Makaha is the last stop before total farmland and wilderness. It’s the most northern town on O’ahu’s Leeward Coast, about 35 miles from Honolulu and a long drive up the Farrington Highway. Many consider it the most remote town on the island. These aspects may seem negative, but they’re often what pull people to the area. “If you really wanna get away and want the true island vibe, then Makaha is the perfect place to be,” says Colette Nishimura, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker licensed since 2013. “More and more mainlanders are coming out here because of its remoteness and beauty. You don’t have many high-rises. You have some businesses and homes being built here, but it’s not like Waikiki where you’re in a concrete jungle. You see the same people and get to know each other.” Narrow streets pack the coast with homes, and the beach is walkable. Continuing east through the Makaha Valley, farmland increases with elevation.
Enjoy stunning bay views from atop Mauna Lahilahi.
Makaha is a quiet town on the far western edge of Oahu.
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Makaha Beach and the origin of a Hawaiian tradition
Big wave surfing started on Makaha Beach. Before the North Shore became popular in the 1950s, this beach catered to the island’s most experienced surfers, who wanted more than the typical tides of Waikiki. They quickly discovered waves here were among the tallest on O’ahu, reaching up to 25 feet during the winter. Today, Makaha Beach continues to be a destination for intermediate, experienced and professional surfers, and its Buffalo Keaulana Big Board Surfing Competition has been a February tradition since 1977. For those who don’t want the adrenaline spike, a reef is just offshore for snorkeling in the summer. Sea turtles are commonly spotted here, as well as nearby Papaoneone Beach. Mauna Lahilahi, a mountainous outcrop next to the sand, has shoreline views and is one of the area’s most popular hikes. More mountains are just north of town in the Waianae Range. “The mountains have a lot of crevices, and when it rains, they form waterfalls. Sometimes you even see rainbows,” Nishimura says. Still, the climate here is drier and sunnier than the Windward Coast, and temperatures are typically in the 70s or 80s.
Makaha Beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Locals flock to Makaha Beach on weekends and school breaks.
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Oceanfront and mountainside homes in the Makaha Valley
Single-family homes are the most common option in Makaha, but no one property is like the last. They were built anytime between the 1940s and 2020s, and facades range from traditional to modern. Some ranch-style homes likely need updates and start at $350,000; others are more renovated and can reach $650,000. Properties on this end of the market are usually a few blocks inland, whereas pricier homes are closer to the ocean or even oceanfront. They also tend to have two stories, larger square footage and newer build dates. They’re between $750,000 and $2.5 million. A few high-rise condos are in this area as well as toward the mountains, slightly elevated in the Makaha Valley. Due to this wilderness proximity, wild peacocks are known to roam complexes and can cause some noise. Units are between $150,000 and $500,000. Units on the lower end are likely leasehold, meaning the tenant owns the house but leases the land. Higher-end units are typically traditional sales or “fee simple.”
Makaha Valley is largely undeveloped, but small subdivisions there offer peace and quiet.
Beachfront residences in Makaha offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu.
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Makaha Marketplace and Waianae Mall
Makaha Market Place, the only shopping center in town, has the Makaha Ohana Market for small grocery trips and other shopping, and a few restaurants are clustered toward the southern end of town, including takeout and shave ice. Most people drive to neighboring Waianae to eat and shop, though, since it has more options. About 3 miles south, the Waianae Mall has department stores and hosts a Saturday farmers market in its parking lot. Nishimura recommends The Beach House, an oceanfront restaurant near this mall. It has live music and sunset views.
Waianae Mall is a small retail center in the heart of Waianae.
Makaha Marketplace has local favorites like Mountain Magic Shave Ice.
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Walkability to elementary, middle and high schools
Hawaii Department of Education, the statewide school district, operates roughly 10 schools on the Leeward Coast, and most receive C ratings from Niche. Of the closest campuses, Makaha Elementary is in town while Wai’anae Intermediate and Wai’anae High are just down the coast. They’re walkable from many homes.
Waianae Intermediate School serves children grades 6-8 in the Waianae area.
Makaha Elementary School is located in the heart of the valley.
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Crime levels on O’ahu
The Honolulu Police Department reports crime for the whole island, not Makaha specifically. Oahu’s violent crimes decreased roughly 15% from 2022 to 2023, while property crimes decreased about 30%. Neighboring Waianae has a police station that serves Makaha and other towns on the coast.
Most neighborhoods in Makaha are quiet and peaceful.
The Waianae coast has some of the most stunning beaches on Oahu.
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Farrington Highway commutes, traffic backups
Makaha is a beachside town with slow-paced streets. Many people walk or bike around the area, but they likely have a car to access Honolulu’s employment base. The Farrington Highway is the main thoroughfare along the Leeward Coast and leads 15 miles south to US Coast Guard Station Barber’s Point and about 35 miles southeast to downtown Honolulu. Traffic can clog the whole way, especially in Makaha itself. TheBus, an islandwide transit service, operates an express route from Makaha Beach to popular destinations like Ala Moana Center and Kalihi Transit Center.
