Best of Hawaii
Maui – Kauai – Oahu and Big Island
Maui real estate markets
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Experts generally agree that the national and Maui real estate markets are finally showing a period of recovery and growth, although there is also a consensus that those recoveries are both precarious and uncertain. A report from the Lahaina News seems to indicate that a housing recovery is currently underway, but that the duration and strength of that recovery is both variable and far from predetermined. The National Association of Realtors’ chief economist, Lawrence Yum, believes that home sales will steadily rise over the next few months, due to low mortgage rates and relatively low prices on homes and apartments. This cautiously positive outlook seems to also apply to the island of Maui in particular. Year-over-year, the first three quarters of 2010 have outperformed the first three quarters of 2009 by wide margins. Maui condominium sales have risen by nearly fifty percent, while single family home sales increased by about thirty-three percent, the number of vacant lots purchased increased by about thirty-two percent. This increase in sales volume has been accompanied by a decrease in the median sales price, with condominiums dropping in price by twenty-one percent, residential properties by eight percent, and vacant land by just under twenty percent. West Maui saw perhaps the most drastic increase compared to 2009, with condominiums, residential properties, and vacant land showing jumps of eighty-two, fifty-five, and forty-eight percent, respectively. These same three categories of West Maui real estate did a drop in average price as well, though, with each segment dropping by fourteen (condominiums), sixteen (homes), and thirty-one (land) percent. The overall trend appears to support a continuing buyers’ market, although the steady decline in median price seems to be slowly leveling off. Hopefully, this nascent strength will continue and lead to real stability in Maui’s real estate market.
This same generally positive news for Maui homes and condos for sale was noted in a November 11, 2010 article from the Maui Weekly, which stated that “This is concurrent with the recent rise of real estate purchases on Maui. When comparing the first, second and third quarters of 2010 with the same time periods in 2009, condominium sales volume displayed an increase of 49 percent, with residential property sales improving by 33 percent and vacant land sales growing by 32 percent. Median sales prices for condominiums declined by 21 percent, residential by 8 percent and vacant land dropped by 19 percent.” This is an unsurprising correlation, since generally speaking the number of sales is inversely related to the quantity of units sold. In times of particularly robust economic strength and growth, some markets exhibit both higher prices and higher rates of sale.
There are, unfortunately, signs of weakness both for the local and national economies. The real estate market tends to follow the overall momentum of the economy, meaning that if Hawaii or Maui’s overall economy starts to falter, there is a larger chance that real estate will also falter. 2009 was the first time since the Great Depression that the global economy as a whole contracted. According to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO), the current tentative recovery that supplanted that recession is starting to falter. The Maui Visitor’s Bureau is concerned that an additional shock to the already fragile economy could push the nascent rally back into recession. In particular, a major concern is that a double-dip recession could damage the largest sector of Maui’s economy, the tourism industry. The UHERO update warned that the global recovery is proceeding “in an uneven fashion.” Less developed nations, especially those in East Asia, started to rally most quickly, but more industrialized countries lagged well behind the expected curve of recovery. Unemployment remains relatively high, and the American recovery in particular seems ready to fail as the last of the federal stimulus money is spent. Economists are projecting that it could take years for the global economy to return to pre-recession levels. While the United States has seen encouraging increases in consumer spending, the commercial sector has not shown comparable strength, and banks remain hesitant to loan out money. In Japan, which has been in financial trouble for years, the relative strength of the yen has started to be a concern, counteracting the positive effects of higher exports. The bottom line is that the Hawaiian economy may suffer as the global economy’s recovery begins to stumble.
How to find the perfect real estate property in Kauai
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The widespread recession in trade and employment and the world’s economy in general has given the mortgage industry a serious setback. However, if you are an individual who is on the search of a real estate and are keen to invest in property then Kauai is an ideal place to opt for. Well known for its lush and bounteous tropical greenery, this Hawaiian vacation destination is also known as the Garden isle. Despite the financial challenges faced by a number of people who wish to buy or rent real estates; the Kauai real estate business has managed to maintain its growth graph at a constantly rising level.
Purchasing a home in Kauai is indeed an experience worth cherishing for the place is so alive with sparkling sand beaches and picture-perfect sceneries that its charm is truly beguiling. With the ever increasing tourist attraction and population in Kauai, a lot of visitors wish to either rent a home in this beautiful paradise or buy it in case of prolonged stays. Whatever you wish, the industry is thriving and you are sure to find a deal which best meets your requirements and likes.
