Kahala

Along Oahu’s South Shore and just minutes from Honolulu, you will find the upscale residential suburb known as Kahala. Containing some of the most exquisite beachfront real estate on island, Kahala is often compared to luxury mainland cities like Beverly Hills, or Tribeca. This quiet and prestigious suburb is the perfect place for those searching for a specific piece of upscale paradise.

 

Kahala, located on the southeastern coast of O'ahu, boasts a storied history and a reputation as one of Hawaii’s most desirable places to live. Its roots trace back to ancient Hawaiian times, with significant historical events such as King Kamehameha I landing his war canoes in the area during his 1795 campaign to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

 

Throughout the 19th century, Kahala was primarily used for cattle and pig farms, maintaining a rural character until the early 20th century. It was then that Kahala began its transformation, attracting Hawaii’s upper class, gradually evolving into a prestigious residential area. By the mid-1900s, Kahala had earned the title of the "Beverly Hills" of O'ahu, becoming a haven for affluent residents and celebrities alike.

 

Local Culture

• Respect for History: Kahala’s historical significance, dating back to the landing of King Kamehameha I's war canoes in 1795, remains an integral part of its identity.
• Blend of Luxury and Nature: Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle that combines luxurious living with an appreciation for Hawaii’s breathtaking natural beauty.
• Community Events: Kahala fosters a strong sense of community with local gatherings such as the Going Green Event and Ohana Night, which bring neighbors together to celebrate and enjoy the area’s unique culture.
• Cultural Appreciation: Kahala’s proximity to cultural sites like Iolani Palace and the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art allows residents to engage with Hawaii’s diverse heritage and artistic expressions.

As of August 2024, Kahala's housing market remains somewhat competitive, characterized by rising home values and strong demand. The median sale price in Waialae-Kahala stands at $1.8 million, a 3.3% increase from the previous year. However, there’s been a notable shift in price per square foot, which has decreased by 13.2% to $950, indicating some softening in certain segments of the market. Homes in Kahala tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 44 days on the market—faster than the previous year’s 49 days. Some properties receive multiple offers, with particularly desirable homes going pending in around 29 days and selling for about 1% above the list price.

 

The Kahala real estate market presents a mix of opportunity and competition. While the median sale price has seen steady growth, the decrease in price per square foot suggests that buyers may find value in specific areas of the market. Homes typically sell for about 3% below the asking price, providing some negotiation room, although hot properties may defy this trend.

 

Inventory has also increased slightly, with 71 homes for sale as of August 2024, offering more choices for prospective buyers. Interestingly, larger homes, particularly those with 5+ bedrooms, have seen significant price gains, rising 55.2% year-over-year, while smaller homes have experienced price drops, indicating varied performance across different property types.

 

Moving to Kahala requires thoughtful planning and an understanding of local nuances. Here are some tips to help ease the transition:

 

Kahala, located on the southeastern coast of Oʻahu, is one of Honolulu’s most prestigious neighborhoods, known for its luxury estates, beautiful beaches, and exclusive attractions. While it offers a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the island, it is also home to several must-visit destinations.

 

Kahala’s dining scene is a mix of high-end restaurants, casual cafes, and hidden culinary gems that offer a variety of flavors, from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international delicacies.

 

• Hoku’s at The Kahala Hotel & Resort – One of Honolulu’s top fine dining restaurants, offering an exquisite fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and European flavors. The oceanfront setting makes it a top choice for romantic dinners and special occasions.
• Arancino at The Kahala – A must-visit for Italian cuisine lovers, this award-winning restaurant specializes in house-made pasta, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine selection.
• Plumeria Beach House – Located within The Kahala Hotel, this open-air beachfront restaurant is known for its fresh island cuisine, signature seafood dishes, and lavish breakfast buffets.

• Kahala MKT. by Foodland – A gourmet grocery store and deli offering fresh poke, sushi, and artisanal sandwiches made with local ingredients.
• Olive Tree Café – A local favorite for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, featuring delicious gyros, hummus, and Greek salads.
• Whole Foods Market Kahala – While primarily a grocery store, this location offers a variety of prepared foods, fresh sushi, and a juice bar that’s popular among health-conscious residents.

Kahala itself is not known for its nightlife, but its proximity to Waikīkī means that world-class bars and entertainment venues are just a short drive away. However, locals and visitors looking for a relaxed evening can enjoy cocktails at:

 

• The Veranda at The Kahala Hotel – A refined spot for craft cocktails, live music, and afternoon tea with an elegant ocean-view setting.
• Monkeypod Kitchen (Kahala) – A laid-back restaurant and bar known for its handcrafted cocktails, extensive beer selection, and farm-to-table dishes.

