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Wahi Lani, meaning “heavenly place” in Hawaiian, is a newly built residence that perfectly balances style and function in the heart of Hanalei Bay. Just steps from the bay’s famous white sands, this home is a true surfer’s sanctuary—crafted for effortless access to the waves and other outdoor adventures—while offering an idyllic blend of comfort, leisure, and island living. Sleek Sophistication and Surf Breezes Wahi Lani showcases architectural expertise, with its U-shaped design and lanai, which connect seamlessly to the outdoors. The residence’s heart is its central courtyard, framed by walls treated with Shou Sugi Ban, a traditional Japanese technique that imparts a lava-inspired texture with a rich charcoal hue. The striking visual contrast reflects a deep respect for natural materials and craftsmanship, while the integration of a pizza oven in the lanai adds a touch of culinary elegance. Refined Beach-House Ambiance Wahi Lani reinterprets the beach house concept, offering a refined yet comfortable retreat that blends modern Palm Springs vibes with Hawaii’s tropical flair. Its central courtyard and lanai, surrounded by Shou Sugi Ban walls, perfectly echo Hanalei’s breezy beach atmosphere. The facade, adorned with honey-toned cedar and oak slats, complements the warm ipe wood deck, ideal for soaking up the island’s ambiance or enjoying a swim in the deep blue pool. A key feature is the continuity of the charred wood from the exterior to the interior, which blurs the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a cohesive, chic, and inviting environment, further enhanced by vibrant color splashes. At Home on the North Shore in Hanalei Situated in Hanalei, Wahi Lani is more than a dwelling; it’s a gateway to a lifestyle immersed in natural splendor and style. Its proximity to Hanalei Town, blending seclusion with social engagement, offers a balance of serene living and exciting outdoor activities. Surrounded by natural wonders, as well as the amenities provided by nearby Princeville and the One Hotel at Hanalei Bay, Wahi Lani is a sanctuary for those who appreciate this balance, catering specifically to surfers with features like surfboard storage, outdoor showers, and a foot-washing station. The wide gates fronting the property foster a sense of community, enhancing the residence’s connection to its beautiful surroundings. Reach Out For Private Showing Wahi Lani is a modern retreat shaped by ocean and sky, designed for beauty and ease. To experience this rare Hanalei sanctuary, we invite you to reach out and schedule a private showing. The post Form Meets Function at Wahi Lani in Hanalei appeared first on Hawaii Real Estate Market & Trends | Hawaii Life.
The Napali Coast is one of the most beautiful hiking settings in the world, and its convenient access from across the North Shore makes it one of our “go-to” hikes when we’re looking to get a sweat going without getting into an all day outing. Hiking to Hanakapiai Beach can make for a nice morning workout, with a variety of excellent views during an elevation-changing, technical exercise; the combination of great weather and great trail conditions added this hike to our summer mix of routine sporting activities.
Hiking to Hanakapiai Beach
The most recent hike of our many summer visits happened on a clear Saturday morning in mid-March. For us, the 2+ mile (4+ mile roundtrip) jaunt to Hanakapiai Beach is such an amazing trip because of the variety of scenes, smells and other stimulations that can be packed into such a short distance. The initial ascent through a vibrant stretch of jungle, reminds you this is not a leisurely stroll, with a half mile climb that gets the heart rate pumping before the first reward of Napali coast views in front of you and the picturesque Ke’e lagoon behind you. For the next half hour, the meandering trail winds in and out of numerous valleys filled with every shade of green, and with each emergence the endless blue of the Pacific.
Hanakapiai Beach always presents itself so differently, so every visit to its edge offers a new experience. Sometimes the stream winds in big curves across much of the beach. Other times it takes its shortest distance to the sea. Sometimes the beach is broad and sprawling and other times it is nonexistent with water meeting the boulders that sit above the sand.
A short rest, small snack and quick drink, and we like to get right back on the trail for the return trip, with familiar but different views along the way.
This is another one of Kauai’s playgrounds that we love to take in whenever we can. One other element of the beauty of an early morning hike to Hanakapiai Beach is that we are back in time for lunch with the entire afternoon still available for work and more play.