Purchasing a home in Kauai indeed provides a lot of additional benefits such as a clean natural atmosphere. Moreover you have the liberty to enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities. what’s more interesting is that there are a number of websites on the world wide web that specialize in enlisting the most popular Kauai real estates including homes, condos and lands thus simplifying and speeding your search process by manifolds.
These websites boast a large network and consequently an equivalently large database to bring you some of the most refined search results in Kauai real estate. In addition, some websites also feature customized search criteria for their visitors. This enables them to find you the perfect real estate option as per your requirements and budget. For tourists, the finest quality rental accommodations are also enlisted to help them make the most of their vacations and time without any worries and concerns.
For ardent travelers who love the joy and adventure of picturesque scenes and nature, the search for a perfect home is indeed going to be an enjoyable one. Whether you are a newbie or some usual tourist who has sufficient knowledge of the Kauai and north shore areas, the place is indeed an embodiment of your warmest wishes and desires.
For tourists and travelers, Kauai offers luxurious vacation homes on rental basis. However if you wish to become a permanent resident by buying a piece of land of this heaven on earth then you will be provided with a humungous investment opportunities which you are free to explore and decide upon. Kauai with its breathtaking beauty and charm has a place for everyone. You will find abundant real estate options, and are sure to find that one piece that best suits your tastes. Whether you wish to buy a large house or a small condo, perfect for your vacation, you are sure to find a place in this paradise.
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Places to stay in Oahu
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As previously mentioned, Oahu is one of the biggest islands in Hawaii, and is popularly known as “The Gathering Place”. In here you will experience a splendid fusion of serenity of an island paradise and the comforts of an established metropolis.
In 2006, the Kahala Resort became part of the Nast Gold List and has since been the most recommended vacation spot in Oahu. One of the specialties that Kahala offers is their spa services. Guests and tourists alike can choose from the wide range of spa packages which are all imbued with an authentic Hawaiian spa experience. Whether it’s a standard or authentic Hawaiian spa service, clients can enjoy relaxation in the true spirit of luxury. Water sports are also a mainstay in Kahala, as well as their smart and friendly dolphins waiting to welcome and greet their clients. Hawaiian cultural classes are also held here, and children can also have fun in the “kid’s club”.
All rooms and suites in Kahala are designed with dark woods, which are given a touch of sparkling Hawaiian colors. You can also find a balcony in each room – perfect for experiencing breathtaking views of the pristine ocean waters or the green vegetation that surrounds the Kahala neighbourhood. Are you a food enthusiast? Here at Oahu, you can choose from the five famous fine-dining restaurants that will surely tickle your palate and please even the most discriminating guests. Shopaholics are in for a treat as Waikiki offers one of the best shopping places in Hawaii, as well as a good dose of specialty restaurants and Waikiki real estate as well.
You also might want to try the adventures that await you in Waikiki. A good place to stay here is in Westin Moana Surfrider – considered to be Oahu’s oldest hotel. Ever since its inception in the year 1901, it has undergone several major renovations in order to better serve its guests while still maintaining its classic colonial theme. Try availing their premier spa services or get yourself wet in the beach or swimming pools inside the resort. Water sports are also offered here, as they feature an in-house sports center to cater to the needs of sports enthusiasts. And don’t forget to drop by their fitness center and get yourself in shape again.
For people who want to have some time away from crowded places, the Turtle Bay Resort is the place to be. Here you can relax in midst of nature as the lush green vegetation surrounds your every move. The nice warm breeze coming from the blue ocean waters is enough to take anyone’s stress instantly. On the menu is one of the best oceanfront accommodations you can find in Hawaii. Love golf? You’ve come to the right place! Thrill-seekers can spend their time in the resort’s water sports, as well as horseback riding and hiking.
The JW Marriott Ihilani is considered to be one of the most extravagant resort and spa destinations in Hawaii. Located in the ever so lovely Ko’Olina, this place is one of the finest when it comes to luxury getaways. You can easily notice your seclusion from the rest of the world while you are here, always peaceful and tranquil. Relax and enjoy in the crystal clear ocean waters and bask in the white sand beaches, play all the golf you want, ride the waves, shop until you drop, and dine in the finest restaurants – it’s all here in JW Marriott Ihilani.
