A luxurious Makena estate has sold for $8.175 million, marking one of the highest sales in the Wailea-Makena region this year.  

Island Sotheby’s International Realty agents Alex Cortez, R(B) and Ryan MacLaughlin, R(B) represented the buyer and Ryan MacLaughlin, R(B) and Lee Gardner, R(S) represented the seller of the 7,000 sq. ft. estate, which boasts five bedrooms, four bathrooms and two half-bathrooms. Located within the gated enclave of One Palauea, this one-acre estate is the epitome of elegant island living.

“This property was thoughtfully designed for a seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor living, amidst one of the most exclusive subdivisions in Hawaii,” said Cortez, who represented the buyer. “Whether entertaining or enjoying a

As you enter this five-acre oceanfront estate, it feels as if you’ve traveled back in time.

Located in one of the last places in Hawaii untouched by urbanization and over-development, this three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath Hana estate is a rare gem offered for $4.8 million. There is almost nowhere on Maui where you can find five acres of pristine oceanfront property — let alone a parcel that’s located within minutes of waterfalls, fresh water pools, hiking and the famous Hamoa Beach.

“This five acre estate offers a degree of privacy and serenity rarely found in oceanfront properties,” said Island Sotheby’s International Realty agent Dan Omer R(S), one of the agents representing the seller.

Within walking distance to Waioka Pond,

Casual, yet elegant.

Nestled on more than 3 private acres, this quintessential Kama’aina pole home boasts one of the most coveted lots in all of Kula 200, in one of Maui’s most beloved Upcountry neighborhoods. With views that sweep from Maui’s north to south shore and lush grounds, this 3,800 square foot estate embraces tranquility and sustainable living in the heart of paradise.

“Once you enter the property, you feel like you’re in your own world with privacy, quiet and natural accents all around,” said Cynthia Warner, R(B) one of the Island Sotheby’s International Realty agents representing the seller.

The entire home, which boasts four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, takes one’s breath away with the beautiful balance of

For the second year in a row, Maui has been ranked as the No. 1 spot on Travel + Leisure magazine’s list of “Top Islands in Hawaiʻi” in its 2018 World’s Best Awards readers’ survey.

“With stellar food, friendly people, lots to do and, of course, spectacular beaches, Maui is a pretty perfect package according to T+L readers,” said Travel + Leisure editor in chief Nathan Lump. “So, it’s no surprise to see this perennial favorite topping the list once again.”

The list ranked Kaua’i at No. 2, followed by the Big Island, O’ahu, then Lana’i. Maui also made the publication’s list of best islands in the world, ranking in at No. 14. The best island, according to the list, was Java, Indonesia.

“We are proud to receive this wonderful

Maui real estate professionals may know this all too well: Inventory is still tight for the island’s homes and condominiums.

According to statistics recently released by Realtors Association of Maui, inventory decreased nearly 16 percent for single-family homes and 33 percent for condominiums compared to last year. The analysis also found that new listings decreased 28 percent for single-family homes and 32 percent for condos.

“Housing markets across the nation are most assuredly active this summer, and buyer competition is manifesting itself into several quick sales above asking price,” the report said.

Another notable finding was the fact that the median sales price jumped nearly 20 percent to $515,000 for condominiums since this

It may come to no surprise to many people that Hawai’i is often ranked among the healthiest — and happiest — states in the entire country.

With miles of white sand beaches to run on and dozens of places to find fresh local produce, there are countless ways for people to stay healthy on islands like Maui — all while enjoying the pristine natural environment that the island has to offer. The Aloha State also boasts one of the highest life expectancy rates in the entire nation, as well as a lower obesity rate compared to other states.

But why does living on Maui or other Hawaiian Islands help citizens become healthier? We’ve got some ideas about why you might benefit from moving to the Aloha State.

Food

From fresh ahi tuna to

Sometimes there’s a price to pay for living in paradise.

For many Maui residents, finding a home that they can afford is one of the biggest challenges that comes with living on island. But just because you think the search for an affordable home might be difficult, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be that way.

From charming country homes in Kula to houses in Kihei located just minutes from the beach, the Island Sotheby’s International Realty team has the scoop on all the best homes to fit your price point. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite homes for under $1 million:

1280 Middle Street | $987,000

With sweeping ocean views, gardens and a coffee orchard, this charming country home has it all. Nestled on the slopes of

Privacy. Tranquility. Nature.

This 5.8 acre estate nestled in the lush slopes of Haleakala has it all. With an idyllic country setting and sweeping coastal views, this property offered for $2.999 million boasts every feature — both natural and man-made — that a buyer would want in their ultimate private retreat.

“What makes this property special is the location,” said Island Sotheby’s International Realty agent Megan Bouhey R(S), who’s representing the seller. “It is a short trip to civilization, but feels like you are on top of the world.”

Bouhey explained that the property was once owned by famed country singer Randy Travis. Located in one of Kula's most desirable neighborhoods, this manicured estate borders ranch land, thus

I think we can all agree that summer is too short, so the last thing we want to do is complain about the heat when we have it. Lucky for those visiting or living on Maui, there are lots of ways to beat the heat in the dog days of summer. Of course, the No. 1 way to do so is usually the beach — but we’ve got a few other ideas in store to switch it up.

Find a Waterfall

Photo by Thomas.

There’s nothing more refreshing than crisp, clear water on a hot summer day. Good thing for those living on Maui, there are plenty of pristine ponds and cascading waterfalls to take a dip in when temperatures soar. From Bamboo Forest to Twin Falls, many of Maui’s most popular waterfalls offer multiple swimming spots and waterfalls to explore.

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