Kai Ioh | Updated Oct 2025
For more than a decade, the Big Island has been the benchmark for Hawaii’s luxury real estate market. While the pandemic brought new urgency to high-net-worth buyers seeking privacy, space, and exclusivity, the Big Island’s west side, particularly Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast, was already a well-established leader in the luxury sector for the last 15 years.
A History of Dominance, Amplified by the Pandemic
The pandemic reshaped global real estate markets, but Hawaii’s luxury segment thrived like never before. Remote work, a heightened desire for privacy, and the convenience of private jet access drove affluent buyers from the mainland to the islands. Hawaii’s median home prices exceeded $1 million by 2022, and the ultra-luxury sector ($10M+) surged by 130%.
The Big Island’s historical leadership was further cemented during this period:
- $3M to $10M Market (2021–2025):
Kailua-Kona and South Kohala led the way, recording 329 and 242 sales respectively, far surpassing other regions like Maui’s Wailea (187) and Oahu’s Kahala (161). - $10M+ Market (2021–2025):
Kailua-Kona dominated the ultra-luxury space with 82 transactions, nearly doubling Maui’s Wailea at 47 sales. South Kohala added 15 sales in this bracket, reinforcing the Big Island’s dominance.
Why the Big Island Stands Apart
Even before the pandemic, the Big Island was a premier destination for luxury buyers, thanks to its unique offerings:
- Exclusivity and Space: Unlike other Hawaiian islands, the Big Island offers sprawling estates and private retreats that perfectly balance luxury and seclusion.
- Safety and Climate: Kailua-Kona’s location, shielded by Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, ensures sunny weather and minimal hurricane risks, making it a reliable choice for buyers.
- World-Class Lifestyle: Kona and the Kohala Coast deliver a blend of pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and championship golf courses that cater to the most discerning clientele.
- World-Class Private Clubs: Kukio, Hualalai, and Kohanaiki are the best-kept secrets of ultra-luxury living. These exclusive clubs feature world-class golf courses and state-of-the-art member facilities, available only to property owners, offering an unparalleled lifestyle of elegance and privacy.
Buyers
Buyers of luxury properties in Hawai‘i continue to come largely from California, thanks to its close proximity and strong lifestyle connection to the islands, followed by Washington State. While statistics show Hawai‘i residents as the top buyer group, that’s somewhat misleading — many local LLCs used in transactions actually represent mainland or international investors. Foreign activity, particularly from Japan, has slowed significantly since the pandemic, influenced by the weak yen and shifting global investment priorities.
Endorsements
The Big Island has long been a favorite among A-list entrepreneurs. Prominent figures such as Marc Benioff (Salesforce), Ken Griffin (Citadel), and Sam Altman (OpenAI) have chosen estates in Kailua-Kona and South Kohala, further enhancing the region’s prestige.
The Post-Pandemic Luxury Landscape
As Hawaii’s real estate market evolves, the Big Island stands out as a premier destination for affluent buyers. Its unmatched history of leadership, coupled with a pandemic-driven demand for privacy, spaciousness, and breathtaking surroundings, reinforces its status as Hawaii’s ultimate luxury haven.
Discover the enduring legacy and vibrant future of luxury living on the Big Island. Let us help you find your dream home in Hawaii’s most sought-after locations.
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