Honolulu is steeped in rich Hawaiian history. In Hawaiian, Honolulu means “sheltered bay” or “place of shelter”.  Following a short period when the capital of the islands was in Kailua-Kona, Kamehameha III moved the capital permanently to Honolulu in 1845. Monarchs that followed developed Honolulu into a modern center of the Kingdom. Landmarks such as Iolani Palace, Ali’iolani Hale and St. Andrews Cathedral were erected during the monarchy period. Iolani Palace is actually the second royal palace, built and completed in 1882 under the reign of David Kalakaua. The only royal palace in the United States had electricity and telephones prior to The White House.

An icon of the Honolulu skyline, Aloha Tower, once the tallest building in the state, graced the waterfront in 1926 and was a welcoming beacon into Honolulu Harbor. A working harbor, it is our pivotal port for cruise ships and the transport of freight. Today, the skyline near the harbor is quite different with many skyscrapers that dwarf the tower.

Downtown Honolulu is the financial, commercial, and governmental center of Hawaii. Additionally, Downtown is noted for its cultural venues with the restoration and re-opening of Hawaii Theater and the re-awakening of Chinatown. The openings of hip restaurants and nightclubs have followed the art galleries and upscale retail shops. Downtown is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood and offers its residents a diverse and comfortable lifestyle.

As a long time resident of the neighborhood, I can attest to the area’s many charms. My neighborhood includes Chinatown to the west and the Capitol District to the East. Where else in the world can one dine in a French bistro and then enjoy a Hawaiian music concert in a historic theater? Where else in the world can one tour a palace and enjoy dim sum in a Chinatown restaurant a couple of blocks away? And all of this is within walking distance of your apartment!

There are truly great residential buildings downtown. Harbor Square and Harbor Court are close to the waterfront and provide interesting panoramas overlooking Honolulu Harbor. From Harbor Court one can look down on the decks of cruise ships, which are docked right across the street when in port. Some units in Harbor Square overlook Iolani Palace and the Capitol district dominated by the distinctive architecture of the State Capitol and surrounded by lots of open green space. Mauka are more wonderful buildings such as Honolulu Park Place, Honolulu Tower, Capitol Place, and The Pinnacle Honolulu. Views from these buildings are stunning, mauka to makai. Each building offers unique characteristics and amenities. For example, Honolulu Park Place has a bowling alley within its recreational facilities. Available space options in all downtown buildings include a range from studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units and in the case of The Pinnacle Honolulu, very spacious full floor units.

For those seeking a comfortable urban lifestyle, no place beats downtown. The area is perfect for those who work in the neighborhood and want the convenience of walking to work. Residents develop a sense of community and are proud of the historic and cultural aspects of the neighborhood. And at this time of year, downtown is very special as blocks are adorned with lights and decorations of the season. If you haven’t already, take a stroll down Bishop Street and then on to City Hall and enjoy the glittering city blocks of the neighborhood. You will appreciate the many wonders of downtown and the experience will add a special memory to your Holiday Season.