Talk Story #12 – The Aloha Tower, the Harbor, and City Living on Oahu

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is one of the best known cities in the world; a diverse mix with its colorful history, military significance, and location. No wonder many have chosen to live right next to the busy harbor to enjoy the sights and close proximity of this vital area.

Here is an Oahu gallery of available city condominiums. “Harbor Square” is older, but has super balcony views. Watch the cruise boats slowly arrive and the constant activity below.

Adjacent to the arrival piers is the ‘Aloha Tower Market Place’ with its shops, entertainment, and restaurants for visitors and Kama’ainas (residents) alike to enjoy. Hard to beat the views like this “Harbor Court” condominium with its open lanai overlooking the market place and harbor. The building has striking architectural features and due to the unique commercial/residential status, a fine lifestyle of business and leisure living can literally be combined!

When completed in 1926, the Aloha Tower was the tallest structure in Hawaii and is now the most recognized building in the state, and second only to Diamond Head as Hawaii’s most famous landmark. The view is still striking even if it is only 10 floors high!

At no charge, an old elevator will get you up to the view deck above the famous large clock. When installed, that clock was the largest weight-driven pendulum clock in the territory and one of the largest in the United States! It still keeps excellent time after all these years!

Today, the Tower still looms tall as a symbol of “Aloha Spirit” although now dwarfed by the city buildings in the background, when seen from afar.

During the territorial years and going with my parents on visits to and from the mainland, it was very exciting as we drew closer and closer to the pier. I would look up at the Aloha Tower and way down below to all the happy people calling out, with Hawaiian music playing to welcome us.

I liked throwing out the colored paper streamers to the wharf. There was the Matsonia, SS Lurline (arrives in Hawaii video), the Mariposa, and the President Wilson. I still have a number of our early mid-century menus from those ship dinners. Everyone knew when the big ships were coming in and divers were there to get coins tossed overboard. Ohhh, the fragrance of the leis, so heavy in the air.

If you have memories like this, please tell me! If it is the warm beach life, the cool mountains, the military, or business in the city which brings you to Oahu, Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers and I will be happy to assist you in finding a perfect place. Contact me and let’s “Talk Story” and discuss what you are desiring or needing! I look forward to it. Aloha for now! Jeanne

A present-day island cruise ship. After WWII, the Lurline cruises into Hawaii

Note: In Hawaii, there is often a gathering of family and friends, and in a casual way stories are told of that days happenings, or past events. We call it “Talk Story.” My continued series will be about different places around Oahu with a bit of their history, and the many opportunities for you today. I would love to hear about your personal Hawaii memories to share, perhaps during the territorial days, like I was, growing up out Koko Head way. Hawaii is a special place and so are the people. Follow me as we discover a lifestyle best suited for YOU. Whether it is a new military move, a casual beach house, a downsized retirement home, a golf course fronted resort home-away-from-home, a grand residence with superb view, or a high-rise condominium, the choices and the Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers resources are many. Let’s “talk story.”