Kahala is home to several parks and recreational facilities that provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities:

 

• Kahala Beach Park – A serene beach park perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply unwinding with a peaceful ocean view. It’s less crowded than nearby Waikīkī Beach, making it a favorite among locals.
• Diamond Head State Monument – Just west of Kahala, this famous volcanic crater offers one of the most popular hikes on Oʻahu, featuring a 0.8-mile trail to the summit with panoramic views of the coastline.
• Waialae Beach Park – A picturesque park adjacent to the Waialae Country Club, ideal for picnics, beach walks, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
• Waialae Country Club – One of the most exclusive golf courses in Hawaiʻi, this private club features a beautifully maintained 18-hole course that hosts the PGA Sony Open.
• Waiʻalae Iki Trail – A lesser-known but scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the coastline and lush greenery.

The Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation manages these facilities and more across O'ahu, providing access to playgrounds, beach parks, botanical gardens, and other outdoor amenities.

 

Kahala is home to some of the best educational institutions on Oʻahu, offering a mix of public and private schools known for their rigorous academic programs, extracurricular activities, and strong community involvement. The neighborhood is part of the Hawaiʻi Department of Education's Honolulu District and is also home to elite private institutions.

 

• Kahala Elementary School (Grades K-5) – A highly rated public school with strong academic performance, a nurturing environment, and high parent involvement. It has consistently received high rankings in state assessments.
• Kalani High School (Grades 9-12) – One of the top-ranked public high schools in Hawaiʻi, Kalani is known for its Advanced Placement (AP) courses, award-winning robotics team, and strong college preparatory programs.
• Kaimukī Middle School (Grades 6-8) – Serves students from Kahala and nearby areas, offering a well-rounded curriculum with STEM and arts programs.

• Star of the Sea School (Preschool-Grade 8) – A private Catholic school offering a Montessori-based early childhood education and a rigorous K-8 program with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning.
• Holy Nativity School (Preschool-Grade 6) – A small, private Episcopal school that focuses on personalized education with small class sizes and a strong arts and music program.
• Le Jardin Academy (Nearby in Kailua, Grades PK-12) – One of the top International Baccalaureate (IB) schools in Hawaiʻi, providing a globally focused education.
• Punahou School (Nearby in Honolulu, Grades K-12) – One of the most prestigious private schools in the nation, known for its college preparatory curriculum and notable alumni, including former President Barack Obama.
• ʻIolani School (Nearby in Honolulu, Grades K-12) – A highly regarded private institution offering STEM, arts, and athletics programs, with a strong emphasis on innovation and leadership.

With access to top-rated schools, college preparatory programs, and specialized private institutions, Kahala offers exceptional educational opportunities for families seeking both public and private options.

 

Kahala is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and well-maintained infrastructure, making it a walkable and bike-friendly neighborhood. While it is more suburban than urban areas like Waikīkī or Kakaʻako, it still offers convenient pedestrian and cycling options.

 

• High Walkability in Residential Areas – The neighborhood’s wide sidewalks, safe crosswalks, and quiet streets make it easy to walk around, particularly near Kahala Mall and Kahala Beach.
• Kahala Mall – The primary commercial hub of the neighborhood, featuring shops, restaurants, and a Whole Foods Market, all within a short walking distance for many residents.
• Proximity to Parks & Schools – Many residents can walk to Kahala Community Park, local schools, and Waialae Beach Park.

• Bike Lanes & Routes – While Kahala does not have extensive dedicated bike lanes, Waialae Avenue has bike-friendly areas connecting to Honolulu.
• Scenic Coastal Rides – Cyclists enjoy riding along Kahala Avenue, which offers stunning ocean views and a relatively flat terrain.
• Proximity to Diamond Head Bike Paths – The Diamond Head Loop is a popular biking route that connects Kahala to Kapiʻolani Park and Waikīkī.
• Biki Bike-Share Stations – While not as common as in downtown Honolulu, Biki bike-sharing stations are available near Kahala Mall, allowing for convenient cycling around the area.

Overall, while Kahala is not as dense as urban Honolulu, it provides good walkability for daily errands and bike-friendly routes for recreation and commuting.

 

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• Kahala Homes For Sale