Kapolei
Kapolei is a rapidly growing city on Oahu's leeward coast, often referred to as the “Second City” of Oahu after Honolulu. Once dominated by agriculture, Kapolei is now a hub of development, home to government offices, shopping centers, residential communities, and resorts like Ko Olina. With new infrastructure and rising population, Kapolei is becoming a vibrant urban center on the west side of the island.
Kapolei, Oahu
Kapolei (view panorama) × is located on Oahu's south shore, about 25 miles (40 km) west of downtown Honolulu. In the past, the land where Kapolei is now located was agricultural land, used for sugarcane and pineapple production. Today, Kapolei is rapidly growing and has a population of close to 24,000 in 2024. The town is being developed as an urban center, second to Honolulu. In fact, much of the island's population growth is occurring in the Ewa Plain and the area around Kapolei.
One attraction near Kapolei is Wet'n'Wild Hawaii, an 25-acre open-air water park featuring many water slides, pools and hot tubs. Located near Kapolei is Ko Olina, an upscale resort community. The man-made Ko Olina Lagoons feature nice beach coves and a sheltered area for swimming.
Kapolei has a public library, post office and schools (a private one, Island Pacific Academy, which is pre-K through 12, opened in 2004). Located near Kapolei is also an industrial area, the Campbell Industrial Park featuring a deepwater port, and Barbers Point Naval Air Station, with its Kalaeloa Airport.
In the Hawaiian language, the name Kapolei comes from the name for a volcanic cone, Pu'u o Kapolei. “Pu'u” means hill and “Kapo lei” means beloved Kapo. According to Hawaiian legend, Kapo was the sister of Pele.
Kapolei's zip code is 96707, and in 2002, the Pacific Business News magazine reported that this zip code had the second highest income on the island of Oahu, with a median income of $62,303. Almost one in five households has an income of more than $100,000. Also, according to the City and County of Honolulu, Kapolei has a home ownership rate of 70 percent. Furthermore, according to Sterling's Best Places, Kapolei has a median household income of $70,129 compared to the national average of $42,350.
Key Features of Kapolei
- Emerging urban center: Designed as Oahu's “Second City,” Kapolei features expanding infrastructure, retail, and housing.
- Proximity to Ko Olina: Just minutes from the Ko Olina Lagoons and resorts, offering family-friendly beaches and luxury amenities.
- Attractions nearby: Home to Wet'n'Wild Hawaii, Kapolei Regional Park, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Economic growth zone: Includes Campbell Industrial Park, Kalaeloa Airport, and high rates of homeownership and income.
- Population: 21,411 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96707
| |||||||
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kapolei called the “Second City”?
Kapolei is being developed as a major urban center outside of Honolulu, with business districts, shopping, government buildings, and residential growth.
What are some attractions near Kapolei?
Nearby attractions include Wet'n'Wild Hawaii, Ko Olina Lagoons, Coral Crater Adventure Park, and Ka Makana Ali'i shopping center.
Is Kapolei a good place to live?
Yes, Kapolei offers newer housing, schools, retail options, and is popular with families and professionals relocating to Oahu's west side.
Where is Kapolei located?
Kapolei is on Oahu's southwest shore, about 25 miles (40 km) west of downtown Honolulu via H-1 freeway.
What is Kapolei known for economically?
Kapolei is part of the fast-growing Ewa Plain region and features one of the highest homeownership and income rates on the island.