Malaekahana is a neighbourhood in Oahu, Hawai'i. The name means 'The Sanctuary.' Malaekahana has no commercial zoning and its residential zoning consists of lower density housing types than those seen elsewhere on the island. Malaekahana comprises a small portion of the Koolaupoko District and lies at the northeast point of the island, bordering Diamond Head to the southeast and Makapuu Point to the east (where Kaena Point State Park is located).
Mānoa Valley borders it to the north, Ko Olina Resort & Marina abuts it to the west, with Kalanianaole Highway running through it along its eastern edge. This area was once a quiet rural retreat, however, it is now the site of one of Hawaii's most important residential and commercial developments.
The cost of real estate in the Malaekahana neighborhood can range up to the multi-millions. They range in size from modest to large and luxurious and many feature views of the ocean as well as tranquil, tree-lined streets. The houses in this area are expensive because of the ideal location and beautiful surroundings. This neighbourhood has a lot of greenery and scenic landscapes. Even though it is surrounded by luxury homes, it still retains its natural beauty and charm.
One of the things that makes this neighborhood so desirable is that it is away from all of the traffic and bustle of city life. You can find serenity in this peaceful area; there are green pastures, beautiful landscapes, and flowers. It's very quiet here so you can enjoy your family or do some peace-keeping activities.
Living in Malaekahana, Honolulu
Malaekahana is not as busy as other areas in Honolulu. This neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, so it's the perfect place to just sit back and relax. It's an area where you can do some peace-keeping activities – there won't be any disturbances or loud sounds here.
The most notable public place in this neighborhood is Malaekahana Beach on the east side of Diamond Head, which is a small cove located at the end of Malaekahana Road. This beach is a popular summertime destination for residents who seek to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's not very busy here so you can enjoy your family or do some peace-keeping activities without any disturbances.
There are a number of exceptional schools that the students residing in the Malaekahana neighborhood have access to. These include several highly esteemed public and private institutions such as:
- AIKI Christian Academy (Ages 2–8)
- Aikahi Elementary School(Ages 6–12)
- Hawaii Preparatory Academy (Ages 2–8)
- Farrington High School (Ages 9–12)
- Washington Middle School (Ages 7–12)
- Kaimuki Christian School (Ages 2–8)
- Kaimuki High School (Ages 13+)
- Mid-Pacific Institute International Studies Program (Grades 11 and 12)
Malaekahana is quiet and peaceful, so you won't find any big or well known shopping centers here, which adds to the small-town charm of the community. The only retail center in this neighbourhood is the Malaekahana Shopping Center, which features such establishments as a Safeway grocery store, Longs Drugs, Romano's Macaroni Grill restaurant, Bank of Hawaii, Chase bank, and a Subway restaurant.
Malaekahana is just minutes from the Kahuku district of Oahu, where you'll find the Windward Mall – which has numerous retail stores as well as a cinema complex. If you want to venture out of the neighborhood for more shopping or dining options, there is no shortage of these within a short drive from Malaekahana.
You can also swim in one of the many beaches that are close to the area. The best beaches for swimming include:
- Hanauma Bay Beach Park
- Waimanalo Beach Park
- Kailua Beach Park
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities including horseback riding, surfing, hiking, and golf. You can also take a hike up to the summit of Diamond Head Crater for breathtaking views of Honolulu and the surrounding area or try out one of Oahu's many golf courses including the Royal Hawaiian Golf Course.
There are various restaurants in this neighborhood that offer different types of cuisines. Some of these include Japanese, Chinese, and American cuisines. The most notable restaurant in the area is Japengo Restaurant & Bar, which serves traditional Hawaiian cuisine. This establishment is conveniently located inside the Malaekahana Shopping Center. The restaurant boasts an inviting atmosphere and really good service. Its signature dish is the Grilled Paiai'e Burger, which is one of the favorites amongst the locals.
Although the Malaekahana community is one of the smaller communities on the island, there is still a wide range of activities for residents to enjoy!