There’s something special about summer on Hawaiʻi Island.

Sure, we're fortunate to enjoy beautiful weather year-round, but summer brings an energy that's hard to describe unless you've experienced it. The days feel a little longer, the ocean gets a little calmer, and everywhere you look, the island seems to come alive.

It's the season of beach days that turn into sunset dinners, weekend farmers markets, backyard barbecues, and fruit trees so full they're practically begging you to pick something.

Summer Tastes Different Here

One of my favorite things about this time of year is the abundance of fresh fruit.

Mangoes are everywhere, neighbors start sharing avocados because their trees have produced more than they can eat, and lychee, dragon fruit, mountain apples, papaya, bananas, and lilikoi begin making appearances at local farm stands and markets.

It's one of those little things that makes living here so special. Fresh, locally grown food isn't something you have to seek out, it's simply part of everyday life.

The Island Slows Down... in the Best Way

Summer has a way of reminding us why we chose to call Hawaiʻi Island home.

The water is inviting, the sunsets seem even more colorful, and you'll find families gathering at the beach, paddlers heading out before sunrise, and visitors discovering what locals have known all along—that life feels a little different here.

Whether it's snorkeling in crystal-clear water, enjoying live music at a community event, or simply relaxing on your lanai with a cup of Kona coffee, summer encourages us to slow down and appreciate the beauty around us.

What Summer Means for Real Estate

Summer is also one of the busiest times of year for real estate on the Big Island.

Many buyers visit the island while school is out, looking for a future home, vacation retreat, or investment property. Sellers benefit from longer days, vibrant landscaping, and homes that truly shine during this season.

For vacation rental owners, summer often brings strong demand, making it an excellent time to ensure your property is well-maintained and ready to provide guests with an unforgettable island experience.

More Than a Home

One of the things I love most about real estate is that we're not just helping people buy or sell property, we're helping them build a lifestyle.

Maybe it's a lanai where you'll enjoy your morning coffee every day. Maybe it's an avocado tree you'll watch grow over the years, or a neighborhood where you'll make lifelong friends.

Those are the moments that turn a house into home.

At Lava Luxury Realty, we're proud to help our clients experience everything that makes Hawaiʻi Island so extraordinary. Whether you're searching for your dream home, looking to invest, or need trusted property management, we're here to help you navigate the process with local knowledge, genuine care, and a commitment to excellence.

From all of us at Lava Luxury Realty, we hope your summer is filled with sunshine, fresh island fruit, unforgettable sunsets, and plenty of time to enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer.

Happy Summer!

Photo credit www.lavamantriathlon.com

Get Ready for the Lavaman Triathlon: An Iconic Event in Waikoloa, Hawaii

As the sun rises over the beautiful shores of Waikoloa, Hawaii, excitement fills the air as athletes and spectators prepare for one of the most exhilarating events of the year—the Lavaman Triathlon! Set against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views and the lush landscapes of the Big Island, the Lavaman Triathlon not only showcases athletic prowess but also embodies the spirit of community and island life.

Event Details

Date: March 29, 2026
Location: Anaeho'omalu Bay, Waikoloa, Hawaii
Distances: The Lavaman Triathlon features a traditional triathlon course, including a 1.5 km swim, a 40 km bike ride through scenic lava fields along the iconic Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway, and a 10 km run that concludes on the beach at the stunning Waikoloa resort.

Why Participate in the Lavaman Triathlon?

1. Stunning Scenery: Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Anaeho'omalu Bay, ride through the dramatic lava fields, and run through the picturesque Waikoloa resort. Each leg of the race offers breathtaking views that make the experience unforgettable.
2. Community Spirit: This event brings together athletes from around the world, creating a sense of camaraderie and a shared passion for fitness. Whether you’re racing or cheering from the sidelines, the energy of the crowd is contagious.
3. Voted Best Awards Party in Triathlon: Celebrate your achievement at Lavaman’s awards party, known for its lively Beer Garden, live music, and beach BBQ under the coconut grove at beautiful Anaeho'omalu Bay. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
4. Locally Owned and Operated: The Lavaman Triathlon is dedicated to giving back to the community, with all net proceeds supporting local initiatives. By participating, you’re contributing to the well-being of the island and its residents.
5. Challenge Yourself: Whether you’re an experienced triathlete or just starting out, the Lavaman Triathlon offers a unique challenge that allows you to push your limits and set personal goals. The pride of crossing the finish line is an experience like no other.

