Hawaii Real Estate News

The beautiful Ko Olina Resort and Marina are situated on the leeward coast of Oahu, Hawaii. The resort community is fast gaining popularity amongst the public. Picturesque landscapes, well built communities and a convenient network of markets make moving to this area greatly worthwhile. The place spoils one for choices. From cosy single homes to palatial condominiums, there are a range of options to select from according to one’s taste and affordability. Here is looking at the reasons why one would consider moving to the Ko Olina Resort community.

Location

Deep blue oceans, white sand beaches and clear blue skies make the resort a dream location for most. A far cry from the hustle bustle of Honolulu, Ko Olina provides you with peace and a sense of comfort in finding a home away from home. The four man-made lagoons Kolola, Ulua, Hanu, and Nai'a accentuate the exquisite beauty of this location. The lagoons have wide pathways around them which can be used for biking, strolling etc. Apart from the breath-taking scenic beauty of this place, Ko Olina is also well equipped with every facility meant to make life comfortable, easy and secure.

The Ko Olina community

Ko olina resort features beautifully designed residential communities surrounded by beautiful five star hotels and resort villas. There are six communities in totality. The communities offer you a variety to select from according to your own needs. An individual according to his/ her taste can select the community to settle down in. For example, the Coconut Plantations community are done up beautifully in plantation village like settings whereas the Kai Lani community comprises of architectural Hawaiian style houses.  The communities have recreation centres, barbecues, swimming pools and are walking distance from the beaches.

Housing Options

Buyers have the option of choosing between single homes, townhouses, condominiums and pent houses. There are townhouses with well done spacious interiors and beautiful landscapes that one can settle for. If a person’s foremost need is privacy then he can invest in independent well furnished single houses. The number of bedrooms can vary from two to three to four according to one’s requirements. There are also magnificent condominiums and pent houses with a splendid view of the ocean. The buyers can settle for a golf course or ocean frontage according to their likes. The properties are also fitted with modern day amenities for the buyer’s comfort.

Facilities

In terms of facilities Ko Olina ensures that the buyer enjoys world class facilities.  Well equipped markets, retail stores, shopping venues, fine dining joints and vibrant nightclubs are some of the luxuries provided here. Being a part of the local community also enables the members to get a discount in the shops, spas, restaurants etc. The local community also works towards the education and employment growth of the area. There is a well constructed golf course and five star hotels which attract celebrities from around the world to this place.  There are a number of recreational activities like kayaking, diving, snorkelling, cruising etc that one can enjoy here.

Lifestyle

The prime reason for shifting to this place is because of the lifestyle it offers.  Along with providing one with peace and seclusion, it also allows one to enjoy a comfortable Hawaiian beach life. There are 24x7 manned security arrangements too, if required. Mixing with the community, working for the Ko Olina Club while blissfully enjoying the pristine beauty of nature fused with the comforts and luxuries of modern day living is what makes this destination a growing craze in today’s time.

The safe havens of Ko Olina resort, Oahu, Hawaii offer favourable opportunities to investors interested in Ko Olina real estate investment. The brilliantly designed resort and marina has become the hotspot in property investments due to its growing popularity. The location is a rising favourite with vacationers and is also a budding location for exquisite and expensive destination weddings, holding great prospects for both buyers and sellers. Investments in this region are bound to bring increasing returns due to its obvious reputation. Its wide recognition has given Ko Olina a brand status of its own.  Here are a list of reasons why one really should invest in this resort and marina.

Region

Ko Olina is situated on the leeward side of Oahu in Hawaii which is famous for its warm tropical climate. Surround by a rich and diverse landscape, beautiful beaches and the vast Pacific, this place is almost like a paradise on Earth. It is a part of the city and county of Honolulu, yet is a far cry from the hustle bustle of Honolulu. The location allows one to enjoy the peace and quietness of the area as well as gives one a taste of the true Hawaiian lifestyle. Owing to its favourable weather, exquisite sceneries, well designed and developed communities this region thus enjoys great popularity in the tourism industry. 

