Living in Wainani Estates – Akahi Phase I, Hawaii: A Local’s Guide
Explore Wainani Estates – Akahi Phase I, a tranquil, family-friendly gated community nestled in the heart of Kailua-Kona. This sought-after neighborhood offers spacious homes, beautiful ocean views, and easy access to all the best Kona has to offer.
This community is perfect if you’re looking for a mix of tranquility and accessibility. With only around 58 homes in this first phase, Wainani Estates maintains a small, close-knit vibe where neighbors often know each other. The lot sizes are spacious, typically around 6,000 to 10,000 square feet, and home sizes range from approximately 1,500 to 2,500 square feet, offering plenty of room for families and outdoor activities.
Location and Overview of Wainani Estates – Akahi Phase I
Located in Keauhou, on the leeward (western) side of the Big Island, Wainani Estates enjoys abundant sunshine and beautiful views. Many homes in the Akahi Phase I feature both mountain and ocean views, and the development itself is at an ideal elevation, which means you’ll have cooler breezes without sacrificing the warmth that Hawaii is known for.
This location is prime for those who want to be close to all the essentials yet still enjoy a relaxed, suburban feel. Living here means you’re near beaches, dining, shopping, and recreation, all while enjoying a peaceful, safe neighborhood atmosphere.
Restaurants Nearby
One of the best parts of living in Wainani Estates is that you’re close to some fantastic dining options. Here are some popular choices that locals and visitors alike love:
- Ray’s on the Bay
Located at the Sheraton Kona Resort, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a menu filled with fresh seafood and locally-inspired dishes. It’s also one of the best places to spot manta rays at night! - Sam Choy’s Kai Lanai
A local favorite, this restaurant offers Hawaiian-style seafood, poke bowls, and more. The lanai seating provides an excellent view of the ocean, making it perfect for sunset dinners. - Peaberry & Galette
This charming cafe serves up French-inspired breakfast and brunch options, including savory galettes and sweet crepes. Their locally-roasted Kona coffee is also a hit. - Da Poke Shack
Just a short drive away, this popular spot serves up some of the freshest poke on the island. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers and a true taste of Hawaii.
Schools Nearby
Families with children will find several schools in the Keauhou and Kona areas, providing a variety of options from public to private institutions.
- Kahakai Elementary School
This is the closest elementary school, known for its supportive community and emphasis on Hawaiian culture and language. - Konawaena Middle School
About a 20-minute drive from Wainani Estates, this middle school offers a range of academic and extracurricular activities for grades 6-8. - Konawaena High School
Serving grades 9-12, Konawaena High is recognized for its sports programs and diverse academic offerings, including college prep and career-focused courses. - Hualalai Academy (Private)
For those seeking a private school, Hualalai Academy provides a smaller, private school experience focused on hands-on learning, located in nearby Kailua-Kona. - Makua Lani Christian Academy (Private)
Another private option, Makua Lani offers a faith-based education with a focus on academics, arts, and community service. It’s a bit further from Wainani Estates, but worth considering for those wanting a Christian-based curriculum.
Hospitals and Healthcare Nearby
Healthcare is essential, and residents of Wainani Estates have access to several reliable healthcare facilities and hospitals:
- Ali’i Health Center
Located just a few minutes from Wainani Estates, Ali’i Health Center offers a range of primary care services and specialists, making it convenient for regular check-ups and minor medical needs. - Kona Community Hospital
About a 15-minute drive away, Kona Community Hospital is the main healthcare facility for the Kona region. They offer emergency services, surgery, and inpatient care. - West Hawaii Community Health Center
Located in Kailua-Kona, this center provides affordable healthcare, dental, and mental health services for families and individuals. - Urgent Care of Kona
For more immediate non-emergency care, Urgent Care of Kona offers convenient walk-in services.
Pros
- Proximity to Amenities
Being close to Kailua-Kona means that shopping, dining, and entertainment are just a short drive away, making everyday life easy and convenient. - Beautiful Ocean and Mountain Views
Wainani Estates is situated at an elevation that offers scenic views of both the mountains and the ocean. Many homes enjoy stunning sunset views right from their backyards. - Modern Homes
Homes in this community are relatively new, so you’re likely to find modern finishes, open floor plans, and updated features that make living here comfortable and stylish. - Cooler Temperatures
The elevation provides a cooler climate compared to coastal areas, which is great for those who want to enjoy Hawaii’s beauty without the intense heat. - Gated Community
Wainani Estates offers a gated entry, giving residents an added sense of security and privacy, which is a big plus for families and retirees alike.
Cons
- Higher Cost of Living
As with much of Hawaii, the cost of living can be higher here, especially when it comes to groceries and utilities. However, the lifestyle and views can make it worthwhile for many. - Traffic During Peak Hours
While traffic isn’t as intense as on the mainland, it can still be a bit congested during peak hours, especially on Ali’i Drive and Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway. - Limited School Options Nearby
While there are schools nearby, some families may find that they need to drive a bit further for certain school options or specialized programs. - Weather Variability
Being at a higher elevation, Wainani Estates can experience a bit more rain than coastal neighborhoods. For those who love sunny days, this can be a minor drawback.
FAQs About Living in Wainani Estates – Akahi Phase I
What amenities are available in Wainani Estates?
Residents of Wainani Estates have access to nearby beaches, beautiful walking paths, and the community’s gated security. The neighborhood is close to Kona’s dining, shopping, and recreational activities, making it easy to enjoy the best of Kona.
How far is Wainani Estates from Kailua-Kona shopping?
Wainani Estates is just a 10-minute drive from Kailua-Kona, where you’ll find major grocery stores, retailers, and various boutique shops, making it easy to shop for daily essentials.
There is a shopping center in Keauhou with a movie theater, an emergency clinic, a few small restaurants & a nice pupus bar with an amazing view!
Are there good schools near Wainani Estates in Keauhou?
Yes! Kahakai Elementary, Konawaena Middle School, and Konawaena High School are nearby options. Additionally, private schools like Hualalai Academy and Makua Lani Christian Academy provide alternative choices.
What’s the average cost of homes in Wainani Estates?
Home prices in Wainani Estates typically range between $800,000 to $1.2 million, depending on the size, view, and amenities. The larger lots and modern floor plans make it a popular choice for families and retirees alike.
What makes Wainani Estates a good choice for families in Kona?
Wainani Estates is a gated community with spacious homes, close proximity to schools, and a peaceful environment. It’s also near beaches and parks, making it a family-friendly area with plenty of outdoor activities.
Is Wainani Estates Right for You?
Living in Wainani Estates – Akahi Phase I offers a unique blend of modern comforts, natural beauty, and proximity to everything you need for a fulfilling life on the Big Island. This community is ideal for families, retirees, and even investors looking for properties in a peaceful and secure area with excellent amenities nearby.
The community’s design and layout, with fenced-in backyards and spacious interiors, make it perfect for those who enjoy outdoor living and entertaining. Wainani Estates offers the peace and tranquility of a suburban neighborhood while still being close enough to enjoy the lively Kona area.
If you’re interested in learning more about the community or exploring homes in Wainani Estates, feel free to reach out! Whether it’s a second home, an investment property, or your forever home, this neighborhood could be the perfect fit for your Hawaiian dream.
Interested in discovering more about Wainani Estates? Contact me today to schedule a tour or learn more about finding your ideal home in Kailua-Kona.