Tips for Participants

• Prepare Early: Make sure to train adequately for the race distances. Proper preparation can enhance your performance and enjoyment of the event.
• Stay Hydrated: The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so hydration is key. Remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after the race.
• Familiarize Yourself with the Course: Take time to review the triathlon course maps. Knowing the route can help you strategize your transitions and pacing.
• Enjoy the Experience: While the competition is thrilling, don’t forget to take in the beauty of your surroundings. Pause to appreciate the incredible views along the way.

Join the Lavaman Community

Whether you’re an athlete looking for a challenge or a supporter ready to cheer on friends and family, the Lavaman Triathlon is an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars, gather your gear, and get ready for a day filled with excitement, passion, and island spirit!

For more information about registration, training tips, and event details, visit the Lavaman Triathlon website.

We hope to see you in Kona for an incredible day filled with athleticism and community spirit! Aloha!

MARKET REPORT: OCTOBER 2024

OVERALL: HAWAII ISLAND

Overall the Hawaii Island market remains extremely competitive, seeing barely a percentage point change in prices and inventory over the past month or so. The year-to-date change, however, saw consistent increases in both cost as well as inventory. 

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES: HAWAII ISLAND

Single-family homes saw a slight 1.7% decrease month-to-month and an even slighter increase of 0.9% YTD. The median sales price, however, may have only fallen about 0.9% over the past month but has risen by nearly 10% since the same timeframe last year. This makes Hawaii island the second fastest growing single family market in the state. 

CONDOMINIUMS: HAWAII ISLAND

Condominium inventory has slowed some, with monthly sales having fallen by 12.5%, consistent with a YTD fall of 11.5%. The price index has not been affected, with condominium prices continuing to earn homeowners very strong return. Compared to last month, prices are up 13%, consistent with last year's 12.8%.

SUMMARY: HAWAII ISLAND

Overall, the Hawaii Island market remains remarkably durable as always. It is important to note that while inventory has declined in some sectors, prices remain not just stable but rising. This is a reflection of overall demand given that stock among single-family homes and condominiums fell but prices continued to offer strong returns and were able to sell at those higher expected return points. In summation, we are seeing a lot of green in Hawaii Island's data, with the only red dips being small changes in inventory. 

Happy Holiday Season Everyone!

Download Raw Data: Here

Guaranty, T. (2024, November 26). Market statistics: Title guaranty. Title Guaranty | Hawaii Real Estate Services. https://www.tghawaii.com/market/

     Trees are in full bloom in and around Kailua Kona Hawaii. This very popular tropical landscape tree can be found in the resorts and in the dryer areas around Kailua Kona. The trees shape and beautiful red color makes it a spectacular ornamental Hawaiian specimen.

The Details

Single Family Month to Month: The single-family home segment experienced a decrease in sales by volume compared to last month, standing at 150. Their median sales price increased to $577,250, however, while the total dollar amount in sales decreased to $147,601,935.

Condominium Month to Month: The condominium market remains impressive and consistent this month with 58 sales, a large increase since last month. There was a slight decrease in median sales price, which is now sitting at $672,500.00, but with an overall growth in the market by total sales with $66,236,450 moving through this portion of the market. 

Year to Date Totals: The single-family housing market experienced an uptick in sales compared to last year, but with a minor half percent correction in price comparatively. The total sales amount increased by a whopping 45.9% when compared to one year prior. The condominium market saw 7% fewer sales this year, as well as a slight decrease in the total dollar amount of sales but saw greater returns this year by a factor of just over 10%. Vacant land saw an increase in the number of sales as well as the total dollar amount in sales but did not see in increased median price point when compared to last year. 

We stepped outside our office to watch the many people who dedicate themselves to an amazing feat of endurance at this year’s Triathlon.

The 2024 Triathlon is Olympic distance (1.5K Swim, 40K Bike and 10K Run) where participants swim at Anaehoomalu Bay at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. They then bike out and back on the Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway then back into the resort. The run is then through the Waikoloa Beach Resort & the grounds of the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Athletes cross over varied terrain consisting of lava, sand, coral trail, road, lawn, & flagstone path with a beach finish.

