If you try sending a letter by U.S. Mail to Waimea, chances are that it won't get there. That's because there are actually several cities on the islands in Hawaii named Waimea, and there's this pesky rule that there can only be one post office with the same name in a state. So if you try sending a letter to this Waimea on the big island, you'll have to address it to Kamuela instead.
Take a moment to build a mental picture of Hawaii
If you try sending a letter by U.S. Mail to Waimea, chances are that it won't get there. That's because there are actually several cities on the islands in Hawaii named Waimea, and there's this pesky rule that there can only be one post office with the same name in a state. So if you try sending a letter to this Waimea on the big island, you'll have to address it to Kamuela instead.
Take a moment to build a mental picture of Hawaii. Chances are you seeing nothing but bright blue water, sand and beautiful sunsets. You would also likely hear luau music and the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. Would you also think of cowboys? Well, the history of Waimea is rich with native and multi cultural traditions. Believed to once have supported thousands of original inhabitants, this island's Sandalwood forest soon became miles and miles of pasture. These pastures became the perfect grazing ground for the Californian longhorn cattle introduced to the land and attracting the attention of the cowboy otherwise known as the vaquero. It still manages to maintain that small wild western feel today. With a population of 9200, it provides a safe haven from urban life and offers a window to the past.
When trying to find apartments in Waimea, there are a few more factors to consider than you might normally. These factors are determined by whether or not you already live on or near the main Island of Hawaii. If you do not, you will want to consider how much it will cost you to not only move your belongings across the Pacific Ocean, but also your to fly yourself over. Outside of you befriending an old sea captain who happens to own a barge and is willing to do you a favor, moving to Hawaii can be quite pricey. Here are a few things to consider when you head out to find apartments:
The Continental Mover or the Local Relocation?
Shop around for different airfare prices and make sure that you compare prices for your belongings to be shipped to you. Remember: the first price you find is not always the best deal. Also, note that the cost-of-living can be different than what you're used to; make sure to include that in your budget before you move. Don't let this overwhelm you though; you are moving to paradise! Just make sure you research each company and crunch the numbers several times, and you will be fine. Pretty soon you will be soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach. If you're already on the island, however, you might want to consider a few other options. Be prepared to pack a lunch and take a day trip to survey your potential new studio apartment for rent, duplex for rent or whatever it is you might be looking for. No one wants to be promised a beach house and find it's just a lean-to on the sand! And if you've never been to Waimea, you should also make sure that you are looking at this residential area in Hawaii county and not the other two Waimeas in Kauai.
Sun or the Shade?
Remember that mental image I asked you to create earlier? We talked about the sun, the sand, ranches, cowboys, and cattle. If you are looking for a warm climate, those all seem to fit the bill pretty well. But what if that concerns you because you don't really dig the heat? Well, the beauty of Waimea, in part, is in its geographical diversity. Don't feel like having to do your chores around your hi rise apartment in tropical weather? Search for homes in higher elevations. Waimea's diverse landscape provides cooling mountain breezes at those higher elevations, but a quick 10-minute bicycle ride will get you to the beach and much warmer temperatures. And yes, if you're living here you should consider getting a bicycle. While some people have cars in Waimea, you will be just as likely to see someone pedaling leisurely to their destination. This makes sense because Waimea only covers about 38 square miles. Whether you want to drive or ride, it is nice to know that this community is situated well for either option.
Waimea is what is known as a CDP or a census designated place. This means that it is not officially considered a town; rather it is a grouping of homes combined for the census collection. As such, there are no established sub-communities within its boundaries. However, the locals have a saying that they are "lucky to live in Waimea". Most persons meet at the post office just to catch up on old times and to see a few familiar faces. If it sounds like this place is too good to be true, remember it is called paradise for a reason!
You probably don't need any reason to move to Waimea other than the fact that it is in Hawaii! But there are so many! Although it is small in size, this community is home to many shops as well as its renowned theater for the performing arts. Known as the Kahilu Theatre, this center is where both locals and professionals perform plays, music, dance, and a host of other creative arts. It is a community hub that is both regarded as a right and a privilege by all in Waimea. If you would rather spend your free time outside, you can take a nature walk through Waimea Canyon Park or be whisked away for the day by Liko Kauai Cruises. No matter what your preference, living in Waimea can make everyday seem like a vacation.
