Naalehu, HI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Naalehu Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Naalehu sits at the southern tip of Hawaii's Big Island, offering investors access to the Hawaiian vacation rental market at a fraction of the typical state pricing — an average daily rate of $171 compared to the $709 state average. With just 34 active listings and an average annual revenue of $23,094, this is a small, niche market where selective deal sourcing matters. The 155% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, though the ROI score of 54 out of 100 suggests that competition is tightening and returns will depend on finding the right property.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Naalehu short-term rental market shows:

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026.

Why Investors Consider Naalehu

Naalehu appeals to investors seeking Hawaiian market exposure with lower entry costs and a favorable supply-demand balance relative to more saturated resort areas.

Expert Market Assessment

"Naalehu represents a competitive but selective opportunity within Hawaii's broader STR landscape. The market's small size — just 34 active listings — combined with an above-average supply/demand balance means well-positioned properties can capture consistent bookings, particularly during the lucrative winter months when monthly revenue peaks near $2,594. However, the below-average revenue-to-price ratio and modest growth trend signal that not every property will pencil out, and investors should approach with careful underwriting. Properties that can command higher nightly rates through quality amenities and strong positioning will be best suited to overcome the market's tighter margins."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Naalehu

Average revenue by month in Naalehu

Naalehu shows pronounced winter seasonality, with January ($2,594) and February ($2,504) leading revenue while September ($1,316) marks the clear low point — a nearly 2x spread that investors should account for in cash-flow projections. December ($2,245) and March ($2,435) round out a strong four-month peak window that drives a disproportionate share of annual income.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Naalehu

One-bedroom units dominate supply with 19 of the 34 active listings, while 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom properties each have just 7 listings. The relatively thin supply of larger units, combined with their stronger revenue performance, may signal an opportunity for investors willing to acquire multi-bedroom properties.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Naalehu

ADR scales meaningfully with size in Naalehu: 1-bedroom listings average $135, 2-bedrooms reach $175, and 3-bedroom properties command $249 per night. The jump from 2 to 3 bedrooms — an additional $74 per night — represents the steepest premium and suggests strong group or family demand for larger accommodations.

Average RevPAN by property size in Naalehu

Revenue per available night climbs sharply with property size, from $72 for 1-bedroom units to $129 for 2-bedrooms and $165 for 3-bedrooms. Three-bedroom properties deliver more than double the RevPAN of 1-bedrooms, making them the clear efficiency leader when accounting for both rate and occupancy.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Naalehu

Two-bedroom listings lead occupancy at 74%, well above the market average of 60%, while 3-bedrooms hold a solid 66% and 1-bedrooms lag at 53%. For investors prioritizing cash-flow consistency, 2-bedroom units offer the most reliable booking volume in this market.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Naalehu

Monthly revenue ranges from $1,538 for 1-bedroom properties to $3,048 for 3-bedroom units, with 2-bedrooms falling at $2,233. The nearly $1,500 gap between the smallest and largest configurations underscores how much property size impacts earning potential in Naalehu.

Average annual revenue by property size in Naalehu

Three-bedroom properties lead annual revenue at $36,582 — roughly double the $18,462 generated by 1-bedroom units and about 37% more than the $26,805 from 2-bedrooms. Given the limited supply of 3-bedroom listings, this configuration offers the strongest return potential for investors who can acquire at a reasonable basis.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Naalehu

Parking (97%), kitchen access (91%), and outdoor living features like backyards and patios (both 88%) are near-universal, reflecting guest expectations for self-sufficient, home-like stays in a rural Hawaiian setting. Self check-in at 77% and a workspace at 50% suggest a meaningful remote-work traveler segment, while the low prevalence of pools (6%) and beach access (9%) indicates that most Naalehu listings rely on the area's natural surroundings rather than resort-style amenities.

Understanding Naalehu's ROI Score: 54/100

Rabbu's ROI Score is a proprietary metric that evaluates short-term rental investment potential based on multiple factors.

How the ROI Score is Calculated

What This Means for Investors

Naalehu's ROI score of 54 out of 100 places it in the 'Competitive Opportunity' band, meaning the market has genuine demand but requires more careful property selection to achieve strong returns. The below-average revenue-to-price ratio is the primary headwind, while an above-average supply/demand balance works in investors' favor — only 34 active listings serve this area. Pairing this data with thorough local regulatory research and on-the-ground property evaluation will help investors identify the deals that can outperform the market average.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Naalehu

Understanding local STR regulations is essential before investing in Naalehu. Here's the current regulatory landscape:

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Naalehu, Hawaii, should expect to obtain appropriate permits or registrations through Hawaii County before listing a property. Investors are strongly encouraged to verify current requirements directly with the Hawaii County Planning Department, as regulations for STRs on the Big Island can vary by zoning district.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Hawaiian STR markets include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise and nuisance ordinances, and parking provisions. HOA covenants and deed restrictions may impose additional limitations, particularly in planned communities. Permit caps and geographic restrictions are also possible depending on the specific zoning designation of the property.