Property Options

The six beautifully designed communities namely Coconut plantation, Kai Lani, Golf Estates, Fairways, Hillside Villas and Beach villas give a range of options to investors. The types of houses range from town homes to condominiums. Every property is well furnished with hardwood flooring, lighting, appliances, granite counters, centralized air conditioners etc. There are also 24/7 manned security posts. Communities have their parking areas, swimming pools, recreation centres, jogging grounds etc. The front area view could be either of the oceans or the mountains or the golf course depending on the areas. The prices range from being decently reasonable to being exorbitantly expensive depending on property and locations. However, investors have a wide range of options to choose from according to their preferences and affordability.

Activities and Amenities

One could go on talking about the specialties and facilities of this place. The resort houses the  Marriott Ihilani Ko Olina Resort, the Ko Olina Golf Club, the Ko Olina Beach Villas Resort and the Aulani Disney Resort. There are fantastic dining places, pulsating nightclubs, recreational centres, restaurants and bars, spas and parlours turning life exciting in this small part of the world. The houses are well equipped with modern day comforts. The community clubs provide a discount to its members in various stores. There are enough employment and growth opportunities in the region and security is well managed.

Future Prospects

This beautiful scenic region of Hawaii is a craze with tourists all around the world. There is so much to do here, from enjoying the scenic beauty of the region to exploring a vibrant and colourful under water life, shopping through the web of markets and enjoying the weather, the ocean and the luxuries attached to this paradise. Exotic wedding chapels attract people from different parts of the world to this place for a destination wedding. Investors can put their houses on rents and earn a substantial rental income. The property prices of this favoured destination are only expected to rise in future, making it a boon for current investors. Hence, investing in this popular and successful beach resort will definitely ensure big returns on investment.

The Ko Olina Resort is a beautiful stretch of land spread over 642 acres and situated in Oahu, Hawaii. It is swiftly making its way to being called as one of the most favoured holiday destinations in the world. The intricately planned resort has plenty to offer to a vacationer.  From breath-taking views from beautiful hotels to a variety of leisure activities for recreation like water sports, golf, fishing etc are available here. This place promises one a perfect holiday, full Hawaiian style. Here is taking a look at the variety of things that are there to do in this visitor’s paradise.   

Water Sports

Water Sports here would allow you to enjoy snorkelling, diving, sport fishing, boating etc. Snorkel tours are a must to take once you are here. It is a great experience and takes you through an amazingly breathtaking under-water tour. You have the wonderful opportunity to come across tropical fish in brilliant colours, spot spinning dolphins, magnificent sea turtles, humpback whales etc. Sport fishing is another great experience especially if you manage to get your hands on some. If you want to go boating and would like the boat only to yourself then you can avail the option of a boat charter. All in all, water sports here are an utterly thrilling experience that every vacationer will enjoy.

Shopping

Ko Olina offers its visitors a great variety of shopping options. From bustling market places to boutiques, the place consists of numerous interesting locations selling both big brands and local made specialties from where the vacationers can pick up an assortment of items.  From clothes to edibles to souvenirs and mementos, there is an availability of everything one would look for both in terms of variety and quality. Some of the stores that vacationers can visit are Ko Olina Marina Shop, Golf Shop, Ihilani Boutique, and Marriott’s Marketplace etc.

Golf

Ko Olina Golf Club is an 18 hole Golf Course designed by Ted Robinson and features a Ko Olina Golf Academy too. The location is extremely picturesque and the golf club is suitable for players of all levels. The clubhouse also comprises of a restaurant and its own golf shop. So if you are somebody who knows a thing or two about golf and want to unwind, then you have just found the right place.

Spa

A refreshing holiday wouldn’t be refreshing enough if it didn’t include a rejuvenating spa treatment. The Ko Olina Resort and Marina comprise of three wonderful spas, namely, Ihilani Spa, Aulani Spa and the Marriott’s Spa. These spas use ancient Hawaii treatments for rejuvenation of the body and include massage, facial, wraps, scrubs and other such body treatments.  There are salons and parlours for all other beauty treatments too, along with meditation grounds and Zen gardens too.

Dining

Ko Olina comprises of some fantastic dining joints serving multi cuisine food including American, Japanese, continental and seafood to name a few.  There are above a dozen eateries including the famous Roy’s restaurant, which is situated in the KO Olina Golf Club, Paradise Cove Luau, and Naupaka Terrace etc. The resort also hosts two shows namely Fia Fia Polynesian Show and Stars Above Hawaii which feature some excellent food.

