Coastal Options – Southeastern Oahu – Niu Beach

The southeastern coast of Oahu, bracketed by Koko Head in the east and Diamond Head the west, claims some of Hawaii’s most desirable and valuable real estate.

Development along this approximately 10 mile stretch of scenic coastline, almost exclusively residential, includes primarily single family homes, a few townhome communities, and a cluster of highrise condominiums at the edge of Waikiki. A hotel, country club, golf course, and two private beach clubs constitute the only additional development. Numerous parks provide acres of open space along the coast and within the communities.

The first permanent or primary residences began replacing vacation cottages on beachfront lots nearly a century ago. Kamaaina families with primary homes in the valleys and on the heights were attracted by the sunny weather and clear, calm waters of Maunalua Bay. Today distinctive estates set the tone for upscale living in neighborhoods from Portlock to Kahala.

Over the years, southeast Oahu oceanfront neighborhoods have continued to reinvent themselves, retaining value despite negative market fluctuations and offering renewed opportunity for local and offshore builders, buyers, and investors.

On the shore of Maunalua Bay between Niu Peninsula and the long sandy beach that extends to the Paiko Wildlife Refuge, a 10,060-square-foot lot with a home and studio cottage has recently become available from Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties for $2.59 million.

According to listing agent Michael Kwak, the attraction is the potential of the land, more so than the four-bedroom, 2,266-square-foot home that was built on it more than 70 years ago.

“The home is a pleasant, nostalgic Hawaiian beach house that someone might want to preserve, with amenities that make it attractive in its own right,” Kwak said. “But ultimately, we are promoting the lot and location more than the existing house, considering it is ready for tear-down and rebuild.”

The lot extends 141 feet from the roadside to the seawall along the ocean, providing ample space for parking. It also features 70 linear feet of ocean frontage, with a permitted seawall that prevents property erosion.

Its proximity to Niu Peninsula creates the atmosphere of a “peaceful, private cove.” Kwak noted that the nearby beach is usually deserted, frequented mostly by local residents, and ideal for fishing, paddling, and surfing on the reefs.

Currently the R10-zoned, fee simple lot includes a grassy lawn on the ocean side and mature vegetation such as tall coco palms and hao trees.

“This is one of the best available oceanfront locations along the Kalanianaole Highway corridor,” Kwak added. “It’s five minutes to Hawaii Kai, 10 minutes to Kahala, and 15 minutes to Downtown Honolulu, with beautiful views of Koko Head, Koko Crater, Portlock, and the breaking surf on the outer barrier reef.”

For more information or to arrange a showing of the property, contact Kwak at 256-6439 or email MichaelK@cbpacific.com.