The 93 Freeway connects Makaha, Maili, and Waimanalo to cities to the east, like Kapolei.
The 93 is the main artery that runs through the greater Waianae region.
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Written By
Matt Medl
Photography Contributed By
Paul Peck
Video By
Melinda Anselmo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Marc Kumai,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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At last! A newer SINGLE LEVEL HOME with NO NEIGHBORS BEHIND in a gorgeous GATED COMMUNITY overlooking the blue pacific and framed by majestic mountains. Built in 2013, this rarely available one-story 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a spacious open kitchen and dining area with a peek-a-boo ocean view, attractive tile floors, cool neutral tones throughout. Relax under the 228 sq. ft. covered
Gorgeously Renovated Makaha Home Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath detached single-family home on the desirable Manuku Street in Makaha. Recently updated from top to bottom, this home offers a bright and open living and dining area centered around a modern kitchen island. The kitchen has been upgraded with white quartz countertops, while luxury vinyl plank flooring runs
Rare Opportunity to own one of only 8 three-bedroom units in lush Makaha Valley Plantation. It’s a tucked away corner unit that faces green mountains, a wooded area, and provides a very uniquely quiet and private environment. This 993 sf condo has a very open floor plan, a great layout, and is very bright and spacious. It's recently updated and features new vinyl flooring, a tiled bathroom, new
Welcome to this spacious and well-maintained 2 bedroom, 1 bath unit at Makaha Valley Plantation #76B, offering an impressive 815 sq ft of interior living space set among lush greenery and scenic mountain surroundings. This inviting home features a bright, comfortable layout with durable vinyl plank flooring and an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, making it easy to move right in
AMAZING DEAL! Attached 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath single-family home under $400,000 — a rare opportunity for a first-time buyer or investor looking for a value-add project on Oahu. Located in Makaha Village, a pocket neighborhood with just 12 homes set back from the highway. The bones are solid — galley kitchen with marble counters, stainless steel appliances, white shaker cabinets, and industrial pipe
Welcome to your oceanfront escape in Makaha—where mornings begin with sea breezes and end with glowing sunsets over the Pacific. With five bedrooms, two and a half baths, and sweeping ocean views from nearly every room, this private retreat blends island beauty with everyday comfort. Set on 13,510 square feet of landscaped oceanfront land, the property offers rare indoor/outdoor living—perfect
Gorgeous 2 bedroom 1 bath with open floor plan accented by the vaulted ceiling throughout the kitchen and living room area. All furniture included with the top-of-the-line entertainment system and luxury kitchen that will make you want to never eat out again. Gated community with security guards on site. Tons of things to do on site or in the area including beaches, golfing,hiking, multiple
This is your chance to own a piece of paradise in Hawaii! Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the mountainsto the ocean, all from the comfort of your new home. This unit is perfectly situated to see the beauty of MakahaValley, gorgeous coastline, and brilliant blue ocean water. This 1-Bedroom, 1-Bathroom, 10th floor condo is locatedin J-Tower which is the second to last tower on
Perched on the top floor in a gated, tropical oasis, this home delivers the kind of turnkey, designer-updated living that feels like a daily vacation. This rare corner end unit has no neighbors above and features your own private stairway entrance, creating the privacy and “single-family” vibe buyers love. Inside, you’ll find vaulted ceilings, stylish upgrades throughout, and ocean views. The
Amazing opportunity to live directly above the ocean and beach. This preferred tower and unit is located on the 5th floor which offers sweeping unobstructed views of the ocean, sunset and mountain range. Once you enter the gated entrance you feel you are on vacation immediately. From the ground level you have access to one of the nicest beaches and reefs on the island literally out your door. The
Welcome to your private oasis at Makaha Valley Plantation, Unit 106B – a fully remodeled gem that blends modern luxury with serene tropical living. Step inside to discover an open, light-filled layout featuring brand-new vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas and sleek tile in the kitchen and bath for effortless style and maintenance. The heart of this home is the stunning modern
Furnished studio at Makaha Valley Towers. Mountain and coastline views with a lanai. Located on the upper side of the property, away from the main entrance and the central air conditioning building. Twenty-four hour security, a swimming pool, barbecues, community laundry and easy access to the bus line. Maintenance fee includes central air, electricity, hot water, cable tv and internet.
Rarely available large parcel close to the highway. Buyer and Buyer’s Agent to independently verify zoning, utilities, development possibilities. Sellers have limited knowledge of the property.
