If you’ve spent any time in Hanalei, you know it’s more than just a town; it’s a way of life. Here, a walk or bike ride can take you from home to the beach, with a stop for groceries, a coffee, or a visit with a neighbor along the way. Surrounded by mountain views and just steps from Hanalei Bay, this place moves at a pace that invites you to slow down and enjoy every part of the day.
That’s why the new pedestrian path now fronting 5-5455 Kuhio Hwy is such a great addition. It’s part of a larger effort to improve safety and accessibility—without sacrificing the rural character that makes Hanalei so special.
Part of a Larger Vision
This path is one component of the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation’s Princeville to Hanalei Resurfacing and Safety Improvements Project, scheduled for completion by March 2026. While the project focuses on improving safety for pedestrians, the Hanalei community worked to make sure upgrades stayed true to the natural beauty and simplicity it deserves.
Community-Led, Purposefully Designed
Thanks to the work of The Hanalei Initiative and the Hanalei to Ha‘ena Community Association, and their collaboration with the HDOT. Rather than a typical urban sidewalk, the path was designed to feel natural and unobtrusive with features such as:
- Earth-toned concrete to blend with the surrounding environment
- Ground-level construction to avoid a built-up or out-of-place appearance
- A winding layout that follows the natural curves of the road
- A grassy buffer between the path and roadway to maintain an open, rural feel
The result is a safe, walkable path that enhances daily life while staying true to the charm of Hanalei.
A True Collaboration
Private landowners along Kuhio Highway have played a key role in moving the project forward, enduring months of roadwork and disruption, many recognize the long-term value—especially for children walking or biking between school and town.
This is a true example of what’s possible when community voices are included in the decision-making process.
Why It Matters at 5-5455 Kuhio Hwy
MLS#: 710434 | 2 Bed 2 Baths | 775 sf | 0.27 acres
This new path adds daily convenience with a safe and enjoyable access to the heart of Hanalei. Whether you’re heading out for a morning surf check or walking to dinner, you can leave the car behind.
Living in Hanalei means having nearly everything you need within walking distance—beaches, stores, restaurants, exercise classes, beauty salons, the post office, elementary and preschools, the farmers market, churches, the board swap, and of course, my Hawai‘i Life office right in town.
If you’d like to learn more about this home or the changes happening in Hanalei, I’d be happy to connect.
