- by Greg Gerard, Realtor
With some of the most remarkable and constantly good weather in the world, the Kona-Kohala Coast is a very pleasant place to live indeed. The abundant sunshine, moderate humidity and pleasant tropical breezes are among the island’s finest amenities. However many people don’t realize they have the choice of many nuances of climate which adds to the diversity and possiblities when selecting a location in which to live.
A complex variety of micro-climatic conditions exists along the leeward coast and up the mountain slopes, where the average temperature cools about three degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation. Combine that with the moderate and varying rainfall along the coast and up the slopes from North Kohala to South Kona, you can pick a perfect location; from hot, semi-arid to the cool, lush jungle.
Kailua-Kona, on the leeward side of the island and more protected from the windward breeze, is situated on the shore of Kailua Bay in North Kona. This area offers very mild, tropical weather and is a popular tourist destination. In the 19th century, with its pleasant weather and laid back atmosphere, it was the favorite summer residence of Hawaiian royalty.
Today, Kailua-Kona is the largest population center in West Hawai‘i. The newer stores in this area — which include Home Depot, Lowe’s, Costco, Kmart, Wal-Mart, Safeway, Macys, and Borders Books — have significantly lowered the cost of living and improved the availability of goods and services. The multitude of activities from which to choose in Kailua-Kona includes two multiplex theaters, recreational facilities, and many ocean and outdoor-related sports. This area, because of the availability of jobs, goods and services, is very attractive to all segments of the home-buying population, including retirees, families and second homeowners.
South Kona is home to “Tropical Old Hawai’i,” where the old style and more
rural, agricultural communities “up mauka” (up the mountain) dot the belt highway from Honalo to Honaunau at approximately the 1,000- foot level. Midway along the route is the area’s commercial center, Kealakekua. The crops from this area include Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, avocados and a variety of other fruits and vegetables. It is also a cattle ranching area. Rainfall is more abundent here than in Kailua-Kona, giving it a greener, lush atmosphere. A South Kona landmark is pristine Kealakekua Bay, a marine preserve where dolphins like to romp and is a favorite snorkeling and kayaking spot. Along its shore is a monument honoring Captain James Cook, the famous explorer. This was where he first landed on the island and also where he met his demise. The rural way of life in this region offers a relaxed pace and somewhat lower housing costs, making it attractive to retirees and people working along the coast.
Compared with other parts of the island, the largest tax base is West Hawai‘i. When property tax rates are compared to the mainland, the tax rate here is relatively low. The county seat for the island is Hilo, where it was established during the plantation days, when the sugarcane industry dominated the economy. Today tourism, the world-class resorts along the Kona- Kohala Coast and the growth in shopping and other services in Kailua- Kona power the economic engine for the island.
North Kohala, at the upper end of the Goald Coast is seperated from the northeast tip of the island by the Kohala Mountain range which devideds the two sides in this norther portion of the Island. It is sparsely populated there and generally cooler and lush due to moisture that gathers over the Mountains there. It’s a little more remote, giving it more of a secluded feel, although still within easy driving distance south to the resorts.
Waikoloa Village in South Kohala is conveniently located for those working at the resorts or surrounding luxury homes and condominiums. This location is also favored by some retirees for the affordable homes and community owned golf course. The Village has modest shopping facilities, but just 15 minutes east by car is Waimea, where there are more shopping opportunities, an excellent hospital and great private schools. Waimea is known for its cooler temperature, cowboys and country atmosphere.
The Kohala Coast is the home of several premier world-class resorts with beautiful beaches and luxurious, high-end homes, condominiums and hotels. Homeowners can enjoy resort and golf privileges for a truly superlative lifestyle. This area is very attractive to buyers of second homes. Along the coast, extending southward toward Kona, there are seven golf courses within 30 minutes driving time.
In West Hawaii we can enjoy the best of both worlds. The sunshine, beautiful surroundings, diversity and temperate climate are all vitally important, but so is the fact that West Hawai‘i is a progressive community where new ideas are encouraged, yet the wisdom of aloha is still deeply respected. Residents strive to live holistically in a sustainable environment, with the knowledge that a healthy economy is vital to the well being of everyone.
Many people here make a serious effort to “live with aloha.” All these elements provide an excellent foundation for a bright future and wonderful place to live.