The beauty of the place and the exquisite wedding chapels situated here make it a favoured location for destination weddings. On the whole, if beaches are what one is looking for on a holiday, Ko Olina comes out as the undisputed winner. From grand hotels and villa resorts to beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue oceans, the place ensures that your holiday is filled with great sights, relaxation and more adventure sports you can shake a fist at! 

Oahu’s North Shore is a beautiful area, with pristine beaches, lush forests, friendly people and a combination of a constant buzz of activity and stillness.

Weather

There is hardly a climate change between winter and summer. Most of the days are either “mostly sunny” or “partly cloudy”, with the average temperature falling within the range 73°F - 81°F. Rainfall is generally brief and light, although it increases with altitude. From May through October are the months with least amount of rainfall. June and July are the driest months. The annual average rainfall is 28.41 inches. The north short of Oahu is famous for the tremendous waves in winter, which is an attraction for a large number of professional surfers.

Real estate

Rentals – A large number of condos and homes are available for rent for different price ranges. The houses available for long term rent range from small apartments to large sea-facing homes along the beach. Most of these have a one year lease. These can be furnished or unfurnished, depending on the realtor, location and price.

North Shore Real estate sales have increased over the past year, although there has been a decrease in prices. Thus, if you’re planning to move to Oahu’s North Shore and your stay is for a couple of years or more, buying a property would be a wise investment. As the prices are said to increase, now would be a time as good as any to invest in the real estate market of Oahu.

People

The people of the north shore of Oahu are among the friendliest and most helpful. They belong to different walks of life and instantly instil a sense of adventure in you. As Hawaii as such is a popular tourist location, they are accommodative and ready to help. Surfing is the most popular sport and there are a number of art activities that go on throughout the year.

Food

Sea food is quite obviously the most popular. There are a number of authentic local delicacies and dishes. The local cuisine is characteristic of the Hawaiian Islands. There are a number of cuisines, such as Mexican, Chinese, and Italian that are also available.

Lifestyle

Oahu’s North Shore lifestyle has something for everyone. For the adventure seeker, there are a number of adventure activities and sports that he/she can engage in. Surfing is the most popular sport, and the northern shore is home to world-class surfing schools, instructors and trained professionals. The waves in different locations are ideal for different levels of surfers. Scuba diving, snorkelling, jet skiing, and kayaking are other activities that are offered. Not only water sports, air-borne adventures such as gliding and sky diving are also popular. On land, camping, hiking, biking and rock climbing are all adventure activities that locals and visiting tourists engage in. For the laid-back person, the beaches offer fun and frolic. Amongst its vast stretches of beaches and breath-taking views, Oahu’s North Shore offers artistic refuge for the culturally inclined. There are a number of activities that happen all through the year. The Polynesian Cultural Centre stages shows and dances from various Pacific Island Nations such as Fiji and Tahiti. They offer insights into the daily activities of their inhabitants. Art is an important part of the Oahu lifestyle. Art galleries are abundant and annual art shows are held.

The north shore of Oahu is one of those few places where work meets play, in the midst of nature’s beauty, where life is lived to its fullest. 

The northern shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque shores, where you can do just about anything from sun bathing to professional surfing. There are a range of adventure sport activities for beginners as well as professions. It makes for a perfect holiday location, where you can combine adventure and leisure. Known for its pristine beauty and legendary beaches, it’s a favourite refuge for Hawaii’s locals.

Camping/Hiking/Biking

It is said that there’s no better way to explore a place than by foot or by bike. Throughout the northern shore, there a number of mountain biking and hiking trails that help you discover the beauty that the northern shore of Oahu is. The slopes off Keaena Point and the trails above Pupukea are particularly enchanting.

For first-time campers, the northern shore is a perfect location because of its long stretches of beaches where you can pitch a tent anywhere and enjoy the waves under a moon-lit night. For more well-defined camping areas, like Peacock Flats located near Mokuleia Beach, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources located in downtown Honolulu provide permits to hike, hunt and camp.

