Kane'ohe
Kane'ohe is one of the largest residential communities on Oahu's lush windward coast, nestled along the tranquil waters of Kane'ohe Bay. Known for its botanical gardens, scenic golf courses, and iconic sandbar, Kane'ohe offers natural beauty and cultural depth. The town also provides convenient access to Honolulu while maintaining a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle.
Kane'ohe, Oahu
Kane'ohe is one of the largest residential communities on the windward coast of Oahu (the other one is neighboring Kailua), located about 12 miles (19 km) from downtown Honolulu. The town's commercial center lies along the highway that runs through it (Kamehameha Hwy). There are several restaurants and a shopping mall complex, Windward Mall.
Attractions in Kane'ohe include the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden and three golf courses, Pali Golf Course (public), Ko'olau Golf Club (privately owned but open to the public) and Bayview Golf Park (privately owned but open to the public).
Beautiful Kane'ohe Bay is one of the most photographed spots on the island. A popular gathering place just offshore is the Kane'one Sandbar, which partially emerges during low tide. It is a favorite hangout spot for local residents who have boats. They like to barbecue out here, play ball games and snorkel. Kane'ohe Bay is also a breeding ground for hammerhead sharks. Across the south end of Kane'ohe Bay on the Mokapu Peninsula lies the Marine Corps Air Station.
Another Kaneohe attraction is the Byody-In Temple at the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. The temple was built in the 1960s to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant workers in Hawaii who worked in the sugar plantation fields. The temple features a large Buddha statue and is a replica of the 950-year-old Byodo-In Temple located in Uji, Japan.
In the Hawaiian language, "Kane'ohe" means "bamboo man." There is an ancient Hawaiian legend that tells of a local woman, who compared her husband's cruelty to the sharp edge of cutting bamboo. So the place was named Kane'ohe.
Key Features of Kane'ohe
- Windward coast community: One of the largest residential areas on Oahu's east side, located 12 miles from downtown Honolulu.
- Kane'ohe Bay: A calm bay popular for boating and home to the famous sandbar that appears during low tide.
- Attractions and activities: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Byodo-In Temple, Valley of the Temples, and three golf courses.
- Cultural significance: The name Kane'ohe means “bamboo man,” derived from a Hawaiian legend about a woman's comparison of her husband's cruelty to bamboo.
- Population: 37,430 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96744
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions in Kane'ohe?
Popular attractions include Kane'ohe Bay, Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, the Valley of the Temples, and the Byodo-In Temple.
What is the Kane'ohe sandbar?
The Kane'ohe sandbar is a shallow reef area that emerges at low tide and is a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and snorkeling.
Are there golf courses in Kane'ohe?
Yes, Kane'ohe is home to Pali Golf Course, Ko'olau Golf Club, and Bay View Golf Park.
Where is Kane'ohe located?
Kane'ohe is on the windward coast of Oahu, about 12 miles northeast of downtown Honolulu via the Pali Highway.
What is Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden?
It's a 400-acre rainforest garden featuring walking paths, native and international plants, and scenic mountain views.