Regions of Oahu
Where on Oahu should I live?
Even though it’s a fairly small island, Oahu has several distinctly different areas in terms of lifestyle, housing and geography. I’ve grown to know the entire island well, so here’s some information that will let you know more about where you might like to live.
The six “regions” of Oahu
If you’re considering moving to the island of Oahu, it’s good to have a little information ahead of time to help you narrow down where you might like to live. After being here for 18 years and helping clients buy and sell properties all over the island, I know the different areas well. For the purposes of general descriptions, below are the six “regions” of Oahu.
Honolulu
Obviously, Honolulu is the population center of Oahu. As the only traditional “big city” on the island, it’s the place to be for arts, shopping and other amenities, including the large Ala Moana shopping center. It’s also the financial center of the island. World-famous Waikiki is a neighborhood within Honolulu. In the city you’ll find higher-density living in most cases, with lots of condominiums and some single-family homes.
Windward Oahu
The “windward side” is incredibly scenic, set against the backdrop of the Koolau mountain range. Here you’ll find tropical, lush areas and more of a country or small-town feeling. This area includes Kaneohe, Waimanalo, and the famous beaches of Kailua. There is a medium-sized shopping center called the Windward Mall, and this region is home to the Kaneohe Marine Base Hawaii. From here you have easy access to Honolulu or other areas of the island via the Pali Highway, the H3 highway or the Likelike Highway. In this area you’ll find mostly single-family homes, with some condominiums in each town.
East Oahu
Henry Kaiser essentially created this region, with his planning and development of Hawaii Kai. This area is located against the ocean, a 15-minute drive to either Honolulu or Windward Oahu along coastal roads. This planned area includes the island’s first Costco. You’ll find a mix of single-family homes and condos here.
Central Oahu
On a fairly small island, Central Oahu truly is central. It’s close to the North Shore, and enjoys easy access to the rest of the island. Here you’ll find Mililani, an All-American town loaded with parks and family-friendly amenities. Central Oahu is also home to Schofield Barracks Army Base and Wheeler Army Air Base.
Leeward Oahu
On the west side of the island, opposite Windward Oahu, Leeward Oahu is home of Kapolei, the “second city.” Here you’ll find nice, clean, consistent neighborhoods, and generally the best value on the island in new or newer homes. This is a growing population center for the island – ask me about employment opportunities in this region.
North Shore
Lots of islands have a north shore, but only Oahu has “The North Shore.” This globally famous destination for surfing and recreation still enjoys country living and a slower pace of life. Real-life hippies can still be found here! You’ll find good values in beachfront and close-to-the-beach properties here, and it’s feasible to commute to Honolulu from here.