Resorts like the Turtle Bay Resort, offer amazing horseback rides along the coast. To explore the lush forest areas on horseback, there are a number of stables near Waimea Valley.

Rock climbing is also offered for people of different skill levels.

Adventure sports

Gliding –Dillingham Airfield offers some of the most beautiful flights while the Honolulu Soaring Club has exhilarating acrobatic rides in motorless gliders.

Powered hand glide – If you want to have an ultimate thrilling experience, in the air, powered hand glide is the way to go. Basics of ultra-light flying are also taught. Even from a bird’s eye, the northern shore is breath-taking in its beauty.

Sky diving – Jump over the clouds, fall through the skies and land on the shore, and all along, experience a truly magnificent view of the northern shore. If beauty and adventure is what  you seek, this is your answer.  

Jet Ski – No beach holiday is complete without experience the beauty of the sea on a jet ski. An ideal family adventure activity, there are a number of rental places like the Watercraft Connection in Haleiwa. The ski comes in two models – one seater and two seater. Drive into the enchanting pacific for an experience of a lifetime.

Kayaking – Summer is the best time for kayaking as the waves are dangerously large during winters. Several rental places such as Surf-n-Sea offer kayaks for rent for half a day or an entire day. Kayaking lets you enjoy the waves and sounds of the Pacific Ocean, leaving you with an unforgettable experience.

Scuba diving/ Snorkelling - Scuba diving and snorkelling are two activities that will leave you in awe. The beauty of the sea cannot be explained in words, it has to be experienced. Sharks Cove is one of the most popular diving spots, with miles of lave tubes and cave formations.

Surfing – The northern shore of Oahu is home to some of the most popular professional surfing waters. The surf spots suit every level of surfing. A beginner can learn from some of the best surfing schools and trainers. Chun’s Reef and Puaena Point are two of the most popular spots for beginners.

Leisure

North shore shark tours offer a close-up view of the majestic sharks of the pacific. Haleiwa Town is the most popular shopping place in the northern shore. You can find anything and everything, ranging from surf shops and art galleries to authentic Hawaiian souvenirs. The Polynesian Cultural Center, located east of the Turtle Bay Resort in Laie, stages shows and dances from various Pacific Island nations. Waimea Valley Park is home to some of the world’s most unique plant species. “Moon Walks” that are conducted, mustn’t be missed. Lastly, the local delicacies and cuisine must not be missed.

The north shore of Oahu is one of the most picturesque and beautiful locations in Hawaii. Apart from being a popular tourist location, it is also home to a number of adventure sports and cultural activities. Whether it’s a beach house, a condo or a house overlooking one of the many lush forests, owning a home on Oahu’s North Shore is a matter of pride.

Current scenario

With recession and prominent financial crisis, and the real estate bubble which recently burst, property prices have gone down. But over the past few months, they have been stabilising. Despite this, the number of buyers is increasing as they can obtain better prices and bargains. Since the stock market is highly volatile, investors are turning to the real estate market to invest. Hence, there is no better time than now to buy a property in the north shore of Oahu. 2010 saw a rise in property sales. This is a welcome change for the Hawaiian real estate market. There is a sign of consumer confidence in Hawaii real estate, which will only lead to an increase in property value.

Current mortgage rates

With inputs from Mortgage Bankers Association of Hawaii and The Hawaii Association of Mortgage Brokers, comprehensive statistics on the current mortgage rates have been compiled by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Although these vary from lender to lender, they are largely based on $200,000 owner-occupant, 20 per cent down mortgages. The interest rates vary from 2.750% (Wells Fargo Home Mortgage) to 3.375 %( Savvy Realty & Loans) for 15 year terms of fixed type. For 30 year fixed terms, the interest rates vary from 3.790% to 4%, which are offered by a range of banks and lenders. For 5 year, adjustable rate mortgages (AGM), the interests rates are from 1.875 %( Wells Fargo Home Mortgage) to 4.250 %( Territorial Savings).

Property sales trends

In comparison to 2009, 2010 saw a change in property sales by 15.4%. The total number of sales recorded was 6,985, as compared to 6,052 in 2009.

