8 Reasons The Watermark is Waikiki’s Premier Luxury Condo

The Watermark condo project was completed in the summer of 2008 on the edge of Waikiki. It is one of only a few new condo projects added to Waikiki’s skyline during the past two decades. We think it is also the very finest. What makes one condo better than another may depend on personal taste and preference. There could be many different factors to consider.  See if you agree with our list of the Top 8 reasons why the Watermark is Waikiki’s Premier Luxury Condo:

1. Location
The project is located in a quiet cul-de-sac at 1551 Ala Wai Blvd, across from the Ala Wai Canal. It is the second to last building within the cul-de-sac, with minimal street traffic. The property is set back a good distance from Ala Moana Blvd. Unlike other high-traffic tourist areas, this section of Waikiki between the Ala Wai Canal and Hobron Lane has a quiet residential feel. Hidden in this walkable neighborhood within a block distance, you will find a grocery store, bank, small post office, and several dining options.

Living here, between Waikiki and Ala Moana, offers the best of both worlds: 1.) world-class Waikiki Beach and all the excitement that comes along, …as well as 2.) best shopping at Hawaii’s largest mall, the Ala Moana Shopping Center. The largest beach park in Hawaii, Ala Moana Beach, is close by across the street. Amid all these neighborhood conveniences, it is surprising how quiet the Watermark location really is. Street access is either from Ala Wai Blvd or from Hobron Lane.

2. Views
All units are facing west towards the ocean and sunset. High-floor units above the ~16th floor enjoy wide open ocean views along Oahu’s southern coastline to Kapolei and beyond. This is a very dynamic view that is mesmerizing both day (video) and night (video). From here, you can watch airplane action at the distant reef runway, cruise ships gliding in and out of Honolulu Harbor, enjoy the sailboats at the marina, and canoe paddlers racing along the Ala Wai Canal. Truly spectacular are sunset views (video).

Watermark condos also share the unique perspective of the long view, from one end to the other, of the Ala Moana Beach Park, Hawaii’s largest beach park. The lower floor units enjoy pleasant palm tree views along the sprawling, beautiful tropical landscaped grounds.

3. Lanais
Every Watermark condo enjoys a good size usable lanai to soak in the views. You will appreciate the quiet location and distance from main traffic roads as well as surrounding buildings while entertaining on your private lanai above in the sky. Compare this with other high class buildings that are often located on busy traffic roads or include minimal or no private outdoor lanai space.

4. Award Winning Grounds
Soon after completion in 2008, the Watermark deservingly won an award for its outstanding lush landscaped garden design. The gorgeous grounds at the Watermark are a serene tropical oasis unlike any other Honolulu condo. 60% of the lot size is beautifully landscaped open space. The sprawling lawn is always perfectly manicured. There is plenty space for quiet time to meditate, read a book or enjoy outdoor yoga. There is also a magical secret garden path (video).

Enjoy nature’s solitude in the middle of the city, or spend time with friends at one of five BBQ settings among pleasant Plumeria trees, Red Gingers and Areca palms.

5. Heated Lagoon Style Infinity Pool
Hands down, the Watermark has the nicest heated lagoon-style infinity pool (video), surrounded by sculpted lava rocks and botanical gardens in all of Honolulu. The free-flow design pool features several ‘coves’ as well as a marked center swim lane from one end to the other. Whether you use the pool at 6 a.m. or up to 10 p.m., the water temperature is always perfect. Enjoy the jetted hot tub for a relaxing massage.

Other amenities include a men’s and women’s sauna, showers, a fully equipped fitness room, a library, and a media room. Wi-Fi is available throughout the lobby, library, and garden just past the pool.

6. Layout & Density
The Watermark condo is designed like a private gated boutique luxury resort with a grand open lobby leading to the beautiful pool and sprawling garden (video). Three exterior high speed glass elevators (video) provide nice green mountain vistas while getting to your condo. The project has only 196 condos in total, with a maximum of five or six per floor. That is fewer than Hokua, One Ala Moana, or most other new condo projects. The Watermark feel and lifestyle are exclusive, quiet, and private. The pool, gym, and other amenities are never crowded. There are no restaurants or retail shops on the property. All condos feature either 2 or 3 bedrooms and come with at least 2 assigned covered secured parking stalls. Living at the Watermark is truly a pleasure.

7. Award Winning Staff & Management
The Watermark staff shows an exemplary level of friendly and helpful service. The building is well managed and has strong reserves. It is no surprise that the Watermark condo won twice in a row the coveted IREM Building of the Year, and Residential Manager of the Year award for 2014 and 2013 respectively.

8. Energy Efficiency Initiative
The Watermark is one of Hawaii’s first residential high-rise condos to have installed a powerful photovoltaic system on the garage roof. The system offsets a percentage of the common area electricity consumption and is a hedge against future electricity cost increases. Other energy-saving measures include the upgrade of common element lights with energy-saving high efficiency LED bulbs.

Conclusion
This simple summary is just barely scratching the surface. It is the rare combination of these unique benefits and more that makes the Watermark special. You might conclude that the Watermark is not only the finest condo project in Waikiki, but it also fits well among the crème de la crème of all Honolulu luxury condos. Living here is priceless.

If you are looking for a full-time residence or a Honolulu vacation home, you owe it to yourself to explore the benefits further. Feel free to contact us today to get the inside story.

See all Watermark condos for sale or search all Waikiki condos for sale.

Please share, like, and comment below. We love to hear your thoughts.

Aloha,  George Krischke (R)

Disclosure: My wife and I are original owners at the Watermark and we love living here full-time.