“A Haven in the Heights” – Pacific Heights

These days, there are many havens in the heights across Oahu, but a century ago, before the advent of convenient transportation, much of the development in the higher elevations was focused on the ridges overlooking downtown Honolulu.

Pacific Heights, in particular, was a favorite of kamaaina families who wanted a quick getaway from their hot offices in Oahu’s main financial district to the cooler temperatures, lush vegetation, and spectacular views of the tropical heights.

Situated between Pauoa and Nuuanu valleys, Pacific Heights offers views of Honolulu Harbor, Punchbowl Crater, and most of the coastline from Diamond Head to Barbers Point.

Now host to about 300 single-family homes, Pacific Heights became the site of new real estate development in 1899 when Charles Desky began taking potential buyers up the hill on an electric railway to show them around. However, the enterprise failed, and the original landowner, Charles Booth, reclaimed his property a few years later.

Development gathered momentum in the 1920s, by which time the city had initiated water service and cars were more available.

Fast forward to 2019 and the neighborhood is a mix of old and new homes of many eras and styles, including a five-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, two-story home near the top of the winding Pacific Heights Road, available through Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty for $1,288,000.

Myron Kiriu, Realtor and listing agent for the property, said the well-maintained home was built in 1951 and remodeled in 2013. It features 2,546 square feet of living space on 10,723 square feet of fee simple, R10-zoned terraced land.

“The home is move-in ready with fresh paint, new carpet, luxury vinyl plank flooring as well as natural hardwood, vaulted ceilings, and an upgraded master bedroom and bathrooms,” Kiriu said.

Other amenities include builtin bookshelves, cable TV, ceiling fans, solar heating, drapes, all major kitchen and laundry appliances, a 746-square-foot covered open-air lanai, and an enclosed garage.

“You don’t have to go to East Honolulu to enjoy ridge-lot views,” Kiriu added. “Pacific Heights is a hidden gem and something to consider for the buyer who wants to live close to downtown. It’s the first ridge you see when you look up from downtown Honolulu. If you’re in the market for a home with views that’s also conveniently located, this Pacific Heights home could be ideal.”

Kiriu is hosting an open house Sunday, March 24, from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information or to arrange a showing, contact Kiriu at 864-9000 or email MyronK@BetterHawaii.com.