Coastal Options – Southeastern Oahu – Portlock

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.

Extending approximately a mile-and-a-half along the lower slopes of Koko Head on the shore of Maunalua Bay is east Oahu’s oldest and most prestigious neighborhood, Portlock.

Here, among a line-up of kamaaina estates, a luxurious oceanfront 4,634-square-foot home was built in 2002 on 12,270 square feet of fee simple, R-10-zoned land. The five-bedroom, 3.5-bath home was designed by award-winning architect John Hara to be both open and very private. It is currently available through Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties for $5.85 million.

“This is a direct oceanfront property with spectacular views toward Diamond Head in the west,” said listing agent Michael Shower.

Its openness is accentuated by numerous picture windows throughout and a wide, covered lanai that provides a view of the entire coast of Maunalua Bay, with the iconic profile of Diamond Head in the distance.

The concrete-built home’s privacy is enhanced by its location at the end of a private lane, with lush vegetation on all sides and a structural layout that frames the front outdoor area to create a courtyard-like space.

The main living area is on the ground level, with a guest quarters above the large garage. Interior detailing features Burmese teak hardwood throughout, including the floors, doors and cabinetry. Shower noted that the flooring has “ergonomic floor cushioning that gives it a soft feeling.”

Amenities include air conditioning, ceiling fans, high-end kitchen and laundry appliances, blinds, bookshelves, sliding pocket doors, and solar water heating.

A short drive to the eastern side of Koko Head takes you to the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, with its sandy swimming beach and snorkeling among the shallow reefs.

For more information or to arrange a showing, contact Shower at 375-4811 or michaels@cbpacific.com.