Maili is a census-designated, mostly residential area on the west coast of Oahu known for its proximity to world-class beaches. “People immediately will think of the beaches, and there’s variety: You have a beach for fishing, a beach for surfing and one for swimming,” says Elizabeth La Riva of Compass Realty, who has over a decade of experience in the area. Besides the beaches, Maili doesn’t have much infrastructure or industry. But that could change as money is coming into the area via one of the most famous athletes in the world. “Tiger Woods bought land just north of here and is building a course,” says La Riva. “Even though that isn’t in Maili, the land and home values here will appreciate as well.” The town covers just 1.7 square miles and has a population of just over 11,500 as of the 2020 Census.
Maili homes are nestled between lush mountains and crystal seas.
Maili locals head to the nearby beach park for relaxation.
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Hiking Maili Pillbox
Residents take advantage of Oahu’s natural landscape for outdoor recreation. The Maili Pillbox, often known as the Pink Pillbox, is a popular trail on the town’s south end. It’s a 1.6-mile hike leading to a pillbox, or an old military bunker painted hot pink, where people watch the sunset over Oahu’s west coast. The area also has plenty of beaches for sunbathing, swimming and water sports; one of the top spots for surfing is the aptly named Surfer’s Beach Park. Anglers and bodyboarders head to Maili Beach Park, which has 40 acres of sand beach. Fishing is popular at Laualualei Beach Park, which is less crowded because of rough waters and rugged beaches. Campers can also get a permit to sleep under the stars at Laualualei Beach Park.
The Maili Pillbox trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Locals and tourists enjoy the view from atop the pillboxes.
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Single-family housing within walking distance to beaches
Most homes in Maili are within walking distance of the beaches. “The west side of the island is definitely the most affordable spot, which is a draw,” says La Riva. “It’s almost all single-family homes, which is also unique.” Home styles include traditional ranch-style builds, plantation homes and tri-levels on quiet roads surrounded by mature palm trees. The median single-family home price is $675,000, and for townhouses it’s $505,000.
Homes in Maili are priced below those in other parts of Oahu.
Newer homes in Maili offer larger spaces and short walks to the beach.
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Shopping in Kapolei
Shopping and dining in Maili is limited to a handful of convenience stores and food trucks that pull up to the beach. Countryside Café is one of the only eateries in town and locals can grab breakfast with a view of the ocean. North of the area, the Wai’anae Mall has chain grocery stores, hardware shops and pharmacies. Fresh produce and seafood are available at the Wai’anae Farmers Market, which is open Tuesday and Saturday mornings. For more retail options, folks drive 10 miles down the road to Kapolei, Oahu’s second-largest city. Korean, Japanese and barbecue restaurants are located north of town off Highway 93.
Larger shopping centers, like Ka Makana Ali'i are located just down the highway at Kapolei.
Large retail chains can be found in Kapolei.
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Learning at local schools
Kids in the area attend Maili Elementary School, which has a C-plus grade on Niche. Wai’anae Intermediate School and Wai’anae High School both have C grades. Wai’anae High has a 13-to-1 student-teacher ratio, and students can participate in a career and technical education program to prepare students for careers after graduation. The school also sponsors Searider Productions, a club where students can learn video editing, graphic design and other digital skills.
Waianae Intermediate School sits at the foot of the picturesque Waianae Kai Forest Reserve.
Maili Elementary School is situated in the heart of Maili.
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Traffic on Highway 93
Residents can hop on Highway 93 and drive 10 miles southeast to Kapolei, or take Interstate H-I 30 miles east to Honolulu and the airport. However, the commute isn’t always easy. “Traffic can really be horrible in Maili,” says La Riva. “There’s really one way in and one way out, and so you can sit on 93 for a while.” TheBus is a public transportation service that serves the entire island. Locals in need of medical care won’t need to go far, as the Wai’anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center is located along Highway 93 just north of Maili.
Single family homes are the predominant housing type in Maili.
Traffic on Highway 93 is generally not too dense outside of rush hour.
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Written By
John Moyer
Photography Contributed By
Paul Peck
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Craig Alvarado,
an experienced agent in this area.
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