Sourced from: Waikoloa Beach resortapril 6, 2025. Lavaman Triathlon 2025 - Waikoloa Beach Resort. (n.d.). https://www.lavamantriathlon.com/ 

Once again, O‘ahu hālau Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e were named the overall winners by judges at the 61st Merrie Monarch Hula Competition, which concluded in Hilo at the Edith Kanakaʻole Multi-Purpose Stadium Saturday night.

The hālau’s score was 1,201. This is the group’s second overall win two years in a row.

Second place overall went to Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā’ala, under the direction of Kumu Leinā‘ala Pavao Jardin, from Kalāheo, Kaua‘i, with a score of 1,199 points.

Third place overall went to Hula Hālau ‘O Kamuela, under the direction of Kumu Kunewa Mook and Kau‘ionālani Kamana’o, from Kalihi and Waimānalo, O‘ahu, with a score of 1,195 points.

On Friday, wahine and kāne took to the stage to perform hula kahiko.

Kāne kahiko winners are:

First: Hālau Hi’iakaināmakalehua, under the direction of Kumu Robert Keano Ka‘upu IV and Lono Padilla, from Niuhelewai, Kona, O‘ahu, with a score of 590 points.

Second: Hālau Na Mamo O Pu’uanahulu, under the direction of Kumu William Kahakuleilehua Haunu‘u “Sonny” Ching and Lōpaka Igarta-De Vera, from Kapahulu, O’ahu, with 586 points.

Third: Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e with 563 points.

Wahine kahiko winners are:

First: Hula Hālau ‘O Kamuela with 597 points.

Second: Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā’ala with 594 points.

Third: Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e with 591 points.

Fourth: Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine, under the direction of Kumu Ka‘ilihiwa Vaughan-Darval, from Mānoa and Waimānalo, O‘ahu, with 585 points.

Two hālau tied for fifth with 582 points: Hālau Mōhala ‘Ilima, under the direction of Kumu Māpuana de Silva, from Ka‘ohaō, O‘ahu, and Hālau Nā Lei Kaumaka O Uka, under the direction of Kumu Napua Silva, from Waiohuli, Maui.

Kāne ‘auana winners are as follows:

Hālau Hi’iakaināmakalehua and Hālau Na Mamo O Pu’uanahulu were tied for first with 604 points. In a tiebreaker, Hālau Na Mamo O Pu’uanahulu came out on top with 845 points over the other group, by two points more.

Third: Hālau Kekuaokalā’au’ala’iliahi, under the direction of Kumu Haunani & ‘liahi Paredes, from Wailuku, Maui, with 597 points.

Fourth: Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e with 563 points.

Wahine ‘auana winners are as follows:

First: Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e with 610 points.

Second: Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā’ala with 605 points.

Third: Hālau Mōhala ‘Ilima with 600 points.

Fourth: Hula Hālau ‘O Kamuela with 598 points.

Fifth: Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine with 597 points.

The overall kāne awards are as follows:

First: Hālau Hi’iakaināmakalehua, under the direction of Kumu Robert Keano Ka‘upu IV and Lono Padilla, from Niuhelewai, Kona, O‘ahu, with a score of 1,194 points.

Second: Hālau Na Mamo O Pu’uanahulu, under the direction of Kumu William Kahakuleilehua Haunu‘u “Sonny” Ching and Lōpaka Igarta-De Vera, from Kapahulu, O’ahu, with 1,190 points.

Third: Hālau Kekuaokalā’au’ala’iliahi, under the direction of Kumu Haunani and ‘Iliahi Paredes, from Wailuku, Maui, with a score of 1,197.

The overall wahine awards are as follows:

First: Ka Lā ‘Ōnohi Mai O Ha‘eha’e with 1,201 points.

Second: Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā’ala with 1,199 points.

Third: Hula Hālau ‘O Kamuela with 1,195 points.

Sourced from: bigislandnow.com. (2024, April 7). O’ahu Hālau captures overall win in 61st annual merrie monarch hula festival: Big island now. | O’ahu hālau captures overall win in 61st annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. https://bigislandnow.com/2024/04/07/oahu-halau-captures-overall-win-in-61st-annual-merrie-monarch-hula-festival/?n=%40