Laie

Laie is a coastal community and census-designated place in Honolulu County, Hawaii, United States, on the island of Oahu. It lies on the windward side of the island, along the Kamehameha Highway, and is home to several nationally known institutions as well as scenic oceanfront areas. The area features a mix of residential neighborhoods, educational campuses, and cultural attractions that draw visitors from Hawaii and beyond.

History and institutions play a central role in Laie. The community has long been associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), and the Laie Hawaii Temple, dedicated in 1919, remains a landmark in the area. In 1955, Brigham Young University–Hawaii opened on the Laie campus as a church-sponsored institution, attracting students from around the world. The Polynesian Cultural Center, opened in 1963 nearby, presents performances and exhibits highlighting Pacific Island cultures and is a major local and regional attraction.

Geography and notable sites contribute to Laie’s identity. Hukilau Beach provides coastal recreation, while Laie Point offers scenic ocean views from a rocky headland. The town’s landscape includes a combination of shorelines, volcanic outcrops, and nearby hills, with a tropical climate typical of the region.

Demographics and governance: Laie is an unincorporated community within Honolulu County and is designated for statistical purposes as a CDP. Population figures are in the low thousands, reflecting a small, residential community that centers around educational and cultural institutions.

Economy and culture: The local economy is driven largely by education, tourism, and religious and cultural activities associated with BYU–Hawaii, the LDS Church facilities, and the Polynesian Cultural Center. The area emphasizes preserving its cultural landscape while serving residents, students, and visitors.