Hawaii’s Heavenly Heights

Thirteenth in a series

The volcanic activity that formed southeastern Oahu also sculpted one of Hawaii’s most dramatically beautiful landscapes. Dominated by towering Koko Crater and Koko Head, this dry, rugged corner of the island was the choice of visionary developer Henry Kaiser for his masterplanned Hawaii Kai community, which embraces virtually every type of home style and environment. Upscale residential development is concentrated in waterfront areas and on the ridgelines, one of which, Kamehame, is topped by the unique Na Pali Haweo neighborhood.

Within the subdivision of large view lots extending up the ridge to an elevation of 700 feet are approximately 180 luxury homes that overlook a sweeping panorama of crater, coastline, and the Hawaii Kai community below.

The mission of the developer, Maunalua Associates, was to create a new neighborhood of large, architect-designed homes on lots of 10,000 square feet minimum with deep setbacks and protected view channels. All utilities are underground. Buyers are required to observe architectural and landscaping criteria overseen by the home owners association. The developer also created the park at the entrance to Na Pali Haweo on Kamehame Drive and dedicated it to the owner’s association, which maintains it and provides security.

Dolores Bediones, Locations Realtor and Fine Homes Premier Specialist, a long-time resident of Na Pali Haweo, said, “What makes this neighborhood special is that almost all the homes have dramatic views while the lots themselves are mostly level, so you can step right outside to your pool and gardens. Plus all the conveniences of Hawaii Kai are only a short ride down the hill. Although it isn’t gated, Na Pali Haweo has the ambiance of a private, mountaintop enclave.”

Over the years, Bediones has sold dozens of homes in the neighborhood, primarily to local buyers. She is currently offering a home at 1240 Kamehame Drive at $1,995,000. Built in 2000, it was extensively remodeled in 2012.

Situated on an 11,536 square foot rim lot fronting preservation land, the two-story home overlooks the Hawaii Kai Marina, ocean, and coastline to Diamond Head in the west. With 2,911 square feet under roof, the home is open, spacious, and elegantly designed with a cathedral ceiling and contoured staircase leading to the balconied upper level where two of the four bedrooms are located. A luxurious master suite that opens to the swimming pool is located on the ground floor, as well as a media room and kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, hardwood cabinets, and granite counters. High quality finishes throughout include Travertine floors on the lower level and hardwood flooring upstairs.

The large, free form tile swimming pool is surrounded by an expansive deck ideal for entertaining or just relaxing and enjoying views of Hawaii Kai below, the ocean with its ever-changing colors, and the spectacle of brilliant sunsets behind Diamond Head.

Quality finishes extend to the exterior with stuccoed walls and Monier tile roof. The 451 square foot garage provides parking for two cars, and several more cars can be parked on the long driveway.

Bediones commented, “The well designed and beautifully maintained landscaping sets the stage for the exquisite home you are about to enter. Then the front door opens, and you are looking straight through the main living area to the view outside. This is a feature found in very few homes and just one of many that make this home outstanding.” She is showing the home by appointment and at Sunday open houses. (Sunday, August 30, 2-5 p.m.)