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
Myron Kiriu,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Makakilo, HI sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Makakilo, HI over the last 12 months is $811,500, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to Makakilo Cliffs, where you can relax and take in the cool mountain breezes and beautiful ocean views from your own lanai. This comfortable 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome features a bright and open living space with plenty of natural light and room to gather. A peaceful retreat after a long day. Enjoy two covered parking stalls, convenient in-unit laundry, and BBQ areas perfect for
MAKAKILO - Come see us at Makakilo Ridge! This home is actually much larger than it appears from the outside. You must see to believe. Exquisitely remodeled for comfort. Did I mention that all the work was permitted? Addition includes a large bonus room with its own separate entry for convenience, as well as another bathroom. With nearly 3,000 square feet of interior living space and a prime
Cool & Breezy Makakilo Townhome with Stunning Views! Welcome home to this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome perched in the cool hills of Makakilo. Enjoy refreshing breezes and sweeping views that stretch for miles—perfect for relaxing evenings or morning coffee on the lanai. This pet-friendly community is well-maintained with great association management. Makakilo Hale 2 is 100% insured, making it an
Enjoy cool Makakilo breezes from this spacious multi-level townhome in Palehua Hillside featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a dedicated laundry room with half bath. The home offers both front and back private fenced yards—perfect for relaxing, gardening, or entertaining outdoors. Picturesque view of Diamond Head and of the city from the primary bedroom. A covered lanai extends your living space,
Welcome home to Makakilo Cliffs, where you can relax and take in the cool mountain breezes and beautiful ocean views from your own lanai. This comfortable 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome features a bright and open living space with plenty of natural light and room to gather. A peaceful retreat after a long day. Enjoy two covered parking stalls, convenient in-unit laundry, and BBQ areas perfect for
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 salt water pool
Property Id: 2026186Welcome to this chic and turn-key ready 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome in Makakilo! Spacious front lanai perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets with peek-a-boo ocean views. Storage closet in front lanai & fenced in back area for additional storage for surfboards, bikes, etc. 2 open parking spaces as well as private street parking. Live in breezy Upper Makakilo
Welcome to Wai Kaloi at Makakilo! This beautiful 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath single family home sits atop the hill in Makakilo and features beautiful laminate flooring, wall to wall carpet, stainless steel appliances, 2 car enclosed garage, and views for days (you can even see Diamond Head!) With an extra large primary suite, walk in closet w/organizer, double sinks, and amazing views of the Koolau
Welcome to Westview at Makakilo Heights! This well-maintained 2-bed, 2-bath second-floor condo offers cool breezes and scenic views from the covered lanai. Features include split A/C units, in-unit laundry, and 2 assigned parking stalls. Parking stall has EV charger installed for your convenience. Conveniently located near Kapolei shopping, dining, and freeway access - enjoy comfortable hillside
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