$1,263,395Average Value$1,150Average Price per Sq Ft4Homes For Sale
Valley in the midst of tropical Kauai
Nestled in the island of Kauai’s tropical landscape is the village of Lawai, a rural community home to incredible scenery and sprawling outdoor spaces. Lori Benkert, Broker-Owner with Waioli Properties, says that Lawai “isn’t considered a big tourist part of the island,” meaning that those visiting or passing through the village won’t see many resort-like amenities or hotels. Rather, an emphasis on local history permeates the community here and brings people closer together through things such as small businesses and gathering places. The boundaries of this village extend south all the way to the coast, where residents can find a small beach, hiking trail and gardening area. Students here are served by the Hawaii Department of Education, which oversees all public schools in the state and receives an overall B-plus rating from Niche. Also located in the Lawai Valley is the Lawai International Center, an ancient cultural site characterized by Taoist and Shinto temples, as well as dozens of Shingon shrines.
Lawai, nestled on Kauai's southern coast, offers a tranquil escape.
There are several island-themed photo spots around Lawai.
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Botanical gardens along the South Shore
At the southernmost point of Lawai, right on the coast, residents can find the McBryde and Allerton Gardens, two of the five gardens overseen by the National Tropical Botanical Garden non-profit organization. Both gardens cover approximately 80 acres each and are situated on former sugarcane plantation sites. Today, visitors can tour the botanical gardens and learn about a range of indigenous plant species and island vegetation. Adjacent to the garden is the popular Sprouting Horn Park, home to an iconic, eponymous blowhole that can shoot water as high as 50 feet into the air; the park is also a well-known scenic point. Sprouting Horn is just one of many stops along the 10-mile Koloa Heritage Trail, which travels along the southern shore of Kauai through the Koloa and Poipu areas; hikers can traverse the path and come across more than a dozen significant cultural and historic sites.
The Allerton Botanical Garden in Lawai offers refreshing shade on their many pathways.
The botanical garden offers free transportation across Kauai.
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Rural wooden construction homes
There are a range of home styles and residential communities in and around Lawai; in some areas, homes sit close together on smaller plots of land, while other properties are located on large, secluded lots in more rural areas. Common housing styles include ranch-style dwellings and multi-story homes raised on stilts; a majority of the properties in this area feature wooden construction and open floor plans. Balconies are a common residential amenity and seamlessly connect residents with the outdoor natural landscape. The median price of a home here is approximately $900,000, although properties tend to range between $725,000 and $2 million.
Some communities, like Lawai Hillside, are separated subdivisions from the main Lawai town.
Traditional Hawaiian architecture adorns Lawai homes.
Larger properties with expansive yards can also be found in Lawai.
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Local vendors set up in Warehouse 3540
For shopping and dining experiences, Benkert recommends Warehouse 3540, a popular local spot: “It’s this cool old warehouse that’s been transformed into small shops inside and food trucks outside,” Benkert says. There are more than a dozen locally-owned small businesses and dining options within Warehouse 3540; one popular vendor is Waikomo Shave Ice, a dessert chain with a couple of other locations around the state. There’s also the family-owned Hawaiian Trading Post; although some might consider it somewhat of a souvenir shop, Benkert says that “residents love their gorgeous authentic Niihau shell leis created by local artists.” Along Kaumualii Highway, locals can stop by a 7-Eleven convenience store for a selection of basic groceries and household necessities. “For takeout, Lawai Market is tops,” says Benkert. This inviting pastel store that opened in 2020 features a covered porch embellished with tropical blooms. It’s the locals’ pick for stocking up before heading out on a hike or bringing home a good wine for dinner.
The Matsuura Place shopping center in Lawai is an essential part of the community's history.
Natural flora thrives not just in the jungle, but even outside shops like the Lawai Market.
Warehouse 3540 in Lawai is a makers market of trendy vendors and food trucks.
Residents gather at the warehouse in Lawai to have coffee and catch up.
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Secondary students attend Kauai High School
Young learners in kindergarten through fifth grade can jumpstart their academic journeys at either Kalaheo Elementary or Koloa Elementary School, which both receive B-plus Niche ratings. Students might then head to the B-rated Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School, which feeds into Kauai High School, a B-plus-rated institution that was named No. 2 on Niche’s “Best Public High Schools in Kauai County” 2024 list. GreatSchools also rates Kauai High School a 10 out of 10 for college readiness.
Kauai High School offers a vibrant learning environment for students.
Kauai High School focuses on academic excellence and character development.
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Lihue Airport is a 12-mile drive east
Kaumualii Highway snakes through Lawai and connects residents to the adjacent communities of Kalaheo and Omao. Commuters can use Route 530 to drive approximately 3 miles into nearby Koloa. The County of Kauai Transportation Agency operates The Kauai Bus, which has service to Poipu via the fixed Route 200: Kekaha bus line. Kauai Bus also offers service to the Lihue Airport, which is situated a little over 12 miles east of the Lawai Valley.
