What It’s Like Living in Royal Kahili in Hawaii
If you’ve dreamed of living in an oceanfront condo in Hawaii, the Royal Kahili community might be exactly what you’re looking for. Nestled along the scenic Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona, this boutique-style complex offers residents the perfect blend of resort-style amenities, tropical vibes, and easy access to beaches, shopping, and dining. Whether you’re investing in a vacation rental property or searching for your dream home, Royal Kahili stands out for its comfort, community atmosphere, and investment potential.
Introduction to Royal Kahili: Property Overview
Royal Kahili is a boutique-style condo complex located along the scenic Ali’i Drive, just minutes from the heart of Kailua-Kona. It’s not a massive community, which I love because it keeps things cozy and private. There are 32 units in total, split between two low-rise buildings, giving it a small, friendly neighborhood vibe.
The condos here range from one to two-bedroom units, with an average size of 60-90 sqm (around 645-970 sq. ft.). Some units feature spacious lanais (balconies) where you can sip your morning coffee and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. Many of these units also boast garden views, so it feels like you’re living in a tropical paradise every day.
The amenities include:
- A lagoon-style pool with a waterfall feature
- Hot tub
- BBQ grills and picnic area
- Community pavilion for gatherings
- Lush gardens with koi ponds
Whether you’re looking to make this your permanent home or invest in a short-term vacation rental (STVR), Royal Kahili is zoned for vacation rentals, making it an attractive choice for investors.
Restaurants Nearby
Living at Royal Kahili means you’re never far from some of the best restaurants in Kailua-Kona. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Huggo’s on the Rocks (5 minutes away)
- This waterfront spot is known for its laid-back vibe and live music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy cocktails at sunset with your toes in the sand.
- Da Poke Shack (3 minutes away)
- A must-visit for poke lovers! They serve fresh, flavorful poke bowls that’ll make you fall in love with Hawaiian cuisine.
- Island Lava Java (7 minutes away)
- This cozy café is perfect for brunch or grabbing a coffee before heading to the beach. Try their famous macadamia nut pancakes!
- Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill (8 minutes away)
- This restaurant offers a unique fusion of local and international dishes. It’s perfect for date nights or celebrating special occasions.
With these restaurants just a short drive from Royal Kahili, you’ll never run out of delicious dining options.
Schools Nearby
If you have kids or are planning to start a family, it’s good to know what schools are in the area. Here’s a quick look at the top schools nearby:
- Kealakehe Elementary School (10-minute drive)
- A well-regarded public school with a focus on academic development and extracurricular activities.
- Kealakehe High School (12-minute drive)
- This is the closest high school to Royal Kahili, offering a variety of sports programs and advanced placement classes.
- Hualalai Academy (15-minute drive)
- A private K-12 school with a focus on small class sizes and individualized learning.
For families, these schools are conveniently located and make it easy to settle into the area.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities Nearby
Staying close to good medical care is always important. Fortunately, Kailua-Kona offers several healthcare options near Royal Kahili:
- Kona Community Hospital (15 minutes away)
- This is the main hospital in the area, providing emergency care, maternity services, and general medical services.
- Ali’i Health Center (7 minutes away)
- A popular outpatient clinic that offers primary care, urgent care, and specialized services.
- Kona Coast Dental Care (5 minutes away)
- For dental care needs, this clinic offers a variety of services, from cleanings to cosmetic procedures.
Having these facilities nearby gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’re well-covered in case of any medical needs.
Pros
- Zoned for Vacation Rentals: Great for investors who want to earn rental income.
- Prime Location: Situated on Ali’i Drive, close to beaches, shopping, and dining.
- Beautiful Amenities: Lagoon-style pool, hot tub, and BBQ areas offer a resort-like lifestyle.
- Quiet, Private Community: With only 32 units, it feels more like a small neighborhood.
- Easy Access to Nature: Kahalu’u Beach Park is just minutes away, perfect for snorkeling and surfing.
- Pet-Friendly: Some units allow small pets, which is a bonus for pet owners.
Cons
- Limited Parking: Each unit only has one designated parking spot, which can be challenging if you have more than one vehicle.
- No Elevators: This can be a downside for those who live on upper floors and don’t want to climb stairs.
- Tourist Activity: Because the complex is vacation rental-friendly, you may experience some seasonal noise from guests.
- High HOA Fees: The amenities are excellent, but the homeowner association fees can be higher than other complexes in the area.
Why I Love Living in Royal Kahili
I think Royal Kahili offers the best of both worlds—a peaceful, private community with all the conveniences of Kailua-Kona just minutes away. You’re close enough to enjoy the town’s vibrant dining scene, but the complex is tucked away enough to give you the tranquility you want at home.
The amenities are top-notch, and I love the fact that you can rent out units here for short-term vacation stays. It’s a perfect balance of personal enjoyment and investment potential. Plus, the lagoon pool and lush gardens really make you feel like you’re living in a tropical paradise.
Conclusion
Living in Royal Kahili is an incredible experience for those who want a mix of resort-style living with the perks of being close to everything Kailua-Kona has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a permanent home, a vacation getaway, or an investment property, this place truly checks all the boxes.
If you love the idea of having beautiful beaches, delicious restaurants, and scenic golf courses just minutes from your door, Royal Kahili might be the perfect fit for you. With easy access to healthcare and schools, it’s also great for families or retirees looking to settle down in paradise.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, Royal Kahili offers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
Ready to explore Royal Kahili? Contact us today to schedule a tour or learn more about investment opportunities in Kailua-Kona!