Kealia

Kealia is a census-designated place located in Kauai County, Hawaii, United States, near Kapaa, Lihue, and Wailua. It is situated on the eastern coast of Kauai, close to Waipouli, Kauai Community College, and Wilcox Memorial Hospital. The area is known for its natural beauty, with nearby attractions including Wailua River State Park, Fern Grotto, and Opaeka'a Falls. Residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and snorkeling at Lydgate Beach Park, Kamalani Bridge, and Sleeping Giant Trail.

Introduction

Kealia is a small community with a rich history and culture, influenced by its Native Hawaiian heritage and its location on the island of Kauai. The area is home to several historical sites, including the Kauai Museum, Wailua River, and Kilohana Estate, which showcase the island's history and traditions. Visitors can explore the local art scene at the Kauai Society of Artists, Kauai Arts Festival, and Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art. The community is also close to Kauai Community College, which offers a range of academic programs and cultural events, including the Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center.

Geography

Kealia is situated on the eastern coast of Kauai, near the Koolau Range and the Wailua River. The area is characterized by its lush tropical landscape, with nearby attractions including Waimea Canyon State Park, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Kokee State Park. The community is close to several beaches, including Lydgate Beach Park, Kamalani Bridge, and Hanalei Bay, which offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. The area is also home to several hiking trails, including the Sleeping Giant Trail, Kalepa Ridge Trail, and Waimea Canyon Trail, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

History

The history of Kealia dates back to the early days of Hawaiian settlement, with the area being an important location for Native Hawaiians. The community is close to several historical sites, including the Kauai Museum, Wailua River State Park, and Kilohana Estate, which showcase the island's history and traditions. The area was also influenced by the arrival of Captain James Cook, King Kamehameha I, and other European and American explorers, who introduced new technologies, customs, and beliefs to the islands. The community is also home to several historic churches, including the Kauai Christian Church, Lihue Lutheran Church, and St. Catherine Church, which reflect the island's diverse cultural heritage.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Kealia was approximately 1,500 people, with a diverse range of ages, ethnicities, and occupations. The community is home to several schools, including Kapaa High School, Kapaa Middle School, and Kealia Elementary School, which serve the local population. The area is also close to several healthcare facilities, including Wilcox Memorial Hospital, Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital, and Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, which provide medical services to the community. Residents and visitors can enjoy a range of cultural events and activities, including the Kauai Festival of the Arts, Kauai Film Festival, and Kauai Marathon.

Economy

The economy of Kealia is driven by a range of industries, including tourism, agriculture, and small business. The area is home to several hotels and resorts, including the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, Kauai Marriott Resort, and Ko'a Ke'e Beach Hotel, which cater to visitors from around the world. The community is also close to several shopping centers, including the Kukui Grove Shopping Center, Lihue Shopping Center, and Kapaa Shopping Center, which offer a range of goods and services. The area is also known for its local produce, with several farms and markets, including the Kauai Farmers Market, Kapaa Farmers Market, and Kilauea Farmers Market, which showcase the island's fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Transportation

Kealia is accessible by car, with several major roads, including Hawaii Route 56 and Hawaii Route 51, which connect the community to other parts of the island. The area is also close to Lihue Airport, which offers flights to Honolulu International Airport, Kahului Airport, and other destinations in Hawaii. The community is also served by several public transportation services, including the Kauai Bus, which provides routes to Kapaa, Lihue, and other parts of the island. Visitors can also rent cars, bicycles, or take taxis to get around the island, with several companies, including Avis Car Rental, Hertz Car Rental, and Kauai Taxi Company, offering their services. Category:Kauai