Opposite to the Honolulu traffic and congestion, Haleiwa Town on the North Shore of Oahu provides a relaxed country ambiance to residents, tourists and students of BYU Hawaii. Although it has grown since it’s beginning, it still has the country feel that many imagine when picturing Hawaii life. First settled by Hawaiians in 1100 and then by westerner Benjamin J. Dillingham in 1898, the area has always been fertile for agriculture, especially sugar plantations. Because of this, jobs were created for people all over the world. As hawaiistateinfo.com states, “The diverse ancestry of [Haleiwa’s] cultural heritage is the result of the people from foreign land swarming the island’s shores because of the promise of good jobs at plantations and refineries.” A hotel was soon built after Dillingham’s arrival called Haleiwa, eventually becoming the town’s name. The website gonorthshore.org says, “At the turn of the century, a round-trip, two-day excursion by train from Honolulu to Haleiwa costs $10. It included an overnight stay at the Hale’iwa Hotel and a trip through Waialua sugar mill.” Although the hotel is not present anymore, the town has plenty to offer. Boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries entice visitors and residents alike to enjoy a night of art, culture, and a good time. New establishments are being built and renovations are currently underway. BYUH alumna, Keryna Monson, said, “There always seems to be construction in Haleiwa which is a good sign to me because it means they keep improving it.” Even in the short two years she has been on the island she has seen advancements, said Monson. “A lot of the eateries and shops now have wifi and take debit and credit cards which make things a lot easier for me. I don’t have to worry about getting cash out or paying someone back,” she said. Local residents and community members love the town but are concerned with how much the town is growing. Born and raised Haleiwa resident and Matsumoto employee Kilen Iona said, “It hasn’t always been this crowded. When I was younger and in high school, my friends and I would go to the park on Friday nights and then come and walk around town. Now there are a lot more tourists around. But it’s okay, it keeps me busy at work.” Even after continued expansion, Haleiwa is firmly grounded in its history and is looking towards a bright future.
Writer: Lauren Steimle ~ Multimedia Journalist
