See our
aerial video of Kaneohe real estate.
About Kaneohe Kaneohe is just north of
Kailua on the Windward side of Oahu. Though cheek to cheek, separated now by the the H3 freeway, they still have differences that make each distinctive. Kaneohe retains a more local feel in many ways. The town doesn't attract the tourist trade like their neighbor to the south, so the community tends to be geared strictly to residents and their needs.
That's probably why Windward Mall is located here, the largest shopping center on the east side of the Pali. Other large strip malls provide every need and want as well, so leaving town to shop is rarely required unless a change of scenery is desired. The natural side of life is fulfilling, too.
Kaneohe Bay - Come Here to Play There isn't a contender for 'Best Beach' to be found in Kaneohe, the coastline tending to be more grass and rock than sand. Though that means sunbathing is out, the waters are still a delight. Kaneohe Bay is an alluring sight and the perfect place to put in for standup paddleboarding, kayaking or some snorkeling. A protective reef keeps the waters calm so this isn't a prime surfing spot. Any other water activity, though, is a go, including one very famous local tradition.
At low tide a sand island appears in the Bay for a few hours. As soon as it emerges, the party begins on the notorious 'Sandbar'. Boaters drop anchor, fire up their BBQs, throw around the frisbee, talk story and make new friends, all on this temporary beach in the middle of Kaneohe Bay. It's a special part of Kaneohe life that should be experienced at least once, though it'll be hard to keep away after that first visit.
The H-3 dividing line seems to even affect the weather. Kaneohe has cooler days and more rainfall than the more southern end of Windward Oahu. It's this rain that keeps the greenery so rich and thriving around you. One of the joys of living here is gazing up at the jade colored Koolau mountains after a shower. Countless waterfalls stream down the hills, an unforgettable cascade of white against green.
Real Estate That Has It All Kaneohe real estate is an interesting mix of both suburban and rural properties. There are real contrasts to be found. The southern and central areas are where higher density neighborhoods stand, mainly houses but some condos as well. Go a little further north, however, and you're in a different world.
In those parts of Kaneohe, beginning in
Ahuimanu, the setting becomes distinctly countryside, Oahu style. Small farms lie along the roads, up against oceanfront homes inhabited by those who like quiet luxury and a lot of privacy. Both sit against soaring mountainsides to the west and sweeping ocean views to the east. It's where you go to live in the cradle of Mother Nature's power & majesty.
Dive into the neighborhoods and you'll really get to know Kaneohe:
- Kaneohe Bay / Mahinui: Owning a boat is almost a requirement for buying a home in this neighborhood. You sit right on Kaneohe Bay, some of the best waters to take a soothing ride on, along with being home of the Sandbar. It includes the houses that are between Mokapu Saddle Road up to the entrance to Kaneohe Marine Corp Base.
- Alii Bluffs / Alii Shores: One word, Oceanfront. These homes are right on the Pacific, making them extremely desirable. Find them on Ipuka St, Lilipuna Rd, Yard Club St and Ka Hanahou Circle or just look for the big blue waters.
- Makani Kai Marina & Poha Kea Point: You have a choice here. The townhomes in Makani Kai uniquely have their own boat docks and ocean access, just steps from your living room! Those without a boat, but who still want the ocean views can easily fulfill that wish in the condos at Poha Kea Point.
- Summit at Kaneohe Bay: The views here are truly spectacular due to the fact that you live on top of a knoll, surrounding you with ocean on 3 sides! Not just a view, but an entire panorama is yours from your home. Safety and security also come in the bargain as this is a gated community, located off Lilipuna Rd.
- Bayview Golf Course: For many, a newer home is their dream. This neighborhood was built in 2012, making it one of the most recent additions to Kaneohe's real estate market. The houses are styled in a modern grand design, made of stucco and with 2 stories. There are even some with excellent ocean views. Those looking for something contemporary should look into these properties.
- Haiku Plantation: Buying a house in Haiku Plantation means becoming Lord (or Lady) of your Manor. Large 1 acre estates enthroned in lush green gardens. Stretch out, start gardening and enjoy the perks of having a grand lawn to call your own. The neighborhood is gated to ensure you get not only privacy, but security as well.
- Lulani Ocean: Chinaman's Hat is a favorite stop for both locals and tourists. Living here, it becomes a faithful friend. The houses look out on this landmark and the ocean surrounding it from the hillside above. The thick foliage of the hills insulate you from the Highway, separating you from noise and outside intrusions. Lulani St is a must see for Oahu real estate buyers looking for something special.
- Punaluu: Half acre oceanfront estates that should also be on the list for luxury property buyers. Many are still Leasehold, but the land owner, Kamehameha Schools, has recently sold some of their Fee interest. Very distinctive homes that luxuriate in the greenery all around them. A good midway between 'town' Kaneohe and the rural outreaches.
Why Kaneohe? Kaneohe is the right choice for those who love the more sedate, less developed Windward Oahu, cushioned by the mountains from the extreme tourist areas. It claims one of the largest malls on the Island, yet you'll find local businesses flourishing here, too, keeping it grounded in the Hawaii residents know and love.
It's a well-kept secret, lacking the glamour of other parts of Oahu, and that is just fine with Kaneohe. While others fight over Bed & Breakfasts and being overwhelmed by visitors, this is where you live contentedly, looking forward to the next barbecue or maybe even another visit out to the
Sandbar.
