Best Cities and Towns to Retire in Hawaii

Once you retire, you can make more time to relax and unwind after years of hard work. Spending your retirement somewhere warm, picturesque, and tranquil is what many look to do, and where fits the bill better than Hawaii? Hawaii is one of the most scenic chains of islands on the planet, a stunningly beautiful place with year-round tropical heat, pristine beaches, and gorgeous forests and mountains.

The same things that make Hawaii such a popular tourist destination play a major role in making it one of the best places to retire in the country. There are no cold winters, tons of outdoor recreation opportunities, and a vibrant culture. Hawaii has many excellent options for retirees, let’s look at some of the best ones.

Kaneohe is a community in Oahu with a gorgeous mountainous backdrop and sandy beaches. While all of Hawaii is expensive, Kaneohe stands out as a more affordable option than some other cities in the area. Kaneohe is home to a mid-sized population of around 35,000. It is an easy drive to Honolulu, but the presence of the Ko’olau Mountains makes it feel isolated and immersed in nature.

Honolulu is Hawaii’s biggest city, a thriving urban environment that is the center of Oahu’s fine dining and shopping options. It has tons of natural beauty, including miles of sandy beaches, such as the famed Waikiki area. Honolulu also has excellent museums and galleries and is surrounded by premier golfing options. It is perfect for retirees looking to immerse themselves in the island’s culture and spend time in a busy city.

Lahaina is a community in West Maui that is a popular resort spot. There’s a good reason for that, as it has a scenic backdrop, high-end oceanfront dining options, and gorgeous beaches only a short drive away. Lahaina is surrounded by mountains and has excellent shopping options. It is a comfortable area with picturesque hiking trails. For retirees seeking a destination with an abundance of natural beauty, Lahaina is ideal for you.

Waianae is a community in Oahu with both the waters and mountains that Hawaii is famous for. The mountainous backdrop gives the area a dramatic setting, and the turquoise waters make it one of the most naturally beautiful places you’ll find. The waters of this area are bursting with life, including dolphins, whales, and other majestic aquatic creatures. It is also only a short drive from Honolulu.

Haleiwa is a quaint town that is located on Waialua Bay in Oahu. Haleiwa is a classic beach town with much to explore. The stunning beaches stand out here, where retirees can sit back and enjoy a cocktail as they take advantage of the Hawaii sun. It is a busy North Shore community with a laid-back surf town feel, but it also has delicious restaurants and pleasant shops.

Kihei is a community in Maui’s southwest region. This area of Maui is known as the sunniest, driest part of the island, so if you like the heat, this is the place to be. Kihei has miles of scenic beaches and a history as a vacation spot for Hawaiian royalty. Beyond the beaches, Kihei has scenic parks and forests with trails leading to waterfalls. Kihei is a dream retirement spot for those looking to hike in Hawaii’s lush landscape.

Wailuku is another city in Maui that is perfect for those that love a hike. It has some of Maui’s most beautiful trails and forests, with waterfalls, scenic views, and lush forests. It is a safe and quiet city with excellent shopping and dining options.

Hilo is a busy community on the Big Island that combines a vibrant town with abundant natural beauty. The town of Hilo has entertainment and dining options, and just outside its borders, you’ll find some of the best natural sites in the state. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has rainforests, while nearby Wailuku River State Park has the famed Rainbow Falls.