Tax Obligations

Hawaii imposes both a general excise tax and a transient accommodations tax on short-term rentals, and operators should register for both with the state. Many booking platforms collect and remit a portion of these taxes on behalf of hosts, but it's wise to confirm compliance with a local tax professional.

Regulations subject to change. Always verify with local authorities before purchasing. A Rabbu partner agent specializing in Naalehu can provide current regulatory guidance.

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Naalehu's STR market is likely to see continued supply growth as investors are drawn to Hawaii's relatively affordable southern tip. Occupancy may hover around 58–62% given the current average of 60% and below-average market growth trends, while ADR could see modest movement in the 1–3% range as new listings compete for a finite guest pool. The strong winter seasonality — January through March are the top-earning months — should remain a reliable anchor, though operators should plan for softer months like September when revenue dips to roughly $1,316. Investors who time acquisitions to capture peak-season bookings early will be best positioned."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Naalehu, HI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Naalehu?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Naalehu is currently 60%, which sits slightly below the Hawaii state average of 67%. Occupancy varies meaningfully by property size — 2-bedroom units lead at 74%, while 1-bedroom listings average 53%. Investors targeting higher occupancy should consider multi-bedroom configurations that appeal to families and groups visiting the Big Island's southern coast.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Naalehu?

Airbnb hosts in Naalehu earn an average of $1,924 per month and approximately $23,094 per year, based on trailing 12-month booking data. Earnings scale significantly with property size: 1-bedroom units average $18,462 annually, 2-bedrooms bring in about $26,805, and 3-bedroom properties lead at $36,582 per year. Peak-season months like January can push monthly revenue above $2,500.

Is Naalehu a good market for Airbnb investment?

Naalehu scores 54 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the 'Competitive Opportunity' category. The market benefits from a favorable supply/demand balance and affordable entry relative to other Hawaiian markets, with average home values around $589,393. However, the below-average revenue-to-price ratio means investors need to be selective — the best returns will go to well-located, well-appointed properties that maximize occupancy during peak winter months.

What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Naalehu?

The average daily rate in Naalehu is $171, which is significantly lower than the Hawaii state average of $709. ADR ranges from $135 for 1-bedroom listings up to $249 for 3-bedroom properties. While these rates are modest by Hawaiian standards, the lower acquisition costs in Naalehu can still make the economics work for the right property.

Are short-term rentals legal in Naalehu?

Short-term rentals operate in Naalehu under Hawaii County regulations. Operators typically need to secure appropriate permits or registrations, and rules can vary depending on zoning. Investors should consult directly with the Hawaii County Planning Department and review any HOA restrictions before purchasing a property for STR use, as regulations in Hawaii are actively evolving.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Naalehu?

Peak season in Naalehu runs from December through March, driven by winter visitors escaping colder mainland climates. January is the strongest month with average revenue of $2,594, followed by February at $2,504 and March at $2,435. September is the slowest month at $1,316, creating a spread of nearly $1,280 between peak and off-peak — a pattern investors should factor into cash-flow planning.

How many Airbnbs are there in Naalehu?

There are currently 34 active Airbnb listings in Naalehu as of April 2026. The market has seen significant growth, with a 155% year-over-year increase in active listings. Supply is heavily weighted toward 1-bedroom units (19 listings), with 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom properties each accounting for 7 listings — suggesting potential opportunity in larger configurations where competition is thinner.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Naalehu?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Naalehu are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market — they are not forward-looking projections. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, remove regional outliers, and roll the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors the figures to what hosts have actually earned recently while naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months, since each month uses its own historical data. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how actively the listing is managed.

About Rabbu Market Data

Rabbu provides Airbnb and short-term rental market data and statistics across the United States. Our mission is to empower investors with accurate insights and easy-to-use tools, so they can confidently identify and act on the best opportunities in the Airbnb market.

What this data includes

• Regularly updated active Airbnb and STR listing counts for the Naalehu market
• Average daily rates, occupancy rates, and RevPAN tracked over time
• Monthly and annual revenue metrics based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Property size breakdowns for listings, rates, occupancy, and revenue
• Data sourced from Rabbu proprietary analytics and Zillow Home Value Index

Sources and disclaimers

Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026. Revenue projections are estimates based on comparable properties and do not guarantee future performance. Data reflects trailing 12-month historical averages as of April 2026 and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, zoning rules, and tax obligations vary and should be independently verified before making investment decisions.