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.
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Enjoy comfortable island living in this freshly painted 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath end unit featuring the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer. Take in the beautiful views of Diamond Head from your home and relax on the private lanai, perfect for outdoor dining or your morning coffee.With no rear neighbors—just a large open grassy area—you'll appreciate the added privacy and peaceful setting.
Perfect for VA buyers! Great opportunity for first-time homebuyers, military buyers, and investors to own instead of rent in upper Makakilo! Desirable corner 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome in the cool, breezy Makakilo community. This private second-floor end unit features its own entrance, abundant natural light, refreshing cross-breezes, and an open layout. Enjoy lush greenery views from every room
Welcome home to this nicely upgraded contemporary style townhouse in the desirable Palehua Townhouses community with an incredible 2.75% VA assumable loan opportunity! Spacious corner unit offers 4 bedrooms/2 full baths with an open floor plan, bright kitchen cabinetry with Silestone countertops, brand new SS appliances, split AC system, smooth ceilings, fresh interior paint, new waterproof Pergo
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
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
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 updated kitchen cabinets, providing a refreshed kitchen setting. The property comes with 2 parking stalls for added convenience. Located in Makakilo near Kapolei, this
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 environment that
Space, views, and real energy savings, all in one of West Oahu’s most desirable neighborhoods, Kahiwelo. With its elevated position within Kahiwelo, you get to watch the world go by and enjoy the wonderful breeze from your front lanai, and not to mention the views of the ocean and Diamond Head from both floors, which never gets old. This updated home features vaulted ceilings, 5 gracious bedrooms
Enjoy comfortable island living in this freshly painted 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath end unit featuring the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer. Take in the beautiful views of Diamond Head from your home and relax on the private lanai, perfect for outdoor dining or your morning coffee.With no rear neighbors—just a large open grassy area—you'll appreciate the added privacy and peaceful setting.
****Open House 8/2/26 2pm - 5pm **** Seller is offering a $10,000 credit to the buyer to use toward closing costs or a rate buy-down! Experience the perfect blend of hillside tranquility and modern convenience in this beautifully upgraded, move-in ready ground-floor townhome in Westview at Makakilo Heights. Offering a highly desirable single-level layout, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence
Perfect for VA buyers! Great opportunity for first-time homebuyers, military buyers, and investors to own instead of rent in upper Makakilo! Desirable corner 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome in the cool, breezy Makakilo community. This private second-floor end unit features its own entrance, abundant natural light, refreshing cross-breezes, and an open layout. Enjoy lush greenery views from every room
Discover this beautifully updated 2 Bed/2 Bath ground-floor unit in the peaceful & breezy Makakilo Cliffs community. This move-in ready home offers comfort, style, and convenience with modern upgrades throughout and your own private yard space. Step inside to find luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring throughout, creating a clean, contemporary feel. The updated kitchen features quartz countertops,
Spacious 5-bed, 3-bath custom home in desirable Upper Makakilo with stunning mountain views. Enter through double doors into a vaulted formal foyer. Main level features an open island kitchen flowing to the living and dining areas, a large laundry room with long counter, utility sink, and ample storage, plus a flexible room perfect for formal dining or family room, with an adjacent bedroom and
This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhouse is 742 sq ft plus small covered lanai spacious private yard, ideal for outdoor dining, gardening, or relaxing. Interior features include ceramic tile and new carpet, new ac in bedroom and remodeled bathrooms with showers that have been reglazed. Washer and dryer are conveniently located in the unit. Two assigned parking stalls are included. Located
Move-in ready in Upper Makakilo! This spacious, partly furnished single-level home features 4-bedrooms, 2-baths, large separate dining and family rooms, refreshing trade winds and gentle cross breezes. Enjoy a covered wood deck lanai, a fenced yard with sprinkler system, 2-car garage. Newly installed vinyl plank flooring throughout, new carpet in all bedrooms, new ceiling fans in the living and
Enjoy the comfort and privacy of this 3 bedroom, 2 bath single family home located in the desirable community of Makakilo. This home offers a peaceful setting with a gated entry and a spacious yard, perfect for relaxing or enjoying outdoor time.The home features a functional layout with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing plenty of space for comfortable living. Large windows
Available: August 5 2026 Beautiful Private Front and Back Yard with HOT TUB and Fruit Trees. Community POOL and Rec Center. 23 SOLAR PANELS electric bill only $30-80 per monthSave money on electric!3 window unit AC in 3 bedrooms.Downstairs is cooler, no AC in living room. Utilities Included: Water, TV, InternetUtilities tenant pay: Electric, Yard (tenant maintain), Pest (if
Available now, Executive home in Kapolei Knolls. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, loft, 2 car garage, views of Diamond Head and the ocean and a pool! Formal living room as you enter then continue down the hall past the half bath, open kitchen with stainless steel appliances and the main living room with cathedral ceilings. Separate laundry room and primary bedroom with a bedroom located on the first floor
Beautiful Ocean Ridge at Makakilo Townhome in Kapolei Welcome to 92-7171 Elele Street #503—a spacious townhome located in the desirable Ocean Ridge at Makakilo community in Kapolei. This well-maintained home offers a bright and functional layout with an open living area, full kitchen, comfortable bedrooms, and excellent indoor-outdoor island living. Enjoy the convenience of a private garage,
Alfonso MartinezHawaii Pacific Realty Group
$5,250 per month
Single Family Executive Style Home in Gated Community
Come let this custom home take your breath away! This well-planned and well-appointed 4/3.5 home is located in the exclusive gated community in upper Makakilo known as Kumulani, the base of the heavens. Upon arriving, you will see two entrances and exits into and out of the property with a beautiful porte cochére at front. Inside you will be greeted with a large sitting area, family room and
Unit FeaturesProperty Type: 2 Story TownhomeInterior Living Area: 1,203 sq ftBedroom: 3Bathroom: 1.5Private Lanai with Turf GrassParking: 2 Reserved Parking StallsIn Unit LaundryDishwasher, Range Oven, Brand New Fridge(4) Split AC unitsMounted TV in Living Room Comes With the Unit Tenant Expenses: Electricity & Cable/InternetUtilities Included: Water &
92-1148 Panana St. #137, Kapolei, HI 96707PALEHUA VILLAS Ground Flr 2 bed, 1 bath apartment, water/sewer, 2 parking, pet negotiablePalehua Villas Spacious Ground Floor unit apartment 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment with 2 parking stalls, pet negotiable (subject to approval), please see details below. Thank you.ADDRESS: 92-1148 Panana St. #137, Kapolei, HI 96707RENT is $2000
Beautiful home in upper Makakilo with spacious and open floor plan. This home is located at the end of cul-de-sac near the openpark and guest parking. With 3-bedrooms/2-full abths and walk-in-closet ad s=double sink for primary bedroom. Nice and open kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter top, plantation shutters with tile floor (upper room) for easy maintenance and carpet
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