Today, we want to invite you on a culinary journey with us in Kaka'ako. If you're ever around for a date night or a casual dinner with friends or family, here are a few places that we suggest you visit.

#5 - Yakiniku Sizzle

Yakiniku serves various types of beef such as A5 Rank Japanese beef imported from Japan, Washu beef (Half Japanese Beef, Half US Black Angus beef), and US Prime Beef. They serve their meats with their own original sauces and Japanese style presentations. They are a small and family restaurant, but that’s why they are close with their customers, and will work even harder to keep getting better.

#4 - Piggy Smalls

Piggy Smalls is the newest restaurant from Andrew Le and his team at The Pig & The Lady. Even so, this new iteration stands alone and has a unique and eclectic menu that is different from the main restaurant in Chinatown. They are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Piggy Smalls is a sit down service with a playful bar menu. Their intent is to be a fixture and dining destination for the emerging urban core in Kaka'ako.

#3 - Rinka Japanese Restaurant

If you like Japanese food, you're in the right place. At Rinka you will enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in a modern setting with an open kitchen.  They strive to provide the best service and cuisine in hopes that you will have a joyful and memorable experience. Offering a wide variety of dishes taking great pride in the quality of their food, Rinka is sure to be a memorable experience.

#2 - Hamada General Store

Originally a grocery store, H. Hamada Store would cater to local clientele but they closed their doors in 2007. Today, Hamada General Store is a take out/catering restaurant. It's rooted in the same values as the original H. Hamada Store, and that's to proudly serve the community with Aloha.

#1 - Workplay

WorkPlay is Honolulu's Hidden Lounge located in the heart of Kaka'ako serving a TexMex menu. If you’re looking for that perfect date night spot or out celebrating your birthday with all your friends, Workplay has got the perfect spot for you. If you're interested in their nightlife attractions, you can dance the night away with Honolulu's hottest nightlife. They have live music, craft cocktails, and cigars.

We hope we've given you an idea of the community and what the restaurant scene has to offer. If you have any questions about Kaka'ako, the area, restaurants, or real estate, please contact us. We would love to continue this conversation with you.

The holidays are a special time in the Islands. We might not have snow like the North Pole, but there are still plenty of ways to be festive. As we head into the end of the year, here are some of our favorite events going on around Oahu.

Honolulu City Lights – Now through January 2nd

As if Honolulu wasn’t gorgeous enough, you should see it in December! After Thanksgiving, the entire city of Honolulu gets lit up with millions of Christmas lights. The Honolulu City Lights is an incredible light show that attracts visitors from all around, just for a glimpse of the beauty.

The event lasts the entire month of December and is completely free to enjoy. It’s supported by the Friends of Honolulu City Lights, a nonprofit dedicated to spreading cheer to locals and visitors alike during the holiday season.

You’re welcome to tour the city lights yourself, but it’s also fun to take one of the several trolley rides that give you a guided tour of the city. And you definitely don’t want to miss the 50-foot Christmas tree and the world-famous Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele!

Christmas with the Animals – December 17th

Animals like to celebrate the holidays, too. For the past two years, the beloved Christmas with the Animals event at the Honolulu Zoo has been all virtual, but this year, it’s finally back in person! Visit the zoo on Saturday, December 17th to celebrate with the zoo’s residents.

At Christmas with the Animals, you can watch the animals unwrap their presents and enjoy their favorite treats in celebration of the holidays. They get just as excited as you do to open their gifts!

You can attend Christmas with the Animals with a regular zoo admission, and everyone is welcome!

Ko’olina Artfest – December 21st & 28th

Still looking for that unique Hawaiian gift for the friends and family on your list? When it comes to handmade crafts, the Ko’olina Artfest is the place to be.

This year, the Ko’olina Artfest is taking place on December 21st and 28th. Head down to the Ko Olina Beach Club in Kapolei to check out the incredible artwork and crafts available for purchase. Everything at the Artfest is handmade by local residents, so you won’t be able to find these pieces anywhere else in the world! They make perfect gifts, especially for friends and family back on the mainland. Or, add a touch of uniqueness to your own Hawaiian home!

