About Waimea ~ Big Island ~ Waimea Vacation Rentals
Waimea
Waimea Town (also known as Kamuela) is located upcountry at 2500 feet elevation. Luxury resorts, beaches and parks are a mere 20 minute drive. Hilo and Kona are each about a 45 minute drive. Waimea/Kamuela was recently named by Forbes Magazine as one of the best places to live in the United States. Even though the area is growing, the small town relaxed atmosphere still prevails.
Waimea is home to the world famous Parker Ranch, numerous delectable restaurants featuring fresh island cuisine and an excellent theater where Hawaii activities such as music, dance, hula and stage shows are performed. Temperature can vary widely from a rainy, foggy, 50 degrees to sunny 80 degree days where the hills sparkle and the breathtaking views of Mauna Kea can be seen throughout the town.
Headquarters for Keck and Canada-France-Hawaii Telescopes are in Waimea, with their observatories visible on the summit of Mauna Kea. 
There is a visitors center about mid way up Mauna Kea, via Saddle Road. Be careful, many car rentals restrict driving on Saddle Road.
