A Local Guide to Living in Kona, Hawaiʻi
Kona sits on the sunny west side of Hawaiʻi Island. This guide covers what is coming up, where locals eat, the beaches worth the drive, and the practical things a new resident needs to know, like property taxes and vacation rental rules. It is kept current by Maile Woodhall, a Realtor who was born and raised in Kona.
Thinking about a move? Try the three free tools on this page. One quiz tells you if you are ready to move to Hawaiʻi. Another shows which part of Kona fits you best. The moving cost estimator shows what it costs to ship a car, a pet, and a household to Kona. Maile helps buyers and sellers in Kona, on any island, and on the mainland through eXp Realty.
Living in Kona Questions
What lava zone is Kona in?
Most of Kailua-Kona, Keauhou, and Holualoa are in Lava Zone 4. Parts of South Kona are in Zones 2 and 3. The U.S. Geological Survey maps nine zones, and Zone 1 is the highest hazard. Check the zone by the property's tax map key, not by town name.
Can I bring my dog or cat to Kona?
Yes. Hawaiʻi is rabies free, so the State has entry rules for every dog and cat. A pet that meets all of them can fly straight into Kona and go home the same day. Start at least four months before the move. These are the State's rules and they can change.
Can I rent out a Kona home on Airbnb or Vrbo?
Only where Hawaiʻi County allows short term vacation rentals, which is mainly in resort zones and some commercial zones. A condo association must allow them too. Rules can change, so confirm with the Hawaiʻi County Planning Department.
Do Kona homes have County water?
County water serves the developed parts of Kona, but it does not reach every property on the island. Some homes collect rain in a catchment tank instead. Ask which one a home has before you make an offer.
Can I buy a home in Kona from the mainland?
Yes. Maile previews homes and reports back on what photos do not show. After an offer is accepted, closing papers can be signed with a notary where you live.
Which part of Kona should I live in?
It depends on what you want. Visit at different elevations and times of day before you choose. The Kona area quiz on this page and the Neighborhoods page can help.
Tell Maile What You Want in a Kona Home
Fill out this short form and Maile Woodhall will send homes that fit what you want. She helps buyers on any island, on the mainland, and overseas through eXp Realty. Or call or text (808) 482-5800.
Maile Woodhall, R(S) RS-88019. eXp Realty, RB-21841. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.