Celebrate the holidays Hawaiian-style

Who needs snow to have a good time during the holidays? This December, swap your sleigh for a surfboard and enjoy the Christmas season like a true Hawaiian. With all the festive events happening all over Oahu, it’s easy to get into the spirit.

Is a new home on your holiday wish list? Give Santa a break and reach out to the experts at Hawaii Realty International. We’ll help you find a Hawaiian home to fit your lifestyle and goals. Contact us to get started.

When people think about the best restaurants in Oahu, they usually head straight for Honolulu. But Hawaii’s largest city isn’t the only place to get some world-class eats! Jump to the eastern side of the island to find some of the best food the islands have to offer! Here are my picks for the top five restaurants in Kailua, Oahu — and why it definitely needs to be a destination on your next visit to Hawaii.

Nalu Health Bar

When it comes to healthy dining options, this one is hard to beat. The Nalu Health Bar offers a great assortment of healthy eating, including sandwiches, wraps, juice blends, and smoothies. But what they’re really known for are their acai bowls. According to many sources, Nalu Health Bar has the best acai bowls in Hawaii!

All their ingredients are as fresh as possible. They boast on their websites that the acai in their island-famous bowls go “straight from the Amazon to your bowl.” Check it out before your next beach run and make that bathing suit look good!

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen

Of course, you can always go a different direction with your food choices, too. If you’re looking for the best breakfast on the Island (and maybe even a bit farther than that), there’s only one Kailua restaurant that can hold that reputation.

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen is always serving up creative authentic Hawaiian breakfast concoctions. This amazing eatery is home to the world-famous Uncle Kimo’s Macadamia Nut Glazed Pancakes. People travel from all around just to taste this incredible sweet concoction. There’s no better way to start the day!

In addition to their famous pancakes, Boots & Kimo’s also craft up a variety of unique breakfast and lunch plates, including an eggplant parmigiana omelet, a shrimp alfredo omelet, and even a fried rice omelet. There’s definitely no shortage of amazing food. You’ll keep coming back to try the whole menu!

Uahi Island Grill

Uahi Island Grill uses the best island flavors and local produce to create mouthwatering Island dishes that are sure to please any palette.

From Hawaiian BBQ to fresh-from-the-sea fish dishes, there’s something for everyone at Uahi Island Grill. If you like appetizers (and who doesn’t!?), be sure to get an order of the Kalua Pork Fries. The homemade fries are served up with slow-cooked authentic Kalua pork, shredded cheese, gravy, tomatoes, and fresh onions. What’s not to like!?

Uahi Island Grill is definitely one of the best restaurants in Kailua, Oahu if you want real, authentic Hawaiian food. And don’t forget to try one of their Mai Tais in a tiki cup!

Kono’s Northshore

Kono’s Northshore might just be a counter-service restaurant, but that doesn’t mean they don’t serve some of the best Hawaiian BBQ that you’ll find in all the Islands. All their meats are slow-roasted and served tender, just like you’d find at any good luau.

Kono’s is open for breakfast and lunch, serving everything from breakfast bombers (wraps) to full-on pork BBQ plates that’ll send you to your stretchy pants. Their food is so good they’ve won numerous awards from organizations all over the world! But remember to save some room. Kono’s also has some killer hand-crafted milkshakes.

Maui Brewing Co.

What’s a great Hawaiian meal without some great Hawaiian beer? At Maui Brewing Co., you can get both! Not only do they offer some of the best brews in the Islands, but they also serve all kinds of hand-crafted pizzas, pupus (appetizers), tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Maui Brewing Co.’s Kailua, Oahu location is all open-air dining, so you can enjoy the nice Hawaiian breeze as you enjoy your meal. There’s no better way to take in the Island.

The best food options in Kailua, Oahu

You don’t have to fight the traffic in Honolulu to get great food. Just hop to the windward side of the island and taste everything Kailua has to offer! From healthy dishes and amazing breakfast options to fresh seafood and handmade pizza, there’s something for everyone in Kailua, HI.

