With so much to offer, it can be quite confusing to pick a place to live in the Aloha State. Lucky for you, this list details the best places to live in the Hawaiian islands based on several criteria, such as amenities, livability, and safety. Let’s dive in.
- Honolulu, Oahu
Honolulu is widely recognized in the whole state of Hawaii as having the highest livability in the island chain. And apparently, a lot of people know it, as the city is the most populous place in Hawaii with approximately 359,870 residents. As the state capital, the city has everything, from world-class beaches and outdoor recreation to the best dining and nightlife.
The real estate market is diverse, with single-family homes, estates, and beachfront condos taking up a huge chunk of the housing supply. Schools, hospitals, and other services are scattered throughout the city. Overall, Honolulu is a balance of local spirit and world-class attractions.
- Kahala, Honolulu, Hawaii
Luxurious estates, some of which are considered the most expensive in the Aloha State, are found in the upscale community of Kahala in Honolulu. It’s mostly residential, but it’s location (near Diamond Head and Waikiki) make living here convenient. The whole neighborhood is relatively safe and peaceful. Best of all, Kahala’s beaches are some of Honolulu’s best-kept secrets.
For these reasons, Kahala is a popular option for celebrities and other influential personalities. The housing options are a mix of older properties and new construction, with plenty of real estate investors coming in to flip or tear down homes.
- Wailea, Mau’i County
Small town charms, championship golf, and stunning beaches make Wailea one of the best places to live in the Aloha State. Although Wailea attracts a considerable amount of tourists every year, the town has retained its local flavor and the community is fiercely protective of it.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Wailea continues to be a peaceful and tranquil small town famed for its rich marine life and golf courses. Kahului Airport is easily accessible from the community, roughly 35 minutes away. Real estate offerings include waterfront estates and condos.
- Lahaina, Mau’i County
Located on Maui’s west coast, Lahaina is a historic community with a past in whaling. Herman Melville, the famous author of Moby Dick, is just one of the sailors who set food in the town during the whaling boom in the 19th century. Today, however, Lahaina is a tourist destination and one of the best places to live in the Hawaiian islands.
Why? Aside from being easily accessible, you’ve got a great selection of beaches, shopping, dining, and entertainment in Lahaina. It’s got that old charm as well, with the town included on the National Register of Historic Places. The best outdoor destination in Maui (the West Maui Forest Reserve) is right at Lahaina’s doorstep. And best of all, giant visitors by way of spot humpback whales can be seen from the shore during winter time. If you live in Lahaina, you’re incredibly lucky.
- Paia, Mau’i County
If peace, solitude, and raw natural beauty are the things you’re after, however, no city or town can take the place of Paia in Maui. Off the beaten track, this town’s local charms include a collection of independent art galleries, businesses, and surf shops. Paia’s claim to fame, however, is the Hookipa Beach, which is frequented by windsurfing enthusiasts from all over the world.
Chill and laid back, Paia is also full of history. It was once a booming town at the height of Maui’s sugar cane days. Today, it’s more of a surf town that has earned the moniker “Windsurfing Capital of the World.”
Let’s find your dream home in Hawaii together
Browse my website for more information. You can also get in touch with me today at 808-214-0302 or greg(at)isleluxury(dotted)com.