Makakilo HI

Makakilo – Perched above the leeward coast of Oʻahu, Makakilo offers stunning ocean views, cool mountain breezes, and a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. This hillside community blends laid-back island living with convenient access to nearby attractions like Ko Olina Lagoons, Kapolei shopping, and the sun-soaked beaches of the west side. Whether you're looking to relax at home with a sunset backdrop or explore the vibrant outdoors, Makakilo provides the perfect balance of serenity and adventure.

• Population: ~19,000
• Weather: Warm and breezy year-round (70-88°F); drier climate with lots of sunshine.
• Places To Visit: Kahe Point Beach Park, Kapolei Commons, Wet'n'Wild Hawaiʻi, Paradise Cove Luau, Ko Olina Resorts.
• Top Activities: Hiking the Makakilo slopes, snorkeling at Electric Beach, spending the day at Ko Olina Lagoons, shopping in Kapolei, catching sunset views from the ridgeline.
• Famous Food: Plate lunches from local spots, poke bowls, malasadas, shave ice, and Hawaiian BBQ from neighborhood eateries.

Makakilo, HI, situated on the western side of Oʻahu, is a growing residential community with a strong local economy supported by nearby military bases, healthcare centers, schools, and tourism. While Makakilo itself is largely residential, its proximity to Kapolei and Honolulu opens up robust employment opportunities. Below are some of the top jobs that residents commonly pursue.

Top 5 Jobs in Makakilo, HI

Nestled on the slopes of the Waiʻanae Range, Makakilo, HI is a peaceful city that offers students a scenic break from classroom stress. While it's not as fast-paced as Honolulu, that’s exactly what makes it a great spot to unwind, recharge, and have a little fun with friends.

Kahe Point Beach Park (aka "Electric Beach") – About a 10-minute drive from Makakilo, this is a student favorite for snorkeling and catching some sun. The warm water from the nearby power plant attracts sea turtles and colorful fish, offering amazing underwater views. It’s a chill place to float, explore marine life, or just lay back and watch the waves.

Kapolei Commons – This open-air shopping center is a local hangout with plenty to offer. Grab a bite at one of the many food spots, catch a movie at Regal Cinemas, or stop by Target for study snacks. It’s especially fun in the evenings when the vibe is lively but not overwhelming.

Wet‘n’Wild Hawaii – Yes, a water park in your neighborhood! Located just a few miles from central Makakilo, this is the perfect place to cool off and take a real break. Go with friends for adrenaline-packed rides or float peacefully on the lazy river. Many students snag discount passes, so it’s fun and budget-friendly.

Pālailai Coffee, Kapolei – Need a cozy spot to study or unwind? This locally owned café offers great coffee, friendly staff, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for solo work sessions or group meetups. Bonus: the outdoor seating has mountain views!

Makakilo Neighborhood Parks – Small but charming parks like Makakilo Community Park and Palehua Park are ideal for a quick breather or a sunset stroll. Bring a hammock, play pickup basketball, or just kick back with a good book and let the tropical breeze work its magic.

White Plains Beach – Just a short drive away, this beach is a popular destination for beginner surfers and beach volleyball lovers. It’s relaxed, rarely overcrowded, and offers some of the best sunsets on the west side. Perfect for weekend getaways with your crew.

Kapolei Regional Park – Spacious, clean, and sunny, this park is great for group picnics, skateboarding, tossing a frisbee, or simply relaxing on the grass. It often hosts community events and feels like a laid-back escape, just minutes from home.

Makakilo might not have a massive nightlife scene, but its charm lies in its easygoing rhythm. For students who need space to think, breathe, and find balance, this town offers the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and low-key fun.

Makakilo, HI, located on the beautiful island of Oahu, offers students access to some of the best colleges and universities in Hawaii. While Makakilo itself does not have a major university or college campus within its immediate boundaries, it is conveniently close to Honolulu and Kapolei, where students can easily pursue higher education opportunities just a short drive away.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Makakilo, HI

University of Hawaii – West Oahu – Located just minutes from Makakilo in Kapolei, this growing public university offers strong programs in business administration, education, social sciences, and creative media. It provides a welcoming campus and numerous opportunities for local residents.

Leeward Community College – In nearby Pearl City, Leeward CC is known for its affordable tuition, diverse student body, and strong transfer programs to four-year institutions. It offers associate degrees and certificates in popular fields such as technology, nursing, and culinary arts.

Honolulu Community College – Situated in urban Honolulu, HCC is a popular choice for students interested in technical trades, transportation, and communication arts. The college provides an excellent foundation for students looking to join the Hawaii workforce quickly.

