Living in Puako: Hawaii’s Hidden Oceanfront Gem

Being close to the ocean is one of the real pleasures of living in Puako.

I snorkel swim almost daily—it's a perfect way to start my day! Numerous species of marine life can be found in the vibrant underwater world that is Wailea Bay, which stretches from Mauna Kea to Mauna Lani. I've seen many amazing sea creatures over the years: sea turtles, vibrant reef fish, and even the endangered Hawaiian seahorse.

There were rumors of a seahorse sighting just the other day. My curiosity, of course, won out. On the beach, I observed a small group of snorkelers diving and coming up, talking excitedly, so I decided to check in.

Sure enough, it was a Seahorse!! 

A Hawaiian seahorse was gliding effortlessly through the water as if it had nowhere else to be. It moved with such grace, its body catching the sunlight in a shimmering display, as if posing for us.

That moment made my day.

Where else can you live and have something like that happening in your own backyard? Of course, in Puako. And not only that—this place is filled with these kinds of magical moments. From sea turtles napping on sun-warmed lava rocks to spinner dolphins leaping just offshore, Puako offers a front-row seat to nature’s wonders, every single day.

Having worked and lived here for years, I get to enjoy this oceanside paradise as part of my daily routine. Almost every morning, I hop on my bike and ride down to Paniau Beach, my favorite spot for snorkeling, body surfing, or just floating in the ocean. “Ocean is my potion,” as the song goes, and I truly believe it. But the ocean is just one of the benefits of living here—there is so much more.

It’s no wonder people love Puako so much and dream of living or retiring here. In this blog, I want to share the many reasons why Puako is so special—and why a property like Puako 143 might be your opportunity to make this dream a reality.

Why Puako’s Location is Perfect for a Peaceful Island Lifestyle

One of the most remarkable things about Puako is its location. We’re not inside the resorts, but we’re right next door to them, which means you get all the benefits without the bustle.

Puako sits along a stretch of coastline between Mauna Lani Resort and Mauna Kea Resort, giving you easy access to world-class golf courses, fine dining, luxury spas, and pristine beaches. When you feel like a day of pampering or a round of golf, it’s just minutes away.

But here’s the beauty of it—you come home to peace and quiet. There’s no endless stream of tourists walking by your front door, no large hotels towering overhead. Instead, you’re surrounded by charming homes, small streets, and the sound of waves in the background.

The best beaches on the Kohala Coast—Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach, and 69 Beach—are just a short drive or bike ride away. And of course, the ocean right here in Puako offers some of the best snorkeling and tide pooling on the island.

Puako’s Microclimate: The Best Weather on the Big Island

The weather in Puako is something locals will tell you about—and for good reason. We enjoy a mostly sunny, dry climate year-round, with gentle ocean breezes keeping things comfortable. While other parts of the Big Island can be rainy or windy, Puako seems to sit in a perfect spot.

Mornings usually start with blue skies, and the sunsets are the kind that stop you in your tracks. Imagine sitting on your lanai at the end of the day, watching the sun set into the horizon, painting the sky in majestic colors.

It’s the kind of weather that makes outdoor living effortless. Whether you’re into gardening, swimming, or simply relaxing with a book under a palm tree, the climate here is your ally.

Ocean Adventures Await: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and More in Puako

For ocean lovers, Puako is the place to be. The calm, clear waters along the coast make it one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. The reef here is rich with marine life—tropical fish, sea turtles, octopuses, eels, and even manta rays if you’re lucky.

In winter, humpback whales visit the Kohala Coast, and you can sometimes see them breaching right from the beach. Paddling out on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard gives you a front-row seat to their incredible displays.

Surfing, diving, fishing, sailing—you name it, Puako offers it. Even if you’re not a big water sports person, there’s something special about just walking the shoreline, looking into tide pools, and discovering tiny crabs, starfish, and yes, sometimes even a seahorse.

For me, the ocean is not just recreation—it’s restoration. It is grounding, energizing, and reminding you of the beauty of living here.

A Welcoming Puako Community with a Small-Town Feel

While the natural beauty of Puako is undeniable, it’s the people who make this place truly special. Puako has a strong sense of community. Neighbors greet each other by name, and there’s an unspoken understanding that we look out for one another.

From spontaneous beach gatherings to neighborhood potlucks, there’s always a reason to connect. People here care about the ocean, the land, and each other. Many residents are long-time locals, while others are newer arrivals who’ve fallen in love with the area and decided to make it home.

It’s this warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Puako such a joy to live in. Whether you’re here year-round or just part of the year, you’ll quickly feel like you belong.

