The Hawaiian dream of Henry J. Kaiser has become a reality. In his original plan, he described the warmth of a community, both quiet and energetic. His vision was of a place where quality of life would be reflected in every home and open space. He designed wide waterways and gently curving roads leading to awe-inspiring vistas. Every care has been taken to create a sense of belonging to this peaceful and idyllic place. Kaiser’s planned community and his elegant estate, like the island itself, created a perfect destination to relax and recharge.

Only a short drive from Waikiki, Kaiser set his eyes on a marshy wetland called Kuapa. His vision for the area was a utopian residential community. He negotiated the development contract for 6,000 acres. Suggesting that thousands of island residents would need a four-lane highway to more easily commute to and from home brought smiles and even laughter from the city fathers.

Henry J. Kaiser established a concrete products plant in Hawaii Kai for the purpose of producing low cost cement homes, saying, “What Hawaii makes – makes Hawaii.” He was often quoted, “it is remarkable how many persons I find who come here for a vacation, fall in love with the Islands as I did, and come back to establish businesses and residences. From the moment I first saw the magnificent Koko Head area, I knew here at last was the place in which to bring and to live my dream of a complete, perfectly planned place for living.”

“As a crossroads of Pacific travel, Hawaii naturally will gain from jet travel to other lands of the far-flung Pacific area. I see increasing travel through and beyond Honolulu throughout the Pacific – to Japan and the other countries of Asia, the South Sea Islands, romantic Tahiti, American Samoa and Fiji – the Philippines, New Zealand and Australia.”

The valleys above Hawaii Kai invite hiking or a stroll through the Koko Head Botanical Garden. The 646-foot summit of Koko Head crater offers birds-eye views of a coconut-lined coastline dotted with surf breaks and surf fishing spots and the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai. Hawaii Kai Golf Course offers two 18-hole courses; the champion course: par 72, and the executive course: par 55. Fine and casual dining, unique shops, theaters and outdoor entertainment are the signature of Hawaii Kai’s open-air shopping centers. Only minutes away, the world-famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the place where even wading ankle deep delivers an underwater view of hundreds of tropical reef fish – in Technicolor.

Kuapa Kai wetlands, Hawaii, Portlock & Koko Head 1961.

From Koko Head to Diamond Head – Hawaii Kai to Waikiki, the drive is short and easy. The excitement of the city, dining, nightlife, sporting events and the arts are only minutes away, yet Hawaii Kai and Portlock are the heart of a quiet community with the feel of an elegant and somewhat private township. Homes are built around a series of lagoons and canals leading to Maunalua Bay – a mecca for aquatic activities including pleasure boating, parasailing, jet and water-skiing  and snorkeling. Canal-front homes have boat docks. Neighbors wave at neighbors, jogging or kayaking after work. The island lifestyle is outdoor living. Homes open to spacious lanai and patios, and beyond to lush gardens, all perfect for outdoor entertaining.