Kaunakakai, Hawaii Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Kaunakakai, Hawaii? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $15,152 per year — at a $197 nightly rate, 31.9% occupancy, and a $58 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.
At 66 active listings, Kaunakakai is a boutique market where selective demand that rewards strong listing quality and pricing strategy. Supply grew 17.9% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.
Regulation is high and 88% of listings show active registration — compliance is the cost of entry. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Kaunakakai?
In Kaunakakai, the headline Airbnb metrics are $15,152 in average annual revenue,31.9% occupancy, $197 ADR, and $58 in RevPAR, and guests book about 68 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Kaunakakai?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Kaunakakai is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Kaunakakai is typically January, while September often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Kaunakakai across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,943+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,949 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,777 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $926, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Kaunakakai
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Kaunakakai?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Kaunakakai STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Februarysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while September experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Kaunakakai:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 55% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 33%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 16% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Kaunakakai
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Kaunakakai?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Kaunakakai involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Kaunakakai typically peaks in February and dips lowest during April. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $275+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $230 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $183 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $155 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Kaunakakai
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
RevPAR in Kaunakakai is currently $58. Because RevPAR combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, it is one of the cleanest ways to compare how efficiently listings turn demand into revenue across the market.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see $37 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $50 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $82 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $98 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Kaunakakai
RevPAR Insights for Kaunakakai
- The average RevPAR in Kaunakakai is $58. This metric combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, making it one of the best single-number indicators of market efficiency.
- The gap between the top 10% ($98) and bottom 25% ($37) is $61, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
- RevPAR peaks in Feb and bottoms out in Sep, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Kaunakakai benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $50, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $82+ RevPAR through a combination of competitive pricing, strong reviews, and strategic amenities. Target this tier through incremental improvements.
- Use RevPAR rather than revenue alone when comparing properties of different sizes — it normalizes for available nights and gives a more accurate picture of performance.
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When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Kaunakakai's peak Airbnb season falls in January, February, October, while the softest stretch is May, August, September. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (January, February, October)
- Revenue averages $2,748 per month
- Occupancy rates average 46.2%
- Daily rates average $209
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $1,978 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 35.9%
- Daily rates hold near $199
Low Season (May, August, September)
- Revenue drops to average $1,574 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 31.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $179
Seasonality Insights for Kaunakakai
- Airbnb seasonality in Kaunakakai is pronounced. Revenue swings sharply between peak and low months, which means pricing strategy, minimum-stay settings, and cash reserves all need to account for extended slower periods.
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Kaunakakai's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $2,990, occupancy reaching 52.6%, and ADRs peaking at $223.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,399, occupancy could drop to 27.7%, and ADRs may adjust to $173.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Kaunakakai need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing. In a high-regulation market like Kaunakakai, ensure your permit covers the number of nights you plan to book — some jurisdictions cap annual rental days.
- Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, extended-stay discounts, and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers, budget-conscious guests, and travelers with flexible schedules.
- Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that bridges peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers, local events, and business visitors. Slightly more flexible terms than peak season can help maintain occupancy without deep discounting.
