The Best Places to Live on O’ahu

O’ahu, also known as the gathering place, is home to more than one million people. The colossal Ko’olau and Waianae mountain ranges divide the island and are also what make it so distinctive. O’ahu has over 200 miles of coastline, and is 44 miles long and 30 miles wide. Although that doesn’t seem too big, there are tons of amazing neighborhoods to choose from with homes constantly going on the market. As a resident of O’ahu for over twenty years, I’ve gotten to know the lay of the land quite well. With so many beautiful beaches and a large city, O’ahu provides both fast and slow-paced environments. In many ways, it can be a daunting task to decide the best town for you, which is why I’ve described a few great neighborhoods below for every kind of buyer.

Downtown Honolulu

If you’re naturally drawn to the city life but also want the beach at your fingertips, downtown Honolulu could be just right for you. Located next to many schools, hospitals, shopping centers and the beach, there are plenty of condos and apartments to choose from. A bonus of living in a condo in the heart of downtown is that many also have beautiful ocean and mountain views. Condos such as the Ko’olani, for example. The Ko’olani is only a couple blocks away from Ala Moana shopping center and Whole Foods, and also just across the street from the beach park with biking and running trails. Another downtown condo that is in the process of being built is called Kuilei Place. They are providing residents with affordable housing options and a variety of sizes and prices for their condos and currently accepting applications. With groceries, shopping, restaurants, and the beach all within walking distance, you may be able to save money by walking or biking instead of driving too. With so many housing options and activities, Honolulu is a great place to live.

Kāne’ohe

If you’re a nature lover looking for a peaceful neighborhood, then Kāne’ohe could be a great option for you. Kāne’ohe is on the Windward side of O’ahu, where it is typically rainier and windier than downtown. However, this creates the famous gorgeous lush green mountains and the most stunning views. Kāne’ohe has a multitude of hiking trails and the famous Kāne’ohe Bay where hundreds of people anchor their boats on the sand bar every week. Neighborhoods such as Poha Kea Point, pictured below, have amazing views and amenities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts within a few minutes of local shops and restaurants. Not to mention townhomes under a million dollars.

Diamond Head

If you’re looking to be closer to town but not directly in the center of it, the Diamond Head region may be for you. Spanning from Waikiki to Kuliouou, there are a multitude of condos, townhomes and single-family homes to choose from. Anywhere you live in this region is close to the beaches and the freeway for both work and play. There are also many stores, schools, and hospitals within a few miles of each other making for short driving times. There are so many outdoor activities to do, for example, picture yourself taking a hike up Kuliouou Ridge, taking in the beauty of the ocean and mountain views, then getting some takeout from one of the many popular restaurants around, and then heading over to Maunalua Bay beach park to catch the sunset. All within a few miles from your home.

With so many beautiful beaches and hiking trails nearby, you can’t go wrong wherever you decide to settle down. Each region of O’ahu has something special to offer, and I recommend taking some time exploring all sides of the island to make the best decision for yourself. I would love to show you around the island to see where you feel most at home. Make sure to reach out with any questions, and check out my other blog posts for more things to do on O’ahu!