In August 2011, 279 single-family homes and 338 condominiums were reported to have been sold. This is an increase of 15 percent for condominiums and 20.8 percent for single-family homes from

August 2010. According to the indicator of Days on Market, with homes listing for 31 days,  single-family homes sales closed at a faster pace than August 2010. Sales of Condominiums, however, listing for 41 days, closed at a slower pace compared to August last year. This positive trend in property sales is a ray of hope for current investors and buyers in the immediate future.

Property prices trends

For single-family homes, the average sale price was $ 712,251, in 2010 as opposed to $ 684,341 in 2009, a change of 4.1%. For condominiums, the average sale price increased from $ 3 46,103 in 2009 to $ 3 59,151 in 2010, a change of 3.8%. Median sale prices increased by 3.1% for single-family homes and 1% for condominiums.

In August 2011, although there was an increase in sales, there has been a dip the property prices. For single-family homes, the median sale price was $557,500. For condominiums, the median sale price was $300,000. Compared to August 2010, this is a decrease of 13.1% for single-family homes and a decrease of 1% for condominiums. Although these decreases in costs are a cause for concern, it is to be believed that an increase in sales would, in the long run, increase the value of the property. 

Realtors and brokers

As with any other locality, there are a number of popular realtors and brokers offering a wide range of prices, and deals. For background information of registered realtors, the Honolulu Board of Realtors can be contacted. As with any property buying, do your research, of the property and the realtor you wish to go through and take a wise decision for a home in the picturesque north shore of Oahu. 

When visiting a loved one stationed at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii, even Honolulu which is only 12 miles away from the city of Kaneohe oftentimes feels just too far away. You have been separated for months, maybe even a year or more and the only thing on your mind is spending as much time as possible with your loved one. That’s understandable and why so many people are looking for vacation rentals in Kaneohe.

Military Population

The actual Marine Corps Base Hawaii, located in Kaneohe Bay is home to an estimated 14,000 military personnel and their families from both the Marines and the U.S. Navy. However, the latest statistics show that more than 25,000 people actually live and work there if civilian employees are counted into the mix. Although many service men and women do have their families on the base, others have families back home who come to visit as time and money permits.

Vacation Rental Prices

For this reason, vacation rentals in Kaneohe are often booked up well in advance, but even so, prices are not unreasonably high. For example, it is possible to find a townhome in Kaneohe that rents for less than $1800 a week but sleeps 6 people comfortably, with all the amenities you could hope for. There are even some vacation rentals that sleep up to 20 people and others that are just small studios for single people or couples.

Conveniently Located

Many vacation rentals are right on the water with phenomenal views of water to the east and mountains to the west. While there are not a great deal of actual tourist attractions in Kaneohe itself, its location quite near the H-3 and Highway 830 makes it convenient to travel to literally any part of the island. However, there are a couple of amazingly serene places to visit for those who are looking to spend some time journeying inward.

Quiet Moments in an Authentic Buddhist Temple

One of the most popular off-the-beaten track attractions on the island of Oahu is the Byodo-In Temple which is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains. Actually established in 1968, this Buddhist temple was constructed entirely without nails to commemorate the centennial of the first immigrants from Japan to Hawaii. The temple itself is an exact replica, built to scale, of the temple found in Uji, Japan which was built almost a millennium ago.

Exploring Honolulu by Day

Many tourists enjoy the relative quiet in Kaneohe but actually visit the island because they want to explore Honolulu by day. With many attractions located in downtown Honolulu and on world famous Waikiki beach, being less than 20 miles away on the ‘quiet side’ of the island makes for the perfect getaway. Kaneohe is just minutes away from family on base, yet just a short distance to all the most popular attractions.

Keep in mind that the actual city of Kaneohe has more than 95% of its housing units occupied which means that town houses, condos and single family residences set up as rentals are at a premium. While it is possible to find hotels and resorts with availability, many visitors prefer the solitude of cottages and bungalows on the water to drink in the beauty that surrounds them with uninterrupted abandon. If you are looking for excitement by day and quiet by night, Kaneohe just might have what you need.

