Waimea, Hawaii County, Hawaii
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| Waimea, Hawaii County, Hawaii | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name | Waimea |
| Settlement type | Census-designated place |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Hawaii |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Hawaii County |
| Unit pref | Imperial |
| Area total sq mi | 58.4 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 9855 |
| Population density sq mi | auto |
| Timezone | Hawaii-Aleutian (HAT) |
| Utc offset | -10 |
| Coordinates | 20, 1, 13, N... |
| Elevation ft | 2671 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 96743 |
| Area code | 808 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 15-79300 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0364593 |
Waimea, Hawaii County, Hawaii is a census-designated place in the South Kohala District on the Island of Hawaiʻi. Often called Kamuela to distinguish it from other Waimea locations in the state, it serves as a major commercial and paniolo (cowboy) cultural hub for the island's interior. The community is situated on the vast, rolling plains of the Waimea plateau, flanked by the Kohala Mountains and the slopes of Mauna Kea. It is home to significant institutions like the W. M. Keck Observatory headquarters and the North Hawaii Community Hospital.
History
The area was historically part of the ancient ahupuaʻa of Waimea, a land division that extended from the mountains to the sea. In the late 18th century, British explorer Captain James Cook made initial contact in the islands, and subsequent interactions with figures like George Vancouver introduced cattle to the region. The early 19th century saw the arrival of John Palmer Parker, who founded the Parker Ranch, one of the largest and oldest cattle ranches in the United States, fundamentally shaping the area's economy and paniolo culture. Missionaries, including those from the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, established a presence, with Lorenzo Lyons serving the Imiola Church. The 20th century brought further development with the construction of the Māmalahoa Highway and the establishment of military facilities like Camp Tarawa during World War II.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 58.4 square miles, all of it land. The town lies at an elevation of approximately 2,671 feet on the leeward side of the Island of Hawaiʻi. It is characterized by open grasslands and is bordered by the Kohala Mountains to the north and the massive shield volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to the south and east. The climate is significantly cooler and drier than the coastal areas, with frequent afternoon cloud cover. Major geographic features nearby include the Puu o Umi Natural Area Reserve and the headwaters of the Waikoloa Stream.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 9,855. The racial makeup is diverse, with significant Native Hawaiian, Asian, and White populations, reflecting the broader demographics of Hawaii. Many residents have multi-racial ancestry. The median household income is above the state average, partly due to employment in professional sectors like astronomy and healthcare. Educational attainment levels are also relatively high, with a significant portion of adults holding bachelor's degrees or higher.
Economy
The economy is anchored by a mix of ranching, astronomy, healthcare, and education. The historic Parker Ranch remains a major landowner and employer, operating a visitor center and managing extensive agricultural lands. The town is the administrative base for the astronomical observatories on Mauna Kea, including the W. M. Keck Observatory, the Subaru Telescope, and the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility. The North Hawaii Community Hospital, part of the Queen's Health Systems, is a critical healthcare provider. Retail and services cater to both residents and tourists traveling between the Kohala Coast resorts and inland attractions.
Culture and recreation
Waimea is renowned as the heart of Hawaii's paniolo (cowboy) culture, celebrated annually at the Parker Ranch Rodeo and the Fourth of July Great Waikoloa Horse Races. Cultural institutions include the Isaacs Art Center at the Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy and the Firehouse Gallery operated by the Waimea Arts Council. The Kahilu Theatre, founded by Aunty Dina Kageler, hosts performances by artists like Willie Nelson and the Honolulu Symphony. Outdoor recreation is centered on the slopes of Mauna Kea, offering stargazing, hunting, and hiking in areas like the Puʻu Huluhulu trail. Local cuisine features ranch-style fare and farmers' markets offering produce from the Hāmākua coast.
Notable people
Notable individuals associated with Waimea include ranching patriarch John Palmer Parker and his descendant Richard Smart, who expanded the cultural reach of the Parker Ranch. Astronomer Gerard Kuiper conducted early work here, while contemporary scientists like Andrea Ghez have used the W. M. Keck Observatory for research. Musician and educator Dina Kageler was instrumental in the local arts scene. Political figures such as former State Senator Malama Solomon have represented the area, and athletes like Pono Barnes have roots in the community.
Category:Census-designated places in Hawaii County, Hawaii Category:Populated places on the Island of Hawaii