Named after whaling captain, Nathaniel Portlock, Portlock is one of the Islands’ most preferred neighborhoods.  A focal point of the community was the estate of the famous industrialist and philanthropist Henry J. Kaiser and currently owned by Fred and Annie Chan. Considered a haven for elegant living on the island of Oahu, the neighborhood provides the advantages of suburban living, including quiet seclusion, while still within close proximity to the attractions and business center of metropolitan Honolulu.  Portlock is adjacent to Hawaii Kai, which provides all the conveniences needed for comfortable living, including shopping, excellent schools, medical facilities, and fine dining.

The Portlock properties fronting the ocean are among the most desired on East Oahu.  There are about 50 oceanfront parcels in the neighborhood, with a handful having a Kalanianaole Highway address.  The neighborhood fronts Maunalua Bay, providing for a variety of water activities such as boating and surfing and is uniquely situated so as to minimize off-shore wind.  The views from Portlock are some of the most spectacular on the island.  The vistas of Diamond Head and the East Oahu coastline are both dramatic and serene.  Residents are treated to glorious sunsets, and the panorama of twinkling lights at night is breathtaking.

The average lot size for oceanfront parcels is approximately 18,000 square feet, with about 90 linear feet of ocean frontage.  Homes in the area were originally built about 50 or 60 years ago by Kamaaina families as summer homes although there were those who would commute to the city on a daily basis, as they do today.   In recent years, many of the homes have been updated or replaced completely. The new luxury homes being built tend to be quite large, often containing 5,000 to 6,000 square feet with an endless array of amenities.  This upgrading of the neighborhood has resulted in a dramatic increase in value of individual properties, as evidenced by recent sales activity in the area.

The market for luxury properties in Hawaii is global, and marketing properties of this caliber requires international exposure. As is the case with other high-end neighborhoods, many potential buyers for Portlock oceanfront offerings are coming from off-shore locations beyond Hawaii. Although new homes are being built and home owners come from all over the world, the neighborhood retains its unique charm of old Hawaii and an island lifestyle we cherish.