On August 21st, 1959, Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States of America. Hawaii comprises a group of six major islands located in the Pacific Ocean nearly halfway between the US mainland and Japan. The names of the islands are: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii ( also called the Big island because of its larger size- not to be confused with Hawaii state which includes all islands ). The islands are one of the most remote tropical locations on earth with a blend of Asian and Western culture. Their most unique feature is the Aloha spirit, the warmth of Hawaii’s people that wonderfully complement the islands perfect temperatures. Hawaii is also are the birthplace of surfing (wave riding) and the hula dance.
It has one of the best climates in the world. The steady trade winds that pass the islands make for very pleasant temperatures all year round.
Each of the islands offers its own, distinct personality and sights. The most popular islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.
We will focus exclusively on Oahu, which is the most populous island and the seat of Hawaii’s capital Honolulu and the State Government.
Oahu offers striking contrasts. It is as much tropical playground and beach lovers paradise as it is a modern urban center. Honolulu has both a large international airport and seaport. Its many different areas include everything from suburbia to tourist hotspots, old China town, historic landmarks, exclusive residential neighborhoods, financial district and shopping venues.
The prime areas are:
Downtown
Downtown Honolulu is the center of government and finance but also home to its colorful China town and much of the city’s cultural scene. You will find modern skyscrapers occupied by banks and insurance companies next to a unique blend of historic landmarks, museums, art galleries and the former Royal Palace. (Hawaii was a Kingdom before becoming part of the US). There are also a number of high- end condominiums with beautiful views of the bustling Harbor.
Waikiki
Waikiki is a unique blend of world class hotels, high end shopping, luxury condominiums, vibrant night life and dining. It is one of the few places in the world where you might see a well dressed couple walking next to a dripping wet, flip flop wearing surfer, strolling down Waikiki’s main boulevard. Beach life style and elegant cosmopolitan life seem to flow harmoniously into each other.
Kakaako
In recent years, this old warehouse district has transformed into a major shopping and luxury condominium area. Its proximity to Hawaii’s largest and best shopping center- Ala Moana- make it a preferred choice for many residents and tourists alike.
Diamond Head/ Gold Coast
This is arguably Oahu’s most exclusive residential area. You find beautiful ocean front estates and a few high- end condominiums surrounded by lots of greenery. Kapiolani Park is one of the nicest greenbelts on the entire island. It is a popular venue for various athletic activities as well as social gatherings. The private and exclusive Outrigger Canoe Club is located here as well.
Kahala
It is pretty much an extension of the Diamond Head neighborhood. Its mix of exclusive homes and impressive ocean front estates gives it a similar feel. Like Diamond Head it is home to numerous celebrities and wealthy people from around the world.
Manoa
Manoa is a charming single family neighborhood with a melange of older, smaller homes as well as larger estates. Here you also find the University of Hawaii Main Campus. Manoa is home to many students ,professionals and long time residents of Honolulu. Its proximity to downtown is another reason for its popularity.
Areas outside Honolulu
There are a number of beautiful residential areas outside Honolulu, each offering their own lifestyle. There is Koolina, the master planned community on the West side of the island and home of the new Disney Resort and several golf courses.
On the east side you find the affluent neighborhoods of Waialae Iki and Hawaii Loa Ridge. Both communities are located on mountain ridges offering stunning views of the entire coast line. Even further to the east is an oceanfront community called Portlock. While a good 30 minute drive from downtown, it is located close to Hawaii Kai and its shopping centers.
Moving across to the Windward side of the island, you will find the quaint villages of Lanikai and Kailua. They are known for some of the best beaches on Oahu. Oceanfront homes in these two areas are also very pricey.
North Shore
It is about a 50 minute drive from Honolulu, but well worth a visit. Especially during the winter month, when waves can reach up to 50 feet, it becomes a lively surfer’s paradise. Each year, its world famous surf competitions ( ie. Vans Triple Crown, Eddie Aikau and others) bring the global surfing elite to its shores. Well known surfs spots are Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay and Sunset.
Haleiwa, the North Shore’s main town is surrounded by numerous small neighborhoods. The more exclusive ones are ocean front or on the hillsides overlooking the ocean (Pupukea). In stark contrast to most of Honolulu, the North Shore offers more of a “country” lifestyle- laid back and unassuming.