Hawaii Kai
Hawaii Kai is an upscale residential community on the southeastern coast of Oahu, developed by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser. Built around a scenic marina system, Hawaii Kai features luxury homes, waterfront dining, and access to Maunalua Bay. It blends suburban convenience with recreational opportunities and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor lifestyle.
Hawaii Kai, Oahu
Hawaii Kai (view panorama)× , 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 (view panorama) × 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 of Hawaii Kai
- Planned marina community: Developed in the 1960s by Henry J. Kaiser, transforming fishponds into a residential and recreational hub.
- Home to Koko Marina Center: Popular shopping and dining destination offering waterfront views and watersports.
- Access to outdoor recreation: Close to Koko Head Trail, Hanauma Bay, and Maunalua Bay for hiking, snorkeling, and boating.
- Upscale suburban living: Known for its scenic marina homes, green spaces, and family-oriented neighborhoods.
- Population: 30,620 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96825
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hawaii Kai located?
Hawaii Kai is on Oahu's southeastern shore, about 11 miles east of downtown Honolulu.
What makes Hawaii Kai unique?
It's a master-planned community centered around a marina system, offering waterfront homes and lifestyle amenities.
What is there to do at Koko Marina Center?
You'll find restaurants, retail shops, a movie theater, and access to watersports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Can you swim at Maunalua Bay?
Maunalua Bay is more popular for boating and jet skiing than swimming, due to its shallow reef areas.
Is Hawaii Kai a good place to live?
Yes, it's a highly desirable residential area with scenic views, good schools, parks, and marina access.