- In a highly seasonal market like Kaunakakai, building a cash reserve during the top months is essential for covering fixed costs during the slow period. Automated pricing tools can help capture demand shifts in real time.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Yes, Kaunakakai, Hawaii, United States enforces high STR regulations and 88% of active listings show registration evidence — indicating that enforcement is active and compliance is a prerequisite for operating legally. Hosts entering this market should budget for permit fees, inspections, and potential occupancy tax obligations as part of their startup costs. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Kaunakakai to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 88% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Kaunakakai is a smaller vacation rental market where a handful of neighborhoods drive most of the booking activity. Choosing the right area is especially important in boutique markets — there is less room for a mediocre location to succeed on volume alone. The areas below highlight where short-term rental demand is strongest and why.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Molokai Island | Kaunakakai is the largest town on Molokai, providing a unique opportunity to experience authentic Hawaiian culture and community. It's less commercialized than other Hawaiian islands, appealing to visitors looking for tranquility and natural beauty. | Molokai Island attractions, Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Halawa Valley, Papohaku Beach, Molokai Museum and Cultural Center |
| Kaunakakai Harbor | The harbor area is vital for fishing and boating activities, drawing tourists interested in ocean adventures. Being close to the water increases its appeal for potential Airbnb guests seeking waterfront experiences. | Kaunakakai Harbor, Fishing charters, Boat tours, Local seafood restaurants |
| Kapalua Beach | This nearby area is known for its stunning beach and scenic views, making it a sought-after location for vacation rentals. Tourists flock here for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. | Kapalua Beach, Snorkeling spots, Scenic coastal trails |
| Kalaupapa National Historical Park | A historic site with significant cultural value, attracting tourists interested in history and nature. Visitors appreciate the guided tours and stunning views of the cliffs. | Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Historic tours, Scenic views |
| Halawa Valley | A lush valley that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of Molokai, it's perfect for hiking and exploring waterfalls. Visitors eager to venture off the beaten path enjoy this area. | Halawa Valley, Waterfalls, Guided tours |
| Papohaku Beach | One of Hawaii's largest white sand beaches, it's ideal for travelers looking for beach activities and relaxation. It is less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for visitors. | Papohaku Beach, Swimming, Sunbathing, Beachcombing |
| Molokai Museum and Cultural Center | This area provides insights into the local culture and history of Molokai. Tourists looking for educational experiences often visit, making it a good spot for accommodations nearby. | Molokai Museum, Cultural exhibits, Local history |
| Local Farmers Markets | The farmers' markets in Kaunakakai emphasize local produce and culture, appealing to health-conscious travelers. Staying nearby allows visitors to experience local life and cuisine firsthand. | Kaunakakai Farmers Market, Local produce, Hawaiian food |
Because Kaunakakai has a high regulation profile, confirming that short-term rental permits are available in your target neighborhood is a critical first step before committing to a property purchase. Regulation can vary at the neighborhood or district level even within the same city.
What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Kaunakakai
- The Kaunakakai Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 89.4% of the 66 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Kaunakakai, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (84.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- The presence of 10.6% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like house, others (combined 4.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Kaunakakai Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Kaunakakai
- The dominant room capacity in Kaunakakai is 1 bedroom listings, making up 74.2% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 93.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Kaunakakai, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- With over half the market (74.2%) consisting of studios or 1-bedroom units, Kaunakakai is particularly well-suited for individuals or couples.
Kaunakakai Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Kaunakakai
- The most common guest capacity trend in Kaunakakai vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (60.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Kaunakakai STR market, accounting for 81.8% of listings.
- On average, properties in Kaunakakai are equipped to host 3.8 guests.
How Do Listings in Kaunakakai Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Kaunakakai can be approximated through presentation depth, bedroom count, and how often hosts disclose exact locations. These signals show how professionally the local supply base is merchandised.
Listing Quality Insights for Kaunakakai
- At 31.3 photos per listing on average, Kaunakakai hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 31.8% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
- Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the Kaunakakai averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Kaunakakai?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Kaunakakai
- Essential amenities in Kaunakakai that guests expect include: TV, Wifi, Free parking on premises, Pool, Coffee maker. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Microwave, Beach access are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Kaunakakai: TV, Wifi, Free parking on premises, Pool, Coffee maker.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Free parking on premises, Pool, Coffee maker.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Microwave to increase appeal.
- Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
- Regularly check competitor amenities in Kaunakakai to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Kaunakakai?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Kaunakakai, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hot water | 89.4% | $16,429 | $4,387 | 274.5% |
Essentials | 86.4% | $16,408 | $7,199 | 127.9% |
Outdoor dining area | 47.0% | $20,641 | $10,290 | 100.6% |
Baking sheet | 30.3% | $22,724 | $11,860 | 91.6% |
Dishes and silverware | 71.2% | $17,553 | $9,213 | 90.5% |
Outdoor shower | 19.7% | $24,344 | $12,897 | 88.8% |
Clothing storage | 36.4% | $21,168 | $11,714 | 80.7% |
Cleaning products | 33.3% | $21,532 | $11,962 | 80.0% |
Body soap | 37.9% | $20,900 | $11,647 | 79.4% |
Freezer | 30.3% | $21,742 | $12,287 | 77.0% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Kaunakakai
- Hot water tops the revenue impact list with a 274.5% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $16,429 vs. $4,387 without it.