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Hot Real Estate Investments
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Kahala is an upper class community in east Oahu that features some of the state’s finest and priciest properties. For non-residents in search of a premium vacation home in Hawaii, Kahala real estate is one of the hot investments today. With many properties expanding to at least 10,000 square feet and exceeding $3 million in value, some of the most expensive real estate of the Pacific can be found in Kahala. However, buyers with a keen market sense and desire to find a home in the neighborhood might be able to find a suitable place at an acceptable price. Not only is Kahala within a five minute driving distance from popular Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, it also is home to several secluded and empty beaches along the beautiful coastline.
Other hot real estate investments can be found in Kapolei. Popularly called the second city of Oahu, Kapolei has seen recent construction and renovation that has included the building of several subdivisions. While these properties are no where as fancy as those in Kahala, the market is quite hot in Kapolei due to the exceptional value of new houses that have just been finished in the area. While the community is far from downtown Honolulu, the thriving local community makes living in Kapolei a breeze.
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Best Hawaii Restaurants
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Hawaii has one of the most diverse selections of culinary richness. This can be attributed to the rich mix of different cultures and different tastes. No matter what the occasion is, Hawaii has all kind of restaurants to cater to your needed culinary experience. Below is a list of Hawaii’s excellent restaurants that have unanimous approval from many satisfied customers.
- Roy’s Restaurants (Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai): Roy Yamaguchi’s restaurant is one of the most famous restaurant chains in Hawaii. This is where you can try the refreshing taste of Hawaii regional cuisines. Make sure that you order one of chef Roy’s sensational signature dishes when you dine here. You will definitely end up full and satisfied.
- Alan Wong’s Restaurant (Oahu): Considered as one of the masters of Hawaii regional cuisine, Chef Alan Wong manages to create a warm cozy and welcoming restaurant. The menu is filled with Chef Alan’s specialties. No wonder, many of his visitors become fans and repeat customers.
- Sansei Restaurant & Sushi Bar (Oahu, Maui, Big Island): Many Japanese and European tourists favor this fine restaurant. Chef Kodama, the owner, offers you mouthwatering and refreshing sushi that will make you crave for more Japanese food. The restaurant also serves Euro-Asian signature dishes as well.
- Nobu Waikiki (Oahu): Owned by the highly acclaimed and innovative chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the first class Japanese restaurant offers rich, different and wonderful dishes in its menu. If you are up for a culinary adventure, make sure that you visit and dine in this restaurant.
- Mama’s Fish House (Maui): If you want to feel like you’re dining in an authentic Hawaiian setting, you should try dining in Mama’s Fish House. The interior of the place is very Hawaiian. And of course, the dishes served here are definitely fulfilling. The combination of great food, nice ambiance and first class service makes this restaurant one of the most visited by tourists.
- Lahaina Grill (Maui): Lahaina Grill is the definition of perfection. The combination of sophisticated dining room, first class service and delicious dishes places this restaurant as one of the top favorites.
- Haiilimaile General Store (Maui): Owned by chef Bev Gannon, Haiilimaili offers a variety of culinary dishes and a comfortable setting. Here, you will be greeted with warm welcome and delicious food to satisfy your appetite.
- Hulalai Grille (Big Island): Also owned by chef Alan Wong, this restaurant serves a wide selection of Hawaii’s best dishes. The wonderful setting will make your whole dining experience fun and thrilling. Here, you are assured that you will enjoy the same great food and service as one of his restaurants in Oahu but with the addition of a beautiful setting.
Beach House Restaurant (Kauai): Voted by Honolulu magazine as one of Kauai’s favorite, this restaurant serves the finest combination of regional cuisine and cool tropical cocktails. The place is also located in a romantic oceanfront setting, thus making the dining experience here really memorable.
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Best of Maui, Hawaii
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Are you dreaming of that perfect Hawaiian vacation? Well, then you just have to go to Maui. Of all the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is the most magical, alluring and exciting. The island has a lot to offer; it has the best beaches, best golf courses, best windsurfing, best weather and the sweetest pineapples you’ll ever taste, Maui Gold! Now, that’s the best of everything!
Besides the soaking under the sun, and sipping mai tai while the sun sets, what else is there to see in Maui? Well, we’ve compiled a Top 10 Do-Not-Miss List in Maui
- Haleakala – The place has been described as pilgrimage-like. On the center of the island is a 10,023 feet high volcano; its summit is the highest point on Maui. For more interesting and historic details about this island, you can visit the very informative Haleakala National Park Visitor center. Aside from this, you can go hiking, or horseback riding down into the 3,000 feet deep Haleakala Crater. You can also explore ancient lava flows and silverswords, which are rare, silvery flower stalks native to the area. If you are going for a spiritual retreat, you should try to go there early in the morning to catch the sunrise. Park entrance is around $10 per vehicle or $5 each for hikers and bikers.
