Honolulu

Mostly locals about 5 miles east of downtown Honolulu

King Kamehameha used to station his troops on the beaches and hills of Diamond Head-Kapahula-St. Louis Heights, known for its all-encompassing views of the Pacific coast. The southernmost point of O’ahu, this neighborhood has developed into condominiums and single-family housing, and most residents don’t have to brave swarms of tourists.  The famous Le'ahi — or Diamond Head — towers over the southern portion of the neighborhood, and Kapahula Avenue’s restaurants are along the western side. Anything north of Waialae Avenue is considered St. Louis Heights, as elevation increases into the northern mountains. Wherever residents choose to live, they’re only a few miles from Waikiki Beach.

Walkable to Kapahula Avenue and Kaimuki

Among the many restaurants along Kapahula Avenue, Leonard’s has been around since 1952, and it was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Rainbow Drive-In is a fast-food place that serves traditional Hawaiian lunch. Growler Hawai’i is a pub with beer, ciders, wine and probably the longest draft list in O’ahu. While the local food scene already has a lot of variety, Kaimuki offers fresh local options to the east.