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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Welcome to Upper Makakilo! This newly remodeled, charming single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a bonus family room offers 1,506 sq. ft. of comfortable living on a spacious 5,088 sq. ft. lot. Enjoy cool trade winds in a desirable cul-de-sac location + relax in your private outdoor space perfect for entertaining under the stars. A mature avocado tree adds a special island touch.Conveniently
New Price + $15,000.00 seller credit toward a 2/1 Interest Rate Buydown! 2.75% VA assumable loan to a qualified VA Buyer! Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to own a nicely upgraded townhouse in the desirable Palehua Townhouses community. Spacious corner unit offers 4 bedrooms/2 full baths with an open floor plan, bright kitchen cabinetry with Silestone countertops, brand new SS
Welcome home to Makakilo Hale 1, where cooler hillside living, private outdoor space, and Diamond Head views come together! This nicely updated home offers a private front courtyard plus a backyard, giving you multiple outdoor spaces to relax, entertain, garden, or enjoy the Makakilo breeze.Inside, the home feels fresh and move-in ready with a new coat of paint and thoughtful updates
Welcome home to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home with a versatile bonus room, where modern design meets inviting comfort. Sunlight dances across the cathedral ceiling, filling open living and dining spaces that beckon you outdoors through double doors. Experience over $100,000 in thoughtful upgrades, from a new front door to a fully renovated kitchen and bathrooms, plus refreshed windows,
Welcome to Makakilo Cliffs! Remodeled just two years ago! This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath ground-floor townhome offers the convenience of 2 assigned parking stalls and a functional layout designed for comfortable everyday living. Enjoy an open living and dining area that flows to a private yard, perfect for relaxing or enjoying the cool Makakilo breezes. The kitchen provides ample
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
Welcome Home to Makakilo Cliffs! Discover this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse nestled in the quiet and peaceful neighborhood of Makakilo Cliffs. Freshly painted and move-in ready, this home features a number of thoughtful updates. The kitchen has been refreshed with new countertops and cabinets, while newer plank flooring adds a clean, modern feel to the living room and
This charming townhome in the desirable Palehua Nani community on Makakilo Drive is clean, well-maintained, beautifully updated and move-in ready! Conveniently located near parking and mailboxes for easy daily living with beautiful views. Enjoy the added bonus of two outdoor storage closets, perfect for tools, beach gear, bikes, and more. Comes with 2 parking stalls and offers comfortable island
MOTIVATED SELLER! Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse in Palehua Nani, Makakilo. This unit features a functional floor plan with comfortable living areas and a fenced private yard, offering usable outdoor space. The home includes newly updated kitchen cabinets, providing a refreshed kitchen setting & new split a/c. The property comes with 2 parking stalls for added convenience.
Rare 3-bedroom end-unit with one of the largest wrap-around yards you'll find in any townhome! This breezy Makakilo home offers a true single-family feel, featuring a spacious layout with 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath upstairs, plus a convenient half bath downstairs. Two side-by-side parking stalls are located directly in front for easy access. With just a bit of paint and some new flooring, this
This Single Family Home offers three comfortable bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing ample space for daily living. The property sits on a nicely sized lot in a quiet residential gated neighborhood.Located within a secure gated community, this residence provides an added layer of privacy and exclusivity for homeowners. The thoughtful floor plan creates a functional living
Welcome to Upper Makakilo! This newly remodeled, charming single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a bonus family room offers 1,506 sq. ft. of comfortable living on a spacious 5,088 sq. ft. lot. Enjoy cool trade winds in a desirable cul-de-sac location + relax in your private outdoor space perfect for entertaining under the stars. A mature avocado tree adds a special island touch.Conveniently
AFFORDABLE & GORGEOUS. FIRST OPEN this Sunday 9/6/2026 2-5 pm. Clean, Move In ready, lovely home, nestled high up in the spectacular hills of Makakilo - Anuhea. This well maintained 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home includes a private primary suite downstairs with a full bath including double sinks & windows that look out to views of the lovely yard bringing in the soothing, natural mountain cross winds.
