Oahu Neighborhoods - Leeward Coast                 Schools

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Far west Oahu is a study in contrasts, nestled between the dry, craggy Waianae Mountains and the unspoiled blue Pacific Ocean.

This was perfect for the first Hawaiians who sought shelter here over a thousand years ago. They felt that the majestic mountains provided a safe wall of isolation, allowing them to feed from the ocean and maintain an independent lifestyle.

All of the Waianae Coast shares 20 miles of some of the island's most beautiful, unspoiled beaches. Certainly, Oahu's best big-game fishing is off this coast. The Waianae Watershed consists of a 58.5 square-mile area west of the Waianae Range from Nanakuli to Kaena Point. There are nine ahupuaa (mountain to the sea land divisions) within this watershed: Nanakuli, Lualualei, Waianae, Makaha, Keaau, Ohikilolo, Makua, Kahanahaiki, and Keawaula.

Most Waianae Coast homes, condos and apartments are in the affordable price range, although a few expensive homes with incredible ocean views dot the landscape.

Nanakuli
Most Nanakuli residences are unpretentious 2- and 3-bedroom homes, about half owner-occupied and half affordable rentals. This good-hearted neighborhood is a beach picnic, backyard barbecue, potluck dinner kind of place. A word to the wise: If you ever get invited to a Nanakuli wedding or first-year baby luau, don't miss it. The festivities are legendary.

Waianae                                                                    Community News
The community of Wai'anae is home to one of the most unusual healing centers in all of the islands. The Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center has served the area for 30 years, with a broad range of health and healing services deeply rooted in Hawaiian values. All Waianae communities are as inextricably linked to Hawaiian values as they are to the ocean.

Makaha
The soul of the community of Makaha is celebrated in the richness of its progeny. Two of Makaha's finest were living legends until their untimely deaths in the late '90s. The Queen of Makaha, surfing sensation Rell Sunn, and Israel (Bruddah Iz) Kamakawiwo'ole, lead singer of the Makaha Sons of Niihau, embodied the sweetness and spirit of this beautiful community.
Two golf courses and one of Hawaii's restored heiaus are located in Makaha. For years, the Makaha International Surf Championship, one of the world's major surfing events was also held here.

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