Lihue Airport offers modern conveniences for island-hoppers.
With its warm climate and breathtaking scenery, Lawai is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Written By
Hayley Simms
Video By
Vladislav Sedykh
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Yvonne Summerfield,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Lawai, HI sell after 173 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Lawai, HI over the last 12 months is $3,000,000, up 88% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
BIDDING PLATFORM. See supplements for bidding instructions. One of Kauaʻi's most beloved South Shore communities, tucked between Kalāheo and the sun-soaked beaches of Poipu. 14,750 square feet of fee simple R-4 land on a corner lot. No HOA. No monthly fees. Just land, opportunity, and location thatʻs convenient for island life. Buyers who know this area understand what a lot this size means here.
Serene Hillside Retreat overlooking the sacred and breathtaking Lawai Valley on Kauai’s south shore. Situated on 1.2 acres of lush tropical landscape, this distinctive property offers a tranquil setting for air conditioned resort - lifestyle and amenities that invite rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The centerpiece is a stunning 50-foot long saltwater pool that captures sweeping valley views
Rarely does an opportunity arise to own more than 9 acres in one of Kauaʻi's most desirable country settings. Located in the heart of Kalaheo, 3310 Wawae Road encompasses approximately 9.36 acres of gently rolling land, offering privacy, open space, and the freedom to create a truly special island estate. Nestled within the property is a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath residence, perfectly positioned
Experience breathtaking ocean views from this exceptional 4.75-acre homesite, showcasing vistas from Poipu to Niihau. Situated in exclusive enclave of just four residences with paved roads, water, and electricity already in place, this private parcel offers a rare sense of seclusion on Kauai’s sought-after south shore. Just 10 minutes from Poipu and Koloa’s world-class golf, dining, and shopping,
On top of the World in Kalaheo. Enjoy Stunning vistas and verdant valley views to build your Dream home on this 21,824 sq ft .coveted lot which overlooks Kauais' stunning South. Shore. Just minutes to beaches, golf and dining ..
YOU TRULY NEED TO BRING YOUR CLIENTS TO THIS PROPERTY.Set on approximately 15,769 sqft of a CPR parcel in the lush and peaceful Lawai Valley, this special property must be experienced in person to fully appreciate its beauty, setting, and thoughtful design. This modern home, originally designed with architectural plans by Tim Bradley, offers a warm and inviting layout featuring 3 bedrooms and
This 4.4 acre Fee Simple property in Lawai offers a balance of agricultural opportunity and residential flexibility. The land presents a combination of level areas and gentle hills that support multiple future homesite options with mountain and distant ocean views. The setting provides privacy in a quiet agricultural neighborhood on Kauai while still offering convenient access to daily needs in
If you love privacy and tranquility with spectacular sunrises over the South Shore of Kauai and the convenience of location this is a perfect home. A charming Chalet with tropical privacy yet the convenience of close proximity to Poipu Beaches, fine dining and fun shopping. Twenty minutes from the airport, 10 minutes from Poipu Beach, Kukuiula gourmet restaurants, shopping and world class golf.
Perched atop a hill in the desirable town of Kalaheo, this 3‐bedroom, 3‐bath home offers beautiful ocean views and breezy island living. Upstairs, the bright and open living area flows into the kitchen, creating an inviting space filled with natural light and cool tradewinds. All three bedrooms are located on this level, including a primary suite with its own full bath and walk‐in closet. The two
Discover the possibilities at 3360 Wawae Road, a rare opportunity to own a versatile property set on approximately 1.5 acres. This unique offering features two homes on one lot, including a completed 3-bedroom, 2-bath main residence and a second 4-bedroom, 3-bath home that is partially finished—ready for your vision to bring it to completion. With ample land and potential for up to two additional
Joycelyn VasconcellesColdwell Banker Island Properties - Kauai
ENCHANTING MULTI-UNIT PROPERTY. Ideally suited for multi-generational living, private retreat center, family compound, or as a cash-flow rental. Live in one and rent out the rest! Perched on a cool and breezy Lawai hillside, this enchanting property was built with concrete and love. Meandering concrete paths lead to separate buildings, surprise spaces, fruit trees, and planted with exotic
BIDDING PLATFORM. See supplements for bidding instructions. One of Kauaʻi's most beloved South Shore communities, tucked between Kalāheo and the sun-soaked beaches of Poipu. 14,750 square feet of fee simple R-4 land on a corner lot. No HOA. No monthly fees. Just land, opportunity, and location thatʻs convenient for island life. Buyers who know this area understand what a lot this size means here.
RARE, NEARLY 20-ACRE PARCEL ON KAUAI’S SOUTH SIDE WITH OCEAN VIEWS & TROPICAL HILLSIDE BEAUTY! Hidden within the lush hillsides of Lawai Valley, this nearly 20-acre property offers a rare opportunity to own a substantial piece of Kauai’s southern hillside landscape, ideally located between Poipu/Koloa and Kalaheo. Blending rolling pastureland, mountain backdrops, and distant ocean views, the
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