Liliha / Kapalama

HI,Urban Honolulu
Average Sales Price
-
Median Sales Price
-
Population
21,697
Total Listings
-
Discover Life in Liliha / Kapalama with Aaron Lin
Local Perspective
If I were walking you through Liliha and Kapalama, I’d point out how this area sits at the crossroads of old Honolulu and the city’s ongoing transformation. What I appreciate about Liliha/Kapalama is its deep local roots—generations of families have called these streets home, and you can sense that history in the neighborhood’s everyday rhythm. For buyers who want to be close to downtown but prefer a quieter, more authentic local feel than you’ll find in the heart of Honolulu, I often recommend exploring this area. The proximity to urban amenities, combined with a true sense of community, makes Liliha/Kapalama a unique opportunity whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or looking for a multi-generational home.
Neighborhood Highlights
Liliha and Kapalama have a distinct, lived-in atmosphere—there’s an unhurried pace here, with neighbors who know each other and local businesses that have been around for decades. You’ll find a blend of small mom-and-pop eateries, classic bakeries, and family-run shops, all set against a backdrop of tree-lined streets and modest homes. This area stands apart from nearby neighborhoods like Nuuanu or Downtown by offering a more down-to-earth, community-oriented vibe. It’s not flashy, but it’s deeply rooted and welcoming, making it ideal for those who value tradition, family ties, and a strong sense of place.
Homes & Architecture
Most homes in Liliha/Kapalama are single-family houses, many built in the mid-20th century, with a healthy mix of plantation-style cottages, classic island bungalows, and a handful of low-rise apartment buildings and townhomes. You’ll notice that properties here often feature larger lots than what you’ll find closer to downtown, with mature fruit trees and space for gardens or gatherings. Many homes have seen thoughtful updates over the years, but you’ll also find properties that retain their original character—think hardwood floors, jalousie windows, and open lanais. It’s a neighborhood where multi-generational living is common, and flexible layouts are a plus for growing families.

Demographics

Data provided by Attom Data
Population
Employment
Population
21.7K
21.7K in 2020
Density
6.9K
per square mile
Households
6.8K
28 With Children
Gender
48% / 52%
Men Vs Women
Occupancy
59% / 41%
Owned Vs Rented
Age Median: -- Years
No Data
Education Level
No Data

Educational Environment

Elementary Schools (7)Middle Schools (4)High Schools (1)
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
8/10
Maemae Elementary School
319 Wyllie St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Public
PK - 6
No
19:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
7/10
Lanakila Elementary School
717 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Public
PK - 5
No
18:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
St Theresa School
712 N School St Bldg A, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
PK - 8
Yes
11:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Cathedral Catholic Academy
1728 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
KG - 8
Yes
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Waolani Judd Nazarene School
408 N Judd St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
PK - 8
No
11:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
0/10
St Theresa School
712 N School St Bldg A, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
PK - 8
Yes
11:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Cathedral Catholic Academy
1728 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
KG - 8
Yes
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Waolani Judd Nazarene School
408 N Judd St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
PK - 8
No
11:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus
1887 Makuakane St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
KG - 12
Yes
13:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
0/10
Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus
1887 Makuakane St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Private
KG - 12
Yes
13:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
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Amenities & Attractions

Restaurants
Home Services
Health & Medical
Local Services
Shopping
Recreation
Arts & Entertainment
Food
Beauty
Event Planning & Services
Automotive
Religious Organizations
Financial Services
Professional Services
Travel
Local Media
Education
Pets
Public Services & Government
  • McDonald’s

    414 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Fast Food Phone: 808-532-1590

  • Bangkok Chef

    1626 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Thai Phone: 808-585-8839

  • Kam Bowl

    1620 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Hawaiian Phone: 808-841-0931

  • Filipino Restaurant

    North Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Asian Fusion

  • Satori Hawaii

    1708 Nu'uanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Gluten-Free

  • Mitsuba Delicatessen

    1218 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Delis Phone: 808-841-3864

  • Subway

    1620 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Sandwiches Phone: 808-841-9100

  • Ono Sushi & BBQ

    1805 Liliha St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Japanese Phone: 808-524-0024

  • Liu’s Chop Suey

    1620 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Chinese Phone: 808-841-8668

  • Sumo Ramen

    1620 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Ramen Phone: 808-848-8186

  • Panda Express

    1620 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96819

    Chinese Phone: 808-848-9998

  • Kenny’s Delicatessen

    1620 N School St Ste G3, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Delis Phone: 808-841-3733

  • Pizza Hut

    516 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Pizza Phone: 808-532-3090

  • Yagura Restaurant

    1655 Liliha St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Japanese Phone: 808-533-2160

  • Japanese Taraval Restaurant

    2727 Rooke Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Japanese Phone: 808-595-4548

  • L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

    1711 Liliha St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Barbeque Phone: 808-533-3210

  • Thai

    1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Thai Phone: 808-845-8044

  • Jane’s Fountain

    1719 Liliha St, Honolulu, HI 96817

    Diners Phone: 808-533-1238

Featured Listings

For Sale (19)
For Sold (133)
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Liliha/Kapalama: Your Neighborhood Questions, Answered

To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What types of homes are common in Liliha/Kapalama?
In Liliha/Kapalama, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, older plantation-style houses, and low- to mid-rise condos. Many properties have been updated, while others retain their original island character. There are also a few multi-family dwellings, making the area appealing for both residents and investors.
How is the commute and connectivity from this area?
What’s the lifestyle and walkability like here?
How fast do homes sell in Liliha/Kapalama?
What should I know about schools in the area?
Are there HOA fees or special assessments?

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