Makakilo Cliffs in Makakilo-Upper — corner-end townhouse with coastline, ocean, and garden views, sitting on the cooler, breezier side of the complex.This two-story, 2-bed / 1.5-bath unit was renovated in 2017–2018: kitchen updated with Corian counters, new cabinets, and a new range; bathrooms refreshed to match. In-unit washer and dryer, ceiling fans throughout, and a covered lanai that
Located in highly desirable Lower Makakilo, this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence at 92-540 Pilipono St offers approximately 1,500 square feet of living space surrounded by mature mango trees that create a true island atmosphere with privacy and charm. Even better, there are no maintenance fees and no association fees, giving homeowners more freedom and long-term affordability in one of West
This is one of two spacious studio apartments, upstairs in a large home in an expensive, very quiet neighborhood. The apartment has a fantastic view of the whole southern part of the island, all the way to Diamond Head, probably the best view in the state. It can only accommodate a person living there, though visitors are welcome. Renters park in the driveway.` The apartments share an outside
Experience the ease of island living in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo at Makakilo Cliffs. Thoughtfully designed with an open-concept layout, this residence features stylish upgrades, smart storage, and a seamless flow that enhances both everyday living and entertaining. The private, landscaped yard is a rare and inviting extension of the home- perfect for outdoor dining,
Discover your new home in beautiful Makakilo with this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit. Enjoy stunning views and a refreshing breeze in this spacious and well-maintained unit, which features tile and vinyl flooring throughout, an open-concept living area, and a modern kitchen with updated appliances. Water and sewer are included with rent, and the property is pet-friendly, making it perfect
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. MAKAKILO CLIFFS: Townhouse. Unit is
3400. Pets Welcome. UNIT IS NOT FURNISHED. Upgraded ground floor unit in Makakilo Cliffs. This move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom corner unit features a covered lanai with scenic mountain and ocean views. Conveniently located with two covered parking stalls and visitor parking nearby. The unit has been updated with popcorn ceiling removal, smooth walls, Pergo wood flooring, granite countertops,
Makakilo Cliffs in Makakilo-Upper — corner-end townhouse with coastline, ocean, and garden views, sitting on thecooler, breezier side of the complex. This two-story, 2-bed / 1.5-bath unit was renovated in 2017–2018: kitchenupdated with Corian counters, new cabinets, and a new range; bathrooms refreshed to match. In-unit washer anddryer, ceiling fans throughout, and a covered lanai
Enjoy the cooler temperatures of the Makakilo community. Located near the top of the mountain, this three-bedroom, two-bath house has everything you need. The lawn is well-maintained and manicured. Yard service is included in the rent. At the bottom of the hill, Kapolei Marketplace is a strip mall with a Safeway supermarket chain and various boutique shops and eateries. Chili's Grill &
Available now! Beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome in desirable Westview at Makakilo. This move-in-ready unit features a renovated kitchen and bathrooms, updated flooring, new appliances, air conditioning, in-unit washer/dryer, and 2 assigned parking stalls. Well-maintained community with a lovely courtyard and beautiful surroundings. Conveniently located in the Makakilo/Kapolei
Charming corner unit townhouse in the desirable Makakilo Cliffs community. This ground-floor, 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit features an open porch, railed wood balcony, and a private yard with low-maintenance astroturf. Enjoy abundant natural light throughout, with 2 assigned parking stalls included. Unit includes refrigerator, stove/oven, in-unit washer/dryer, and garbage disposal. Located near
Enjoy comfortable living in this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome in Ocean Ridge at Makakilo. The home features a spacious layout, split A/C, upgraded kitchen finishes, a 2-car garage, driveway parking, and a private fenced yard.Conveniently located near Kapolei shopping, dining, schools, entertainment, and H-1 freeway access.Internet, water, sewer, and trash are included in the rent.
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