Underwater Paradise

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on January 10, 2012

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a Photo By Michel Johnson

The state fish of Hawaii is the Humuhumunukunukuapua’a.  Try saying that three times in a row: humu humu nuku nuku apua a.  It’s one of the many indigenous fish and marine animals that live around the Hawaiian Islands and can be seen while diving or snorkeling.

When people think of Hawaii they picture the white sand beaches lined with palm trees, but the real paradise is a few feet away under the sea.  Volcanic activity continues to expand the Big Island, adding new pieces to the coral gardens every year.  Divers and snorkelers can see thousands of different types of marine animals while exploring.  Everything from sponges to turtles make the coral reef their home.

Kapoho Tide Pools Photo By Mike McGrath

On the Kona side there are a variety of good locations to choose from.  Kailua Bay is a great snorkeling area.  The shallow reef has lots of fish and if your lucky you might see a moray eel.  Kahaluu Beach Park, one of the most popular, is fed by a fresh water spring.  Lots of colorful fish and coral to explore.  On the Hilo side of the island there are a few good spots, although most agree the water is clear on the Kona side.  Leleiwi Beach Park is a good location to see Hawaiian Sea turtles and it’s not far from Hilo.  Kapoho Tide Pools has very calm surf and is a nice place for children.  Bring a picnic and spend the whole day probing through the water and sunbathing on the lava rocks.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your aquatic adventure today. You can easily book one of our vacation rentals online at, www.letsgohawaii.com.  If you need to get in touch with us feel free to contact us at MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Living Under the Stars

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on May 17, 2012

Waiki'i Ranch

There’s a private community on the western slopes of Mauna Kea where the sky has more visible stars than just about anywhere on the earth.  It’s called Waiki’i Ranch and it has a spectacular nighttime view because all the homes are built on plots elevated between 3,500-5,000 feet without any exterior night lights on the buildings. During the day the view of sloping pastures and eucalyptus groves is just as fantastic for a similar reason, all utilities are connected underground.  Imagine living in a 3,000 acres ranch community where the beauty of the land and sky isn’t obscured by anything.

67-1194 Pakila Rd is a 4 bedroom/3.5 bath country home that’s perfect for a family or those seeking a place for luxurious weekend retreats.  Spend the day riding on the equestrian trail that circles the ranch or sit on the expansive covered lanai taking in the vast ocean and mountain views.  The town of Waimea is only a fifteen minute drive away but with all of Waiki’i Ranch’s amenities you’ll rarely want to leave.  Being part of this private community includes access to the clubhouse, tennis and racquetball courts, polo field, and much more.

67-1194 Pakila Rd, Waiki’i Ranch

At Waiki’i Ranch Lot #89 we have a 10 acre parcel just waiting for you to build a home.  This plot offers views of Kohala Mountain, Hualalai, and Mauna Kea as well as the Kohala Coast with Maui in the distance.  Water is provided by two wells and all utilities, including electricity and phone, are ready to be connected to.  If you love to garden, this is a perfect opportunity for working a pastoral landscape while building your dream home.

Also in Waiki’i Ranch we have a 20 acre ranch estate at 67-1009 Alulike Rd. This 5 bedroom/ 5.5 bath home has vaulted ceilings in the living room with a stone fireplace perfect for families to gather around during the chilly island evenings. The main level includes master suite, weight room, spa/resistance pool, steam, and master bathroom. The gourmet kitchen has a central island and nook with enough seating for a large family.  Come enjoy ranch style living and a view that looks out onto the ocean, mountains and possibly a goat.

So what are you waiting for?  You could be living under the stars. If you have questions about these listings or would like information about our other properties, please get in touch with us at MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Mauna Lani Spa & Salon

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on May 13, 2012

Mauna Lani Resort, Photo By DC Ross

The Mauna Lani Spa is more than an island retreat.  It’s a unique experience that you won’t soon forget.  Upon entering you’ll notice the thatched roofs and treatment hale seem more like the center of a small Hawaiian village.  When you see the natural lava saunas, meditation pavilion, and watsu pool you’ll know you’re in for a treat.  Rated one of the “World’s Best Spas” by Travel & Leisure magazine, Mauna Lani Spa & Salon is where you go when you want to be pampered.

