A tranquil community in southwest O'ahu that's just outside the commotion
Makakilo is often considered the more tranquil and affordable alternative to O’ahu’s busier counterparts. It’s also well-known for its high elevation, set at the base of the Waiane Mountains. With the trade winds that blow from the peaks, Makakilo enjoys cooler and milder temperatures. This small community also has some ancient lore. Puu Makakilo (Mount Makakilo) is considered to have once been the meeting grounds for Kahuna Kilokilo, who were ancient Hawaiian astronomers. The area was also considered the playground for many ancient gods and goddesses. At the turn of the twentieth century, Makakilo became more urbanized as the population increased and an influx of military employment flowed into the area. Today, its relationship with neighboring Kapolei is key because Makakilo residents can leave their neighborhoods to shop, dine and play without the hassle of a long drive back home.
Makakilo's mountainous location means most homes will have amazing views.
Single family homes in Makakilo are generally lower priced that in Honolulu.
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Homes in Upper and Lower Makakilo
Makakilo is made of two parts: Upper and Lower. Upper Makakilo is a master-planned community with newer, updated homes that require homeowners’ fees. Lower Makakilo is made of older, independent homes that do not require fees; however, some are in need of renovations because they lack modern amenities. Homes can vary greatly in size across both parts, ranging from condominiums and two-story townhomes to large mansions. There are several housing communities as well, from the Watercolors condos to the Kumulani mansions.
The median price for a home is $1 million, and it takes about 97 days for a property to sell, which is significantly longer than the national average. "The market has a lot more first-time homebuyers and people that use financing. Lots of veterans and active-duty military buy over here, too," says Fran Magbual, a longtime Kapolei resident and Realtor with Coldwell Banker. "Because of the higher interest rates, things have slowed down in the last year or so but it’s still a good place to buy because prices are lower than other parts of the island."
Hillside homes in Makakilo offer stunning views of the Pacific.
Townhomes are condos are common throughout Makakilo.
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Community programs, golfing and beach access around Makakilo
There are several parks both in and around the area. Makakilo Community Park frequently hosts programs for interests such as crafting and leisure sports. Makakilo Hillside Neighborhood Park has a swimming pool on the premises. Multiple golf courses are also within close range, including Ko Olina Golf Club and Kapolei Golf Club. And because Makailo is only a short distance from the beaches, residents can easily drive to oceanside spots like Ko Olina Beach Park and Kahe Point Beach Park.
Ko Olina Lagoon is only a few minutes drive west on the H1 freeway.
Enjoy world-class golfing at one of the many golf courses around Makakilo.
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The Hawaii Department of Education and the University of Hawaii-West O'ahu
Public education is provided through the Hawaii Department of Education, which gets an A-minus grade from Niche and serves over 170,000 students. Just east of Makakilo is the University of Hawaii- West O’ahu. This public 4-year college offers 46 academic concentrations and specializes in liberal arts programs.
The University of Hawaii West Campus allows students in the area to avoid the long drive into Honolulu.
UH West is the smaller of the two Oahu campuses, but offers newer and updated facilities.
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Diverse restaurants and lots of shopping in southwest O'ahu
Makakilo is almost entirely residential, so nearby Kalopei offers the majority of dining and shopping opportunities. Restaurants include everything from Asian and Mediterranean to traditional Hawaiian fare, like the locally owned and operated Moani Island Bistro and Bar, which also offers live entertainment. Larger retail options are just outside the area, such as Ka Makana Ali’i Shopping Mall and Kapolei Commons.
Lanakai Juice in Kapolei is a great place to cool down on a hot day.
Kalapawai Deli is a favorite local spot, but is also frequented by tourists.
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Traveling in and around Makakilo
Makakilo Drive winds down the center of the community. The H-1 Highway, also known as Queen Liliuokalani Freeway, is a significant connector to major cities such as Honolulu. Commercial flights are available at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, located 16 miles from Makakilo.
The H1 freeway separates Makakilo and Kapolei.
Townhomes and condo units are plentiful in Makakilo.
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Declining crime trends for Makakilo
The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) serves Makakilo. With data submitted to the FBI, the HPD reported a 33% decrease in violent crime and a 27% decrease in property crime from 2022 to 2023.
