Big Island Hawaii 2025 Update | Changes, Costs & WhY YOU WANT TO LIVE HERE
Thinking about living in paradise?
If you're searching for a location that blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and a relaxing pace of life, Kailua-Kona may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Located on the west side of Hawaiʻi Island — also known as the Big Island — Kailua-Kona offers a unique lifestyle with sunny skies, iconic beaches, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're considering a full-time move, retirement, or real estate investment, this coastal town continues to attract newcomers with its charm and opportunity.
I’m Stephen Proski, Realtor broker with Homes In Hawaii For Sale—where we live by one core value: “Clients First.”
I help buyers and sellers like yourself across Oʻahu and the Island of Hawaiʻi, and in today I am sharing my top reasons why you might want to call Hawaii your new home with recent updates plus one bonus tip to help you transition more smoothly into island living.
10. Beautiful Beaches with Stunning Variety
Let’s begin with one of Kailua-Kona’s biggest natural treasures — its beaches.
“Not all sand is the same — and Kona proves it.”
Kailua-Kona is home to some of the most diverse and stunning shorelines in the state. You’ll find soft white sand at beaches like Magic Sands, rare green sand at Papakōlea, and striking black sand at Punaluʻu Beach.
These beaches offer more than scenic beauty — they’re ideal for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and tidepool exploring. Sea turtles, vibrant coral, and calm waters make beach time an everyday luxury.
For ocean lovers, the coast here is both a playground and a peaceful retreat.
9. Year-Round Sunshine and Warmth
Now that we’ve explored the beaches, let’s talk about the weather that makes them so inviting.
“Sunshine is the default setting in Kailua-Kona.”
This part of the Big Island is known for its dry, sunny climate. With average temperatures in the high 70s to mid-80s and minimal rainfall, Kailua-Kona offers one of the most consistent climates in all of Hawaii.
Unlike the lush but wetter east side of the island, Kona’s coast enjoys bright skies most days of the year — perfect for anyone who thrives in warmth and light.
It’s the kind of weather that encourages you to start your mornings outside and stay there until sunset.
8. Endless Outdoor Adventures
Next, let’s talk about what there is to do — and it’s a lot more than just sitting by the beach.
“If you like staying active, Kona makes it easy — and fun.”
From snorkeling at Kahaluʻu Bay to diving with manta rays, the underwater world here is vibrant and accessible. Inland, there’s hiking along lava trails, exploring ancient petroglyphs, or touring working coffee farms.
Biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even just walking along Aliʻi Drive — there’s no shortage of ways to stay moving and connected to nature.
It’s an active lifestyle that feels energizing without ever feeling rushed.
7. Rich Local Culture and History
Now, let’s shift to something deeper — the cultural heartbeat of the region.
“There’s history in every stone, every story, every celebration.”
Kailua-Kona is rich in cultural heritage. Historic landmarks like Huliheʻe Palace and Mokuaikaua Church tell the story of old Hawaiʻi. Local festivals, hula performances, and craft fairs bring traditions to life.
Visitors and residents alike have the chance to learn, participate, and gain appreciation for Native Hawaiian practices that continue to thrive here.
Culture isn’t just something to observe — it’s something you feel and carry with you in Kona.
6. Aloha Community Spirit
A beautiful place means little without good people — and this town has both.
“Aloha isn’t just a greeting here — it’s a way of being.”
Kailua-Kona has a warm, welcoming energy. Newcomers often find it easy to build relationships through community events, neighborhood markets, or even casual conversations at a café.
People smile. They make time. They support local businesses and care about the island’s future. Whether you’re here short-term or forever, you’re likely to feel that connection.
Friendliness isn’t forced — it’s just part of the lifestyle.
5. Unique Microclimates in Every Direction
Now let’s talk about something that surprises a lot of people — the variety of weather nearby.
“Drive 15 minutes in any direction, and it feels like you’ve entered a different world.”
Kailua-Kona sits in one of the driest zones on the Big Island, but just a short drive away are misty uplands, cloud forests, or breezy pastures. Towns like Holualoa or Captain Cook offer cooler climates and lush surroundings without being far from the coast.
This makes day trips exciting and allows residents to choose the environment that best suits their lifestyle — all without leaving the island.
Whether you prefer sunny and dry or cool and green, there’s a perfect spot nearby.
4. World-Famous Kona Coffee
Now for something delicious — and deeply rooted in the land.
“Kona coffee isn’t just a brand. It’s a legacy.”
Grown on the volcanic slopes of Hualālai and Mauna Loa, Kona coffee is known for its smooth, rich flavor. In Kailua-Kona, coffee farms aren’t just tourist attractions — they’re part of the community and economy.
Visitors and residents can tour local farms, taste different roasts, and even attend the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. For coffee lovers, it’s a daily experience that connects you to the land and local producers.
There’s something special about sipping a cup of coffee where it was grown — right from your lanai.
3. A Slower Pace of Life
Next, let’s talk lifestyle — because the pace here is one of the biggest reasons people move.
“Time works differently in Kona — and that’s a good thing.”
Unlike the hustle of bigger cities or the busyness of resort zones, Kailua-Kona offers a more relaxed rhythm. People take their time. Days unfold gently. There’s less stress, fewer honking horns, and more space to breathe.
Errands might take a little longer, but that’s often because someone stopped to say hello. The result? Better mental health, a stronger sense of balance, and time to enjoy the small moments.
Life here isn’t about rushing — it’s about living well.
2. Real Estate Options for Every Lifestyle
For those considering a move, let’s talk about where you might live.
“Kona offers options — and opportunity.”
The local real estate market includes everything from oceanfront condos to mountainside homes with sweeping views. There are luxury estates, modest single-family homes, and investment properties suited for vacation rental income.
In 2025, demand remains strong, especially from mainland buyers and retirees, but inventory still allows room for choice — particularly in the upcountry and South Kona areas. Whether you're looking for a forever home or a second residence, the options are diverse.
And with Hawaii’s enduring appeal, ownership here tends to hold long-term value.
1. It Feels Like Home
And finally — what truly sets Kailua-Kona apart is the feeling it gives you.
“It’s not just a place you visit. It’s a place you stay.”
There’s something grounding, peaceful, and fulfilling about living here. Between the natural beauty, warm weather, connected community, and deep-rooted culture, life in Kona invites presence — and delivers peace.
For many, the island doesn’t just offer a new address — it offers a new way of being.
And that’s something you carry with you long after the move
Before making the leap, spend a few weeks living like a resident — not a tourist.
Stay in a residential neighborhood instead of a resort. Shop at the farmers market. Take morning walks along the ocean. Talk to locals. Observe how the days flow, how people interact, how the town breathes.
This kind of immersion helps you decide not just if Kona is beautiful — but if it’s right for you.
The best moves are the ones made with clarity and confidence.
Thinking of calling Kailua-Kona home?
With its natural beauty, strong community, and peaceful pace, it continues to draw those who want more than a view — they want a lifestyle.
2025 brings continued opportunity, growth, and connection on Hawaii’s sunny west coast. Whether you're relocating, investing, or simply dreaming — Kona is ready when you are.
Reach out anytime at 808-300-9393 or stephen@realestatekailuakona.com
Posted by Stephen Proski on
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