Most treatments last about four hours, but you can spend a day at Mauna Lani by touring some of KaMilo’s properties in the morning, taking lunch at one of the many beach front cafes, and spending the afternoon indulging your mind and body with one of Mauna Lani Spa’s signature treatments. “A Suite Experience,” includes Healing Bath Renewal, Vichy Shower Experience, La Stone Therapy, Calming Cocanilla Experience.  “Fire and Ice,” offers Lava Sauna Treatment, Fire & Ice Pa’akai Therapy, and Signature Facial.  Spice it up with the “Lava Love” treatment for two: Aquatic Body Therapy, Lava Sauna Treatment, and Lava flow Body Treatment.

Spa Falls, Photo By Rosa Say

Did you know all residents of KaMilo get a special discount on spa and salon treatments?  It’s called the advantage program and only home owners are eligible to become a member.  Living in KaMilo is like living in a resort within a resort.  Not only do members have access to all of KaMilo’s amenities such as pools, jacuzzis, open-air gathering hale, and a state of the art fitness lounge, but they also receive access to Mauna Lani’s private golf course, beach club, special events, and more.

So what are you waiting for?  Schedule a relaxing day at the Mauna Lani Spa & Salon and while you’re here come have a look at some of the fabulous KaMilo homes. If you have questions about these listings or would like information about our other properties, please get in touch with us at MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Paddle Surfing Big Island

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on May 10, 2012

Honoli'i Beach Park

The hottest new sport, stand-up paddle surfing (SUP), isn’t new at all.  It’s actually an ancient Hawaiian tradition called Hoe he’e nalu. Still it’s becoming more popular each year and everyone from surfers to rafters, are trying SUP because of its unique athletic style.

Evidence of Hawaiians surfing dates back as far as 1500.  Ancient petroglyphs depict people riding waves and traditional songs tell  stories about great feats of surfing. However the first written account of surfing didn’t come until 1779 when Captain Cook wrote about it in his journal.  Later, in 1866, Mark Twain wrote a much more entertaining version when he came to Hawaii.  He described paddling out on a wooden board with naked native Hawaiians (both male and female) and falling off in the surf.  In the 1960s, when the Beach Boys used outrigger paddles on long boards, the sport started gaining worldwide notoriety.

Mauna Lani Resort, Photo by Nurit Pazner

In the past five to ten years SUP has become a full-fledged sport with competitions all over the world.  Still, if you want to feel what it was like for the ancient Hawaiians you should try it on the Big Island.  Banyans, a popular surf spot near Kona, has great swells for stand-up paddle boarders.  On the East side of the island you’ll find, Honolii, with waves ranging from three to twelve feet.  Beginners should try Pine Tree in the North.  This remote spot has equally good surf in the summer and winter season.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your stand-up paddle surfing adventure on the Big Island today. You can search our vacation rentals online at, www.letsgohawaii.com or get in touch with us for more information at, MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Lance Armstrong’s Triathlon Training Camp

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on May 6, 2012

Lance Armstrong at 2004 Tour de France, Photo by Eugene Wei

Do you want to swim, bike, run with some of the top athletes in the world?  Have you ever dreamed of training with seven time Tour De France champion Lance Armstrong?  Well, now’s your chance.  Tour de Force and Active Network are offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a three day exclusive triathlon training camp.  If you have what it takes, you could get a chance to train with the best of the best.

“Swim Bike Run with Lance & Friends” will take place May 26-28, 2012 at the Manua Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows in Kona on the Big Island.  Fifty participants will learn from Lance Armstrong and his team of triathlon champions: Craig Alexander, Chrissie Wellington, Dave Scott, Greg Welch and Jimmy Riccitello.  Bike through the Kailua-Kona district, past scenic landscapes of lava rocks and ocean vistas.  Run on the same roads that the Ironman World Champions have raced on.  Swim alongside experienced triathlon athletes in the crystal clear Pacific. And at the end of the day enjoy relaxing by the pool with Lance and friends at the Manua Lani Resort.

