Laupāhoehoe

Laupāhoehoe
Name	Laupāhoehoe
Settlement type	Census-designated place
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Hawaiʻi
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Hawaiʻi
Unit pref	Imperial
Area total sq mi	1.20
Area land sq mi	1.02
Area water sq mi	0.18
Population as of	2020
Population total	466
Population density sq mi	auto
Timezone	Hawaii-Aleutian (HAT)
Utc offset	-10
Coordinates	19, 58, 55, N...
Elevation ft	95
Postal code type	ZIP Code
Postal code	96764
Area code	808
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank info	15-43900
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Blank1 info	0361831

Laupāhoehoe is a small coastal community located on the island of Hawaiʻi within Hawaiʻi County. The name, translating to "smooth lava flat," aptly describes its geography, which is characterized by a prominent peninsula formed by ancient pāhoehoe lava flows into the Pacific Ocean. Historically a center for the sugar industry, the area is now known for its scenic beauty, significant historical events, and its role in local education and agriculture.

Geography and climate

Situated along the windward Hamakua Coast, Laupāhoehoe occupies a lush, verdant landscape marked by deep valleys and dramatic sea cliffs. The community is centered around Laupāhoehoe Point, a flat lava peninsula that extends into the ocean, offering views of the Kohala Mountains to the north and Mauna Kea to the south. The region experiences a tropical rainforest climate (Köppen *Af*), with substantial annual rainfall delivered by the northeasterly trade winds, supporting dense vegetation and numerous streams. This wet climate contrasts with the drier leeward regions of the Kona and Kohala districts, making the Hamakua Coast one of the island's most agriculturally productive areas.

History

The area was historically part of the ancient Hawaiian land division (*ahupuaʻa*) of Laupāhoehoe Nui, supporting settlements with fishing and taro cultivation. In the 19th century, it became a major hub for the Hawaiian Kingdom's burgeoning sugar industry, with operations managed by the Laupāhoehoe Sugar Company. A profound tragedy occurred on April 1, 1946, when the Aleutian Islands earthquake triggered a tsunami that devastated the point, sweeping away the schoolhouse and claiming 24 lives, including 20 students and teachers; a memorial now stands at the site. The decline of the sugar industry in the late 20th century led to a shift in the local economy towards diversified agriculture and tourism.

Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, the Laupāhoehoe census-designated place had a population of 466 residents. The demographic profile reflects the multicultural heritage of the Big Island, with a mix of Native Hawaiians, Asian Americans (including those of Japanese, Filipino, and Chinese descent), White Americans, and individuals of multiracial backgrounds. Population density is relatively low, with many residents living in single-family homes spread across the rural landscape. The community maintains strong social ties, often centered around the local school, church organizations, and historical associations.

Economy

The contemporary economy is primarily based on agriculture, small-scale retail, and services supporting the local community. Key agricultural activities include the cultivation of macadamia nuts, tropical fruits, vanilla, and coffee on former sugar lands. The Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park attracts visitors for its historical significance, fishing, and picnicking, contributing to a small tourism sector. Some residents commute to employment centers in Hilo, Waimea, or the resorts of the Kohala Coast. The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) facility, located to the south, also provides some regional employment in research and technology.

Education

Public education is served by Laupāhoehoe Community Public Charter School, which encompasses grades K-12 and is part of the Hawaii Department of Education. The school, located on the former site of the historic Laupāhoehoe School, has a strong focus on place-based and experiential learning, often incorporating the natural and cultural history of the Hamakua Coast into its curriculum. It functions as a central community hub, hosting events and gatherings. For higher education, students typically attend colleges such as the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Community College, or UH Mānoa.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with the area include Edwin H. Conger, a 19th-century diplomat and businessman involved with the Laupāhoehoe Sugar Company. More recently, the community has been home to educators, artists, and cultural practitioners who contribute to the preservation of Hawaiian language and traditions. While not a permanent resident, the renowned Hawaiian musician and kumu hula John K. Almeida had familial connections to the Hamakua region and performed songs referencing its landscapes.

Category:Census-designated places in Hawaii County, Hawaii Category:Populated places on the island of Hawaii