Peaceful Hawaii living on the Big Island's Kona coast
On the Big Island’s west coast, the town of Kailua-Kona is rich in ancient treasures as well as modern pleasures. Living here, residents are close to historic landmarks and just a few miles from the Kona International Airport. Major retailers and local eateries are plentiful, and locals often tee off at several greens, including the gorgeous Makalei Golf Club. Chris Stimac, a resident of Kailua-Kona, and Realtor with Venture Sotheby’s International Realty says, “Kailua-Kona offers an amazing combination of great shops, proximity to the airport, beautiful beaches, and a slower, more relaxed pace of life- that's what makes Big Island different from Oahu or Maui." With so many different attractions in one neighborhood, every day in Kailua Kona is a new adventure; "whether hiking, diving, surfing, boating, fishing or heading up to see the island from the top of Mauna Kea," says Stimac. And, because the neighborhood is on Big Island's Kona side, residents can count on the weather being nice and sunny most days; the area rarely sees lots of rain. With "So much history here, and so much to do," spend some time at the neighborhood's beaches, shops and residential areas breathing in the sweet Hawaiian air, eating fruit straight off the tree and feeling what it means to live the Kailua Kona lifestyle.
Kailua-Kona acts as a port for several cruise lines.
Head to Kamakahonu Beach for a swim or snorkel session.
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Diverse homes and price points in Kailua Kona
Housing in Kailua Kona is just as diverse as its residents, many of whom come from all over the world to live here. Homes can range from condos in the Palani and Kona-Kai developments for around $300,000 to stunning inland newer-builds between $2.5 million and $3.5 million. Some estates offer sweeping views of the ocean on over an acre of land, and lovely open-concept homes with wrap balconies are perched on lava rock terraces to maximize views of the Kona sunset. Many homes in the Kona Palisades subdivision are low-profile and built into the slope to ensure an ocean vista. Although the average sales price for the neighborhood is about $1.6 million dollars, more affordable options are readily available as well. Homebuyers can find a wide selection of custom-built tropical homes that feature popular ranch, Craftsman and farmhouse styles and sell from about $600,000 to just over a million dollars depending on design, size and location.
Many Kailua Kona residences include lanais, perfect for enjoying the warm Hawaiian climate.
Beautifully manicured landscapes are everywhere in Kailua-Kona.
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Heading out in Hawaii's beautiful outdoors
In terms of getting outside, there are endless possibilities in Kailua Kona. Boaters appreciate living so close to the Honokohau Marina, where they can dock and dine on fresh fish and burgers at the open-air Harbor House restaurant. Locals love their Sunday happy hour specials served in frozen schooners. In an inlet tucked by the Kailua Pier, snorkelers immerse themselves amid colorful fish and coral off the shore of Kamakahonu, or “King Kam” Beach. Locals have nicknamed this “Children’s Beach” because of its gentle, shallow waters. Other popular spots include Kailua-Kona Skate Park, where resident athletes can drop in and practice their tricks, and Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, which features fields and courts for various sports. At the recreation area’s south end, residents can explore peaceful tide pools and ponds. For other attractions, residents can head to the Pu?uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and visit the City of Refuge. Set on the Big Island's rugged and Volcanic southern Kona shore, the City of Refuge is an important spiritual site built over 500 years ago that is the resting place of several prolific Hawaiian chiefs. Swaying coconut palms tower over the Temple and the Royal Grounds, which residents can explore by walking along an expansive trail network. Visitors can also follow this trail about 2.5 miles to a historic but now abandoned fishing village. Wherever residents choose to get outside in Kailua Kona, they will likely be greeted by the island's peaceful sounds, views of the mountains and cool ocean breezes.
Enjoy stunning views at Kamakahonu Beach.
Kailua Kona is famous for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
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Public Hawaii schools with outstanding curriculums
Public school students can start their education at Kealakehe or Kahakai Elementary, both of which receive C-plus ratings from Niche. They then move on to either Kealakehe Intermediate or Konawaena Middle Schools, which receive C and B-minus ratings, before attending Konawaena and Kealakehe High Schools. Both Konawaena and Kealakehe high schools earn an overall B grade from Niche. Konawaena was first built in 1921 for the agricultural community of Mauna Loa, which produces some of the finest coffee in Hawaii. The school rounds out its educational approach for students with hands-on opportunities like a working farm and annual celebrations for days like May Day, when the school gets together to dance, listen to music and watch the May Day Queen's hula be performed. Additionally, the school also offers various programs to help kids transition into their careers, from STEM to JROTC and even the arts.
Konawaena Middle School in Kailua Kona is dedicated to providing a supportive environment.
Kealakehe School is celebrated for its nurturing environment and commitment to student success.
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Cruising around Kailua Kona
Getting around Kailua Kona, and most of the Big Island is easy for residents with access to a vehicle. The Hawai?i Belt Road, also known as Mamalahoa Highway, goes around the whole island and consists of Hawai?i state Routes 11, 19, and 190. When heading to Mauna Kea or more mountainous sections of the island, caution is advised while driving as the roads can get very steep and narrow. When traveling off-island, Kona International Airport is just eight miles northwest of Kona Town, and inter-island flights can be purchased for as low as $40 if purchased ahead of time. In case of a medical emergency, the Ka?u Hospital & Rural Health Clinic is located on the southeast side of the island and can be reached about 70 miles down the Belt Road, heading counterclockwise.
Enjoy breathtaking Kona sunsets every evening on Ali'i Drive.
Kailua-Kona has a spectacular coastline.
