List of Counties in Hawaii
Hawaii has 5 counties, each encompassing entire islands or groups of islands. The counties are Honolulu County (Oahu), Hawaii County (the Big Island), Maui County (Maui, Molokai, and Lanai), Kauai County (Kauai and Niihau), and Kalawao County (a very small county with a limited population). Honolulu County is by far the largest in terms of population, as it includes Honolulu, the state capital, and the vast majority of Hawaii’s residents. The other counties are more rural and include popular tourist destinations like Maui and the Big Island.
List of All Counties in Hawaii
- Hawaii County, HI
- Honolulu County, Hawaii
- Kalawao County, Hawaii
- Kauai County, Hawaii
- Maui County, Hawaii
1. Hawaii County (Big Island)
Overview
Hawaii County, commonly known as the Big Island, is the largest county in the state of Hawaii by land area, encompassing the entire island of Hawaii. Located at the southeastern end of the Hawaiian archipelago, it is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on all sides. The county is known for its diverse geography, which includes active volcanoes such as Kilauea and Mauna Loa, lush rainforests, arid deserts, and scenic beaches. The county seat is Hilo, a historic town that serves as a cultural and economic hub. The Big Island’s economy is based on tourism, agriculture (including coffee and macadamia nuts), and astronomy, with observatories situated on Mauna Kea. Hawaii County was established in 1905, and its rich history includes ancient Hawaiian settlements, European exploration, and sugar plantation agriculture.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 206,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Hilo
- Major Airports: Hilo International Airport, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport
- Major Highways: Hawaii Belt Road (Highways 11, 19, and 190), Saddle Road (Highway 200)
2. Maui County
Overview
Maui County includes the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and the uninhabited Kahoolawe. It is the second-largest county in Hawaii by land area, and Maui, the largest island in the county, is often referred to as the “Valley Isle” because of its scenic central valley between the West Maui Mountains and Haleakala. The county seat is Wailuku, located on the island of Maui. Maui County is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the scenic Hana Highway, Haleakala National Park, and world-famous beaches in places like Wailea and Kaanapali. The county’s economy relies heavily on tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy development. Sugarcane and pineapple farming were historically significant, though tourism has long since taken precedence. Established in 1905, Maui County has a rich cultural history rooted in ancient Hawaiian traditions and European influence.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 165,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Wailuku
- Major Airports: Kahului Airport, Molokai Airport, Lanai Airport
- Major Highways: Hana Highway (HI-36), Piilani Highway (HI-31), Honoapiilani Highway (HI-30)
3. Honolulu County (Oahu)
Overview
Honolulu County, which covers the entire island of Oahu, is the most populous county in Hawaii. It includes the state capital, Honolulu, which serves as both the county seat and the economic, cultural, and political heart of the state. The island of Oahu is often referred to as “The Gathering Place,” as it is home to nearly 70% of Hawaii’s total population. Honolulu County’s economy is driven by tourism, government services, defense (with major military bases such as Pearl Harbor), and finance. Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head are among its most iconic landmarks. The county’s history is significant, from ancient Hawaiian kingdoms to its role in World War II with the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Honolulu County was formally established in 1907 and has since developed into the primary gateway for visitors to Hawaii.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 1 million (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Honolulu
- Major Airports: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
- Major Highways: H-1, H-2, H-3, Pali Highway (HI-61), Kamehameha Highway (HI-83)
4. Kauai County
Overview
Kauai County comprises the islands of Kauai, Niihau, and several smaller, uninhabited islets. Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” because of its lush landscape, tropical rainforests, and dramatic cliffs, including the famous Na Pali Coast. It is the fourth-largest county in Hawaii by land area. The county seat is Lihue, located on the southeastern side of Kauai. The economy of Kauai County is largely dependent on tourism, with agriculture playing a secondary role, particularly in the cultivation of coffee, taro, and tropical fruits. Kauai County has a rich history, with ancient Hawaiian settlements and European exploration marking its early days. The island of Niihau, which is privately owned, is often referred to as the “Forbidden Isle” due to its limited access to the outside world. Kauai County was officially formed in 1905.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 73,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Lihue
- Major Airports: Lihue Airport
- Major Highways: Kaumualii Highway (HI-50), Kuhio Highway (HI-56)