- Road To Hana – This place is said to be the most scenic drive in the Hawaiian Islands. The road begins at the south of Kahului and winds down the southeast coast of Maui. The distance from these two points is around 55 miles and the road twists and turns at no fewer than 617 bends and crossing over 56 tiny and mostly one-lade bridges. While on the road, you will experience the stunning view of the flourishing vegetation, sweeping views of the ocean at every turn, and scores of swimming holes beneath waterfalls, ideal for a picnic and a splash for two. The main attraction along this road are the following: the Kaenae Peninsula, which is a serene patch of green with an overlook of panoramic views; the Kaenae Arboretum, which incorporates authentic representation of Hawaiian rain forest, the 126-acre, tropical Kahanu Botanical Gardens, and of course the charming town of Hana, which is where you’ll find the Hotel Hana-Maui.
- Lahaina – Situated on the West Maui coast, Lahaina is one historic town. It used to be the capital of Hawaii. Currently, the town is one of the liveliest and most colorful places in Hawaii. The town is filled of restaurants, smoothie bars, souvenir shops, art galleries and even high-end boutiques. There are definitely a lot to see and do here. The main attractions are Whaling Museum, Brig Carthignian, Jodo Mission, the 19th century waterfront Pioneer Inn and the awesome Banyan Tree, which was planted in the area at around 1873 and now occupies an acre of a land, with a branch spread of 50 years, supported by myriad aerial roots and 12 major trunks!
- Ka’anapali – Known as Maui’s best beach resort, Ka’anapali offers a white-sand beach and one of the best swimming and snorkeling conditions on the island. And because of this, the island became of the most visited and crowded beach in Maui. The resort also is home to the touristy train, “The Sugarcane”, which runs between Lahaina and Ka’apanali. The place also features one the lovely beaches and sunsets.
- Iao Needle – Located in the Iao Valley State Park, an abundant greet valley in the West Maui Mountains, Iao Needle is probably the most photographed landmark on the island. The moss-covered stone spire rises 1,200 feet vertically from the valley floor. There are a lot of trails and planks for tourists to work around. Photographers will definitely enjoy this place because of the rich tropical flora and fauna, which are both great subjects of photos. The state park is accessible from the twin principal Maui towns of Kahului and Wailuku
- Paia – Paia is described as the most colorful coastal town in the East Maui. Former hippie habitat, the town is home to a surprising jumble of eateries and boutiques and the defacto northern terminus of the Road to Hana. The main focus of this island is the Ho’kipa Beach. The Ho’kipa Beach is the premier windsurfing spot in the island. Here you can watch world-class windsurfers as they hone their skills and perform with definitely quality.
- Makawao – Located 16 miles southeast of Kahului, Makawao is the principal town in Maui’s Upcountry – the Mount Haleakala’s slopes, where in an Old West setting of false-front wood frame-buildings, yoga centers and herbalists are juxtaposed with the ‘paniolo’ or Hawaiian cowboy culture. This offers a unique contrast between two distinctly different worlds. The town is also the home of the biggest rodeo in the Hawaiian Islands. This down
- Wailea Beach Resort – Located on the southwest coast of Maui, just south of Kihei, Wailea Beach Resort enjoys its manicured white-sand beaches, where they rake the sand and arrange beach chairs in neat little rows. Visitors will be surprise to find that the beach is a public beach. It is one of the best on the island. The place is lined with Maui’s premier resort hotels – Marriott, Renaissance, Four Seasons, Fairmont and Grand and Grand Wailea – which offer the best luaus and hula shows on Maui. The sunsets off the coast of Wailea beach are fantastic.
- Makena Beach – Located on the southwest coast of Maui, just south of Wailea, lays the sharp contrast of the undeveloped, pristine and less visited. This is a highly enjoyable beach that all visitors should not miss!
10. Molokini – Just off the southwest coast of Maui, you will find a partially submerged, cresent-shaped crater, rising 150 feet from the ocean. This is definitely a must see! Now after having a protected marine preserve and seabird sanctuary, one can conclude that place is the best snorkeling and diving locations in Maui area. There are also that offer charter plane, and snorkeling excursions. The most recent excursion left Molokini recently and went to Ma’alaea and Lahaina. These places harbor this maddening feeling that they have the right to ask people for money; which they don’t.
