino population. The main road that runs through town is lined with burger joints, cheap bars, used car dealers and tattoo parlors.
One popular visitor attraction just outside of Wahiawa is the Dole Plantation. Here visitors can see how pineapples grow and other tropical fruits, such as papaya, mango and lychee. They have a nice botanical garden that also features many colorful flowers. Visitors can also hop on the Pineapple Express, a small train that takes people on a narrated ride through the pineapple fields. They also have a huge maze where people can walk through. In fact, it is the world's largest, according to the Guinness Book or World Records 2001. Two other places that warrant a visit in and around Wahiawa are the Wahiawa Botanical Garden featuring many native and naturalized Hawaiian plants and the Kukaniloko Birthing Stones, an ancient Hawaiian site.
In the Hawaiian language, "wahi a wa" means "place of noise." The name may refer to the heavy surf on the distant coast that could be heard here in the past, when the island wasn't developed yet.
Key Features of Wahiawa
- Unique lake geography: Wahiawa is encircled on three sides by Lake Wilson (Wahiawa Reservoir), a rare freshwater lake in Hawaii.
- Military and agricultural hub: Surrounded by Schofield Barracks, Wheeler Army Airfield, and farmland in central O'ahu.
- Popular attractions nearby: Dole Plantation with pineapple fields, train rides, gardens, and the world's largest maze.
- Botanical and cultural landmarks: Features Wahiawa Botanical Garden and the sacred Kukaniloko Birthing Stones.
- Population: 18,658 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96786
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wahiawa unique on O'ahu?
Wahiawa is one of the few inland towns in Hawaii and is nearly surrounded by Lake Wilson. It also lies between two mountain ranges and serves as a hub for agriculture and military operations.
Is the Dole Plantation located in Wahiawa?
Yes, the Dole Plantation is just outside of Wahiawa and offers family-friendly attractions such as a pineapple garden maze, train tours, and a gift shop with fresh pineapples and treats.
What can visitors see at Wahiawa Botanical Garden?
The garden showcases native and introduced tropical plant species, including ferns, orchids, and towering trees in a lush gulch setting. It's peaceful and free to enter.
What is the significance of the Kukaniloko Birthing Stones?
Kukaniloko is an ancient Hawaiian site where royal births were conducted. It holds deep cultural and spiritual significance and is one of the most sacred places on O'ahu.