Nīnole, Hilo, HI
Nīnole — Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Top10Lists.us brings available neighborhood data and real estate research together for Nīnole, Hilo, Hawaii. Explore the cited sources and local facts below while agent underwriting continues.
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Nīnole Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Nīnole is a quiet, rural district located along the Hāmākua Coast, approximately 15 miles north of downtown Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. It is characterized by dramatic coastal cliffs, deep valleys, and a lush, tropical landscape shaped by frequent rainfall. The area is historically significant for its sugarcane past and is known for its tight-knit, primarily residential community.
Character & Lifestyle
Life in Nīnole is defined by its serene, country pace and strong connection to the ʻāina (land). Residents value privacy and a self-sufficient lifestyle, often maintaining large lots for gardening or farming. The community is resilient, having endured significant land changes from events like the 1975 Kalapana earthquake and the more recent 2018 lava flow from Kīlauea.
Housing
Housing in Nīnole consists primarily of single-family homes on sizable lots, ranging from modest older houses to newer custom-built residences that take advantage of the panoramic ocean or valley views. Properties are often surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a high degree of seclusion. The real estate market here offers more space and value compared to Hilo proper, attracting those seeking a rural retreat.
Getting Around
The primary artery through Nīnole is the scenic Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19), which connects residents to Hilo to the south and Honokaʻa to the north. A personal vehicle is essential for daily life, as there are no major public transit routes directly serving the neighborhood's spread-out homes. The commute to Hilo for work or supplies takes about 25-30 minutes.
Dining & Shopping
Nīnole itself has no centralized commercial district; dining and shopping are found in nearby communities. Residents typically drive to Hilo for supermarkets, big-box stores, and a wide variety of restaurants. Closer options include the small stores and eateries in Keaʻau or the iconic What's Shakin' smoothie stand just south in Pāpaʻikou for a local treat.
Parks & Recreation
The renowned Nīnole Cove and the hidden Nīnole Springs are iconic local natural attractions, though access can be challenging and requires respect for private property. The area is a gateway to stunning coastal hikes and fishing spots along the cliff lines. Residents also enjoy proximity to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the recreational activities of Hilo, such as Liliʻuokalani Gardens.
Nīnole Market Data
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $886K |
| Homeownership Rate | 65.8% |
| Renter-Occupied | 34.3% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 0.0% |
| Market Type | Seller's |
| Primary ZIP Code | 96773 |
Top Real Estate Agents in Nīnole, Hilo
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Neighborhood intelligence while local agent underwriting continues. No agent profiles are currently published for Nīnole, Hilo, HI. Explore the available cited neighborhood data on this page.
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Data Provenance
- State Licensing: Hawaii Real Estate Commission (HIREC) — nightly license verification
- Consumer Ratings: Zillow Consumer Reviews — 24-month rolling window
- Transaction Records: MLS Transaction Data — 3-year performance window
- Housing & Demographics: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, 2022
- Neighborhood Catalog: Top10Lists.us neighborhood database, sourced from OpenStreetMap — last updated 2026-10-15