From the glass high-rises of its fast-paced business district to the recognizable calm waters of Waikiki beach, Honolulu offers a casual lifestyle, idyllic tropical climate, and vibrant multiculturality. No wonder the city continues to attract visitors wanting to make their holiday stay a long-term one.
As the capital city of Hawaii and the most populous city in the state, with over 337,000 happy residents, Honolulu is one of the best places to live on the south shore of the island of Oahu. It is also one of the most famous tourist destinations on the globe.
For visitors, Honolulu is a collection of nice hotels, one-of-a-kind beaches, challenging volcanic trails, picturesque festivals, and cultural attractions. Living here is all of that, but also looks more like owning a home or condo in any of the excellent neighborhoods and having quick access to incredible shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Downtown areas like Kaka’ako are bursting with new development and provide exceptional walkability and fantastic mountain and ocean views without having to leave the metro area.
As you might expect, all of that comes with a price tag; Honolulu has one of the most costly housing markets in the United States. If you’re purchasing Honolulu real estate to live alone or with your ohana, moving to the suburbs can be a great way to experience all the city offers without sacrificing community or peace and quiet and, hopefully, getting some affordability. Browse through our list of the best suburbs of Honolulu, HI, to find the perfect place to call home.
1. Kaneohe
Far east from Honolulu’s hustle and bustle, on the opposite side of the island of Oahu, is lovely Kaneohe, a census-designated place of over 37,000 inhabitants lying between the lush Ko’olau mountains to the west and the shoreline of Kaneohe Bay to the east.
Kaneohe is considered one of the best suburbs of Honolulu for its gentle climate, sandy beaches, abundant amenities, educational options (including Windward Community College), beachfront parks, sailing clubs, marinas, and golf courses. Newcomers will also appreciate the proximity to three major highways (The Pali, H3, and LikeLike), giving quick access to Honolulu, Kapolei, and the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
The fact that Kaneohe is not a vacation hotspot is another significant draw for those looking to settle in a quiet residential area in touristy Hawaii. Kaneohe is also an excellent location for military families, especially those stationed on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, on the Mokapu Peninsula.
The Kaneohe real estate for sale is more budget-friendly than neighboring areas like Kailua and has a broader housing selection. Kaneohe primarily comprises single-detached homes and condos, but a few duplexes and upgraded townhomes are also available.
The market is highly competitive, with property values ranging from $1M to $2M. However, there are some reasonably priced alternatives for homebuyers who wish to go past the luxury segment. Some condos for sale in Kaneohe start at $500K, and single-family detached houses sell for around $700K in certain areas.
Attractions & Landmarks: Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, Kāneʻohe Beach Park.
Distance from Honolulu: 20 minutes
Median Sale Price: $1.1M
Zip Code: 96744
2. Waialae-Kahala
Waialae-Kahala is located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, just east of the Diamond Head State Monument, and is one of the most affluent and desirable neighborhoods in Honolulu County. The area is known for its mansion-like residences, central location, strong community spirit, and plentiful amenities, including local farmers’ markets, grocery stores, restaurants, and all the shopping options at Kahala Mall, from high-end brands to local boutiques.
The Waialae-Kahala residents enjoy a relaxed, ocean-centered existence with the area’s low population density (compared to the rest of Honolulu) and access to some of the island’s best schools. Everyday activities for residents include tee-time at the Waialae Country Club, taking a hike up Diamond Head for stunning views of Waikiki beach, or enjoying swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking at Waialae Beach Park.
Most of the real estate for sale in Waialae-Kahala falls under the luxury category, with prices commonly ranging between $3M and $27M. The single-family detached houses are the most prevalent type of housing in Waialae-Kahala, the majority being lavish oceanfront villas or Colonial-style mansions on sprawling lots with public access to the peaceful swimming areas along the Kahala Ave.
Homebuyers with budgets around $1M-$2M can find more affordable single-level dwellings a few blocks from the sea. While the real estate is costly in this fashionable neighborhood, many residents adore the laid-back attitude and spectacular views.
Attractions & Landmarks: Waialae Beach Park, Fort Ruger Park, Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design, Cromwell’s Beach.
Distance from Honolulu: 13 minutes
Median Sale Price: $1.3M
Zip Codes: 96821
3. Manoa
The sought-after residential community of Manoa sits about three miles east and inland from Honolulu’s core, in the picturesque valley of the same name. It stretches north of Interstate H-1 and up to the mountains and waterfalls of the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve. This vibrant neighborhood of spacious suburban homes and friendly residents is one of the best suburbs of Honolulu for families with school-age children looking for top-performing schools and a warm, close-knit community.
Manoa has many quality private schools, including Mid Pacific Institute and Punahou School, as well as several highly-regarded public institutions. It is also home to the largest and oldest campus of the University of Hawaii. Aside from great schools, Manoa offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from the Manoa Falls hiking trail (a short but challenging hike that takes you to a stunning waterfall) to visiting Lyon Arboretum and strolling through gardens full of tropical plants and flowers.
Several beaches are just minutes south of the homes for sale in Manoa, like Ala Moana Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach, and iconic Waikiki Beach. The Manoa Valley District Park, located in the middle of the neighborhood and surrounded by beautiful mountain views, includes a vast grassy area, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a gymnasium. As for amenities, a local favorite is Manoa Marketplace, a shopping complex providing anything from groceries to yummy restaurants, banks, and shops.