Mauna Lani Resort, Photo by Rosa Say

Tour de Force has created charitable events with Lance Armstrong since 2003.  Over the years they have generated over $20 million in benefits for various causes.  With “Swim Bike Run with Lance & Friends” they hope to give a substantial contribution to the Hawaii chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, an organization focused on researching type 1 diabetes and improving the lives of those affected by the disease.

For more information about “Swim Bike Run with Lance & Friends” go to, www.sbrwithlanceandfriends.com

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Maoli Arts Month

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on May 5, 2012

Tom O'o Mehau's Carved Jewelry, Photo from Waimea Artists' Guild

This spring the seventh annual MAMo: Maoli Arts Month will present a variety of events, two of which will be held on the Big Island:  MAMo Gallery Exhibit at the Wailoa Arts & Cultural Center in Hilo and the Native Hawaiian Arts Market at Kahilu Town Hall in Waimea. If you live on the Big Island or happen to be visiting this in April and May you won’t want to miss out on this cultural celebration of the Native Hawaiian arts community.

In April the MAMo Gallery Exhibit will feature “He Maiau, He Noiau, He Ola! Skilled Men, Skilled Women, Life!” an exhibition of twelve Native Hawaiian artists who work in various forms of media.  Some of the pieces to keep an eye out for include Ray Bumatay, master canoe builder as well as Craig Neff and Nitta Pilago, both graphic artists.  Maoli Arts Month is about preserving Hawaiian cultural traditions and telling the islands history to younger generations.  This exhibit is sure to perpetuates both.

On May 12 the Native Hawaiian Arts Market will showcase many Big Island artists who work in traditional jewelry, wood carving, photography, fiber art, and more.  Make sure to see Tom O’o Mehau’s highly detailed pen and ink illustrations, Beau Jack Key’s ancient Hawaiian fishhooks, and Geoffrey Mundon’s bone jewelry.  Music will be played throughout the day and vendors will be onsite with plate lunches and refreshments.

One of the goals of the annual MAMo is to help Native Hawaiian artists gain exposure.  Many of these artists are rarely seen in galleries and visitors as well as local residents often miss out on viewing these traditional art forms.  Come out and show your support.  You might find a piece that you just have to take home.

For more information about 2012 MAMo go to, www.maoliartsmonth.org

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A Truly International Real Estate Company

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on April 28, 2012

Foreigners are buying where it’s sunny.

Interested in putting your house on the market but you’re not sure who to list it with?  Have you been trying to sell a commercial property, but have been having a hard time finding a buyer?  Well, one detail you may have overlooked is the idea of listing your home with an international real estate company.  Foreign real estate investment is on the rise but you need a truly international real estate company like Sotheby’s International Realty to take advantage of the trend.

MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty

According to the National Association of Realtors 8% of last year’s total US real estate sales were made by foreign clients.  That’s $82 billion worth of property purchased between March 2011-12, and a 24% increase from the previous year.  Where are they buying? Where it’s warm and sunny.  Europeans are purchasing property in Florida. Mexicans have been snapping up homes in Texas and Arizona.  While Asians, largely from China and India, have their eyes on California and as in the past also Hawaii.

With this in mind it makes sense that you would list your home with a company that caters to foreign clients. Sotheby’s International Realty’s network currently has more than 11,000 sales associates located in approximately 500 offices in more than 40 countries and territories. Our property listings appear in locations around the world, and our agents are knowledgeable of international cultures.

Building trust with a foreign buyer is our number one priority and our agents are able to provide a high level of comfort by being bilingual as well as familiar with the customs of prospective purchasers.

