By: Lena Whitmere

KOHALA COAST, HAWAII — Tucked into the slopes of the Big Island’s northwest coast, Kohala Ranch stretches across 3,500 acres of rolling pastures, lava fields, and elevated ocean vistas. Gated and guarded, this enclave has quietly become one of Hawaii’s private and sought-after communities. While its name is not as widely recognized as Kukio or Hualalai, Kohala Ranch has carved out a distinctive place among discerning buyers—particularly those seeking discretion.

With approximately 325 homesites across three zones—Heathers, Meadows, and Summit—the community offers a blend of elevation, microclimates, and expansive views that attract a niche class of buyers. Properties here range from modest ranch-style homes to multimillion-dollar estates, many unseen by the public due to their off-market nature.

Land of Quiet Wealth and Unlisted Inventory

The turnover of homes at Kohala Ranch is relatively low, with a small percentage changing ownership each year, according to county records. “These transactions are quiet, private, and very intentional,” said Harold X. Clarke, founder of Luxury Big Island and Private Listings. “We’ve helped clients buy homes here not because they wanted to show off—but because they wanted to disappear.”

The properties in Kohala Ranch vary in architectural style, but many emphasize seamless indoor-outdoor living, low-profile luxury, and sustainability. With minimal street lighting, preserved viewsheds, and generous lot sizes—often 3 to 10 acres—residents value what they don’t see as much as they do.

Prices in Kohala Ranch reflect its exclusivity and variance in location. While the Heathers—located in the lower elevations closer to the coast—has traditionally seen strong demand, recent listings indicate a notable shift. Though situated in the Heathers, properties such as those on Olomana Road and Koaie Place have been listed between $4 million and $5 million, challenging the idea that premium valuations are reserved only for the Summit zone.

This underscores a broader trend: unique architecture, privacy, acreage, and ocean views often outweigh elevation alone in determining price. Off-market transactions, common in Kohala Ranch, can exceed publicly recorded averages and rarely reflect the full value of these carefully curated estates.

Olomana Road: A Retreat Built on Intention

Photo Courtesy: Kohala Ranch / Harold X. Clarke

One such property, located on Olomana Road in the Summit section, was developed by financial executives Todd Moses and Yumiko Murakami. Moses, a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, and Murakami, a former head of the OECD Tokyo Centre, designed their estate to serve as a peaceful retreat from decades in global finance.

The property features minimalist architecture, focusing on native landscaping, natural light, and unobstructed views toward the Kohala Coast. According to planning documents, the couple prioritized energy efficiency, local materials, and privacy in its design.

Moses and Murakami are known for their professional accomplishments and low-key philanthropic work, including community support initiatives in Japan and Hawaii. “This estate isn’t about prestige,” Moses wrote in a social media post last year. “It’s about peace.”

Clarke, who has represented similarly discreet transactions in the Ranch, explained: “It’s a home that reflects a change in life values. Clients like Todd and Yumiko have done the global city thing. What they want here is clarity and quiet.”

Koaie Place: Living Close to the Land

Photo Courtesy: Kohala Ranch / Harold X. Clarke

Further down in the Heathers zone, a second property on Koaie Place belongs to David Paul Sennett, a former professional tennis player with ties to Japan and the U.S. Despite its distinct features, the estate is lush, ocean-facing, and modestly publicized.

Sennett, who moved to Hawaii with his wife Hiroko, has used the property not just as a residence but as an informal animal sanctuary. The couple has adopted and cared for rescued donkeys, contributing to local animal welfare efforts. Their life on the Big Island represents a conscious step away from high-visibility careers.

The property has also been linked to Hollywood interests. According to public records and past media reports, the estate was once eyed by film professionals seeking low-key getaways. Its appeal lies in its topography—set back from main roads, protected by ridgelines, and with few direct neighbors.

What Defines Exclusivity in 2025?

Unlike other high-end developments in Hawaii, Kohala Ranch lacks golf courses, resort-style amenities, or commercial infrastructure. That absence is precisely the draw. Residents are not looking for curated leisure; they build private worlds, often from scratch.

According to Clarke, this trend has accelerated post-pandemic. “People no longer ask about club access or how many social events are scheduled,” he said. “They ask if the driveway is gated and if the property is off-market.”

Kohala Ranch moves differently in a market where data aggregation and instant listing alerts dominate the real estate landscape. Many of the valuable estates are never formally listed. Transactions are built on trust, word-of-mouth, and long-standing professional relationships.

A View Worth Protecting

Photo Courtesy: Kohala Ranch / Harold X. Clarke

The Kohala Coast faces new pressures: increasing development interest, rising sea levels, and changing land-use regulations. But Kohala Ranch remains buffered—both geographically and by its resident culture.

Homeowners are subject to covenants that protect view corridors and limit construction density. The design review process, though not onerous, is selective enough to prevent overbuilding. This planning discipline contributes to the community’s lasting appeal.

“There’s a reason many of these homes aren’t on Instagram,” said Clarke. “They weren’t built to be seen. They were built to be lived in.”

As Hawaii continues to draw newcomers with means, Kohala Ranch will likely remain a destination not for the spotlight but for those looking to live far from it—on their terms.

Disclaimer: The information provided regarding real estate transactions, property values, and lifestyle choices is based on publicly available sources and interviews at the time of publication. Prices, availability, and details of properties may change over time. The article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as real estate advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional counsel for any real estate or investment decisions.

Published by Jeremy S.