Kapi‘olani Community College – Well known for its health sciences and culinary programs, Kapi‘olani CC sits on a scenic campus in Honolulu. The college is praised for its support services and vibrant campus life.

University of Hawaii at Manoa – As the flagship university in the state, UH Manoa is world-renowned for its research programs in oceanography, agriculture, and Asian studies. It offers a diverse and enriching college experience, only about half an hour from Makakilo.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Makakilo, HI

Chaminade University of Honolulu – This respected private university offers excellent programs in education, forensic sciences, and business. It prides itself on small class sizes and a strong community spirit.

Hawaii Pacific University – With campuses in downtown Honolulu and Kāneʻohe, HPU is the largest private university in the state. It is recognized for its international student body and programs in nursing, business, and marine science.

Argosy University – Hawaii (closed in 2019) – This institution played a significant role in psychology and business education for Hawaii’s students for many years before its closure. Alumni continue to make positive impacts across the islands.

Remington College – Honolulu Campus – Offering career-oriented programs such as criminal justice, medical assisting, and business administration, Remington provides practical skills for immediate employment.

Pacific Rim Christian University – Known for its faith-based education, this private university focuses on ministry, theology, and leadership programs for students aiming to serve in churches and non-profit organizations.

Whether you’re seeking a large university feel or a smaller, more personalized college experience, students living in Makakilo have excellent educational options nearby. These public and private institutions provide quality learning, strong support services, and pathways to rewarding careers both in Hawaii and beyond.

Makakilo, HI, a scenic hillside community in West Oahu, offers a peaceful residential lifestyle with easy access to outstanding educational opportunities. While Makakilo itself is a smaller area, families often look to surrounding communities like Kapolei and Ewa Beach for top-rated high schools. Whether you're seeking public or private options for your teen, we've put together a list of the top high schools near Makakilo to help guide your decision.

Top Public High Schools in Makakilo and Nearby Areas

• Kapolei High School, Kapolei – Just down the hill from Makakilo, this school is known for its strong academic curriculum, engaging extracurricular activities, and inclusive school culture. It also offers specialized academies focused on career readiness.
• James Campbell High School, Ewa Beach – One of the largest high schools in the state, Campbell High is recognized for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Waipahu High School, Waipahu – Although a bit farther out, Waipahu High draws attention for its early college programs in partnership with local universities, helping students get a head start on higher education.
• Moanalua High School, Honolulu – A perennial top-performing school on Oahu, Moanalua offers strong academics, competitive sports, and exemplary band and arts programs.
• Leilehua High School, Wahiawa – Known for its JROTC program and support for military families, Leilehua maintains high standards in academics and co-curricular activities.

Top Private High Schools Near Makakilo

• Island Pacific Academy, Kapolei – This independent K-12 school less than 10 minutes from Makakilo is known for its small class sizes, student-focused learning, and commitment to developing global citizens.
• Saint Louis School, Honolulu – An all-boys Catholic school with a strong tradition in academics and athletics. It's well-respected for producing future leaders and offering programs that balance STEM, the arts, and character education.
• Mid-Pacific Institute, Honolulu – A progressive PK-12 school offering the IB Diploma Program. Mid-Pacific is especially known for innovation, offering specialized paths in arts, technology, and entrepreneurship.
• Punahou School, Honolulu – Consistently ranked among the top private schools in the United States, Punahou offers a rigorous academic program, rich extracurriculars, and a beautiful campus with exceptional resources.
• Kamehameha Schools – Kapālama Campus, Honolulu – For students of Native Hawaiian ancestry, this private college-preparatory school provides meaningful cultural and academic programs along with impressive facilities and support systems.

Makakilo families are fortunate to have access to a wide range of high-quality education choices, both public and private. Whether your student thrives in a large, dynamic setting or a smaller, personalized environment, the schools in this part of Oahu are committed to preparing young minds for success in college, careers, and life.

Makakilo, Hawaii, is a serene residential neighborhood nestled on the slopes above Kapolei, offering stunning coastline views and a laid-back island lifestyle. While Makakilo itself doesn't host any major professional sports teams due to its size and location, Hawaii has a passionate sports culture, and residents often follow teams and events throughout the islands and the mainland. Let's dive into the larger sporting picture surrounding Makakilo and the Aloha State.

Though there are no major league teams in Hawaii, the islands have a rich tradition of supporting semi-professional, collegiate, and nationally celebrated sporting events. Local fans cheer fervently for college teams, especially the University of Hawaiʻi, and take pride in their state’s contributions to professional sports across the U.S.

