Welcome to Waikoloa
Impeccable weather coupled with superb amenities
Situated on the stunning west side of the Big Island of Hawaii, Waikoloa captures the characteristics that have made the Aloha State world famous. Sun-drenched, white-sand beaches curve around five-star resorts, exclusive townhomes, and exquisite properties. Beautifully preserved cultural sites add depth and richness to the resort ambiance. Luxury shopping is as easy to come by as splendid restaurants, where fresh seafood and mai tais are served with Hawaii’s exceptional (and one-of-a-kind) aloha spirit.
The sublime weather that reigns in Waikoloa also renders it a mecca for surfers, hikers, divers, golfers, and swimmers alike, while its proximity to miles and miles of untouched land allows residents to escape to the Big Island’s most remarkable rural pockets.
What to Love
- A perpetually-sunny climate
- Outstandingly gorgeous beaches
- An upbeat, sophisticated vibe
- Grand resorts with lush grounds
- Breathtaking waterfront properties
Local Lifestyle
Waikoloa epitomizes elegance, and its residents take full advantage of the excellent, high-end amenities. The enclave is as popular with professionals and families as it is with retirees who love to spend their free time playing tennis or golfing at any of the region’s top-notch golf courses. And while Waikoloa is a leading tourist destination, its residents prize togetherness and community.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Waikoloa boasts an array of restaurants that run the gamut from extravagant to laid-back. To bask in the ample talents of master chef (and television personality) James Babian, residents often flock to Pueo’s Osteria — a warm, inviting spot specializing in old-world cooking and the delicious dishes that come with it. Handmade pizza with Hamakua mushrooms and rosemary, linguine with Kona shrimp, and veal tenderloin are just a few of the meals on their superb menu.
Celebrations of any kind call for a night at
Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill, where Hawaii’s premier chef — and one of the founders of Hawaii regional cuisine — plates winners ranging from misoyaki butterfish with forbidden rice to blackened ahi with soy mustard and choi sum. Explosive flavors abound at Waikoloa’s iteration of
Sansei; here, Chef D.K. Kodama ascends to new heights with his steakhouse fusion menu, blending classic flavors with the tastes of Hawaii to give residents and visitors one of the best Happy Hours on the island.
Meanwhile, first and 50th dates are best relished with farm-to-table fare within the heavenly setting at
Brown’s Beach House in the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, where Kona kampachi and filet mignon can be savored while you soak up unparalleled views of the Pacific. (And if you’ve ever seen Mike White’s acclaimed HBO series, White Lotus, you’ll recognize this location immediately.)
Shopping is no less impressive in Waikoloa, and the aptly named
Queens’ Marketplace and Kings’ Shops crystallize this. Located side by side, these posh, open-air plazas feature an ideal mix of Hawaii-based retailers, like Mahina and Na Hoku, and luxe brands, such as Travis Mathew and Tiffany & Co.
Things to Do
Waikoloa’s greatest claim to fame? The beaches it possesses, of course.
Kauna’oa Beach — or Mauna Kea Beach, as it’s also commonly called — will take your breath away with its nearly half-mile sweep of golden sand and clear, luminous water. (It’s also one of the best beaches for swimming on the Big Island.)
Hapuna Beach Park is equally majestic with its white sand and spectacular surfing, swimming, and bodyboarding conditions. The town’s
eponymous, palm-lined beach is its own pocket of paradise, while
“49 Black Sand Beach” presents onyx sand that stands in stark, beautiful contrast to the turquoise ocean waters.
Every Saturday, residents and visitors gather for the
Waikoloa Plaza Night Market — a vibrant event filled with work by local artisans, fresh, locally-harvested food, and pop-up shops. In other words, Waikoloa’s liveliness never stops.