And if the local flavors make you want to stay a bit longer, there are plenty of Oahu properties for sale. The team at Hawaii Realty International are always happy to answer your questions and find the perfect home to suit your needs and budget. Grab your slice of paradise!

Hawaii is known for its ideal year-round weather, crystal clear waters, and incredible scenery, so why would anyone just sit indoors? Take a step outside and enjoy the world-famous Hawaiian air with these top five outdoor activities in Kailua, Oahu.

Catch some rays at the beach

What trip to Hawaii is complete without visiting one of the pristine sandy beaches? Easily the top outdoor activity to do on any of the Hawaiian Islands is to visit the beach.

In Kailua, there are several world-class beaches for visitors to enjoy. These are the most popular beaches in Kailua, HI:

·        Kailua Beach Park

·        Kalama Beach Park

·        Castles Beach

·        Lanikai Beach

And while planning your outdoor adventures, don’t worry about missing out. There’s no such thing as a “bad” beach in Kailua. They’re all incredible!

When you’re tired of soaking in the rays, go for a dip in the clear blue waters. Many of the Kailua beaches have great snorkeling where you can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

Kayak the crystal-clear waters

Swimming in the ocean is great, but sometimes you want to go out a little further. The waters around Kailua are great for kayak adventures because the shore break is typically gentle enough for even novice kayakers to make their way around the bay.

While you’re welcome to cruise around on your own (there are plenty of kayak rentals on the beaches), one of the best ways to explore the seas is on a guided tour. Your tour guide will take you around the bay to see some of the best sites all around the island.

Many kayakers love to take the short trip to the Mokes, which are small islands just off the southeast coast of the island.

Enjoy the view on the Pillbox Hike

If you’re looking for more of a physical outdoor activity, the Pillbox Hike in Kailua, Hawaii is one of the most picturesque you’ll find!

The trail is 1.5 miles round-trip and considered a moderate hike. There are a few steady inclines and steep grades, so make sure you wear the right shoes!

The Pillbox Hike will take you along a ridge that overlooks the entire city, the beaches, the ocean, and the Mokulua Islands beyond. You’ll definitely find some Instagram-worthy shots up there!

Along the hike, you’ll also find some pillboxes — which is where the hike gets its name. Pillboxes are small military bunkers designed to protect the island during World War II. So, not only can you enjoy the incredible views, but you’ll also get a little taste of history along the way.

Ride your bike along the Kawainui Marsh

Looking for a more easy-going hike? Check out the Kawainui Marsh trail.

The Kawainui Marsh is the largest marsh in the state of Hawaii. The wetland itself covers about 830 acres of land! The trail itself is a 3-mile round-trip trek that you can complete by either walking, running, or biking — no motorized vehicles are allowed.

Because of the vehicle restrictions in place, the trail is perfect for walkers, hikers, or bikers to enjoy the natural beauty without worrying about cars or traffic. It’s quiet, peaceful, and mostly flat — so it’s easy for people of all ages and abilities.

Hit the links for a round of golf (or two)

Beautiful Hawaiian scenery is good for more than just sightseeing. There are several premiere golf courses in Kailua where you can enjoy a round or two while overlooking the Pacific ocean.

One of the best Kailua golf courses is the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club. The course is nestled right into Mount Olomana and the Ko’olau Mountains to easily make it a course to remember. You’ll wind between the bluffs and trees and catch glimpses of some of the most spectacular views Oahu has to offer.

Make the most of your Kailua visit

Whether you like to stay active with hikes and kayak trips or prefer something a bit more subdued like enjoying the sunny beaches, there’s something for every type of outdoor lover in Kailua, HI.

And if you enjoy the outdoor activities so much, why not stay a bit longer? If you’re interested in learning more about purchasing property on Oahu, feel free to reach out! I’m always available to answer your questions and look forward to helping you make these amazing outdoor activities a part of your backyard. Contact me to start searching for your dream Hawaiian home today.

