Welcome to Hawaii Kai/Portlock
Boasting luxury waterfront living, particularly within its Portlock neighborhood, Hawaii Kaii was Oahu’s first planned community. Just 12 miles east of downtown Honolulu, this enclave was envisioned and developed in the 1960s by famed industrialist Henry J. Kaiser. Today, the exclusive area is home to a variety of shopping and restaurant options, excellent schools, and superb recreational opportunities, both on land and at sea.
What to Love
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Countless outdoor activities, from snorkeling to hiking
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Numerous shops and restaurants
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Easy access to downtown Honolulu
Local Lifestyle
With its engaging mix of luxurious residential areas and modern conveniences, Hawaii Kai and Portlock attract young families and mature adults seeking a peaceful spot for a second home. Low-maintenance condo complexes, attractive single-level homes, and some of Oahu’s grandest estates line the sidewalks here. Ample parks and recreational facilities draw out the active-minded. Neighbors gather at the world-famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, legendary Sandy Beach, the Maunalua Bay Beach Park, the Hawaii Kai Dog Park, and the nearby Makapu’u Point Trail.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Without ever having to leave the neighborhood, Hawaii Kai and Portlock residents have ample choices when it comes to both high-end and casual dining. The “ Original Roy’s” restaurant is located here and has a loyal local following. First-time visitors feel like locals from the moment they enter. Dine on Roy’s classic misoyaki butterfish, kiawe smoked baby-back ribs, a variety of sushi and salads, and a famous pineapple upside-down cake.
Whether you’re in the mood for freshly brewed, award-winning Hawaiian coffee or a refreshing, cold-brewed iced coffee, the long-standing Island Brew Coffeehouse will have it ready for you. The family-owned Hawaii Kai location is the island’s original and has become a favorite of locals and visitors over the past decade.
Need a new outfit for dinner out in Hawaii Kai? Choose from the well-chosen selection of on-trend fashions at Mikinola Boutique. From sleek jumpsuits to eye-catching swimwear to beach-ready footwear, the owner and stylist, Dara Fujio, will find just the right pieces for you. The Cosmopolitan Sun Shop offers sustainably made swimwear, while Local Motion outfits men, juniors, and kids in the latest island fashions. Pop over to the Hawaii Kai Towne Centre for the weekly farmers market and award-winning entertainment on the center’s waterfront stage. There are a number of local and national stores and restaurants here, as well.
Things to Do
Nothing beats a day on the glorious ocean. Serving the community for 50 years, the Koko Marina Center capitalizes on its gorgeous location, drawing in residents and visitors to its one-of-a-kind eateries on the waterfront, locally-owned boutiques, and convenience retailers. Get a massage at the spa, catch the latest blockbuster film, or partake in just about any water sport you can name.
At Maunalua Bay, Hawaii Kai and Portlock homeowners can feel like they own a section of Oahu beach. While not ideal for swimming, this is a favorite spot for paddlers, including canoes, small watercraft, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and more. It’s a fantastic fishing spot, as well. The views are incredible - look for Koko Crater and Koko Head, east of Maunalua Bay.
For the quintessential beach day, drive the road down the lava-rock cliffside to Sandy Beach at the base of Koko Crater. With its powerful shore breaks, the beach is considered one of Hawaii’s best bodyboarding sites and has been attracting wave-seekers since the 1940s. However, only experienced swimmers and bodyboarders should get in the water as it has a powerful shoreline surf break which is very dangerous — so it’s best to watch the action from the beach if you don’t fall into that category. The beach is also adjacent to the popular Halona Blowhole.
Looking for an outdoor workout close to home? Hawaii Kai and Portlock are moments away from the Koko Crater Trail, better known as the “Koko Head Stairs.” You’ll take more than 1,000 steps to reach the top of this popular 1.5-mile-roundtrip Oahu hike. The spectacular summit view of Hanauma Bay and Portlock Peninsula is worth it.
Schools
Students from Hawaii Kai and Portlock attend highly desired schools, including:
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Koko Head Elementary School, PK-5, highly rated public elementary school
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Niu Valley Middle School, 6-8, highly rated public middle school
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Kaiser High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school with an International Baccalaureate program