The value of Manoa real estate is influenced by the attractiveness of its schools, which explains that the median sale price in the area is over $1M. The single-family detached homes abound in Manoa, and homebuyers can find one of the largest concentrations of traditional Colonial and Plantation-style homes in this Honolulu area. There is also an ample supply of condos for sale in Manoa, selling at more affordable prices, with some units changing hands for under $300K.
The majority of the properties in the center of Manoa are constructed on level ground. However, those along the sides and rear portion of the valley are usually on slope land providing nice vistas of the Waikiki skyline.
Attractions & Landmarks: Manoa Falls, Manoa Heritage Center, Lyon Arboretum.
Distance from Honolulu: 15 minutes
Median Sale Price: $1.4M
Zip Code: 96822
4. Mililani Mauka
Mililani Mauka is a beautiful and thriving planned community located 30 minutes northwest of Honolulu’s downtown and commonly referred to as the “crown jewel of central Oahu.” Adjacent to older Mililani, this popular Honolulu suburb is the perfect place to call home for those who want freshly-built property in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to all the conveniences of city life. Mililani Mauka is home to top-rated schools and is close to major highways (including the H-2 Freeway), convenient amenities and services, and recreational facilities.
Mililani Mauka is located far enough from the bustling center of Honolulu to be peaceful yet close enough for commuting to the job areas there. This community features some lovely small parks and two recreational centers, providing residents with two swimming pools, four tennis courts, a basketball court, and a playground. In addition, there are numerous walking paths and greenbelts for residents to enjoy, thanks to the proximity of Mililani Mauka to two mountain ranges: Waianae mountains and Koolau mountains. The shopping plazas, golf courses, recreational areas, and outdoor opportunities of neighboring Mililani, HI, and Wahiawa, HI are also within easy reach.
Developed from the early 1990s through 2007, Mililani Mauka is a relatively young suburb. It has a neighborhood association committed to adhering to set guidelines and regulations for the area, which provides a sense of security and order. Well-planned, pedestrian-friendly, and family-oriented, it’s not difficult to see why this neighborhood continues to be highly popular among Oahu home buyers.
The Mililani Mauka real estate market has been fairly stable over the past few years, with prices remaining steady and inventory levels staying relatively low. The housing supply is mostly newly-built one or two-story single-family detached homes with four bedrooms and between 1,500 and 2,500 sq ft. You’ll also locate larger residences with up to 3,000 sq ft of living space, comfy living rooms, and adequate-sized bedrooms.
Homes in this suburb are constructed in a more modern style than most of the homes you’ll find on the rest of the island. The cathedral ceiling is a typical architectural feature that adds to the open floor plan. Standard home features include sizable backyards and garages. Potential homebuyers in Mililani Mauka can also purchase condos and townhomes in sub-communities like Nohona and Havens of II Vistas.
Attractions & Landmarks: Mililani Mauka District Park, Mililani Ravine Park.
Distance from Honolulu: 30 minutes
Median Sale Price: $900K
Zip Code: 96789
5. Hawaii Kai
Situated on the southeastern coast of Oahu, Hawaii Kai boasts all the natural beauty that the Islands are famous for, along with a host of amenities that make it one of the best suburbs of Honolulu. The community, a former area of fishponds and marshlands, was developed by Henry J. Kaiser in the 1960s as an idyllic planned community. Today, Hawaii Kai is a distinctive marina community offering high-rise condos and large suburban homes to fit every ocean enthusiast’s way of life.
Just minutes south of neighboring Waimanalo and less than a half-hour drive from downtown Honolulu, breezy and sunny Hawaii Kai provides endless ocean views, tropical landscaping, and a serene vibe. The neighborhood is home to a diverse population of residents and features a variety of large retail stores, shops, and restaurants at Koko Marina Center, a top local favorite.
In addition, families and individuals living in Hawaii Kai have premium golf courses, lush gardens, beaches to bathe and practice watersports, marinas, and parks. Koko Head District Park and the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve are two preferred starting points for many outdoor adventures. Homeowners also appreciate access to quality schools like Hahaione Elementary, Koko Head Elementary, and Kamiloiki Elementary.
Hawaii Kai comprises 27 neighborhoods in three different subdivisions. The oldest area, the Portlock subdivision, has elegant, classic Hawaiian homes dating back to the ’30s and ’40s, while the Koko Kai and “Triangle” neighborhoods have homes constructed past the 1960s. The new developments in Hawaii Kai are near the Koolau Mountains in areas like Mariner’s Ridge and Koko Head.
The Hawaii Kai real estate market is one of the most thriving ones in the state, with an ample supply of modern oceanfront condos, roomy townhouses, and existing single-family homes built between the ’60s and the ’70 (and beautifully remodeled!), as well as new developments of large custom-builts on generous lots. As a marina community, the homes in Hawaii Kai are on or near slender peninsulas that separate waterways from the sea. This means boat docks are a common home feature in the area.
Attractions & Landmarks: Sandy Beach, Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Koko Crater Railway Trailhead, Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail.
Distance from Honolulu: 25 minutes
Median Sale Price: $1.2M
Zip Codes: 96825
The Best Suburbs of Honolulu
If you’re looking for a relaxed suburban lifestyle within easy reach of everything Honolulu offers, look no further than these five suburbs. Each has its own distinct character and offers desirable amenities, making them the perfect places to call home in Oahu. If you’re unsure about Hawaii, the 7 best suburbs of Miami also offer amazing beaches but with relatively affordable housing! And if you need any help finding the ideal home for sale in these and other locations, our team of local real estate agents is here to assist you.
