Haiku, Hawaii

Haiku, Hawaii. Located on the island of Maui, Haiku is a census-designated place that is situated near Paia, Makawao, and Hana. The area is known for its natural beauty, with nearby attractions including Haleakala National Park, Road to Hana, and Ho'okipa Beach Park. Haiku is also close to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, which features works by local artists such as Isami Kuniyuki and Reuben Nakian.

Geography

Haiku is situated in the northeastern part of Maui, near the Koolau Forest Reserve and the Puu Kukui Watershed. The area is surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and is close to the Hana Highway, which connects Haiku to other parts of the island, including Kahului and Lahaina. Nearby natural attractions include the Waihee Valley, Iao Valley State Park, and the Maalaea Bay. Haiku is also near the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium, which features marine life from the Pacific Ocean, including species found in the waters around Molokini Crater and Lanai.

History

The history of Haiku dates back to the early 20th century, when the area was a major producer of sugar cane and pineapples. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum in nearby Puunene showcases the history of the sugar industry in Maui, including the role of Haiku in the production of sugar. Haiku was also home to a number of Japanese American immigrants, who came to the area to work on the sugar plantations, including the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company. The area is also close to the Lahaina Historic Trail, which features historic sites such as the Lahaina Luau and the Banyan Tree Park.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Haiku was approximately 8,500 people, with a diverse mix of Native Hawaiians, Japanese Americans, and Caucasian Americans. The area is also home to a number of Filipino Americans, who came to Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations, including the Kahuku Sugar Mill and the Olowalu Sugar Company. Haiku is near the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center, which features a mix of local and international businesses, including Starbucks, Safeway, and Longs Drugs.

Economy

The economy of Haiku is driven by a mix of agriculture, tourism, and small businesses, including the Haiku Farmers Market, which features local produce and crafts. The area is also home to a number of bed and breakfast establishments, including the Haiku Plantation Inn and the Maui Bed and Breakfast. Haiku is near the Kahului Airport, which provides access to Honolulu, Oahu, and other parts of Hawaii, including Kauai and Big Island. The area is also close to the Maui Research and Technology Park, which is home to a number of high-tech companies, including Hawaii Pacific University and the Maui High Performance Computing Center.

Education

Haiku is served by the Maui County school system, which includes Haiku Elementary School and King Kekaulike High School. The area is also home to a number of private schools, including the Seabury Hall and the Maui Preparatory Academy. Haiku is near the University of Hawaii at Maui College, which offers a range of academic programs, including Hawaiian studies and sustainable agriculture. The area is also close to the Maui Community College, which provides training in areas such as nursing and culinary arts.

Infrastructure

Haiku is connected to other parts of Maui by the Hana Highway and the Kula Highway, which provide access to Kahului and Lahaina. The area is also served by the Maui Bus, which provides public transportation to other parts of the island, including Kihei and Wailea. Haiku is near the Kahului Harbor, which is a major shipping hub for Maui and provides access to Oahu and other parts of Hawaii. The area is also close to the Maui Electric Company, which provides electricity to Maui and is owned by Hawaiian Electric Industries. Category:Populated places in Hawaii