Talk Story #24 – When Moving to or Downsizing in Hawaii Consider Oahu's Lifestyle

Seniors, are you downsizing? As the action below depicts, changes are part of the ups and downs of life, and it all depends on which direction one chooses to follow. If you have been considering moving to Oahu, or are downsizing from a current Hawaii property, flow with the excitement of this challenge!

‘Decisions’ are quickly made on the constantly moving ocean waves

A secure, high rise condominium is the choice for many. Just think of everything you might want within walking distance or a short drive. Imagine sitting high up on a condominium balcony lanai, taking in the view of mountains or the ocean in the distance, the surrounding vitality of commerce, and the mystery of nighttime sparkling lights, or the weekly Friday night fireworks display from the Hilton beach area.

Nearby, stroll along the beaches and park areas where there are benches provided to stop a while and watch the waves, surfers, or others enjoying the beach and sand. As a long time Kama’aina (members of my family moved here in 1946), I still enjoy checking out the action in Waikiki! There is always something happening, for sure!

Recently, after enjoying a Mango Festival at the majestic classic Mauna Surfrider Hotel and while walking through the gardens of the Pink Palace (Royal Hawaiian Hotel), an inner courtyard had distinctive music which had to be investigated…and watched with others, a most interesting procession with singing and dancing family members.

East Indian wedding procession with groom arriving on a horse at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Living here is obviously not only just about Waikiki, it is the year ’round weather and a realized Spirit which prevails in all the islands. Yes, we have our ‘challenges’ like anywhere, but life here is good.

The twin towers of the Moana Pacific Condominium, as seen from Magic Island, is a great example of a prime location and one of the ‘newer’ condos in the Kaka’ako district, and located several blocks away from the popular Ala Moana Beach Park and the Ala Moana Shopping Center (between Honolulu and Waikiki).

Resale units are available, including recently released and several beautifully furnished developer’s penthouse units with their top-of-the-world panoramic views, spacious floor plans, and upgraded appointments. A gallery of these properties will be sent to you upon request. There are 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units with a wide range of sizes and prices from a moderate $449,500 to the spacious upper floor units starting at $2,480,000.

The 6th floor level stretches out between the twin towers, connecting them with an open amenity area including a large pool for serious lap swimmers, a spa, children play area, 8 barbecues, 2 tennis courts, and a golf practice putting green. Each tower has their own interior full exercise equipment rooms, private theaters, and meeting areas.

From this recreation deck level, owners access a private elevator which goes directly into the striking Honolulu Design Center. There is also a dramatic INspiration furniture store, plus the unique Amuse Wine Bar, a modern Stage Restaurant and Bar with certain evenings devoted to dancing/entertainment and offering military appreciation discounts, and street level Stage Cafe’ for snacks!

Often, there are rainbows arching over Kapiolani Blvd. while the sun is setting, in addition to dramatic early sunrise over the Ko’olau Range viewed from Kaka’ako condo

Your days don’t need to ‘set’ at all, for the next many years are full of sunrises too. I have been an active Realtor for over 26 years, specializing in assisting others to own and enjoy a ‘lifestyle’ of being near the ocean, sandy beaches, golf, tennis, boating, and best of all, ‘happiness.’

It was interesting to realize that as a mature citizen I actually followed my own advice, making that decision to downsize from my home on the Big Island to a lovely high rise condominium on Oahu. Yes, the change was rather dramatic in scope, but adjustment came easily. So much to see, do, and be apart of.

Recently, I was asked by a neighbor in my condo if I wanted to learn to line dance and Texas 2-step! You may ask, “In Hawaii?” Sure! Then, a few days later, as an owner still of the (now rented) house in Waikoloa Village, I needed to sadly cut and remove 4 super tall 21-year-old coconut palm trees from my front yard, which my husband and I had planted. Unexpectedly, I was asked if a Hawaiian musical group could have various sized cut down trunks for making into Pahu drums! I was totally delighted with the re-cycling and future use, quickly replying “of course.”

Pahu drums in Hawaii

You see? Here was a quick back-to-back example of Hawaii’s blend of cultures and peoples with different activities. A wonderful state to consider for your new adventure, whether alone, or with someone close by. Why not make that decision to do so now?

There are numerous internet sites to check into for information about our State of Hawaii and get advice. Just looking around myself, with this article in mind, I opened a website called ‘How to Live In Hawaii‘ authored by a new resident and primarily for newcomers. Interesting comments from a different perspective.

Hawaii Life Real Estate Services, LLC is a very positive and active tech-oriented real estate company and we are here to help you. Either meeting personally, or first online, let us “Talk Story” and discuss what is right and perfect for your needs. I look forward to it!

With Aloha, Jeanne.

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 our Hawaii Life resources are many. Let’s “talk story.” Contact me now.