Sitting atop the picturesque Hanalei Ridge, this 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom estate spans an impressive 5,834 sqft of custom-designed living space. With an elegant and functional design, the residence boasts expansive views encompassing the ocean, Hanalei Bay, mountains and waterfalls, providing a daily spectacle of natural beauty.
The property seamlessly blends high-quality construction with the lush environment, allowing you to immerse yourself in the renowned beauty of Kauai’s North Shore from the comfort of your private sanctuary.
Situated on 1.25 acres, the property is characterized by its concise landscaping and a custom entry gate leading to a circular driveway and porte cochere. Some of the outdoor features include a kitchen, a shower, an in-ground hot tub, and a specially designed swimming pool. The multitude of custom attributes add to the undeniable allure of this residence, exemplifying an elevated island lifestyle.
Brazilian cherry wood floors, central five-zone AC, and ipe wood exterior wainscoting are just a few of the exceptional characteristics that make this home shine. Two expansive primary suites offer vast panoramic views providing an even more intimate retreat within the retreat itself.
The dedicated home theater, complete with stadium seating for 10, elevates home movie night to a cinematic experience. And the entertainment doesn’t stop there – it’s further enhanced by a spacious game and entertainment room, featuring cork flooring for a unique touch, and a see-through window to the outdoor pool area.
Just a short drive away are the world-class amenities and resorts of Princeville, home to the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. Princeville is a golfer’s haven, boasting several challenging courses with stunning views. Just a few minutes down the hill you will find the iconic crescent beach of Hanalei Bay and its quintessential surf town.
More photos and details are available at MLS 721335.
The post Elevated Living on the Bluffs of Hanalei appeared first on Hawaii Real Estate Market & Trends | Hawaii Life.
Located at Kaua‘i’s famed “end of the road” in Hā‘ena, Limahuli Ocean Estate is an 8.29-acre oceanfront property that offers unmatched seclusion and breathtaking beauty on the island’s North Shore.
The journey to this rare estate winds past renowned surf spots, idyllic beaches, and over seven one-lane bridges, with scenic shorelines and lush green valleys crowned by towering peaks along the way.
With over 400 feet of beachfront, the property captures unobstructed views of the iconic Mt. Makana and the verdant Limahuli Valley.
Prime Beachfront Living & Surfing
The estate’s enviable beachfront setting also offers direct access to a world-class surfing wave located right in front of the home, making it a prime location for surf enthusiasts.
Whether admiring the towering waves in the winter or enjoying the calm waters in the summer, the property provides an incomparable opportunity to experience Kaua‘i’s legendary beach life. The home has been updated and reimagined from top to bottom by notable AD 100 architect Walker Warner.
Walker Warner balances island living and understated luxury
The 3,123-square-foot main residence embodies effortless living, with three spacious bedrooms and three beautifully appointed bathrooms. The kitchen, adorned with high-end appliances like the Liebherr fridge, U-Line beverage fridge, Fisher & Paykal Dishdrawer dishwasher, and a 6-burner Wolf Dual Fuel range, invites you to gather and create, becoming the heart of the home.
Framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, open living areas blur the line between indoors and the natural world, offering a serene connection to the landscape. Rich hardwood floors and artisanal millwork infuse each room with warmth, while the covered lanais extend the living experience outdoors, immersing you in sweeping views of the Pacific and the lush valley beyond.
Thoughtfully designed spaces in a private setting
Outdoor spaces are specifically designed to showcase the estate’s spectacular setting. A 490-square-foot pool is positioned against the towering peaks of the Limahuli Valley, creating a secluded haven that invites relaxation.
The estate also includes an outdoor kitchen, multiple lounging areas, and beautifully landscaped gardens that add to the property’s appeal. A flowing stream meanders through the upper parcel, enhancing the natural beauty and tranquility. A separate caretaker’s cottage and a one-car garage offer additional versatility and convenience.
