Kaka'ako, Oahu

 

In Kaka’ako, excitement and luxury is a way of life. The hip and opulent area is nestled between Downtown Honolulu and the dazzling southern shoreline of the Pacific Ocean. It is home to an incredible food scene — from casual eateries and juice bars to farm-to-table cafes and the Kaka’ako Farmers’ Market. There is always something to do locally, whether it’s picnicking or taking a stroll down the waterfront park or paddleboarding at sunset. With ample opportunity to shop, play, and relax, this vibrant, urban island community is a wonderful place to call home.

 

Kaka’ako is an appealing up-and-coming place, so you can expect plenty of new developments, whether its luxury apartments and high-rise condos by Howard Hughes or a comfy home by the bay. The culture around town is a lively and playful one, with a heart for unique street art, green and grassy gathering spaces, and cool events. Although newer, the neighborhood takes great pride in the community and is a welcoming one. As the commercial and retail district of Honolulu, it’s a buzzing area but still maintains a down-to-earth sense of normalcy and a laid-back atmosphere.

 

Reflective of the area, the culinary scene in Kaka’ako is as lively and stylish as the community itself. Merriman’s in Ward Village is a spacious and trendy eatery that has pioneered the “farm-to-table” movement in Hawaii, being centered around regional seafood. The wine, cocktails, and live music on the patio serve up the perfect vibe for locals. Istanbul is known for its fabulous hospitality, where every guest is “Ohana,” as well as its dynamite Turkish food. SALT at Kaka’ako is a modern, electrifying culinary, retail, and event center that offers a variety of local boutiques, restaurants whipping up Hawaiian farm fare, bars serving craft beer, and cafes, as well as events. Another impeccable and distinguished retail spot is Ala Moana Shopping Center, a beautiful, large, open-air shopping mall that boasts classic department stores and fashion chains. It is the ninth largest shopping mall in the United States and the largest open-air shopping center in the world.

 

There’s something to do for every type of person in Kaka’ako. Adventurous types can take advantage of the great outdoors at the breathtaking Ala Moana Beach Park, right across from the shopping center with the same namesake. There you’ll find a free 100-acre waterside public park that flaunts a vast gold-sand beach over a half-mile long, in addition to tennis courts, three concession stands, a yacht club, and an additional half-crescent beach called Magic Island. Victoria Ward Park is a wonderful multi-use green space to relish in the amazing year-round weather at events like Cinema in the Park and Yoga in the Park. You can rent dive boats or take a catamaran that departs from Kewalo Marina for a romantic or fun outing!