Discover Kaka'ako: Honolulu’s Urban Hub of Culture and Innovation

Kaka'ako is a dynamic inner-city neighborhood that has transformed into one of Honolulu's coolest haunts. Nestled between downtown Honolulu and the Ala Moana Center, this area blends a rich history with modern urban vibes, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

A Historical Transformation

Originally a native Hawaiian agricultural community, Kaka'ako's roots are deep in fishing, saltmaking, and farming. By the early 1800s, it transitioned into an industrial zone filled with foundries and blue-collar workers. Today, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub characterized by pedestrian-friendly pathways, open spaces, and a plethora of places to shop, dine, and enjoy.

Where to Shop and Eat

Ward Village: This area features one of Hawaii’s premier movie theater complexes and trendy spots for shopping and dining. Don’t miss Kuaʻāina Burger for a taste of local flavor.

SALT at Our Kaka'ako: A city block dedicated to chic boutiques, bars, and dining options like Moku’s Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table pies.

South Shore Market: Perfect for picking up funky island-themed attire and Hawaiian knick-knacks.

Breweries: Kaka'ako is a paradise for beer enthusiasts with top spots like Aloha Beer Co., Waikiki Brewing Co., Honolulu Beerworks, and Off the Wall, each offering a unique craft beer experience.

Fine Dining: Merriman’s on Auhui Street serves fresh seafood classics, while Nobu Honolulu offers upscale Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes.

Parks and Recreation

Ala Moana Beach Park: A serene 100-acre park with calm waters and pristine white sand, perfect for family outings.

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park: Popular for picnics, cycling, and jogging, this park offers beautiful oceanfront views.

Popular Events

Eat the Street: Hawaii’s top food truck event held on the last Friday of every month at Kaka'ako Gateway Park.

Honolulu Night Market: Every third Saturday night, this market on Cook Street offers music, food, shopping, and fashion.

POW! WOW!: An annual street art event around Valentine’s Day where talented artists create vibrant murals throughout Kaka'ako.

Getting Around

While accommodations are limited in Kaka'ako, it is easily accessible from Waikiki Beach and Kuhio Avenue. TheBus lines #20, #3, #47, and #67 provide convenient public transport options. SALT offers a multistory garage with one hour of free parking and validated rates for extended stays.

Community Development

The Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA) plays a crucial role in transforming Kaka'ako into a lively urban neighborhood. By combining private enterprise and government efforts, HCDA aims to establish Kaka'ako as a premier urban location with top-notch facilities for shopping, entertainment, education, culture, and social activities.

Ward Village and Our Kaka'ako

Ward Village: Developed by the Howard Hughes Corporation, this master-planned community offers a perfect blend of island and urban living, with numerous high-rise residential towers and pedestrian-friendly environments.

Our Kaka'ako: Developed by Kamehameha Schools, this area encourages sustainable living and celebrates island culture through its green spaces and unique retail and dining experiences.

Conclusion

Kaka'ako stands as a testament to Honolulu’s evolving urban landscape. Whether you’re shopping at trendy boutiques, enjoying craft beers, attending vibrant cultural events, or simply relaxing in one of its beautiful parks, Kaka'ako has something to offer everyone. Embrace the blend of history and modernity as you explore one of Oahu’s most exciting neighborhoods.

Inquire today.

Mai Kashihara Mai Kashihara

Kaka’ako

Learn more about Kaka’ko living.

Discover Kaka'ako: Honolulu’s Urban Hub of Culture and Innovation

Kaka'ako is a dynamic inner-city neighborhood that has transformed into one of Honolulu's coolest haunts. Nestled between downtown Honolulu and the Ala Moana Center, this area blends a rich history with modern urban vibes, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

A Historical Transformation

Originally a native Hawaiian agricultural community, Kaka'ako's roots are deep in fishing, saltmaking, and farming. By the early 1800s, it transitioned into an industrial zone filled with foundries and blue-collar workers. Today, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub characterized by pedestrian-friendly pathways, open spaces, and a plethora of places to shop, dine, and enjoy.

Where to Shop and Eat

Ward Village: This area features one of Hawaii’s premier movie theater complexes and trendy spots for shopping and dining. Don’t miss Kuaʻāina Burger for a taste of local flavor.

SALT at Our Kaka'ako: A city block dedicated to chic boutiques, bars, and dining options like Moku’s Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table pies.

South Shore Market: Perfect for picking up funky island-themed attire and Hawaiian knick-knacks.

Breweries: Kaka'ako is a paradise for beer enthusiasts with top spots like Aloha Beer Co., Waikiki Brewing Co., Honolulu Beerworks, and Off the Wall, each offering a unique craft beer experience.

Fine Dining: Merriman’s on Auhui Street serves fresh seafood classics, while Nobu Honolulu offers upscale Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes.

Parks and Recreation

Ala Moana Beach Park: A serene 100-acre park with calm waters and pristine white sand, perfect for family outings.

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park: Popular for picnics, cycling, and jogging, this park offers beautiful oceanfront views.

Popular Events

Eat the Street: Hawaii’s top food truck event held on the last Friday of every month at Kaka'ako Gateway Park.

Honolulu Night Market: Every third Saturday night, this market on Cook Street offers music, food, shopping, and fashion.

POW! WOW!: An annual street art event around Valentine’s Day where talented artists create vibrant murals throughout Kaka'ako.

Getting Around

While accommodations are limited in Kaka'ako, it is easily accessible from Waikiki Beach and Kuhio Avenue. TheBus lines #20, #3, #47, and #67 provide convenient public transport options. SALT offers a multistory garage with one hour of free parking and validated rates for extended stays.

Community Development

The Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA) plays a crucial role in transforming Kaka'ako into a lively urban neighborhood. By combining private enterprise and government efforts, HCDA aims to establish Kaka'ako as a premier urban location with top-notch facilities for shopping, entertainment, education, culture, and social activities.

Ward Village and Our Kaka'ako

Ward Village: Developed by the Howard Hughes Corporation, this master-planned community offers a perfect blend of island and urban living, with numerous high-rise residential towers and pedestrian-friendly environments.

Our Kaka'ako: Developed by Kamehameha Schools, this area encourages sustainable living and celebrates island culture through its green spaces and unique retail and dining experiences.

Conclusion

Kaka'ako stands as a testament to Honolulu’s evolving urban landscape. Whether you’re shopping at trendy boutiques, enjoying craft beers, attending vibrant cultural events, or simply relaxing in one of its beautiful parks, Kaka'ako has something to offer everyone. Embrace the blend of history and modernity as you explore one of Oahu’s most exciting neighborhoods.

Read More