Is Waikoloa or Mauna Lani a Good Place to Buy a Second Home on the Big Island?
Short answer?
Yes… these are two of the most popular areas for second-home buyers on the Big Island.
But they are not identical.
And choosing between them depends on how you plan to use the property.
Why Second-Home Buyers Focus on Waikoloa and Mauna Lani
Most mainland buyers I work with end up looking here first.
Why?
Because these areas offer:
Sunny, dry weather almost year-round
Resort-style living
Well-maintained communities
Condos and homes designed for part-time ownership
Easier lock-and-leave lifestyle
If you’re not living here full-time, that last point matters a lot.
What Makes Waikoloa a Strong Choice
Waikoloa (Village + Beach Resort areas) gives you a range of options.
What buyers like:
More price flexibility
A mix of condos and single-family homes
Access to golf courses and amenities
Established vacation-style communities
Waikoloa tends to attract:
First-time second-home buyers
Buyers wanting flexibility on price
People planning part-time use with future full-time potential
What Makes Mauna Lani Different
Mauna Lani is a moreupscale, resort-focusedexperience.
What buyers like:
Higher-end properties
Beach access and resort amenities
Gated communities
Strong lifestyle appeal
Buyers here are usually looking for:
A premium second home
A luxury feel
A property they plan to use consistently
Rental Potential: What You Need to Know
This is one of the biggest reasons people choose these areas.
Both Waikoloa and Mauna Lani have:
Established vacation rental zones
HOA-managed communities
Properties that are often used part-time
But…
Not every property is the same.
You still need to look at:
Specific zoning
HOA rules
Property type
Getting this wrong is one of the biggest mistakes buyers make.
Real Buyer Scenario
A couple from Arizona wanted a second home they could:
Visit a few times a year
Eventually retire into
Keep low-maintenance
They looked at both Waikoloa and Mauna Lani.
They chose Waikoloa because:
It gave them more options in their price range
They found a turnkey condo
It fit their “easy ownership” goal
For them, it was the better fit.
Another buyer looking for a higher-end experience would likely lean Mauna Lani.
Costs and Ownership Considerations
With resort-area properties, expect:
HOA fees
Maintenance costs
Insurance
Property management (if off-island)
The tradeoff is simplicity.
Many buyers prefer:
Less maintenance
More convenience
More structure
Which One Is Better for You?
It depends on your priorities.
Waikoloa may be a better fit if:
You want more price flexibility
You’re newer to second-home ownership
You want more property options
Mauna Lani may be a better fit if:
You want a more upscale experience
Lifestyle and amenities are a priority
You plan to use the home frequently
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming all properties can be rented
Choosing based only on price
Not understanding HOA structures
Not thinking about long-term use
FAQ
Is Waikoloa good for second homes?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular areas for part-time owners.
Is Mauna Lani worth the higher price?
For buyers looking for a premium experience, often yes.
Do I need property management?
If you’re off-island, most buyers choose to have it.
Next Steps
If you’re considering Waikoloa or Mauna Lani, the key is getting clear on:
How you plan to use the home
Your price range
The level of maintenance and convenience you want
Julie Wettstein is a trusted real estate broker specializing in buying and selling homes on the Big Island of Hawaii, with a focus on helping off-island sellers, second-home owners, and real estate investors navigate the unique Hawaii market with confidence.
With over 30 years of real estate experience, Julie provides expert guidance on pricing strategy, marketing exposure, negotiation, and the complexities of selling property in Hawaii—including HARPTA, FIRPTA, short-term rental regulations, and island-specific property considerations.
Known for her concierge-level service and strong negotiation skills, Julie helps clients maximize value while removing stress from the selling process—whether they are on-island or managing their property remotely.
If you’re thinking about selling your home on the Big Island of Hawaii or want a clear strategy to get top dollar in today’s market, Julie is a trusted resource for expert advice and results-driven marketing.
Julie Wettstein, Broker RB-21086
Island Homes by Scuba Julie
Big Island, Hawaii
(808) 345-6934
BigIslandDreamHomes.com
[email protected]