Just about 12 miles across the island, to the northeast of the City of Honolulu lays the CDP, Kaneohe which is close enough to the city, but not too close for comfort. Kaneohe is actually an interesting little city of approximately 36,000 people with the median household income being $83,111. To say that this is an affluent area of the country might be stretching it a bit, but the fact remains that the median household income in the United States is $54,595 while just across 12 miles away the median household income in Honolulu is $63,608.

According to the data compiled from the 2010 Census, 79% of the residents of Kaneohe are over the age of 18. This means that 21% are either school age, or soon to be entering kindergarten which is why many people relocating to Kaneohe are interested in the schools which serve the area. There is one public high school, eight elementary schools and two private schools in Kaneohe. This is actually quite a good number of schools in that the total area of Kaneohe is only 6.57 sq. miles.

As for demographics, 49% of Kaneohe’s residents are male and 51% female. Only 11.4% of the population is Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders with the largest group of residents (27.9%) being those of two or more races. Interestingly, there is a huge Japanese population in Kaneohe as 23.6% hail from Japan which makes them the largest ethnic group in Kaneohe, with White Non-Hispanics totaling approximately 19.3%. Of the 6.1% who were foreign born, 87% of them are Asian.

As for the area itself, Kaneohe is on the windward coast of Oahu with nearby cities being Aiea, Maunawili, Waikane, Waimanalo Beach, Waimanalo, Ahuimanu, Kahaluu and Heeia. It is largely residential with a few restaurants and stores, but since it is in such close proximity to the City of Honolulu, that is just how the residents of this community likes it. A very low percentage of the homes here are vacant, and as of the latest statistical data, 96.4% of all housing units in Kaneohe are occupied.

In terms of real estate in, this means that property here is at a premium when you consider that the average of occupied housing units across the United States is 88.6% and the total of occupied housing units in the County of Honolulu is 92.3%. Very few properties are listed in the MLS for Kaneohe which means that when they do come up, they tend to sell quite quickly.

Temperatures on the windward side of the island of Oahu are much milder than they are on the southwestern coast where Honolulu is located. Where temperatures are in the high 80’s during the summer months in Honolulu, in Kaneohe they range in the low 80’s. Anyone who is looking for the excitement of a city but the weather of paradise is best served living in Kaneohe.

In fact, the price of real estate in Kaneohe is much lower than properties in the greater Honolulu area. It is possible to find affordable homes and condos starting at just over $200k. Anyone looking for a short drive to work in the city will find the 20 to 25 minute commute much more enjoyable than those living even closer on the Leeward side of the island that constantly battle huge traffic jams. Approaching from the east is said to be much, much quicker.

If ever there was a community that was worth relocating to, Kaneohe would be the place to consider. It is close to Honolulu with its exciting shops and beaches, but far enough away for quiet enjoyment. Close to the Kaneohe Marine Base, families with career servicemen are especially fond of the area, but so is anyone who has the good fortune to call Kaneohe home.

It is almost impossible anymore to find actual oceanfront property anywhere on earth, let alone in the coveted Hawaiian Islands. Yet, there are still some wonderful tracts of land in and near Kaneohe with oceanfront views to the east and the majesty of the mountains to the west. Considering the fact that this land is so near the City of Honolulu and on the most populous of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu, there are some amazing deals to be found with a little bit of negotiating skill and a local buyer’s broker.

Investor’s Paradise

There are a number of parcels which have already been subdivided and zoned for multi-family purposes which is where some condominiums are already being built. However, there are still adjacent lots, some large enough for up to six or more units. Some lots have been zoned residential while some are zoned mixed use and there are a few areas of commercial property still available as well. Since this side (the eastern Windward side) of the island is not nearly as built up as the western side with the City of Honolulu and trendy Waikiki Beach, investors can and should grab these amazing parcels while they are still available.

Buy Now – Build Later

Many people would love to plan for their retirement now, but would not like the expense of financing a home that they may not inhabit for several years to come. As a result, oceanfront property in Kaneohe that has been zoned residential and still at reasonable prices makes an ideal way to plan for the future. There was a time when states such as Florida and California had deals like this, but those coastal parcels are long gone. Even so, Hawaii has a much better climate as it is temperate all year long and the Windward side of Oahu is actually even more moderate than the western side of the island.

