Information About Living in Koloa

Koloa, sometimes called Old Koloa Town or Homestead, is home for 2,000 residents, and was the site of the first sugar plantation in the Hawaiian Islands. Historically, King Kamehameha III portioned the land to agriculture that eventually was turned into sugar cane fields. However, the days of prosperous cane farming have since long past and the remains of the sugar mill along with a plaque to the workers is located across the street from the shops in downtown Koloa. Residents of real estate homes or condominiums in Koloa appreciate that the town has retained much of its old charm with the preservation of many plantation buildings in the area, allowing residents to live in a community reminiscent of relaxed and care free days of the past.

Koloa’s old-fashioned and history-filled storefronts provide a wonderful spectrum of special gifts and island souvenirs in addition to residential essentials such as grocery stores and clothing outfitters. The large monkey pod trees planted in the middle of Koloa are used as canopies during the lunch hour when many people east their shave ice and plate lunches under the trees. The Koloa History Center and Sugar Monument have effectively preserved Koloa’s sweet heritage.

The community also eagerly anticipates the annual Koloa Plantation Days Festival that features a parade, fair, music, games, and storytelling. Home to some of the oldest buildings in Hawaii, Koloa has captured the look and feel of Hawaiian towns from years ago. Available recreational activities include hiking, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, scuba diving, golf and more. Koloa is just minutes from Poipu Bay and Kiahuna golf courses, which are two of Hawaii's most beautiful golf courses. The Koloa Heritage Trail and local art galleries provide a rich history of the area. The ruins of the first sugar plantation in Hawaii are also located in town and available for exploration.