Hauula offers rural living on Hawaii’s North Shore
Situated on Oahu’s scenic North Shore, Hauula is where the Koolau Range mountains meet the Pacific coastline. Residents enjoy a small-town atmosphere with easy access to some of the island’s most popular outdoor destinations. Many homes are perched on low hills with views of the ocean below, while others are situated steps away from the beach. The community is just 3 miles south of Laie, a North Shore college town, and about 30 miles from the Hawaiian capital of Honolulu. “Hauula is a sleepy little beach town. It’s pretty rural, with one road in and one road out,” says Realtor Melissa Filek of Coldwell Banker Realty, who has sold more than two dozen homes in the community. “I love it because it’s so peaceful. You can spend a day at the beach without seeing anyone else.”
Wide variety of home styles with mountain or ocean views
Housing in Hauula ranges from modest cottages and bungalows to ranch-style homes and luxury estates near the waterfront. Many homes have wide balconies or large living room windows facing either the ocean or the steep, forested mountains rising over the western horizon. Lots in some areas are small, with room for gardens and light landscaping, while those farther from the shore have more room to roam. Prices range from around $600,000 to $1.5 million for older, smaller homes. Larger homes and luxury homes can sell for between $1.5 million and $3 million. Flooding can be an issue for homes on the waterfront, however, and some residents may need to purchase flood insurance. “We’ve had the road wash out a couple of times,” Filek says.
Hauula Loop Trail and beach parks are close to home
Swimming, fishing and hiking are among the many outdoor options available for Hauula residents. The weather is typically warm, sunny and breezy all year round, with winter swells bringing massive waves to the North Shore. Residents are just a short walk or drive from local beaches like Hauula Beach Park, Kapalaoa Beach or Makao Beach. “The beaches have white sand, and they’re really uncrowded compared to other parts of the island,” Filek says. There’s also Hauula Community Park, which has a playground and ball fields. The Hauula Loop Trail is about a 3-mile hike with mountain and ocean views. The Polynesian Cultural Center is in Laie, just a short drive north. One of the island’s biggest tourist attractions, it features eight tropical villages that replicate what life was like on Hawaii when it was inhabited only by Native Hawaiians.
Kahuku High is known for sports and extracurricular activities
Students start at Hauula Elementary School, which serves kindergarten through sixth grade and earn a C-plus from Niche. The next step is Kahuku High & Intermediate School, which serves seventh through 12th grade and is rated B-plus. Kahuku High & Intermediate is well known for its extracurriculars, including a championship-winning football team. Those looking for an alternative to public school might consider the Asia Pacific International School in Hauula. It’s a Christian school that serves kindergarten through 12th grade and earns an A-plus rating from Niche.
Papa Ole’s and North Shore Tacos are local favorites
Hauula Kai Shopping Center is the town’s primary shopping destination. It’s home to Papa Ole’s Kitchen, a long-running mom and pop diner that serves hearty plates of Hawaiian fare, and North Shore Tacos, a popular Mexican eatery with outdoor seating. Locals shop at Tamura’s Market for groceries and everyday essentials. “It’s mostly family-owned, mom and pop shops around here,” Filek says. Residents can head 3 miles north to Laie for additional grocery and restaurant options.
Most residents rely on cars with limited walkability
Hauula residents will likely need a car to get around, as the streets aren’t very walkable. Those who need public transportation can catch the bus on Kamehameha Highway. Medical care is available at Wahiawa Queens Medical Hospital, about 30 miles away. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is about 30 miles south in Honolulu.