- Hot water, Essentials — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus your upgrade budget on amenities in the top half of this table. Below-median amenities may improve guest experience but contribute less to revenue growth.
- Highlight revenue-impacting amenities prominently in your listing title, photos, and description — guests can't value what they don't notice.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Kaunakakai STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Kaunakakai. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsKaunakakai Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Kaunakakai
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Kaunakakai consists of primarily domestic travelers (87%), often arriving from nearby Honolulu, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or German.
- Domestic travelers account for 86.6% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (86.6%) and Canada (3.8%).
- Top languages spoken are English (64.8%) followed by German (8.5%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Honolulu and Kailua-Kona.
- Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
- Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
- Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.
What Are Airbnb Guest Ratings in Kaunakakai?
Listings in Kaunakakai average 4.67 out of 5 overall, with about 55 reviews per active listing and 34.8% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Kaunakakai
- An average rating of 4.67 places Kaunakakai in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.85), while Value (4.62) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 34.8% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus improvement efforts on Cleanliness — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
- Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
Kaunakakai Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Kaunakakai
- The most common availability pattern in Kaunakakai falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 60.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 87.9% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Kaunakakai (33.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 15.2% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
How Far in Advance Do Guests Book Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Kaunakakai
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Kaunakakai is 68 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during February (average 104 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in April (average 53 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Winter (88 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (62 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (68 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Kaunakakai.
- For February stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 104 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 88 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Kaunakakai averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Guests in Kaunakakai stay about 4.8 nights on average, generating roughly 1,031 reservations and 15.6 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Kaunakakai
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Kaunakakai
- A mid-range stay length points to leisure-driven demand — weekend getaways and short vacations. Hosts should optimize for quick turnover efficiency while keeping the guest experience smooth.
- 15.6 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Jan (6.9 nights) and shorten in Sep (3.8 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 3:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
- Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.
Kaunakakai Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
16 listings
24.2% of total
2 Nights
15 listings
22.7% of total
3 Nights
13 listings
19.7% of total
4-6 Nights
5 listings
7.6% of total
30+ Nights
17 listings
25.8% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Kaunakakai is 30+ Nights, adopted by 25.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (25.8%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Kaunakakai, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 25.8% of Kaunakakai hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 24.2% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 25.8% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Kaunakakai.
Kaunakakai Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Flexible
5 listings
7.6% of total
Moderate
34 listings
51.5% of total
Firm
14 listings
21.2% of total
Strict
13 listings
19.7% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Kaunakakai
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Kaunakakai is Moderate, used by 51.5% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (59.1%) and stricter (40.9%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 51.5% market standard in Kaunakakai.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Kaunakakai.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Kaunakakai?
Cleaning fees in Kaunakakai are meaningful operating levers, not just pass-through charges. What matters most is how often hosts charge them, how high they run relative to market norms, and how large a share of gross revenue they consume.
Cleaning Fee Insights for Kaunakakai
- 90.9% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Kaunakakai. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The average cleaning fee of $159 is close to the median ($150), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 15.8% of gross revenue on average — a significant line item that impacts total guest cost and competitiveness.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Kaunakakai median of $150. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- Consider whether bundling the cleaning fee into a slightly higher nightly rate might improve conversion, since many guests filter by total price and separate fees can feel punitive.
- Monitor competitor cleaning fees regularly. Airbnb's search algorithm factors in total price, so a well-calibrated cleaning fee can improve your listing's ranking.
