At the higher elevations (over 2000 ft above sea level) on the Big Island daytime temperatures average in the low 70s. Those of us who live upcountry feel really fortunate when we hear relatives and friends complaining of the unbearably hot summer weather in various parts of the mainland. Even Honolulu residents love to visit Waimea, Volcano, and mauka areas of Hamakua for a respite, and many choose these areas for their retirement. If we have a rainy stretch (and we do get clouds and rain at the higher elevations), we can always go to the beach for a few hours. We’re always glad to get back to our cool air and green surroundings.
Here are a few properties where you, too, can escape the heat:
- WAIMEA IN-TOWN ACREAGE! Walk to the park, school, theater & shopping from this charming kama’aina cottage on 2.57 secluded acres of trees & flowering shrubs. $1,250,000, MLS#214955
- WAIMEA OFFICE CONDO right up the street from Merriman’s restaurant is the perfect location for a small business. $79,000, MLS#223368
- WAIMEA ACRE with intermittent stream, view of Mauna Kea, $340,000, MLS#220695
- WAIMEA HORSE PROPERTY 5 level acres minutes from town with Mauna Kea view $675,000, MLS#218689
- ARTIST’S DELIGHT Enjoy the rustic charm and personality of a spacious home with craftsman windows & fireplace, custom tile, and hobby room on 2.65 acres (CPR) in upcountry Paauilo. $675,000, MLS#225244
- BRING THE HORSES to 6.66 acres of lush green pasture in upcountry Paauilo. For you, there’s a nearly new 3BD/2BA home with wood floors, country kitchen, and custom woodwork. $599,950, MLS#220836
- POHAKEA RANCH Live your ranch dream on 86 acres of rolling green hills only 30 min. from Waimea. Entertain in style in a ranch home with 3 fireplaces, bar, wine cellar, chef’s kitchen, and spa. Separate guest house, too. Ag-5 zoning offers many possibilities. $3,900,000, MLS#224058
It has been a hot summer, phew! In the days way back, many local folks lived upcountry in cool areas but had tiny cottages down by the beach so they could have fun in the sun and then go home and “cool off” or opposite. When it rained for days, they could go down to the beach and “dry out” before going back up to cool country. Just think, living on an island like this, that transition can be accomplised within 10 to 30 minutes depending on where you live. Now that is very cool.