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Shopping and dining in Kona Town
Thanks to the abundant retail hub of Kona Town, all the errands residents might need to run in a cinch can be taken care of. Stimac says, “Kona Town is the main collection of shops by Alii Drive, from the pier all the way down to Coconut Grove Marketplace. It’s one of the key reasons people enjoy living here.” In Kona Commons, residents can check off their grocery list while shopping at Target, Ross and Old Navy, or head to the nearby Sack N Save to peruse the isles and grab some of the best poke on Big Island from the deli bar. Residents will also find Ultimate Burger here, serving double- and triple-decker burgers with customizable toppings. Near the Kona Coast shopping center, residents can tour Kona Brewing Co. and kick back with craft brews, pizza and live music on Sundays. Or, opt to shop Safeway for groceries and run some pharmacy errands at Long’s Drugs. The area is also known for its exquisite dining scene. One local favorite in Honokohau Marina is Harbor House, where residents can dock and dine on fresh fish and burgers in an open-air space. Locals love their Sunday happy hour specials served in frozen schooners. Another popular restaurant in Kona Town is Original Thai Cuisine, a popular eatery known for its lunch specials like Panang Curry.
Beachfront restaurants offer stunning views in Kailua Kona.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Keolani Keawe,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
The Kaloko Kuapa
Ala Kahakai
Alii Ocean Side Park
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Hiking
Kailua Park - Old Airport
Kailua Park Playground
Hale Halawai Park
Transit
Airport
Ellison Onizuka Kona International at Keahole
18 min drive
Bus
Pawai Place & Kona Brewing Company
Bus
Kaiminami Drive & Kakahiaka Street
Bus
Kamakeha Avenue & Keahuolu Courthouse
Bus
HWY 11 & Kaiminani Drive
Bus
HWY 11 & Across From Walmart (Near Starbucks Coffee)
Bus
Kakahiaka Street & Lokahi Apartments
Bus
HWY 11 & Henry Street (Near Safeway)
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Kailua Kona
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Kailua Kona Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Kailua Kona, Holualoa sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Kailua Kona, Holualoa over the last 12 months is $939,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 73-4327 Oneone Street—an exceptional property offering panoramic ocean views, vibrant gardens, and versatile living spaces in one of North Kona’s most established neighborhoods.The main level features 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, with vaulted tongue-and-groove ceilings, rich parquet flooring, and a cozy fireplace for those cool winter evenings. Step out onto the expansive lanai to
Welcome home to #12 at Maluhia Kai! Located only a 5 minute drive from downtown Kona and within a 10 minutes to the nearest beach. Unit 12 has two beautifully remodeled bathrooms and features wonderful views of the Pacific. Each bedroom is located in opposite wings of the unit with their own lanai. One of the bedrooms is currently being used as a study, but could easily double as a bedroom.
ONLINE BIDDING PLATFORM! listing-bidding fees may apply. Nestled within a gated community, this expansive 3-acre property offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience. Located just minutes from the airport, Costco, stunning beaches, and other local amenities, this estate is a rare find.Built in 2006, the impressive 4,837-square-foot home boasts timeless design and ample space for
76-985 Aeo St. Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath custom home designed by acclaimed architect Roger Brasel, offering sweeping ocean, coastline, and sunset views from one of Kailua-Kona’s most desirable neighborhoods. Situated on a generous and private half-acre lot, this 3,280 sqft. residence blends thoughtful architecture with the natural beauty of Hawai‘i Island.The
Stunning 3-Bedroom Home with Expansive Ocean Views in Hualalai ColonyDiscover the perfect blend of luxury and comfort in this single-level 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home located in the prestigious Hualalai Colony. Designed for island living, this home boasts breathtaking panoramic ocean and coastline views, a large swimming pool, and an inviting, open layout.The spacious master
This meticulously maintained one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit at Aliʻi Villas offers stunning ocean views from its spacious lānai. It is being sold turnkey and has a transferrable short term vacation rental license. Thoughtfully renovated, the condominium features an open plan living and kitchen area, an expanded bedroom, additional storage, and an upgraded laundry space. The interiors are accented
Kona Coast view Subdivision As you step inside, you'll discover a spacious layout boasting three cozy bedrooms, each brand new furnishing master bedroom with a comfortable queen-sized bed set and ample closet space for all your belongings. Master bathroom with tub/shower. 2nd bedroom also with queen-sized bed, 3rd bedroom has 2 twin beds. Spare bathroom feature convenient stand up shower,
Hale Kaloko specializes in providing a safe, calm, and quiet environment to come home to. When getting home from work you want to be able to relax and not worry about a thing and that's what Hale Kaloko offers. Up in the mountain with an amazing view of the ocean and lots of greenery all around you'll definitely enjoy the best of both worlds. It's secluded, yet conveniently located: 10 minutes
Property Id: 1954256Cozy,quiet end unit condo with full on view of ocean. Walking distance to downtown and ocean. Fully furnished with 42 inch TV, comfy bed, adequate drawer space, table and two chairs with ocean view, small kitchen with two burner cooktop and full size fridge, also has full size sofa. Lanai with lovely view of ocean and palace with lots of plants and friendly geckos.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Keolani Keawe,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
40,555
Median Age
44
Population Density
1 person/acre
Population under 18
22.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$80,359
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$110,834
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.4%
On par with the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
33.6%
Advanced Degrees
11.8%
% Population in Labor Force
66.9%
On par with the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
12''
Average Winter Low Temperature
66°F
Average Summer High Temperature
86°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
1/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
1/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