What Do the Top Airbnb Listings in Kaunakakai Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Kaunakakaibased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
'Ohana Naeole condo - moloka'i no ka heke
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Molokai sunsets
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Molokai Top floor Oceanfront Condo! Best Views!
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Oceanfront Wavecrest Resort, Molokai Escape
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Getaway at Molokai Shores
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Molokai Adventure
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in Kaunakakai?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Kaunakakai based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evolve | 10 | $134,615 | 142 | 4.56/5.0 |
| Hotel | 6 | $66,110 | 37 | 4.66/5.0 |
| Tiana | 2 | $57,862 | 62 | 4.85/5.0 |
| Kohl | 2 | $52,826 | 235 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Melorine | 1 | $44,562 | 107 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Yolanda | 1 | $39,613 | 107 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Diane | 1 | $33,672 | 84 | 4.94/5.0 |
| Tobi | 1 | $33,169 | 67 | 4.94/5.0 |
| Michael | 1 | $32,498 | 52 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Castle Molokaʻi Shores | 7 | $30,708 | 39 | 4.23/5.0 |
Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Kaunakakai.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Kaunakakai?
Kaunakakai leans more toward professional operations than casual hosting, which usually raises the competitive bar for new entrants.
Host Profile Insights for Kaunakakai
- A 43.9% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 36.4% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 13.6% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 63.6% of listings use Airbnb's simplified pricing (host-only fee), where the host pays the entire platform service fee and the guest sees one all-in price with no separate Airbnb service charge. High adoption signals a professional, PMS-connected host base — Airbnb mandates simplified pricing for software-connected listings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 10.6% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Kaunakakai averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Kaunakakai
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Kaunakakai, ranked by total revenue across their portfolio. Their performance metrics offer a benchmark for what institutional-level hosting looks like in this market.
| Company | Listings | Revenue | ADR | Occ. | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evolve | 10 | $134,615 | $165 | 34.7% | 4.56/5 |
| Castle Molokaʻi Shores | 7 | $30,708 | $255 | 12.6% | 4.23/5 |
| Cari | 1 | $29,978 | $182 | 45.0% | 4.96/5 |
| Adam | 1 | $25,113 | $266 | 33.0% | 4.87/5 |
| Evolve | 1 | $21,776 | $238 | 37.3% | 4.94/5 |
| Vacasa Arizona | 3 | $13,380 | $229 | 12.9% | 4.21/5 |
| Vacasa Hawaii | 2 | $3,578 | $228 | 14.4% | 4.06/5 |
Management Company Insights for Kaunakakai
- The leading management company, Evolve, operates 10 listings with $134,615 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Kaunakakai.
- Top managers average 4 properties each, suggesting professional management in Kaunakakai still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.55/5 in guest ratings — suggesting room for quality improvement even among larger operators.
Recommendations
- Study how top management companies price, position, and maintain their portfolios — their ADR and occupancy rates reflect strategies refined across dozens of listings.
- If you're considering hiring a property manager, compare their portfolio performance against these benchmarks before committing.
How Does Kaunakakai's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Kaunakakai Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.
Compared with Kula, Kaunakakai has 44 percentage points lower occupancy and about $201 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kahuku | 286 | $11,437 | $689.36 | 63% |
| Kula | 11 | $9,049 | $398.16 | 76% |
| Wailea-Makena | 12 | $8,975 | $867.76 | 46% |
| Makawao | 19 | $7,645 | $443.19 | 66% |
| Hana | 69 | $7,513 | $413.90 | 64% |
| Kapalua | 308 | $6,814 | $734.68 | 40% |
| Paia | 87 | $6,626 | $556.77 | 48% |
| Kaanapali | 1,634 | $6,031 | $871.74 | 36% |
| Punaluu | 101 | $5,834 | $384.07 | 58% |
| Maalaea | 17 | $5,527 | $415.35 | 49% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Kaunakakai
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Kaunakakai.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Kaunakakai?
Kaunakakai hosts earn about $15,152 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $197 and RevPAR of $58. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Kaunakakai, Hawaii, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Kaunakakai market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Kaunakakai?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Kaunakakai is 31.9%. January is the strongest month and September is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Kaunakakai?
