Oahu Overview

Oahu is the most populous of the Hawaiian Islands, and it's easy to see why ... there's just something special about Oahu. It offers the tropical beauty and serenity that people search the world-over for, yet has a cosmopolitan flair that keeps things interesting and exciting. Each district or city has its own unique personality and charm, adding to Oahu's diverse culture.

Here are a few of the neighborhoods you'll find on Oahu (map):

The famous North Shore of Oahu boasts some of the world's best surfing. But the powerful waves are in complete contrast to the quiet, gentle scene found on shore. The North Shore is laid-back with an eclectic mix of people, including international surfers, water lovers, and artists.

The Leeward side of the island offers island living with affordability. Areas along the Waianae coast include Makaha, Waianae, and Nanakuli. These neighborhoods have a “country feel” to them, and most homes, condos and apartments are modest and unpretentious. Further down the coast, the Ewa Plain includes Ewa, Kapolei and Makakilo. These areas have experienced tremendous growth and new developments are currently underway. This allows for newer homes with all the modern-day conveniences.

Central Oahu includes the growing town of Mililani, where soccer fields flourish. Homes and streets are clean and well kept, and you'll also find modern shopping centers, movie theaters, and churches of all denominations. Next to Mililani, Waipahu, Aiea and Pearl City are also excellent neighborhoods for families, with a selection of fine schools and churches.

Metro Oahu encompasses the downtown Honolulu area, a vibrant region that continues to roll with the times. Residents value the convenience of this central location and take advantage of the myriad of activities that occur here, including art exhibits, theater performances and fabulous dining options.

Further south, Waikiki is the main beat for tourists, but it is also a popular residential area. Its convenient location allows for ample daytime excursions and nighttime outings, followed by a simple walk or a short ride home. Many apartments and condos feature scenic views.

For luxury houses and breathtaking views, Diamond Head is an excellent place to call “home.” Also referred to as the prestigious Gold Coast, this area is just below Waikiki but far away enough to provide an atmosphere of peace and quiet. Most homes and condos are nestled at the base of Diamond Head Crater and look out towards the Pacific Ocean.

Heading to the east side of the island, Hawaii Kai is family-friendly with many residential neighborhoods, a great assortment of restaurants, several shopping centers, a movie theater complex, and much more. It is the hub of activity for people with active lifestyles, and it's quite common to see outrigger canoe paddlers, cyclists, runners, and sailors on any given day.

Past the scenic Pali Lookout, you'll find the charming town of Kailua. Situated near a beautiful white sand beach, Kailua is a great residential neighborhood that is well suited for families. Nearby, the majestic Koolau Mountain Range towers high over Kaneohe, another major town on the Windward side of Oahu. Kaneohe has a relaxed and easy pace, with many townhouses and condos in its realm.

Find your home on Oahu today.