Kakaako

Luxury living and ocean views in this majority-local neighborhood

Just south of downtown Honolulu and east of the Pacific Ocean, Kaka’ako gives locals a break. It is close to shops, restaurants and parks, so everything’s walkable. Built around several master-planned developments, this neighborhood incorporates living and playing into one space. Ward Village is a 60-acre development in this neighborhood, and SALT at Our Kaka’ako is another area to the west. These districts are known for their colorful murals and trendy small businesses, and they're only a few blocks from the Pacific Ocean. Honolulu — and the greater island of O’ahu — have nearly endless opportunities to get outside, so residents can take advantage of 200-plus days of annual sunshine.

Eating, shopping, living at Ward Village and SALT

Ward Village mixes high-end apartments and world-class restaurants. Department stores are in this area, too, such as Nordstrom Rack and T.J. Maxx. Whole Foods provides an upscale grocery option, and just south of the district, the Kaka’ako Farmers Market brings local vendors every Saturday. Toward the west, SALT at Our Kaka’ako is another mixed-use area with over 40 small businesses. It’s named after the salt flats that once covered this land, serving as a major source of industry. Moku Kitchen draws a big crowd for its New American food, and Highway Inn offers traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Beyond sit-down restaurants, this district has trendy breweries, juice spots, clothing boutiques and Korean grocers.