Dramatic ridges with spectacular ocean and mountain views, exclusive oceanfront/golf course communities, and private neighborhoods tucked away in lush valleys are hallmarks of East Honolulu just a few minutes driving from Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki. A series of three ridges and three valleys extending east offers a sanctuary from the urban bustle. Sandwiched between Kahala and Hawaii Kai, with shopping centers sprinkled along the way, this belt of neighborhoods has great access to everything you may need.

Interstate H-1 ends where east Honolulu starts; Kalanianaole Highway takes you past residential enclaves starting with Waialae Nui Ridge. Panoramic views of Diamond Head, Koko Head, and the ocean awaits you at the homes on this one-of-a-kind ridge. The smaller size of this ridge compared to the others offers a more intimate neighborhood feel. Waialae Nui’s close proximity to Kahala Mall and Downtown Honolulu is another reason why this area is highly sought out.

The neighboring ridge of Waialae Iki is one of the city’s first luxury-view ridge developments. Development started on lower Waialae Iki in the 1960s, which means it’s home to some mid-century architectural gems. At the top of the ridge is Waialae Iki V, a gated community that broke ground in 1983 and includes a pavilion for community use and tennis courts. What everyone is there for, as on all the ridges, is the spectacular views. Waialae Iki rises above the Waialae Country Club and Wailupe Beach Park, which means you can enjoy the serene golf course views while being hypnotized by the dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean. And there are lots of outdoor experiences to be had, with Waialae Community Park at the neighborhood’s base and Wiliwilinui hiking trail at the top.

The next ridge over is Hawaii Loa —the entire 1,000-foot-high slope is a gated community with 24-hour security. Like Waialae Iki, Hawaii Loa is for residents who revel in having a breathtaking, panoramic view that sweeps from Diamond Head to Koko Craters. The neighborhood’s private residences range from modern to Mediterranean architecture, with beautifully landscaped grounds. It also has great amenities, including a clubhouse and tennis courts. And the highlight is Paka Nahele, a three-acre wilderness park owned by the Hawaii Loa association. The park includes spacious picnic pavilions complete with gas grills—they are amazing places to host a unique gathering

Like fingers reaching between these ridges, Aina Haina, Niu Valley, and Kuliouou are three valley neighborhoods with a similar island lifestyle feel. There are residents who have been in these tidy, relaxed enclaves for generations. Their many mid-century homes are highly coveted. If you enjoy walking along the streets in your neighborhood, you’ll appreciate the level lots in these valleys. You can safely ride a bike on quiet, wide streets or enjoy a shady stroll around the block. An easy and short drive to the highway also makes your commute efficient. When you’re on the go, make a quick stop at Aina Haina and Niu Valley shopping centers where you can find popular dining options and a supermarket – all conveniently located right by the highway at the entrance of the valleys.

If you’re looking to be closer to the water, there are ocean front properties and/or properties with easy ocean access along Kalanianaole Highway. The communities of Wailupe Circle and Niuiki Circle sit on peninsulas between the highway and ocean. Their prime location along the shoreline make these communities two of the most sought after on the Island. Further East is Paiko Lagoon, where many of the homes overlook the picturesque Paiko Lagoon and Kanewai Fishpond. Homes along this strip of Kalanianaole Highway are for those looking for their piece of paradise to have the blue Pacific Ocean as their backyard or a short walk away.

East Honolulu offers quintessential island living, with a chain of beach parks just across Kalanianaole Highway and natural landmarks such as Koko Head, Hanauma Bay, and Sandy Beach, a short drive away. If you’re looking for a highly desirable home, perhaps with a spectacular view, while still being in convenient Honolulu, look no further.  

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