Why Retiring in Puako is a Smart Choice

If you’ve been thinking about retirement in Hawaii, Puako checks all the boxes. It offers tranquility, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life, yet you’re never far from conveniences like grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities in Waimea or Kona.

But here’s where it gets even better—you can offset the cost of owning a home here through vacation rental income. Many Puako properties, including Puako 143, have licensed vacation rental status, allowing you to rent your home when you’re not using it.

That means you can enjoy your Hawaii home during the months you want to be here and generate income the rest of the year. It’s a smart way to have the best of both worlds—your own piece of paradise plus financial flexibility.

Puako 143: A Licensed Vacation Rental Home by the Ocean

Now, let’s talk about one of the most exciting opportunities currently available in Puako: Puako 143.

Located at the quiet south end of Puako Beach Drive, this property offers expansive Mauna Kea views, peeks of the ocean, and a beautifully maintained full-size lot just steps from the shoreline.

A Flexible Layout for Your Needs

Recently renovated, the home has been thoughtfully designed with two distinct living areas:

• Upstairs: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, an open floor plan, and a spacious covered lanai perfect for sunsets, dining, and gatherings.

• Downstairs: A large, serene studio with its own patio and garden views—ideal for guests, extended family, or additional rental income.

  
  

This flexible setup makes it easy to live in one part of the home while renting out the other, maximizing your earning potential.

Outdoor Living in Puako: Sunrises, Sunsets, and Space to Relax

Morning coffee on the mauka lanai as the sun rises over Mauna Kea. Evening wine on the makai lanai with soft ocean breezes. Room to add a pool if you wish. This is Hawaii living at its finest.

The oversized two-car garage and dedicated laundry room add convenience, while Hawaii’s ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) allowance means you can explore building an additional unit for even more income or guest accommodations.

Income Potential: How Puako 143 Can Help Offset Ownership Costs

As a licensed vacation rental, Puako 143 already comes with the ability to generate income. Whether you rent it short-term when you’re away or long-term to a tenant, you have flexibility. That income can help pay for property taxes, upkeep, and even part of your mortgage—making it easier to own a home in one of Hawaii’s most desirable coastal neighborhoods.

Puako Real Estate Market: Why Properties Hold Their Value

Puako is unique in that it has a limited supply of properties. There are no large condo complexes or high-rise buildings here—just a small stretch of homes along a single road by the ocean. This scarcity helps keep demand strong and supports long-term property values.

Over the years, I’ve seen Puako homes appreciate significantly. With its combination of location, beauty, and community, I believe Puako will continue to be one of the most desirable areas on the Big Island.

For buyers, that means you’re not just purchasing a home—you’re investing in a lifestyle and an asset that’s likely to hold and grow its value.

A Typical Day in Puako: Island Living at Its Best

Picture this:

You wake up to the sound of gentle waves. You step out onto your lanai with a cup of Kona coffee and watch the sun climb over Mauna Kea.

After breakfast, you take a quick bike ride to Paniau for a morning snorkel, where you spot a turtle lazily swimming alongside you. By late morning, you’re back home, rinsed off, and ready to enjoy a leisurely lunch on the lanai with the trade winds keeping you cool.

The afternoon might be for reading, gardening, or a quick drive to Waimea for fresh produce at the farmers’ market. In the evening, you stroll to the shoreline for sunset—maybe with a glass of wine in hand—and watch the sky put on a show.

This is everyday life in Puako. And once you experience it, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else.

Why Now is the Time to Buy a Puako Property

Inventory in Puako is always limited, and properties with licensed vacation rental status are especially rare. Puako 143 combines that income potential with a prime location, flexible layout, and room for future expansion.

Whether you’re looking for a retirement home, a vacation getaway, or a smart investment, this property offers a way to enjoy Hawaii while letting rental income help cover the costs.

If you want to try the property before you buy it, you can rent it here: https://www.vacationbigisland.com/vacation-rentals/rental/hale-lea--puako-143/

Experience the Magic of Puako – Your Oceanside Lifestyle Awaits

Puako is more than just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of neighbors who become friends. It’s the salty breeze in your hair. It’s spotting a seahorse on a random Tuesday morning and realizing that magic still exists in the everyday.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living by the ocean in Hawaii, now is the time to explore what’s possible. Puako 143 could be your gateway to that dream—a home that offers beauty, flexibility, and income potential in one of the Big Island’s most treasured coastal communities.

I’d love to show you around, share more about life here, and help you decide if Puako is the right fit for you. Let’s talk and start exploring your Puako possibilities.

Ta Da!

Aloha,

Jan