The Top Beach Towns Across Hawaii

Paia, HI | Gina Duncan

Renowned for its breathtaking coastlines, Hawaii is home to several captivating beach towns, each brimming with unique charm and allure. 

Paia, Maui

Known for its surfing culture and laid-back atmosphere, Paia sits on the north coast of Maui. Shops, and seafood restaurants sit in pastel-colored buildings throughout the town. Popular activities on Paia’s beaches include snorkeling, surfing, and other water sports. In June, Realtor.com reported a median listing price of $1.9 million and 50 as the median number of days homes spent on the market. 

Lahaina, Maui

A favored destination for whale watching, Lahaina coastal town in a scenic location. Redfin data showed a median home sale price of $3.12 million in June, with homes selling after 275 days on the market (on average).

Haleiwa, Oahu

Popular for water sports, hiking, and wildlife adventures, Haleiwa is favored among outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s shopping centers and guided tours are major attractions. Haleiwa’s real estate market is somewhat competitive, with a median home sale price of $1.61 million in June. Redfin reported that homes went pending after an average of 72 days.

Waikiki, Oahu

High-rise hotels, turquoise blue beaches, and upscale shopping centers characterize Waikiki. Attracting over four million visitors each year, Waikiki is known for its guided hikes along Diamond Head Crater and vibrant nightlife. In June, Redfin reported that the median home sale price was $425,000, and on average, homes sold after 73 days on the market, indicating a relaxed real estate scene. 

Kailua Kona, Big Island

Kailua Kona is particularly known for its gorgeous coastlines. The town’s coffee plantation, farmers market, helicopter tours, and opportunities to swim with dolphins are popular. The real estate market in Kailua Kona is not very competitive, with homes selling after 93 days on the market (on average) at a median sale price of $1.15 million, according to Redfin’s June data. 

Kihei, Maui

Located on the southwest coast of Maui, Kihei features oceanfront parks, delicious cuisine, and a sprawling golf course. Water activities like snorkeling and boogie boarding are common in the city. According to Redfin’s June data, the median home sale price in Kihei was $1.275 million, with homes typically selling after an average of 65 days since their listing date, signifying a moderately competitive market. 

Kailua, Oahu

On Oahu’s east coast, Kailua presents oceanfront shops near stunning beaches. The town is also home to breweries and restaurants, as well as the Mokulua Islands, known as a destination for kayaking trips. Redfin’s June data showed a median home sale price of $1.41 million, with the average home selling after 49 days on the market, suggesting a reasonably competitive real estate scene. 

Kapa’a, Kauai

Specialty shops and mountainous hiking trails highlight the best of Kapa’a. The town’s laid-back vibe is further magnified by its art galleries, restaurants, and water sports scene. As reported by Redfin in June, the median home sale price stood at $710,000, and homes generally sold after 63 days since their listing date, reflecting a calm market.