North Lot (SOLD)
944 Acres
South Lot
638 Acres
Asking $8,294,000
Located on the Kona Coast of Hawaii Island, the Lee ‘ohana and Hāloa 'Āina have owned and managed over 2500 acres of Native Hawaiian dryland forest. The opportunity to own part of this land is available to like minded buyers in their effort to restore and keep the forest thriving for generations to come. Hāloa 'Āina has planted thousands of native trees, including the rare Sandalwood and Koa trees.
Conveniently accessible via Pu'u Lehua Drive, a private, paved, and gated road, the parcel of land sits in the Kealakekua area in Hawai’i County, near historic Kealakekua Bay and the Kona coastline. Surrounding areas of land are owned by Kamehameha Schools and DoTerra.
CLIMATE
Unique Ecosystem
Optimal Plateau Region
Optimal Plateau Region
Hawaii is home to one of the rarest ecosystems on the planet. Because of the isolated nature of the islands, the land, plants, and organisms that have evolved into a unique ecosystem you cannot find anywhere else.
Optimal Plateau Region
Optimal Plateau Region
Optimal Plateau Region
The plateau region offers optimal conditions for farming and tree cultivation. Koa wood trees, for instance, thrive in higher elevation areas with well-draining volcanic soils, where temperatures are cooler and moisture levels are sufficient.
Sun and Cloud Cover
Optimal Plateau Region
Sun and Cloud Cover
Hawaii's climate, characterized by a mix of sun and occasional cloud cover, provides a balance of sunlight and moisture essential for the growth of trees. The Trade winds help moderate temperatures and distribute moisture, contributing to the overall suitability of Hawaii's climate for the cultivation and preservation of sandalwood and koa wood trees.
Volcanic Soil
Volcanic Soil
Sun and Cloud Cover
The islands' volcanic origins have contributed to a range of soil types, with volcanic soils renowned for their fertility and suitability for tree growth. These soils, rich in minerals and nutrients, provide an excellent foundation for the establishment and development of various tree species, including sandalwood and koa.
Rainfall
Volcanic Soil
Rainfall
Rainfall patterns play a significant role in Hawaii's diverse ecosystems. The combination of rainfall and elevation creates unique habitats across the islands, allowing for the cultivation and growth of different tree species like koa and sandalwood in their preferred environments.
HISTORY OF THE LAND
In the early 1800s, Hawaii’s main trade export was sandalwood, with their main trading partner being China. Sandalwood was grown on this land for generations until cattle ranchers cut down the trees prior to the Lee ‘ohana’s ownership. Wade and Hāloa ‘Āina have worked diligently to restore the forest to its former glory and keep it flourishing for years to come.
HISTORY OF Hāloa 'Āina
Since 2010, the Lee ʻohana and Hāloa ‘Āina company have done amazing work restoring the forest by planting hundreds of thousands of trees, harvesting and processing dead and dying trees, and producing some of the most valuable sandalwood oil on earth. They have also diligently worked on eradicating thousands of invasive species, removing nearly all of the feral animals (sheep, pigs, goats), and installing infrastructure such as roads, fences, and fire breaks. There is a processing plant, bunk house, and education center that the Lee’s will continue to operate on their 1100 acre parcel.
SANDALWOOD TREES
Sandalwood trees are valued primarily for their heartwood, which is rich in essential oils. The heartwood is used to extract sandalwood oil through a distillation process, resulting in an oil that is widely utilized in perfumery, cosmetics, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine. Sandalwood oil is one of the finest oils in the world and more expensive per ounce than gold. The oil's distinctive fragrance makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes, incense, lotions, and soaps where it occupies a significant position in numerous traditional healing practices because of its purifying qualities.
Apart from its aromatic properties, sandalwood also holds cultural and religious significance in various traditions, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. It's used in religious ceremonies, rituals, and meditation practices and is believed to foster a deeper connection to the divine, inducing tranquility and promoting mental clarity.
In 2020, Forest Solutions Inc. did a professional survey of the timber that shows thousands of Koa and Sandalwood trees on the property.
* See downloads page for more inventory and valuation information
Koa Trees
Koa trees (Acacia koa) are iconic and culturally significant trees native to the Hawaiian Islands. Revered for their majestic stature, distinctive curly grain patterns, and rich reddish-brown wood, koa trees hold a special place in Hawaiian culture and history. These trees thrive in upland regions, particularly in the higher elevations of Hawaii's islands, where the volcanic soils and ample rainfall create optimal conditions for their growth.
The wood from koa trees is prized for its exceptional quality and versatility. Koa wood is revered for its strength, durability, and resilience, making it a sought-after material for fine woodworking projects and a symbol of Hawaiian craftsmanship and heritage.
Due to this and many other reasons, Koa trees have proven to hold a lot of value. Here are six reasons, compiled by R.K. Builders, Inc., why Koa is so expensive:
- Koa only grows in the Hawaiian Islands.
- Koa’s natural range diminishes year after year.
- Only trees above an elevation of thousands of feet produce sufficiently workable wood.
- Only the largest Koa trees are suitable for milling.
- Koa is predominantly sourced from dead or dying trees and the lifespan of Koa is 50+ years.
- Koa looks absolutely stunning and has unparalleled color and patterns.
* See downloads page for more inventory and valuation information
Hāloa ‘Āina Comps and Value Propositions
Comparison #1: Pu'u Lehua Drive
Four lots between 42 acres and 97 acres
$10,674 per acre
Comparison #2: North Hilo
1127 acres, sold in May 2023
no inventory, roads, or fencing
$8,707 per acre
Potential Homesites
Numerous prospective homesites boast splendid locations for construction, showcasing breathtaking vistas encompassing both majestic mountains and the expansive ocean. Accessible by roads specially constructed for these sites, each offers an unparalleled level of seclusion and privacy. Picture yourself, every evening, seated on your balcony, indulging in the serene spectacle of the vibrant sunset stretching across the horizon.
North Lot (SOLD)
South Lot
Hunting opportunities
This remarkable plot of land offers an unparalleled opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and avid hunters. Spanning acres of diverse woodland, this property boasts a haven for game bird hunting, presenting an exhilarating experience for those seeking the thrill of the chase. Embrace the tranquility of the forested landscape as you immerse yourself in the thrill of the hunt, creating cherished moments against the breathtaking backdrop of this exceptional dryland forest.
Established Business Relationships
Hāloa 'Āina
Hāloa ‘Āina is a native forestry and education organization committed to economic prosperity and environmental responsibility being guided by cultural values for a more sustainable Hawaii. The Lee ‘ohana and the rest of Hāloa ‘Āina have not only succeeded in working to restore the native dryland forest, but they have also established a strong business model through the fruits of their labor, selling products such as the rare sandalwood oil. Hāloa ‘Āina has experience in harvesting mature trees and processing the wood for its essential oil. As they have for so many years, they offer the capability to manage the property and timber inventory and harvest the timber on-site.
Young Living
Young Living is one of the largest essential oil companies in the world. Through a chance meeting with Young Living founder Gary Young, Wade has become a source of valuable sandalwood oil since 2013. Young Living embodies a similar mission to Hāloa ‘Āina, in the importance of conserving these ecosystems.
Kealakekua Area
The Kealakekua area is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and stunning ocean views, Kealakekua Bay is a focal point, known for its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. With the Hokulia luxury community nearby and historical landmarks across the coast, Kealakekua is a premiere destination on the Big Island. A visit to this captivating locale invites indulgence in outdoor pursuits amidst an abundance of local charm, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly weaves together the allure of nature's beauty with the profound essence of Hawaiian heritage.