Welcome to Kapolei
Affluent, planned community in Oahu’s Second City
Taking its name from a Hawaiian legend, Kapolei refers to both Kapo, the goddess of fertility, and sister to fire goddess Pele, and to the ring, or light, seen around the hill during the winter solstice.
Once a rural area full of sugarcane fields and pineapple land, Kapolei was designated in 1977 as Oahu’s Second City, paving the way for the planned community residents enjoy today. The town grew rapidly from there, with the 20 mile Honolulu Rail Transit breaking ground in 2011. That same year, the community welcomed Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa, and the town’s reputation as a family-friendly destination was secured.
Now a bustling enclave of shopping centers and major retailers like Costco and Target, Kapolei is certainly fertile ground for a variety of housing options, parks, schools, universities, entertainment, restaurants, and more.
What to Love
- Planned community
- Pedestrian-friendly
- Warm family vibes
People & Lifestyle
Affluent and vibrant, this suburban, family-friendly neighborhood is an exciting place to call home. Its focus on sustainability and community services make it an ideal place for young families to set down roots, and the regional commitment to park and garden creation provides plenty of walkability for outdoor lovers and fitness enthusiasts.
Full of top-notch dining and amenities, Kapolei combines suburban convenience with the coveted island lifestyle.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Oahu’s Second City offers a wide variety of sophisticated restaurants and island cuisine. Home of the celebrated Aulani Disney Resort, Kapolei has plenty of excellent choices for dinner, including the Olelo Room Bar and Lounge. With a name meaning “to converse,” this upscale bistro creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends and connecting with family. Enjoy traditional island flavors and an inspired cocktail menu at this warm, elegant lounge.
For local ‘ono flavors, quality ingredients, and generous portions, hungry residents flock to the innovative My Cafe. This casual diner offers a mouth-watering menu of breakfast and lunch treats. Take advantage of the grab-and-go selection at Ulu Cafe and head out into the tropical sunshine, or lounge at the restaurant’s covered patio and enjoy a leisurely meal and ocean views.
Bring the whole family to casual, laid-back Makahiki to celebrate the best of Hawaiian harvest.
Sit out on the lanai, which overlooks a tranquil koi pond, and relish in the fresh, local ingredients and Hawaiian-inspired cocktails. The Miso Butterfish with Green Tea Rice is a local favorite.
Things to Do
One of the island’s most family-centered communities, Kapolei has everything to keep both parents and kids entertained. Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii, a 29-acre water park, is the only attraction of its kind in the entire state. With more than 25 rides, games, and activities, this popular family destination has been voted Honolulu Magazine's Best Family Attraction.
Even the tides here welcome little ones to play! The Ko Olina Lagoons are protected from ocean waves by breakwaters, creating the coveted ocean experience without the danger of rip tides. Take the kids to play in the water, enjoy the stunning views, and maybe even wave hello to one of the area’s adorable seals. This beautiful beach covers 642 acres of gorgeous lagoons and aquatic walkways.
Kapolei is perhaps best known for the Aulani Disney Resort, the ultimate family getaway. Celebrating the island’s history, culture, and cuisine, this luxury retreat offers golf, pools, spa treatments, entertainment, dining, and, of course, those loveable Disney characters.