Written By
Julia Concepcion
Photography Contributed By
Paul Peck
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tesha Squires,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Breathtaking panoramic views! Privately located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in Makakilo’s prestigious Palehua Heights, this meticulously renovated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath executive residence captures incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and the Honolulu skyline from expansive upper and lower lanais. Designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, the open-concept
MASSIVE PRICE DROP !! Motivated sellers !! Welcome to serene OCEAN VIEWS at this Makakilo residence, thoughtfully updated with fresh paint throughout and offering three spacious bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms. Enjoy cooling island breezes from the covered lanai while taking in sweeping mountain, ocean, and sunset views. The home features an L shaped chef-inspired kitchen equipped with
Welcome to this exceptional new construction residence in the heart of Kapolei. Where modern design island elegance, and functionally come together. This 5 bedroom 3 full bath home showcases high craftsmanship and thoughtful details throughout, perfect for modern island living. Downstair set up as 2 bedroom 1 bath with wet bar. upstairs is 3 bedroom 2 baths with full kitchen with 2 large lanai
Experience the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and convenience in this charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home nestled within the desirable gated Seascape community at Makakilo. Enter through the attached two-car garage, where you'll be greeted by the rich, cherry-toned flooring that flows throughout the open-concept main level and new carpet upstairs. The spacious living room seamlessly
Perched on a perimeter lot in Wai Kaloi at Makakilo, this custom-built 2021 estate blends refined luxury with thoughtful design. Featuring 6 bedrooms and 5 full baths—including two junior suites with en suite bathrooms—this home is ideal for multigenerational living. Soaring ceilings and expansive windows bathe the interiors in natural light, while AC throughout, a central vacuum system, and
Move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath end-unit at Makakilo Cliffs with 760 sq ft of interior living space and ~70 sq ft of private low-maintenance patio. The corner location offers added privacy, bright open living, and stunning ocean and mountain views. Inside, enjoy a modern kitchen, smooth ceilings, and split A/C in both the primary bedroom and living room for year-round comfort. The layout flows
MAKAKILO - Makakilo Ridge Did we mention large interior space? You must see to appreciate. Originally a modest one-level, this home was reconstructed to add an expansive area that was used for an office with a separate entry. Above this construction, the owners utilized the new area to create a spacious Primary suite upstairs with a large open wardrobe space. From the suite, enjoy the shaded
Ocean views!! Overlooking Koolina, this 4 bedroom 3 bath home is situated high enough to feel the cool mountain breezes with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. The upstairs has one bedroom, one bath, with a separate entrance, ideal as a long-term rental for friends, family or other. Fully fenced backyard.And it's priced to move! Come experience this treasure and see for yourself, the best
One-of-a-Kind Island Estate with Endless Wow Factor. The curb appeal may be modest and unassuming from the front, but be prepared to be amazed as you enter this impressive home as it unfolds into an expansive retreat. Truly one-of-a-kind that combines impressive scale, stunning views, and resort-style living all in one. Step outside to your private backyard paradise — a sparkling pool complete
Perfectly situated on Hole 17 of the beautiful Kapolei Golf Course, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers 2,119 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space in one of Oahu’s most sought-after communities. Step inside to a bright, open layout with a chef’s kitchen featuring a large island, range hood, dishwasher, refrigerator, and wine cooler—ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The primary
Welcome home to this move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath townhouse with two parking stalls in breezy Palehua Villas in Makakilo. Enjoy refreshing trade winds and peek-a-boo ocean views from this well-positioned unit, offering both comfort and value. The recently updated kitchen features brand-new quartz countertops, new cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances, creating a clean, modern space perfect
Enjoy the crisp breeze and hillside living in this lovingly maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath townhome in Makakilo Hale I. This split-level unit features an open living area, updated kitchen, private lanai, and lush greenery just outside your door. Two parking stalls offer added convenience, while the community pool and nearby parks provide opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Located just
Corner lot in Makakilo with panoramic ocean views and an approved building permit from the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP). Permits are in place, allowing construction to begin without delay. Proposed plans include a 1,800 sq ft main residence and a 793 sq ft ADU, for a total of 6 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Designed with 4 parking spaces for added convenience. Excellent opportunity to
Discover this charming 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem that beautifully blends modern elegance with comfortable living.The home features an airy atmosphere, highlighted by cathedral ceilings. Enjoy expansive dining and living areas, along with double doors that lead to the backyard.With over $100,000 invested in renovations,you will appreciate the new front door, fully renovated kitchen and bathrooms,
This beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 full bath home in the desirable community of Makakilo offers stunning ocean and city views. The property features updated stainless steel appliances and enjoys a cool breeze, perfect for island living. With 2 assigned parking stalls, and close proximity to the freeway, shopping centers, schools, and beaches, this home combines convenience with the serene
Property Id: 123303New KitchenBeautiful bathroomsLandscaping Air ConditionerPark located across the street. No Section 8! French Doors open to the backyard where you can relax & enjoy the beautiful fruit trees:PomegranateGrapefruitKumquatOrangeFig andPapaya All three bedrooms have been remodeled with travertine floors and have
Welcome to Kahiwelo at Makakilo. This 3BR 3BA, One story-full finished basement (making a second story), D.R. Horton home offers the ultimate blend of island living, 26 PV Panels, breath-taking views, gentle breezes and panoramic view on the back Lanai. Built in 2012 with comfort and style in mind, the open-concept floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas opens to a
This spacious property features five bedrooms and three bathrooms, offering ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Step outside to your own pool and an expansive patio area, ideal for soaking up the sun or dining. The outdoor storage
Partly furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhouse with 2 assigned parking stalls located at Makakilo Cliffs. This second-floor unit offers approximately 760 sq. ft. of comfortable living space. Located near to schools, University of Hawai?i – West O?ahu, Leeward Community College, Walmart, Target, golf courses, restaurants, and a variety of shopping options. Water and sewer are included in the rent.
Spacious well maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome with two designated parking stalls located in the highly desirable Westview at Makakilo Heights. This well-maintained unit offers comfortable living in a convenient and sought-after location.Conveniently situated near schools and community parks, with easy access to freeway on/off ramps. Just minutes from Kapolei and Ko Olina, where
This rarely available corner end unit in the Makakilo Cliffs Complex just received a face lift and is ready for you to call home. Unit comes with new carpet throughout, laminate flooring in the kitchen and baths, new light fixtures in the bathrooms, new stove, dishwasher, and more. Unit is conveniently located in the 2nd city of the island near eateries, shopping, schools and freeway access.
Wow! The exclusive part of Kapolei - in the Knolls. Laminate wood floors. Upgraded kitchen - micro hood, ceramic top stove, ice/water dispenser. Backyard is an Oasis. 3 Split AC units (LR, MBR, 2nd br for lower elec bills. Ceiling Fans. 2 car garage. Solar hot water. Yard Sprinklers. Peaceful. Quick highway on/off. Kapolei Knolls private park access. Please do not enter the property unless you
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