If you have a home or commercial property that you are interested in selling on the international market, now is the time to get in touch with us at, MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Oceanfront Lots at Puakea Bay

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on April 25, 2012

Haleakala View Place at Puakea Bay Ranch

There’s a place on the northern most tip of the Big Island where Hawaiian style ranch homes sit on oceanfront parcels. Cattle and horses graze on the rural landscape. Not far away the ocean crashes against the shore. And if you wander down the equestrian trails you’ll notice not a single electric line obscures your view (all utilities are underground.) Sound like paradise? It might be. Puakea Bay is one of the quietest most serene areas of North Kohala.

Nearby you’ll find the historic town of Hawi. Once a booming sugar town now a sleepy little village, Hawi, has art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Several historic buildings from the mid-1850s still stand and the Rev. Elisa Bond’s Estate from 1840 is being renovated. Sound like the type of place you’d like to build your dream home? Currently we have several lots in the surrounding community perfect for you.

Ranch At Puakea Lot #:10-A

Ranch At Puakea is an understated, yet elegant gated community that offers private, island ranch style living. Lot #:10-A has a specular view of Mauna Kea to the south and Maui across the ocean to the north. Kiawe rail fencing line the main road to Hawi and the Kohala Coast’s many beaches and resorts. This 2.79 acre property is a great location for building a luxury oceanfront home in an idyllic low maintenance ranch setting.

At Puakea Bay Ranch you’ll find 10 acre of prime ranch land along the Kohala Coast. Haleakala View Place is one of six front row lots with a dedicated open space between the property and the ocean where nothing can ever be built. This gated community has an oceanfront picnic park for homeowners and an equestrian riding and walking trail which goes around the 400 acre perimeter. Imagine sitting on your lanai with front row seats to whale watching in the winter and breathtaking sunsets year round.

Oceanfront Estate at Puakea Bay Ranch

Close by in the same gated community we also have an extraordinary oceanfront estate on 25 acres. This 6 bedroom/ 5 bath / 3 half-bath home features a gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, butler’s pantry, and numerous dining areas. A three suite guest residence with fitness room sits next to the pool. The lush tropical grounds are sprawling with gorgeous indigenous plants and trees. You’ll find it difficult not to feel relaxed as you sit on your Italian tiled 1000 square foot lanai after you’ve enjoyed your in-house sauna.

So, what are you waiting for? Puakea Bay offers upscale, low maintenance, oceanfront properties in a tranquil environment. For more information please get in touch with us at MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Going Mobile with Sotheby’s International Realty

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on April 22, 2012

Sotheby’s International Realty Mobile app

Looking for a beach bungalow in the Caribbean?  Searching for that perfect penthouse in Monaco?  Well, now it’s easier than ever to find your own little paradise anywhere in the world.  With the introduction of Sotheby’s International Realty Mobile App you can peruse property listings all over the world.

Today’s buyer doesn’t have to fly to a foreign destination to see what’s on the market.  With advancements in smartphone technology and the advent of apps, a buyer can sit at a café sipping on a latte while scrolling through listings as close as down the road or as far away as Tokyo.  All you have to do is download the SIR Mobile app, (free of charge) and within minutes you’re in business.

The app has detailed listings of Sotheby’s International Realty properties.  Click on a home and you’ll be able to see imagines as well as maps of its location.  Try out the GPS search option to find luxury estates near your current location.

Champion Ridge Home

Want to find a home within a certain price range?  Use advanced search options to refine your search.  When you find a property you’re interested in a few clicks will automatically connect you with the local agent, who can send you more information or set up an appointment to show you the home.

The days of calling agents, leaving voice messages, and waiting for a return call are over.  These days we can have the information we need at our fingertips within seconds.  Whether you’re in the market for a new home or trying to find a rental for those kids going to college, SIR Mobile App is an essential tool that will save you time and makes house hunting exciting.

SIR Mobile app is available for free from the Sotheby’s International Realty website http://m.sir.com/m/sothebys/sir/  It can also be downloaded from iTunes and Android Market.

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Big Island Bird Watching

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on April 20, 2012

Nene, Photo by Matt MacGillivray

When the Hawaiian Islands formed from lava, birds flew across the ocean and took refuge here. With no predators to worry about 78 species of birds evolved over hundreds of thousands of years. Today 26 of those species have gone extinct and 30 are endangered. Luckily, the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1985 on the slope of Mauna Kea and many rare species of birds can still be seen there as well as other select areas on the Big Island.

