Waimea Real Estate

Waimea (also known as Kamuela) is an upland community in the northern portion of West Hawaii at an elevation of approximately 2,600 feet with much more temperate climate than at the resorts along the coast, although the drive from the coast is only about 10 miles.  Waimea, with a population of about 10,000, boasts the headquarters of some of the astronomical observatories operating telescopes on the summit of Mauna Kea, as well as two internationally known private schools and the North Hawaii Community Hospital.  Waimea is also the heart of the ranching and agricultural activities on the Big Island.  As a result, Waimea has a diverse and highly-educated population.  The name Waimea means reddish water. 

Waimea is the center of “Paniolo Country”, the Big Island’s ranching activities and Hawaiian cowboy culture. The Parker Ranch in and around Waimea is the largest privately-owned cattle ranch in the United States, and the annual Fourth of July rodeo is a major event.  The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, held annually in February, has recently become another major event of the town.  In the center of town are several noted galleries featuring Hawaiian art. 

Waimea is home to the headquarters of two major observatories located on Mauna Kea, the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope. It is also headquarters of the International Lunar Observatory Association. 

Waimea also is the home of Hawaii Preparatory Academy and Parker School, two of the top independent schools in Hawaii.  Hawaii Preparatory Academy draws international boarding students from around the world. 

Because of the massive Mauna Kea volcano, which disrupts the prevailing winds of the northern part of the Big Island, Waimea has “wet side” to the east and a “dry side” to the west, with the dividing line roughly in the center of town.  The wet side boasts 60 or more inches of annual rainfall, while the dry side receives less than 20 inches.