Football – University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors (NCAA)

• University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors – The state’s unofficial football team, the Rainbow Warriors compete in the Mountain West Conference and play home games at the Clarence T. C. Ching Athletics Complex. Known for their grit and unique Polynesian-rooted culture, former Warriors like Colt Brennan and Davone Bess captured national attention, making the school a respected name in college football circles.

Basketball – University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors & Rainbow Wahine (NCAA)

• Rainbow Warriors (Men’s Basketball) – The men’s team has made several NCAA Tournament appearances, thrilling fans with competitive play and strong showings in the Big West Conference.
• Rainbow Wahine (Women’s Basketball) – The women’s program is a point of pride, consistently winning conference titles and showcasing local and international talent. Their games draw crowds filled with loyal fans and local families.

Baseball & Softball – University of Hawaiʻi Teams

• Rainbow Warriors Baseball – A program rich in tradition, the team plays at Les Murakami Stadium and often ranks among the top in NCAA fan attendance. They're known for strong pitching and passionate fans.
• Rainbow Wahine Softball – Excelling in the Big West, the team has reached the Women’s College World Series and continues to produce standout athletes who go on to play professionally or represent their countries on the international stage.

Soccer – Growing Passion Across the Islands

• Hawai‘i Rush Soccer Club – While not a professional team, this youth academy develops top talent across Oʻahu, including areas like Makakilo. Many players move on to D1 colleges or even pro clubs abroad.
• University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Wahine Soccer – With a growing fanbase, the team provides high-level competition and draws attention to women's collegiate soccer in Hawaii.

Other Sports Events & Highlights

• Honolulu Marathon – One of the largest marathons in the U.S., it attracts runners worldwide and passes through beautiful Oʻahu landscapes not far from Makakilo.
• PGA Tour's Sony Open – Held annually at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, this is a major golf event televised nationally, drawing golf fans and top professionals alike.
• Surf Competitions – North Shore – Less than an hour from Makakilo, the legendary winter swells bring world-famous competitions like the Billabong Pipe Masters and Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.

Even without a professional franchise within Makakilo itself, the spirit of sports thrives in Hawaii. Fans easily follow their favorite NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL teams from the mainland thanks to strong local fan groups and community events. Whether you're cheering on a homegrown football star, catching waves with up-and-coming pro surfers, or heading into Honolulu for a college game, sports play a big role in the social and cultural fabric of Makakilo and the entire Aloha State. With its community pride and deep sporting passion, every game feels like a home game here.

Makakilo, HI is a charming hillside community on the west side of Oʻahu. With stunning ocean views, cool breezes, and vibrant local culture, this town has a lot more going on than meets the eye. Whether you're a longtime resident or just learning about it, here are 10 fun facts about Makakilo that might surprise you:

1. “Makakilo” Means “Observing Eyes” – In Hawaiian, "Makakilo" comes from “maka” (eye) and “kilo” (to observe or watch). It’s fitting for a place perched above the Ewa Plain with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Breezes Galore – Thanks to its elevation, Makakilo stays cooler than surrounding areas. The community sits high above sea level, where refreshing trade winds help keep things pleasant year-round.
3. Close to Kapolei – The “Second City” – Makakilo is just minutes from Kapolei, often called Oʻahu’s “Second City.” That means Makakilo residents enjoy close access to major shopping centers, restaurants, movie theaters, and more.
4. Legendary Sunsets – The west-facing location of Makakilo offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island. Locals often pause to watch the sky turn brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple.
5. Local Hikes with Big Views – There are several lesser-known hiking spots tucked around Makakilo, offering panoramic views of the Waianae mountain range and the coastline. It's a great place for nature lovers craving quiet adventure.
6. Military Connection – Many military families call Makakilo home because of its peaceful setting and nearby access to bases like Schofield Barracks and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
7. Diverse & Family-Friendly – Makakilo is known for its strong community spirit and diversity. It’s a place where families from all walks of life come together and build a tropical home.
8. Royal Roots Nearby – The nearby area of Kapolei was once a part of the Royal Lands of King Kamehameha III. That royal legacy is still felt today in the respect for the land and rich cultural traditions.
9. Wildlife Sightings – It’s not uncommon to see native Hawaiian birds, butterflies, and even wild goats at higher elevations. Keep your eyes open—you never know what you’ll spot!
10. Small-Town Vibes, Big Island Feel – Though Makakilo is part of Oʻahu’s growing west side, it maintains a peaceful, community-centered vibe that feels worlds away from Honolulu’s hustle and bustle.