Welcome to unit C415, a beautifully renovated studio at the Makaha Surfside with ocean views! Wake up to the serene sound and distant view of the Pacific Ocean while overlooking the sparkling pool. Inside, you'll find a bright, clean unit featuring luxury Koa vinyl plank flooring throughout, a fresh coat of interior paint, and thoughtful bathroom upgrades, including a refinished bathtub and a
Move in ready!! RARE Custom 3 bed 2.5 bath home loaded w/ upgrades in the gated Makaha Oceanview Estates. Exquisite ocean & mountain views. Enter through double doors to a travertine foyer & new tigerwood flooring throughout the main living areas. Open concept living & dining flow into a gourmet kitchen w/ granite countertops & stainless steel appliances. Main level features a spacious primary
Kauhale Kamaile is a permanent modular housing project in Waianae, Hawaii, specifically designed for homeless families with children enrolled in Waianae schools. The project consists of 15-units, including one- and two-bedroom homes, and aims to provide stability and hope for these families. To provide permanent, affordable housing for homeless families with children in Waianae. Rent includes:
Property Id: 790272I am looking for a Roommate! Imagine being surrounded by beautiful mountains & ocean with clean fresh air on a daily basis. Pack your suitcase and head to paradise, what are you waiting for? Spacious furnished room near beach with shared kitchen and bathroom. Turn key room located in a gated resort setting and private gated community nestled in the mountains with
Available May 27th! Enjoy island living in this rare upstairs, fully furnished unit in Makaha Valley Plantation available for a 6-month lease. Take in peaceful treetop views of the valley and mountains, paired with picturesque ocean views that complete the backdrop. Inside features fully renovated kitchen and bathroom, vinyl plank flooring, and vaulted ceilings that create an open, airy feel.
**MONTH-TO-MONTH***UP TO 500mbps WiFI INTERNET SPEEDSFULLY FURNISHED! ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED! MAKAHA VALLEY PLANTATION RESORT STYLE LIVING! (Shorter Term Stays Possible. Please let us know your desired dates) "The Beverly Hills Of The Waianae Coast""Best Ocean Drive In America"MAKAHA
Live the island dream in this stunning one bedroom, one bath fully furnished unit at Makaha Valley Towers, offering sweeping panoramic views of the ocean and mountains. Enjoy all utilities included and central air conditioning for effortless comfort. Embrace resort-style living every day of the year!
Live the island dream in this stunning one bedroom, one bath fully furnished unit at Makaha Valley Towers, offering sweeping panoramic views of the ocean and mountains. Enjoy all utilities included and central air conditioning for effortless comfort. Embrace resort-style living every day of the year!KEY FEATURES:- Property Type: Condominium- Bedrooms : 1- Bathrooms:
Must meet income requirements: monthly gross income must be 2.5 times the rent amount and credit score of 650 or higher.Application fee is $20 per applicant (non-refundable). All applicants must view rental in person to receive an application to apply.All adults 18 years old and older must apply. Non-smoking unit. No pets allowed. Renters insurance required. Description: MAKAHA VALLEY
Single-level 4 bedroom, 2 bath home featuring a covered carport and fenced yard. This desirable corner unit offers convenience with a short walk to the bus line and nearby schools. Enjoy close proximity to shopping centers, restaurants, and some of the island’s most beautiful beaches.Call or text Katherine Kelii showing request.
Oceanfront Well Appointed Fully Furnished Single Family Home with two separate fully furnished/appointed dwellings rented as one (1st Floor: 2 bedrooms/ 1.5 bath, 2nd Floor: 3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms). Both units have full kitchens, washer/dryer, and separate exterior entrances. No internal connection between floors. Access to ocean via reef shelf that connects to a sandy beach (via public access).
Beautifully upgraded two bedroom, one bathroom partly furnished condominium on the GROUND FLOOR with one assigned parking stalls. Rent includes water, basic cable, internet, two swimming pools, tennis court, 24-hour security and much more! Next to championship golf course and a short distance away from the world famous Makaha Surfing Beach. Year round resort living!KEY
2 bedroom, 1 bathroom townhouse in Makaha Valley Plantation is with 1 assigned parking stall, located in a gated community in Makaha Valley surrounded by mountain views. This second-floor, walk-up unit features a functional layout with approximately 800+ sq ft of living space and is conveniently located near beaches, parks, bus lines, and shopping. Community amenities may include pools, BBQ
Grace KiyozukaBob Tanaka Inc
$2,000 per month
Ocean Front One Bedroom Condo Available at Makaha Beach Cabanas!
Fully furnished, newly remodeled oceanfront unit at Makaha Beach Cabanas is now AVAILABLE!Open the sliding glass door to your private lanai to get the most beautiful ocean views. This building is secured, has a newly renovated BBQ and lounge area for residents and guests to enjoy and relax next to the ocean. This property also features a succulent wall garden for the use of all residents
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