Owner Financing

At a time when banks and mortgage lenders are reluctant to write new loans, it is always refreshing to find land where owner financing is available. Sometimes this land was purchased with the intent of constructing a housing development or multi-family buildings, but for one reason or another, the project fell through. For whatever reason, there is still land available in Kaneohe with the option for owner financing.

Finding a Local Builder

One of the things you may want to discuss with your broker prior to buying land on Oahu, and in Kaneohe in particular, is for references for local builders. Although the land may be purchased for a great price, it will at some point in time be necessary to build a home on that land. If you are looking to build almost immediately, check the price per square foot as well as whether or not those builders can do the construction to your specs or if they prefer to build from their plans. This is one of the most important considerations before buying property if you plan to build in the near future.

Whether you are looking for property as part of an investment portfolio or on which to build a home in paradise, Kaneohe has some of the loveliest oceanfront properties still available anywhere on earth. Keep in mind that there are few properties anywhere in the United States that are as pristine as these parcels in Kaneohe and it won’t be long before these are snatched up as well.

Although Honolulu is one of the all-time major tourist locations in the world, there truly is more to this island city than meets the eye. Honolulu is, of course, the capitol city of the State of Hawaii, but Honolulu is also a county that encompasses some of the most amazing travel destinations in the world. Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu has too much to see and do in just a few days or weeks.

If you are planning on a vacation in Honolulu, plan on staying at least a couple of weeks – longer if your budget allows. Once you start researching all there is to see and do, you will find that perhaps a monthly vacation rental would allow you time to get in some of what you had planned, but don’t bet on it. You will be back next year for another month, or maybe even two.

One of the first things which many tourists want to see is usually the downtown Honolulu Iolani Palace which is even more famous in recent years because of the notoriety Disney Movies gave to Princess Ka’iulani. Although she was heir to the throne, she never reigned as her Aunt Liliuokalani was actually the last reigning monarch before Hawaii became a U.S. territory. What draws visitors to Iolani Palace is the fact that this is the only Royal Palace ever in existence in the United States.

From there, most visitors want to participate in an authentic lu’au. One of the most famous is the Royal Lu’au which is held on the Ocean Lawn of the world famous luxury resort, The Royal Hawaiian. Whether you are staying at the resort or simply want to view an authentic lu’au which is accompanied by a feast literally fit for a king. The Royal Lu’au is held Monday through Thursdays and typically lasts from 6 to 8:30 PM. Music and entertainment is provided by the Royal Polynesian Extravaganza.

On the day when you plan to attend the Royal Lu’au, make sure you arrive hours earlier so that you can get some fun in the sun in on world famous Waikiki beaches. This is one facet of Honolulu, which many of us aren’t aware of, and that is that Waikiki is actually an Oceanside neighborhood in the city of Honolulu. Perhaps you even have a vacation condo or vacation timeshare in Waikiki which makes it even more convenient to set out sightseeing in a city with so much to see and do.

If it is shopping you are after, then the Aloha Tower is a must see. This is one of Honolulu’s historic landmarks, which is home to an awesome outdoor dining and shopping marketplace. For more than 40 years, this 1926 building was the tallest building in Hawaii and the clock in its tower is still one of the largest anywhere in the United States. Located close to downtown Honolulu on the Honolulu Harbor, the Aloha Tower is only about 15 to 20 minutes from Waikiki and also quite near to Honolulu’s famed Chinatown.

When vacationing with the family, don’t forget to visit the Waikiki Aquarium, Sea Life Park, Atlantis Submarines or the newest attraction in Honolulu (yet again in Waikiki), Teddy Bear World Hawaii. Of course, you don’t need to bring the kids along to enjoy these fabulous attractions because each and every one of them enthralls young and old alike. Perhaps you would rather visit the Honolulu Zoo that is on 42 of the most breathtaking tropical acres or you would rather set out for nearby Pearl Harbor or the Diamond Head State Monument for a bit of history.

In any event, Honolulu is so much more than meets the eye which is why most tourists actually do plan on staying more than just a week or two. Book your vacation rental well in advance to make sure you get the best deal during the time of year you plan on visiting. With one of the best climates on the face of the earth, any time of year is the perfect time to visit Honolulu, capitol of Hawaii and the beating heart of the island of Oahu.