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
Keolani Keawe,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Makakilo, HI sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 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.
Discover island living at its finest in this stylishly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath gem nestled in the cool hills of upper Makakilo. Designed for comfort and connection with nature, this home features two private, fenced yards filled with fruit-bearing trees, offering a peaceful, tropical setting for entertaining, relaxing, or letting pets roam free. Step inside to a bright, open kitchen complete
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
Escape to your private oasis in beautiful Makakilo! Nestled in the prime Kahiwelo location, this stunning single-story home offers breathtaking mountain, city, ocean, & Diamond Head views. Imagine unwinding outdoors with your favorite beverage or entertaining family & friends in your ultimate retreat. The interior boasts beautiful ceramic tiles & plantation shutters in the living room for
Welcome to your slice of paradise in the highly sought-after Mehana community in Kapolei! This spacious 4-bedroom single-family home offers the perfect blend of island living and modern convenience. Inside, you'll find a freshly painted home, creating a clean canvas ready for your personal touch. The open floor plan is perfect for everyday living and entertaining, flowing smoothly into the
Charming Makakilo Townhome with Ocean Views & Endless Potential Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom townhome in the desirable Makakilo community! With 1,125 sq. ft. of interior space, this home offers a comfortable layout perfect for island living. Enjoy peek-a-boo ocean views and the cooling Makakilo breezes, creating a relaxing atmosphere year-round. The front area presents an incredible
This newly constructed, expansive studio above the garage features a sleek, modern design with high-end finishes throughout. The bathroom offers a spa-like experience, reminiscent of a luxury suite. Enjoy stunning ocean views from nearly every window, including a breathtaking perspective of Diamond Head. The space is equipped with split air conditioning, ensuring comfort even during the warm
3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Home with Stunning Views Seascape at MakakiloEnjoy breathtaking coastline, mountain, and partial ocean views from this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the highly desirable gated community of Seascape at Makakilo.This home features a spacious floor plan filled with natural light, large windows to capture the views, and central air conditioning for
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
