Information

Welcome to Waimea Center

Waimea Center features stores that sell local and interesting products, and eateries that serve international flavors and cuisine. Locals and tourists alike find the perfect gift or memento at these quality stores. You will find groceries, beach wear, fine bakery goods and great restaurants. Everything you need and more awaits you at the Waimea Center in Kamuela.  Also, be sure to visit the historic Spencer House which welcomes visitors to Kamuela with a welcome center, information and gifts and stop by the famous statue known as the Waimea Cowboy.

Historic Spencer House

Built in the 1840’s, is a landmark with a history as rich as the town that grew up around it. The house, Waimea’s oldest, was the home of an important island family, a hotel, possibly a courthouse, a general store and popular commercial center with a small memorable restaurant.

Historic Spencer House, where Waimea was born, now has a new role to play as we look to the future. We’re a Welcome Center for both residents and visitors which will engage and tell all who stop by the tales of Waimea’s past, projects of the present, and plans for the future. It also has houses several businesses including Calabash Collectibles.

Paniolo Boot

In July 1908, The Cheyenne, Wyoming (“Waiomina” in the Hawaiian language), Frontier Days Rodeo, then in its eleventh year of existence, was known as the greatest and grandest western rodeo.  A winner in the Cheyenne competition was acknowledged in American ranching circles as a true champion.  In 1908, Eben Low, a Hawaii rancher, picked three of the best Hawaiian cowboy ropers, known as paniolo that he could find and entered them in the rodeo at Cheyenne.  They took first, third, and sixth places in steer roping, and the cowboy world on the continental United States was stunned.  

This commemorative boot is symbolic of the 1908 victory of four Waimea paniolo who reigned as World Champion steer ropes in the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo in Wyoming. 

Statue of a paniolo, a Hawaiian cowboy, at Waimea Center

Since Waimea Center opened in 1989, the statue known as the Waimea Cowboy has welcomed visitors with island aloha.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click Here to view frequently asked questions