Lanikai and Kailua Luxury Beachfront Estates – Top 3 Picks for Oahu Beachfront Estates

Lanikai—the Heavenly Seas—Oahu’s ideal oceanfront community.

Just a few fun facts about Lanikai before we get to some great properties in this Oahu beach side community on Oahu’s North shore:

1. The Hawaiians used the mountain tops between Alala Point (near the stone monument at the entrance of Lanikai) and Waikea Point (near Bellows) to scan the sea for fish.
2. Until 1920, there was no bridge over Ka’elepulu Stream. They also had no notable water, so water was pumped by windmills. The area was mostly used for watermelon farms and raising turkeys.
3. The first permanent houses were built in 1924 and were usually used as second homes. Families would come over the Pali on the weekends to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
4. Lanikai was developed in the 1920’s. 3 important figures in its development were Charles Frazier, Irwin Beadle, and Charles Heiser—who laid out, paved, and named the streets. They also planned the Mid-Pacific Country Club and provided right-of-way for non-beach residents.

Lanikai Beach is a white sandy beach approximately one mile long. It narrows at both ends and widens in the middle. The South end of the beach has suffered some severe erosion problems, which has threatened a number of homes. Many have constructed seawalls, or taken other measures for the protection of their properties. 

The bottom of the ocean in this area slopes along the entire coastline. It is an excellent beach for windsurfing, paddling, and swimming. The wide reef, approximately a mile offshore, provides an excellent barrier, diffusing waves before they reach the shore. Most oceanfront homes in this area have either sandy beaches or rock walls. Some of the best and most beautiful beaches line Lanikai and Kailua.

The 2 islands just offshore at the south end of the beach are called the Mokulua Islands. They are popularly known as the Mokes or Twin Islands. They are also called Moku Niu and Moku Ike. The larger island is a popular destination for kayakers, surfers, and boaters.

Here are a few of my favorite estates lining these “heavenly seas”—the English translation for Lanikai. The things that enchant me about this particular stretch of beach is the tranquility and serenity that sweep across you when you look out at the bright blue waters. Whatever cares you have will instantly disappear and you will not want to leave. It is paradise. If you want an island estate that soothes the soul—Lanikai is where you want to be—without a doubt.

1600 Mokulua Dr. A1

1600 Mokulua Dr. A1, listed at $9,800,000, is designed by Peter Vincent—a one-of-a-kind estate (MLS# 1015192) with an interior of 5,832 square feet, which is almost double the size of the average home in the neighborhood. It has 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms.

Of course, the best part of buying in this area is access to a gorgeous beach. It is a very private location with stunning views of the Mokulua’s. It has regal touches with classic dark wood floors and a fireplace.

It was meticulously designed, and unites elegance and island living together in the most harmonious way. You can enjoy the cool pool, warm ocean waters, or steamy hot tub—a wonderful retreat for those who enjoy island living in an elegant setting. 

1586 Mokulua Dr. 1

1586 Mokulua Dr. 1, listed at $6,500,000, is a secluded estate (MLS# 1107392) with a 2,430 square feet interior on a generous 18,211 square feet of land. A large backyard leads out to a beautiful beach with views of the Mokulua’s offshore. 

This one is in escrow, so you may have to choose another beachfront paradise. The things that I really like about this property, aside from the stunning views and beautiful beach, is its simple elegance. It fits into its surrounding perfectly and is a place you would like to sit and relax…for months.

1226 Mokulua Dr.

1226 Mokulua Dr., listed at $6,258,800, is the perfect island home (MLS# 1102261) on the most serene stretch of beach. It is a country estate perched on an emerald green, palm tree lined oasis. With 18,376 square feet of perfectly manicured tropical foliage, the 2,950 sq. foot vintage home is both welcoming and warm.  

Since it was built when this area was first developed in 1939, it has some old world charm with the comfort of modern amenities, since being remodeled in 2005. You could sit and watch the waves for hours while turtles swim nearby. My word when seeing this home was “lovely”—it is just that.

So, those are my 3 favorites right now. There are many, though rarely available, estates along Lanikai and down beach side in Kailua to fit any lifestyle, and that is the wonder of Kailua and Lanikai—there is something for everyone. The lots are large and the beach is world renown. If you want the island lifestyle, the Hawaii life, this is where you want to be.

Tell me about your vision of the perfect Hawaii home—let’s see if we can find it. kelly.lee@hawaiilife.com

Kelly A. Lee, (R) 808-225-0349

Kelly A. Lee, (R) e-PRO, CHMS
Realtor-Broker
Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers
4614 Kilauea Avenue, Ste. 206
Honolulu, HI. 96816
Phone: 808-225-0349
Fax: 866-590-3144
www.hawaiilife.com

To continue your search for other Oahu real estate deals go to www.hawaiilife.com.