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
Myron Kiriu,
an experienced agent in this area.
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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
Ocean front and fully renovated in 2025 with no details overlooked. The kitchen has new solid wood cabinets, granite countertops, and SS appliances. The bathroom renovation includes a new vanity with granite counters, whale sink, and custom designed tilework on both the backsplash and the shower. Brand new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and the plumbing has been updated with an individual
Welcome to paradise in this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence featuring a bright, open floor plan accented by soaring vaulted ceilings throughout the kitchen and main living areas. Turnkey and fully furnished, this home comes turnkey-ready complete with a top-of-the-line entertainment system and a luxurious kitchen designed to make staying in a delight. Situated within a premier gated
Welcome to this newly upgraded and freshly painted single-story home in the beautiful Makaha neighborhood of Waianae! Sitting on a manageable level lot, this residence features a fully fenced-in front and back yard, a dedicated carport, and convenient street parking. Inside, the functional 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom layout boasts a bright living room, dining area, full kitchen, updated bathrooms,
True ocean view! Tucked into the most desirable corner of Makaha Valley Plantation, this stylish 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom condominium blends comfort and convenience with tropical charm. This unit is located along the ocean oriented perimeter of the complex, few other units share a view down the valley. Meticulously equipped with quality of life comforts that will make every day feel like a vacation.
Open House, Sunday, August 23rd, from 2-5pm. Welcome to this charming studio condo located in the oceanfront Makaha Surfside complex along the scenic Leeward coast of Waianae. This efficient first-floor unit features 361 square feet of interior living space highlighted by durable ceramic tile flooring. The property is well-equipped with practical standard inclusions, featuring a window AC unit to
Unobstructed ocean views from this level rim lot in the desirable gated community of Makaha Oceanview Estates. This spacious3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features quartz countertops, hardwood cabinets, newer stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile & vinyl flooring, and new paint throughout. Gaze at the blue ocean and brilliant sunsets from either of your lower level or upper level covered
Located in the heart of Makaha Valley, this unit is priced to sell. Selling "As-Is". Current rent is $1450.00 per month. Tenants are on a month-to-month tenancy.
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 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
Furnished and ready to enjoy, step into the relaxed rhythm of island living with this LEASEHOLD two-bedroom condo in the lush andscenic Makaha Valley Plantation. The lease extends through 2074, with the option to purchase the fee if desired, offering an excellentopportunity to enjoy the Makaha lifestyle at an accessible price point.Inside, the home is bright and welcoming with an open
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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: 790272 I 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
There's nothing like the hug of Makaha Valley! My spacious, fully furnished 2 bedroom 1 bathroom condo is situated in the community of The Makaha Valley Plantations.With high vaulted ceilings and nearly an entire wall of windows, you will be bathed in light and the sounds of birds. Your view is of the mountains and the tree canopy, but if you peer through the branches, you can see sparkles
Beautiful 4-Bedroom Home – Makaha, O?ahuSpacious 4-bedroom home in Makaha with incredible ocean views right from the front door. Enjoy a peaceful neighborhood just minutes from some of O?ahu's most beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.Rent: $1,200/monthHome Features:- Ocean view from the front entry- Solar power to help keep utility costs
The advertised rate of $2,806/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 26, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Live oceanfront on Oahu’s west side at Makaha Surfside — one of the last stretches of the island that still feels like old Hawaii. This top-floor, one bedroom, one bath unit offers ocean views and a front-row seat to some of the most vivid sunsets on Oahu, framed by the dramatic Waianae Mountains. Step outside to calm, swimmable waters right at your door, with legendary surf breaks and quiet
One bedroom, one bath oceanfront condominium at Makaha Surfside. Enjoy stunning oceanfront surroundings with convenient access to the community lagoon—perfect for relaxing and taking in the peaceful coastal atmosphere.Ideally located on the West Side of Oahu, this condo puts you close to schools, shopping, bus stops, golf courses, farmers markets, and the world-famous Makaha Surfing
Renovated 1 bedroom, 1 bath oceanfront property alongside sandy beach. Awesome sunset views from living room. Convenient location, near grocery stores, restaurants, schools and great beaches. Bus stop is close to complex entry. 20 minutes to Ko'Olina Resort, Water Park & Kapolei town! Unit comes w/ two parking stalls.Call Katherine Kelii showing request.
Step into this charming 2 story, 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom detach single family with an attached garage and a fenced back and side yard. Lovely floor plan with a 2nd living area on the 2nd floor.To ensure a smooth move-in process, renters insurance (with proof of coverage) is required prior to occupancy. This is a smoke-free unit, and pets are not permitted. Applicants will complete an online
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