Sustainability & Modern Convenience
Accessed via a private road, Limahuli Ocean Estate is surrounded by the protected lands of the National Tropical Botanical Garden and Hāʻena State Park, ensuring that its serene environment will remain preserved for generations to come. Sustainability is incorporated through a state-of-the-art photovoltaic system and smart home technology that ensure energy efficiency and modern convenience. The property is also equipped with reliable high-speed internet through Starlink WiFi, a new whole-house water filtration system, and a whole-house security system featuring 5 exterior cameras.
Easy Access to Hanalei Town & Local Attractions
Just a short distance from lively cultural hubs such as Princeville and Hanalei Town, as well as the refined amenities of The 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, this estate provides everything Kaua‘i has to offer. The drive in and out from the property itself feels like a journey through another world, with each one-lane bridge and winding turn revealing new scenery—rivers, rainforest, pockets of sandy beach, secluded surf spots, and towering green cliffs that define this extraordinary setting. Easy access to dining, shopping, and local attractions, as well as some of the best beaches, surfing, paddling, hiking, and natural wonders on the island are available.
Interested in Limahuli Ocean Estate?
Limahuli Ocean Estate is a rare offering in one of Kaua‘i’s most iconic locations. Please contact me directly for additional property information.
The post Limahuli Ocean Estate: One of Hawai’i’s Most Treasured Legacy Estates appeared first on Hawaii Real Estate Market & Trends | Hawaii Life.
One incredible gift of living in the Hawaiian islands is that island hopping can offer you whole new adventures and terrains to explore. Though each island has its own unique flavor and could take a lifetime to get to know intimately, a long weekend on one of Kauai’s neighboring islands creates the beautiful opportunity to change your surroundings and feel that sense of being somewhere entirely different. Recently, we took the opportunity to hop over to the Big Island and experience some of its magnificent scenery and nature on an extended weekend and it did not disappoint.
We landed in Kona with just enough time to grab our bags, hop in the rental, and hustle to the harbor for our first adventure—no time to waste when the manta rays are waiting. That night, we pushed off into the ocean aboard a traditional double-hull canoe, gliding across the water as the sun dipped behind the horizon.
As the sky darkened, we slipped into the ocean, holding onto floating light boards that lit up the water below. Within minutes, the first manta appeared—massive and elegant, looping through the glow with slow, sweeping movements. More followed, turning underwater somersaults right beneath us. It was quiet, other than a few muffled gasps and the sound of the sea. Peaceful, surreal, and an unforgettable way to kick off the trip.
The next morning started slow—in the best way. We wandered into a cozy café in Kona for some of the smoothest local coffee we’ve ever had. The Big Island doesn’t mess around with its beans. The café had that perfect small-town vibe, with locals catching up over mugs and the smell of fresh pastries in the air. Over the weekend, we found more gems like it—each spot with its own twist, whether it was ocean views, house-made syrups, or banana bread still warm from the oven.
Midway through the trip, we drove south to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The terrain changed fast—lush forests gave way to black rock and steam. We hiked across the Kīlauea Iki crater, walking where a lava lake once boiled. The scale of it all was hard to wrap our heads around. Jagged lava fields stretched in every direction, and occasional bursts of steam reminded us that this island is still very much alive.
Our final adventure was the most epic of all: sunrise from the summit of Mauna Kea. We’d been warned—a four-wheel-drive vehicle is non-negotiable, and they weren’t kidding. The road gets steep and rugged fast, climbing thousands of feet through stark, otherworldly terrain. As we reached the summit in the early hours, we bundled up and watched the world wake up from nearly 14,000 feet above sea level. The clouds stretched out below us like an ocean, and the sky turned every shade of pink and gold. It was silent, freezing, and completely breathtaking.
By the time we headed back down, it felt like we’d squeezed a month’s worth of memories into a long weekend. Manta rays under the stars, lava hikes through ancient craters, coffee that ruined all other coffee forever, and a sunrise above the clouds. The Big Island gave us a little bit of everything—and we already can’t wait to go back.
written by Kauila Sagum
The post Island Hopping Adventures: Manta Rays by Moonlight, Lava Trails, and a Summit Sunrise appeared first on Hawaii Real Estate Market & Trends | Hawaii Life.
