Work, Live, & Play in Kakaako – Construction Boom Brings Exciting Changes

By now, everyone knows that Kakaako is experiencing a construction boom with condos, shops, and restaurants in the works. But there is older, more affordable construction available in Kakaako that can give a chance to buy a piece of this neighborhood in transition.

Kakaako of the Future

Kakaako is the commercial and retail district of Honolulu between Ala Moana and bordering Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, and Honolulu Harbor. Over the next 15-20 years, up to 30 new buildings may be built in Kakaako, as well as so much new infrastructure, green space, and residential and commercial space that the area we now think of as Kakaako will be hard to recognize. Unlike many other unplanned communities in Hawaii, this “new” Kakaako is being “master planned” into a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with complete streetscapes, green spaces, and unique shops and restaurants.

Kakaako Now

Let’s not forget about how convenient living in Kakaako already is. It’s close to the beach, the financial district, shopping, and restaurants. Kakaako is home to Victoria Ward Centers and conveniently located near Ala Moana Center. Concerts, plays, and sporting events are close by at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center.

Kakaako is home to farmers markets in front of the Blaisdell Concert Hall (Honolulu farmers’ market every Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 pm) and near Victoria Ward Centers (Kakaako farmers’ market every Saturday from 8 am-12 pm).

For those seeking culture, Kakaako is also close to the Hawaii State Art Museum, Iolani Palace, and the State Capitol.

“Our Kakaako” Will Bring Salt

Expected to open in late 2015, Salt will be part of the “Our Kakaako” redevelopment plan by Kamehameha Schools to create an “epicenter” for Honolulu’s local culture, food, shopping, and one-of-a-kind events. A planned 85,000 square-feet will be set aside for mixed-use space including retail and restaurants. It’s smart to buy in Kakaako ahead of developments like this!

Mass Transit in Kakaako

Honolulu’s mass transit authorities are planning to have major stops in and near Kakaako, making the area even more convenient and accessible. The final four stations of the HART are to include a Downtown Station near Bishop Street, the Civic Center Station, near the intersection of Halekauwila and South Streets, the Kakaako Station, near Halekauwila and Ward Avenue, and an Ala Moana Station, the end of the line.

Loft Living in Kakaako

I have a client selling a rare, loft style condo available in Kakaako on Queen Street. This 1 bed/1 bath at 545 Queen Street was recently remodeled and has new wood laminate flooring and carpet, a new refrigerator, and granite countertops. The 622 square-foot condo also features a 28 square-foot lanai with scenic views of Honolulu’s skyline.

Exterior of 545 Queen St. (MLS# 201512618)

Want to Know More?

If Kakaako’s present or future appeals to you, investing or buying a starter home in Kakaako may be right for you. If you would like to learn more about this listing, please contact me to assist in viewing this potential home or others in the neighborhood at 808.753.7464.