Is Retiring to Hawai'i feasible? (Honolulu, Makaha: HOA, car insurance, condos)

[isabella20]

People who like to get in the car and drive for a day, or so, are the ones who get island fever. I've always stayed pretty close to home, so haven't experienced island fever at all in over five years. There are things I miss and I do get bored. Also, I tend to like cooler weather. I think 70 degrees is nice, so find it too hot most of the time, which tends to zap my energy. So, in ways I regret the move, but not sure where I would rather be--maybe northern CA for the weather. There are issues with every place. Nothing is perfect.

[HankDfrmSD]

Originally Posted by d_thomcat2000

Princeville does have a super market (Foodland) and health club (The Kauai Athletic Club).

A Google search says the Kauai Athletic Club is in Lihue, on Kukui Grove St. Where is the one in Princeville?

[Ellwood]

Originally Posted by mauimate

Any regrets on Hawaiian retirement. Would like to make this transition, but have reservations concerning island fever.

We strongly considered retiring to HI (Maui) and spent a few months living there temporarily. WE did get island fever, somewhat bored, missed family and medical was somewhat limited. Chose instead to retired on the mainland; RV to various areas and spend time in HI every year.

Although HI is magnificient and beautiful, it also can become boring, as can any place if you're used to being on the go. I always thought if I could go to the beach everyday, I would be in heaven. Unfortunately after about three weeks that wears thin for me.

[Calico Salsa]

Originally Posted by Ellwood

We strongly considered retiring to HI (Maui) and spent a few months living there temporarily. WE did get island fever, somewhat bored, missed family and medical was somewhat limited. Chose instead to retired on the mainland; RV to various areas and spend time in HI every year.

Although HI is magnificient and beautiful, it also can become boring, as can any place if you're used to being on the go. I always thought if I could go to the beach everyday, I would be in heaven. Unfortunately after about three weeks that wears thin for me.

Ellwood, you are very wise. Moving anywhere is a major change, and moving across an ocean adds in more cost and logistical hurdles. You were so wise to try living here first, and hopefully your post will have others think about doing the same.

[Aiea Nana]

We knew we wanted to retire to Hawaii and fell in love when in Haiku, Maui. "Retirement" can mean different ages for different people. Maui's health care options are not in a position to support any need for chronic or continuing care. The odds of needing advanced medical care on a regular basis seem to increase with age.
Based upon several factors, we have retired in the Pearl Harbor area of Oahu. We pretty much avoid the traffic problems of the newly developing area of West Oahu. A hospital, restaurants and major shopping mall are within walking distance. Our needs are few thus we are quite happy in a reasonably size condo. Expenses must be watched but that would be true for any retired couple in any location. We do not live in a tsunami evacuation zone or a lava zone (things to consider when deciding on residence location).
Good luck.

[d_thomcat2000]

Originally Posted by HankDfrmSD

A Google search says the Kauai Athletic Club is in Lihue, on Kukui Grove St. Where is the one in Princeville?

Trust me I have lived here for thirty years. There is a Kauai Athletic club in Princeville. I suggest you call the Lihue one and they will give you the number and directions to the Princville one.

[summernightstars]

I've been looking into living in Hawaii, I'm going to have to look at the areas mentioned here and try and figure out what the cost of living might be. I have a feeling it's not going to be that cheap, or as expensive as one may think.

[Haumana]

A lot of people are retiring in Hilo and Puna on the Big Island, it's half the price of Maui, (you don't pay the tourist prices), and the Island is so much larger than Maui that you don't really get the island fever. You might do a search for realtors in hilo to talk with.

[franklin42]

Originally Posted by Haumana

A lot of people are retiring in Hilo and Puna on the Big Island, it's half the price of Maui, (you don't pay the tourist prices), and the Island is so much larger than Maui that you don't really get the island fever. You might do a search for realtors in hilo to talk with.

Judging by the number of locals complaining about "all the yuppie haoles moving to Puna and Hilo(and Volcano and Kau...) because it is cheap..." I would say you are spot on.

[WC100Chicago]

I read that Whole Foods Market opened last year in the Maui Mall in Kahului.

I'm vacationing in Maui next month and will be searching for a rental. There are so many places to consider.

You might like to read "Living and Retiring in Hawaii" (2004) by James R. Smith and Diane Smith.

Wendy/Chicago