Living in Kapolei

Kapolei, sometimes called Oahu’s second city, has been a growing community for years, and since initial construction of homes began there in the late 1980s, it’s flourished into a community perfect for families, first-time homeowners and even work-from-home professionals. Here’s our handy guide on everything Kapolei, with expert advice and tips from our friends at List Sotheby’s International Realty.

Kapolei Has Everything You Need

From the Ka Makana Alii shopping center — home to various outlet stores, movie theaters and great places to eat — to the Straub Medical Center, Kapolei has everything you need. The community has grown to the point where its modern conveniences and amenities easily match, or surpass, other large population centers on Oahu. And the nearby lagoons at Ko Olina are open to the public and perfect for a day at the beach.

Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images

It’s One of Oahu’s Fastest Growing Housing Markets

Not only is Kapolei one of the most accessible housing markets on the island — as new properties and homes are being built regularly — it’s also one of the best for buyers looking to move from a condo to a single-family home or larger property. “You can buy into an apartment and grow into a single-family home — all of it is in Kapolei,” says Heather Selvitelle, an agent with List Sotheby’s International Realty with over a decade of award-winning service. Properties can go quickly, however, so to contend with the demand it’s always best to have a seasoned real estate agent on your side when looking to buy in Kapolei.

Ohana Friendly

For many living in Hawaii, ohana (family) is everything — and that’s probably why Kapolei has seen such an increase in residents over the past few decades. Whether your family is filled with young keiki (kids) or teen angst, Kapolei is the perfect place to settle down. “Kapolei is really a family-friendly community,” says Selvitelle. “Even though it’s called Oahu’s ‘second city,’ it feels like a small-town family-friendly place.” And because you have such attractions as Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, The Lineup at Wai Kai and the Ko Olina lagoons — as well as the Ka Makana Alii mall — there’ll always be something to do with the kiddos.

Photo: Courtesy of List Sotheby’s International Realty

Newer Homes, Fewer Maintenance Costs

While older homes have a certain rustic charm, as well as a lived-in appeal, they can also cost you a pretty penny when it comes time to fix things that need fixing. However, the Kapolei community is relatively new compared to others on Oahu, which means you won’t have as many unexpected home-repair costs. “Buyers will easily be saving money on maintenance in Kapolei since most properties are newly built quality homes,” says Selvitelle.

There Are Still Beaches Nearby

While the shoreline may not be right outside your doorstep, there are still plenty of beaches near Kapolei that are just as postcard-perfect as other beaches on Oahu — and they’re also less crowded. Nimitz Beach provides an excellent spot to lounge the day away and soak up some sun without having to worry about throngs of vacationers. Also close by is White Plains Beach, which is the perfect spot to learn how to surf, with gentle waves well suited for beginners. And if you don’t mind a bit of a drive, you’ll find some breathtaking shoreline scenes all along the island’s west coast, to Keawaula beach park, also known as Yokohama Bay.

Heather Selvitelle, Realtor® HI LICENSE RB-22771, (808) 282-1764. Find her agent profile page here.

For more stories from List Sotheby’s International Realty, click here.