Listings in Kaunakakai average $197 per night. The broader pricing spread also matters: lower-performing listings cluster closer to the lower quartiles, while premium homes can price materially above the city average when demand spikes or listing quality stands out.
How many Airbnb listings are active in Kaunakakai?
Kaunakakai currently has about 66 active Airbnb listings in AirROI's market dataset. That supply count helps explain how competitive the market is, how much depth there is for benchmarking, and whether the market behaves like a niche destination or a scaled urban market.
How strict are short-term rental regulations in Kaunakakai?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Kaunakakai as High. The dataset also shows about 87.9% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.
What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
RevPAR in Kaunakakai is about $58. That metric combines pricing and occupancy into one efficiency number, so it is often a better quick benchmark than ADR alone when investors want to compare how well listings convert nightly rates into realized revenue.
Is Airbnb profitable in Kaunakakai?
Occupancy of 31.9% means Kaunakakai is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $15,152, but individual returns depend on property type, location within the city, and the host's operating efficiency.
How far in advance do guests book Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
The average booking lead time in Kaunakakai is about 68 days — a longer planning horizon typical of destination or vacation markets where travelers book well in advance. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Kaunakakai include Molokai Island, Kaunakakai Harbor, Kapalua Beach. Each area attracts different guest profiles — from business travelers to leisure visitors — so the best location depends on the property type and target audience a host is aiming for. See the full neighborhood breakdown above.
What type of property performs best on Airbnb in Kaunakakai?
entire_home listings make up 89.4% of the active supply in Kaunakakai. The most common configuration does not always mean the most profitable — operators who identify underserved property types or bedroom counts can sometimes outperform the market average by filling a gap in local supply.
How does Kaunakakai compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Kahuku posts $137,241 in average annual revenue with 62.6% occupancy, compared to Kaunakakai's $15,152 and 31.9%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in Kaunakakai?
The average Airbnb stay length in Kaunakakai is about 4.8 nights. That matters for turnover, cleaning operations, and pricing strategy because shorter stays increase changeovers while longer stays can smooth occupancy and reduce operational friction.
What is the average Airbnb guest rating in Kaunakakai?
Airbnb listings in Kaunakakai average 4.67 out of 5 overall. About 34.8% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.
Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in Kaunakakai?
Hot water and Essentials are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Kaunakakai. In AirROI's latest dataset, listings with these amenities outperform those without on average revenue, which makes amenities analysis useful for prioritizing investment and listing upgrades.
Do Airbnb hosts charge cleaning fees in Kaunakakai?
Yes. About 90.9% of active Airbnb listings in Kaunakakai charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $159. The more important operating benchmark is how much of gross revenue that fee consumes, not just the absolute dollar amount.
What percentage of Airbnb hosts are Superhosts in Kaunakakai?
A 43.9% Superhost rate signals a highly competitive market where review quality and responsiveness are table stakes, not differentiators.
About AirROI Market Data
AirROI tracks over 20 million properties across 190+ countries and maintains 15+ years of historical performance data, making it one of the deepest Airbnb and STR intelligence platforms available. The analytics pipeline aggregates listing-level data monthly — revenue, occupancy, nightly rates, RevPAR, guest demographics, booking patterns, and competitive supply — so investors and operators can benchmark any market against its own history and against neighboring destinations.
Real estate investors, property managers, financial institutions, hedge funds, tourism boards, hospitality consultants, tech platforms, and academic researchers rely on AirROI data to underwrite acquisitions, optimize pricing, model macro trends, and conduct peer-reviewed research. Data is available through in-depth market reports like this one and the Airbnb API with 22 endpoints and an Airbnb MCP Server for AI agents.
AirROI proprietary analytics as of 2026-03-31. Metrics reflect trailing twelve-month aggregates from active listings. Revenue figures are market averages, not projections. Neighborhood descriptions are AI-generated and reviewed for accuracy. For full methodology, see the data methodology page.