Getting Around
Renting a car is essential for navigating the steep residential streets and reaching nearby commercial centers.
Hawaii, United States
City·Residential, Elevated, Quiet, Scenic
Images coming soon!
Perched on the southern slopes of the Waianae Mountains, Makakilo is a primarily residential area that serves as an overlook for the growing city of Kapolei. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to the area for its panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head in the distance. Because of its elevation, the neighborhood often enjoys slightly cooler breezes than the coastal plains below. While largely quiet and suburban, its location provides immediate access to the 'Second City' of Kapolei, where travelers can find extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as the nearby luxury resorts and lagoons of Ko Olina.
Perched on the southern slopes of the Waianae Mountains, Makakilo is a primarily residential area that serves as an overlook for the growing city of Kapolei. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to the area for its panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head in the distance. Because of its elevation, the neighborhood often enjoys slightly cooler breezes than the coastal plains below. While largely quiet and suburban, its location provides immediate access to the 'Second City' of Kapolei, where travelers can find extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as the nearby luxury resorts and lagoons of Ko Olina.
Highlights
Sweeping views of the Ewa Plain and the Pacific Ocean.
Proximity to the shopping and dining hubs of Kapolei.
Cooler temperatures due to the higher elevation on the hillside.
Easy access to the beaches and resorts of Ko Olina.
A quieter alternative to the busy tourist centers of Honolulu and Waikiki.
Before you go: Makakilo essentials
The area is primarily residential with very few commercial businesses within the neighborhood boundaries.
Traffic can be heavy during peak commuting hours on the main access roads leading down to the H-1 freeway.
The steep terrain may not be suitable for walking long distances; a vehicle is highly recommended.
Limited public transportation options within the hillside community.
Local Climate
The hillside elevation often results in cooler temperatures and more frequent breezes than the coastal areas below.
Best For
Panoramic ocean views and a quiet residential atmosphere near Oahu's west side.
Currency
USD $
Average Cost
$150-$250 p/day
Population
18,248
Nearby Amenities
Head down the hill to Kapolei for a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Beach Access
The calm lagoons of Ko Olina are just a 10-15 minute drive away, offering excellent swimming and snorkeling.
Sunset Viewing
Drive to the upper sections of Makakilo Drive for some of the best sunset vistas on the island.
Languages Spoken
English, Hawaiian
Best time to visit Makakilo
April-June, September-November
Best Season
Spring
Pleasant temperatures and moderate crowds make this an ideal time for outdoor activities on Oahu.
Best Season
Summer
Expect warmer weather, though the hillside location often provides a welcome breeze.
Best Season
Fall
Warm ocean temperatures and fewer tourists offer a more relaxed experience at nearby beaches.
Winter
While the rainy season, the leeward side of the island typically sees less precipitation than the windward side.
Location
Makakilo, Hawaii, United States