5 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Kailua Kona, HI

Located on the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kailua Kona is a tropical paradise that offers stunning views, rich culture, and a variety of living environments, from luxury estates to quaint beachside communities. For those looking to call this idyllic location home, understanding the unique characteristics of each neighborhood can help you find the perfect place to live. Here’s a closer look at some of the best neighborhoods in Kailua Kona, HI, that offer everything from peaceful oceanfront living to luxurious hillside retreats.

Nestled on the west side of the Big Island, Ali’i Heights is a community known for its spacious lots, breathtaking views, and contemporary homes. Developed in the mid-2000s, this neighborhood features over 200 homesites, each offering a serene blend of mountain and ocean vistas.

Ali’i Heights is perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. The neighborhood’s proximity to Keauhou Bay allows residents to indulge in outdoor activities such as canoe paddling, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and surfing. Wide streets and sidewalks make it great for running, biking, and leisurely walks. With Keauhou Shopping Center just 5-minutes away and Kailua Kona just a 15-minute drive away, residents have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The homes in Ali’i Heights are primarily single-level, designed with modern comforts such as vaulted ceilings, three-car garages, and stucco exteriors. The properties are well-maintained, with lush landscaping that enhances the neighborhood's overall tranquility. Home prices typically range from $900,000 to over $2 million, reflecting the area’s appeal and the quality of the homes.

For those seeking a peaceful, contemporary lifestyle close to the beach, Ali’i Heights offers a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. The community’s warm, balmy breezes and proximity to the ocean make it an ideal location for enjoying Hawaii’s natural beauty year-round.

For those looking to immerse themselves in luxury, Bayview Estates is one of the most sought-after gated communities on the Big Island. Located just above Keauhou Bay, this upscale neighborhood offers some of the most breathtaking coastline views in Kailua Kona.

Bayview Estates is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The neighborhood’s low elevation of 400-500 feet ensures warm, inviting weather, making it ideal for outdoor living. Residents enjoy easy access to the nearby Keauhou Shopping Center, which offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. For those who love golf and ocean sports, Keauhou Bay is just minutes away, providing ample recreation opportunities.

Homes in Bayview Estates are typically single-level and feature contemporary designs with standing seam or tile roofing and stucco exteriors. The properties are meticulously landscaped, adding to the overall sense of luxury. With prices ranging from $1.5 million to $3 million, the homes in this neighborhood are some of the most exclusive on the island.

Bayview Estates is ideal for retirees or semi-retirees looking for a luxurious, relaxed lifestyle with easy access to amenities. The community’s gated entry and protective covenants ensure privacy and security, making it a perfect choice for those who value exclusivity and comfort.

Hualalai Vistas offers a unique blend of luxury living and natural beauty. Situated at a higher elevation, this newer subdivision provides cooler temperatures and stunning coastline views, making it a desirable location for those who want to enjoy Hawaii’s beauty without the heat.

Hualalai Vistas is known for its spacious one-acre lots, providing ample outdoor living and privacy space. The neighborhood’s elevation of 900 to 1,300 feet offers a refreshing escape from the warmer temperatures found at lower elevations while still being just 10 minutes from downtown Kona. This location is perfect for those who want to be close to the action but prefer a quieter, more serene environment.

The homes in Hualalai Vistas are a mix of bungalows, ranches, and plantation-style designs, each offering luxury and comfort. Properties typically range from $1 million to $2 million, with some vacant lots available for custom builds. The neighborhood’s underground utilities ensure unobstructed views, allowing residents to fully appreciate the scenic landscape.

Hualalai Vistas is perfect for families and retirees alike, offering spacious lots, cooler temperatures, and a peaceful atmosphere. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown Kona ensures residents can enjoy the best of both worlds — luxury living in a serene environment with easy access to the city's amenities.

Located in the Holualoa area of North Kona, Iolani is a luxury neighborhood that combines breathtaking coastline views with a relaxed island lifestyle. This neighborhood is known for its upscale homes and convenient location, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the best of Kailua Kona.

Iolani is just 10 minutes from downtown Kona, offering residents easy access to the town’s amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. The neighborhood’s elevation of 500-800 feet ensures comfortable temperatures year-round, while the lush, green landscape provides a sense of tranquility.

The homes in Iolani are a mix of ranch and contemporary plantation designs, with prices ranging from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. These custom, single-level homes are designed to maximize the stunning ocean views, making them as beautiful as their surroundings. The relaxed vibe of the neighborhood is perfect for those looking to enjoy a laid-back island lifestyle in a luxurious setting.

Iolani is ideal for those who want to live in a beautiful, upscale community with easy access to the amenities of downtown Kona. The neighborhood’s relaxed atmosphere, stunning views, and luxury homes make it a top choice for retirees, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the best of island living.

Kahakai Estates is a popular gated community located just two miles south of Kailua-Kona. Known for its spacious lots, custom homes, and private park, this neighborhood offers a relaxed, luxurious lifestyle just minutes from the beach.

Kahakai Estates is designed for those who value privacy and tranquility. The neighborhood features 109 lots, each ranging from half an acre to one acre, with custom and semi-custom homes. Residents enjoy leisurely walks along the well-lit, meandering sidewalks, and the private, three-acre park is perfect for pets and children. The neighborhood’s elevation of 100-200 feet ensures pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor living.

Homes in Kahakai Estates are typically upscale ranch or plantation styles, with prices ranging from $1 million to $3 million. The properties are designed to take full advantage of the coastal views, with large windows, open floor plans, and expansive outdoor living spaces. The gated entry adds an extra layer of security, making it a peaceful and safe place to live.

Kahakai Estates is perfect for families and retirees alike, offering a relaxed, luxury lifestyle in a secure, gated community. The neighborhood’s proximity to Kailua Bay and downtown Kona ensures that residents have easy access to all the amenities and activities the area has to offer.

Finding the perfect neighborhood in Kailua Kona, HI, is an exciting journey, and having the right real estate expert by your side can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a luxury estate, a family-centric community, or a peaceful retreat, Ellison Team Hawaii is here to help you navigate the market and find the home of your dreams. With deep knowledge of the Kailua Kona area, Ellison Team Hawaii provides the guidance and expertise you need to make informed decisions. Contact Ellison Team Hawaii today to start your journey to finding the perfect home in one of the best neighborhoods in Kailua Kona, HI.