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The Best Hawaii Beaches
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The Best Hawaii Beaches
Hawaii is definitely known for its amazing beaches. Your stay in Hawaii will most definitely not be complete without checking and visiting its wonderful beaches. Hawaii offers many breathtakingly awesome beaches; it’s astounding. Whether you plan to do various water activities like swimming, surfing, snorkeling to just lounging around the beach and sun bathe, you can do all of these in Hawaii’s most fabulous beaches
Through this small guide, I will try my best to list down all the best Hawaii beaches for you:
- Waikiki Beach (Oahu): One of the most famous beaches in Hawaii is the Waikiki beach. The beach has already served as the location of many of the world’s famous and biggest beach parties. It really does deserve its reputation because of its stunning beach and crystal clear waters. Here, you may just lounge around the beach or do any water activities like surfing.
- Hanauma Bay (Oahu): Hanauma Bay is said to be one of the perfect snorkeling spots in Hawaii. Located in the sunken volcanic crater on Oahu’s southeast coast, the preserved bay is home to rich marine life. Snorkeling here will give you a whole new perspective of Hawaii.
- Waimea Beach Park (Oahu): Favorite among expert surfers, Waimea is home to the big waves of Hawaii. The waves are at their biggest during winter. It’s astounding to look at the surfers conquering the waves of Waimea Beach. For beginners, it is advisable to visit Waimaea in the summer because the waves are much smaller. During this season, you can try out your skill and practice the art of surfing.
- Kaanapali Beach (Maui): Kaanapali Beach is reminiscent of Waikiki Beach. It has the clearest of waters. You can just relax, sun bathe and lounge around at this beach. If you want to do various water activities like snorkel and wave jump, you may also do so.
- Hookipa Beach Park (Maui): Famous among the best wind-surfers, Hookipa Beach is said to be the best place to surf. In the mornings, the beach is usually filled with surfers, while in the afternoons, the beach is owned by the wind-surfers. The best time to surf here is during the wintertime.
- Hapuna Beach (Big Island): Hapuna Beach is one of Big Island’s popular beaches. This area has the one of the most amazing white sands and beautiful waves.
- Kahaluu Beach Park (Big Island): The protected waters of Kahaluu is said to be one of the best snorkeling spots in the Big Island. Aside from snorkeling, you can also play around the beach and sun bathe.
- Anini Beach (Kauai): Another snorkeling and swimming spot for you. The Anini Beach is home to the protected offshore reef. The offshore reef allows you to swim and snorkel safely.
- Poipu Beach Park (Kauai): Offering the most smooth sands, grassy lawns and shallow waters, Poipu Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and most definitely surfing. It’s hard to learn surfing but once you get the hang out of it, it’s magnificent!
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The 10 Best Places To See In Hawaii
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The 10 Best Places To See In Hawaii
- Lanikai Beach – Translated as “heavenly sea”, Lanikai is as heavenly as it gets. The beach never fails to wow locals and tourists with its white sandy beach and clear water.
- Hilo – The coastal Hawaiian town has a little something for everyone. The town features multiple museums, a striking historic theater and a downtown area complete of boutiques and attractions.
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Situated on Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The place is one of the most visited spot in the entire state of Hawaii. The site has hiking trails, breath taking sights and two record holding volcanoes.
- Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge – The Kilauea National Wildlife refuge is located in a 203-acres of land on the North shore of Kilauea. This is the place to go if you want to see and learn about Hawaii’s exotic wildlife.
- Molokini – Known for having the clearest waters in Hawaii, Molokini offers about 80 to 200 feet of crystal clear waters. Because of this, this makes it the best and awesome snorkeling location in Hawaii.
- Waimaea Canyon – The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Mark Twain proclaimed as he described the beautiful canyon in Koke’s State Park. The canyon is over 3,600 feet deep, a mile wide and 10 miles long. This site is most definitely stunning.
- Waikiki – Waikiki offers all the magnificent natural beautiful beaches, waterfalls and trails. The place also features great shopping boutiques specializing in fine art, custom jewelry, designer clothing and local music.
- Gardens of Kauai – Known as the garden island, Gardens of Kauai will definitely leave you breathless by its grand beauty.
- Haleakala – One of the largest mountains in the world, Haleakala is also one massive dormant volcano. Its enormous size is hard to miss and its awesome sight makes it hard to move your eyes away from it.
10. Polynesian Cultural Center – The Polynesian Cultural Center is the one place where you go to learn about the islands culture and local habitats. Here, visitors can get a glimpse of the culture-rich society of Hawaii. In addition, the center plays host to one of the most authentic luaus in Hawaii.
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