Aloha! You Could Live in Paradise for Less Than $500,000

Hawaii is a location that inspires

countless real estate dreams. But instead of fantasizing about one day owning a patch of paradise, why not take the plunge? While the islands are a bit notorious for having a lava-hot luxury real estate market, you might be surprised to find that your future Hawaiian home is a little more affordable than you'd think. We've found a range of incredible properties — from a chic city condo to a beachside retreat that comes complete with a convertible — each priced at less than $500,000.

Enchanted cottage:

$418,000,

76-671 Kiipohaku Street, Kailua Kona, HI 96740

It may look small, but this three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is surprisingly spacious. The 1,029-square-foot home has a roomy open floor plan that feels big and bright thanks to upgraded recessed lighting, large windows, and oversized sliding glass doors. Through them you'll find a feature not found in the average Hawaiian yard: your own waterfall. If you tire of this private topography, you're just a quick trip to some of the best surf spots on the island, along with the local favorite Magic Sands beach.

Zen style:

$450,300,

15-1660 25th Ave., Keaau, HI, 96749

This three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom custom home was built for relaxation. The airy, open layout is accented throughout with warm wood, which creates a cozy feel. Skylights and walls of windows flood rooms with sunlight, illuminating details worthy of quiet contemplation, like the handsome ohia-and-bamboo staircase leading to a multipurpose room that will make you want to get your "om" on. But if you really want to let go of lingering stress, head to the master suite, where a jetted tub surrounded by windows lets you take in the majestic scenery while you soak. Or change it up and head to the

other

suite, which has a bathroom that opens to an outdoor shower in a Zen garden setting. Still need to decompress? Just walk out to the backyard hot tub that's surrounded by exotic plants and blooms. It's the closest thing to living at a spa.

Aloha, chalet:

$458,000,

19-4034 Kilauea Road, Volcano, HI 96785

The phrase "mountain chalet" doesn't have to mean a cozy spot in a snowy little ski village. The proof: this comfortable three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath custom home designed by Aza Summers. It's located on a tranquil tree-lined street within Volcano at an elevation of 3,900 feet. Originally designed as an artist's retreat, the home is expansive yet cozy, boasting a reading loft, skylights, cathedral ceilings, and Palladian windows that frame exquisite tropical garden views. When temps get a little chilly at night, you'll love curling up by the gas fireplaces and wood stove, or perhaps cooking up a feast in the new gourmet kitchen. The property comes with a two-story garden cottage, designer furnishings, and the possibility to include a Mazda Miata convertible in the sale.

Peaceful retreat:

$465,000,

68-1757 Kimo Nui Place, Waikoloa, HI 96738

A collection of rare palms adds fantastic curb appeal to this three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the Pheasant Ridge portion of Waikoloa Village. These picturesque trees aren't the only remarkable feature in the 12,584-square-foot yard: The perfectly maintained dry landscape requires little care to look so stunning, a big plus for such a huge space. And while this alone would be great scenery to view from the oversized windows that flank the indoor living space, you can also enjoy glimpses of majestic Kohala Mountain in the distance.

Sleek in the city:

$467,700,

555 South St. #3311, Honolulu, HI 96813

If you love looking at a skyline as much as a mountain vista, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo in Honolulu doesn't disappoint. Double-insulated floor-to-ceiling windows frame the breathtaking views and flood the condo with light, while also helping keep energy bills in check. The interior is sleek and sophisticated, with European-style cabinetry, modern energy-efficient appliances, and high-end materials and finishes.

This side of paradise:

$475,000,

15-1050 Kupaoa Road, Keaau, HI 96749

Located on the "sunrise" side of the island, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom Mediterranean-style home treats morning types to a view straight from a postcard every day. Since the ocean is just across the street, you hear the waves crash against the beach right from the lanai. (During the winter, you can even hear the sounds of frolicking whales.) The half-acre lot is meticulously landscaped with coconut palms, fruit trees, and fragrant flowers and also boasts an above-ground pool. The interiors play up that exotic vibe with bamboo and hand-carved accents that add warmth to the open and airy floor plan.

Private party pad:

$475,000,

14-5024 Kapoho Beach Road, Pahoa, HI 96778

Situated in a gated community, this adorable four-bedroom, three-bathroom home feels like a remote escape without being too far off the beaten path. (It's about 15 minutes from Keaau town and 30 minutes from the city of Hilo.) The tropical retreat was practically built with entertaining in mind, with a wraparound deck and bonus additional deck for bigger outdoor get-togethers. Whether you're hosting one or 20, you'll love the wine fridge, huge walk-in pantry, and two guest rooms. You also won't have to worry about decorating, since the home comes with all the charming furniture included.

Plantation-style stunner:

$475,000,

15-121 Kuna Street, Pahoa, HI 96778

Hawaii is known for its incredible landscape, so it comes as no surprise that the 10,114-square-foot lot of this stylish three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home is filled with lush greenery. However, while most Hawaiian yards can claim palm trees and tropical flowers, this property is home to a small orchard's worth of lemon, lime, and tangerine trees, plus pineapples galore. Move to this neighborhood known for its friendly atmosphere, and you'll find no shortage of potential party guests just waiting to try out the cocktails made with fresh-picked fruit from your own estate. Whether you gather guests on your wraparound deck, in the large gazebo, or in the huge living room, this home is made for hanging out.

Penthouse in paradise:

$489,000,

75-5766 Kuakini Highway #706, Kailua Kona, HI 96740

For a more modern take on Hawaiian living, move right on up to this two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse in Kailua Village. The condo has an open layout maximizing light, space, and, of course, views — you can see the ocean from virtually any spot in the home. Overall, the interiors are sleek and stylish, with designer window coverings and furnishings included in the sale. The building's location near Kailua Bay makes this condo a great match for more active types. You'll enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, or even seasonal whale watching right in your "backyard."

Treetop cottage:

$498,000,

11-3999 Hale Ohia Road, Volcano, HI 96785

Designed by Volcano's most famed architects (Boone Morrison) and custom-built by notable builder Matt Luera, this one-bedroom, two-bathroom home is all about thoughtful details. For one, it was designed to harmoniously complement the area's historic district, which is filled with plantation-era homes that give the community a stately feel. Although built in 2012, the home features period-appropriate exterior details like cedar shakes, lava-rock-faced foundation, and board-and-batten siding. Inside, the vintage-meets-modern feel continues with plank wood flooring, retro light fixtures, granite counters, and stainless steel appliances. The interior also includes stunning yet functional elements designed by local woodblock artist Caren Loebel-Fried and stained-glass artist Claudia McCall. If all these features inspire your creative side, the house includes a hobby/art studio space on the lower level.

Which of this inspiring Hawaii real estate would you choose? Share your favorite in the comments below.