If you’re visiting you’ll want to get a photo of a nene, an endangered species of goose which is also Hawaii’s state bird. The nene can be spotted by the beautiful black and white diagonal stripe markings on its neck.  Have a look for them at the Volcanoes National Park at Kipuka Nene Campground or at the Volcanoes Golf Course where they can sometimes be found feeding on the grass.

Amakihi, Photo by Marcel Holyoak

If the nene evades you, you’re sure to sight a Hawaii amakihi. This yellow-green species of finch was once endangered and though sure to soon become extinct. However, the amakihi has shown amazing resilience to avian malaria which wiped out many other native bird species in the last century. They can be found on the Big Island from sea level to 8,000 feet, so you shouldn’t miss them.

On the other hand, if you’re a bird enthusiast you’ll want to search for the Hawaiian crow also known as an ‘alala. Only four are known to live in the wild, all on the Big Island. Some native Hawaiian’s considered these rare birds to be an ʻaumakua or household spirit. If you’d like a chance to see one of these bluish-black rarities you’ll have to climb up 3,000 feet on McCandless Ranch and search the tree tops.

Whether you’re a birder or just interested in hiking through the tropical forest and listening to the chirping chorus, you’ll want to visit the Big Island for its diverse landscape of birds and plants. Start planning your trip today. You can pursue our vacation rentals online at, www.letsgohawaii.com or get in touch with us for more information at, MacArthur and Company / Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Membership has its Benefits

by Dodie MacArthur, R(B) CEO and Owner on April 17, 2012

72-170 Ke Alaula St at Hualalai Resort

There are many reasons to own a home at the luxurious Hualalai Four Seasons Resort. The forty miles of coastline is host to some of the most private and elegant estates you’ll find in the world. The spectacular view of the ocean crashing against the black lava rock is breathtaking. But one benefit you may not have thought of is membership.  As a home owner you will have the opportunity to join the exclusive Hualalai Club.

Membership includes access to the private Ke’olu Golf Course as well as invitations to the various golf tournaments taking place throughout the year, such as the Members’ Summer Weekend Tournament and the Mitsubishi Electric Championship Pro-Am. You also receive special treatment at the Hualalai Spa and Hualalai Sports Club. Members are welcome to take complimentary fitness classes and are invited to the Annual Canoe Regatta. Spa treatments and wall climbing activities can be had for a significant discount. Private access to dinners at the Resident’s Beach House are included as well as use of the Canoe Club and Ke’olu Clubhouse.  And of course members can attend the many special events put on during the year like the Member Only Wine Dinner and the Annual “Summer Bash” Dance Party.

Waiulu Villas 72119A at Hualalai Resort

At the moment we have several properties in Hualalai Four Seasons Resort, which you may be interested in. 72-170 Ke Alaula St is a four bedroom/ five bath estate designed by renowned architect, Shay Zak. Immediately upon entry, you’ll notice a striking views of the Pacific Ocean. Further investigation will show you the details interior designer Paul Vincent Wiseman is known for: limestone flooring, handmade teak windows, wall-sized glass pocketing doors, and an elaborate teak ceiling in the great room. Outside you’ll find a lush landscape with lap pool, pavilion, and expansive lanai. This home is a timeless work of art that will be in your family for generation.

Nearby at Waiulu Villas 72119A you’ll find a two bedroom/ 2 bath villa overlooking the lake at the fifth fairway of the Ke’olu Golf Course. Stone flooring can be found throughout as well as hardwood cabinetry. The wooden shutters open up to grand vistas of the Pacific as well as the summit of Hualalai Mountain. Your garage has enough room for a large luxury vehicle as well as your golf cart. That’s right! The villa comes with a golf cart!

If you would like more information about Hualalai Four Seasons Resort listings or our other properties, please feel free to get in touch with us at, MacArthur and Company | Sotheby’s International Realty.

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