Hawaii Kai

Hawaii Kai is an East Oahu marina community known for Koko Marina, Maunalua Bay, Koko Head, Hanauma Bay access, waterfront dining and coastal scenery.

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Hawaii Kai, Oahu

Hawaii Kai , located on Oahu's south shore, is the largest of several residential communities at the southeastern end of the island. The town was the brainchild of the billionaire industrialist Henry J. Kaiser, who developed an area of kiawe flatland and a shallow fishpond into an affluent suburb. Starting around 1959, the Hawaii Kai or Koko Marina was dredged from the pond. Several neighborhoods now extend back into several valleys and up the mountain ridges.

Attractions include the Koko Marina Center, located on the corner of Kalanianaole Highway and Lunalilo Home Road. Here you will find many shops, restaurants, watersports activities and a large movie theater. It is located directly on the marina and features a nice atmosphere. You can dine right next to anchored boats and enjoy views of the water and the green mountains in the background.

Hawaii Kai is located along Maunalua Bay. The bay is popular among jet skiers, parasailers and boaters, but not among swimmers since the nearshore ocean bottom is shallow and has a reef.

Key Features

East Oahu setting: Planned marina community east of Honolulu
Marina history: Developed by Henry J. Kaiser from fishpond and kiawe flatland areas
Koko Marina Center: Shops, dining, services, movie theater and activity operators
Maunalua Bay: Boating, paddling and launch-ramp access with shallow reef conditions
Koko Head: Steep, exposed trail and landmark crater above the community
Nearby coast: Close to Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole and Sandy Beach
Visitor planning: Check reservations, traffic, heat, trail access and ocean conditions
Population: 30,620 at the 2020 Census
Zip code: 96825

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hawaii Kai on Oahu?

Hawaii Kai is on southeastern Oahu, about 11 miles east of Honolulu. It sits around marina neighborhoods, Koko Head, Maunalua Bay and Kalanianaole Highway.

What is Hawaii Kai known for?

Hawaii Kai is known for its marina community, Koko Marina Center, Maunalua Bay, Koko Head, waterfront dining, nearby Hanauma Bay and East Oahu outdoor access.

Is Hanauma Bay near Hawaii Kai?

Yes. Hanauma Bay is just east of Hawaii Kai. Visitors should check current reservations, hours, closures and ocean conditions before planning a visit.

Is Koko Head Trail in Hawaii Kai?

Koko Head Trail is in the Hawaii Kai area. It is steep, exposed and physically demanding, so hikers should bring water, wear proper shoes and avoid extreme heat.

Is Hawaii Kai a good place to stay?

Hawaii Kai can work well for visitors who want an East Oahu residential base near Hanauma Bay, Maunalua Bay, Koko Head and coastal sightseeing routes.