Oahu is well known for its stunning beaches, but did you know that it is also home to some of the best golf courses in the world? In this blog post, we will take a look at three of the top golf courses in Oahu. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, you are sure to find a course that suits your needs.

Hawaii Prince Golf Club

The Hawaii Prince Golf Club is one of the premier golfing destinations in the world. Located on the island of Oahu, the club features two 18-hole championship courses designed by legendary golf course architect Pete Dye. The courses are set amidst stunning tropical scenery, with views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and the Pacific Ocean. The club also features a state-of-the-art practice facility, pro shop, and clubhouse. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, the Hawaii Prince Golf Club is sure to offer an unforgettable golfing experience.

Ko Olina Golf Club

Another great option for golfers in Oahu is the Ko Olina Golf Club. Located on the west side of the island and set amidst stunning Hawaiian scenery, players can choose between two 18-hole courses – the Ted Robinson Course and the Jack Nicklaus Course. For those wishing to really test their golfing prowess, the Jack Nicklaus Course is considered to be one of the most challenging courses in Hawaii. In addition to its world-class golfing facilities, the club also offers a variety of other amenities, including a full-service spa, fitness center, and dining options.

Kapolei Golf Club

When it comes to enjoying a round of golf, there are few places more scenic than the Kapolei Golf Club. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Waianae Mountains, the club's 18-hole championship course offers stunning views at every turn. But it's not just the scenery that makes Kapolei Golf Club a top destination for golfers; the course itself is impeccably maintained and challenges even the most seasoned players. With its rolling fairways and well-groomed greens, Kapolei Golf Club is a truly world-class facility. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced golfer, a round at Kapolei Golf Club is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Oahu is your ideal golfing destination.

Oahu is a paradise for golfers, with world-class courses that offer stunning views of the island. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, you are sure to find a course that suits your needs. So what are you waiting for? Grab your clubs and head to Oahu for a round of golf today!

Selling Your Home

Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, it's important to ask your real estate agent some questions before you get started. This will help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and that you are happy with the results. In this blog post, we will discuss three questions that you should ask your agent before putting your home on the market.

Experience

The first question you should ask is about their experience. How long have they been working as a real estate agent? Do they have experience selling homes in your area? Your agent's experience is important for a few reasons. First, you want to make sure that they know what they're doing. Second, experienced agents have likely worked with a variety of clients, so they know how to handle different situations. And finally, experienced agents likely have a vast network of contacts, which can be extremely helpful when buying or selling a home.

Marketing Strategy

The second question you should ask is about their marketing plan. What do they plan on doing to market your home? Will they be using social media, print ads, or open houses? Make sure that you are comfortable with their marketing strategy and that it aligns with your goals for selling your home. You also want to make sure they have a good understanding of the current market and know how to reach potential buyers.

Commission and Fees

The third question you should ask is about the commission and other fees associated with selling your home. What percentage of the sale price will they be charging? Most agents charge a standard commission of around six percent, but it's important to ask so that you are aware of the total cost of selling your home. Agent commissions are just one piece of the puzzle. There may also be marketing fees, staging costs, and other expenses to consider. You don't want to be caught unaware of hidden costs when you're already in the process of selling your home. Be sure to ask your agent about their commission and other fees upfront.  By getting a complete picture of what it will cost to sell your home, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to work with them.

Asking your real estate agent these three questions will help you determine if they are the right fit for you and your home. By asking these questions up front, you can avoid any surprises down the road. So take the time to interview a few different agents before making your final decision. Selling your home should be a positive experience and working with the right agent will help make that happen.

Do you have any other questions that you think are important to ask an agent before selling your home? Let us know in the comments below! And if you're looking for a top-notch real estate agent in Oahu be sure to contact us today. We would be happy to help you through the process of selling your home.

Whether you're hosting a party for family and friends or simply want to enjoy the outdoor weather, these tips will help make your summertime entertaining a breeze. From setting the perfect mood with music and decorations to choosing the right foods and drinks, we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the good company and beautiful weather!

Set the Mood

When it comes to setting the mood, take advantage of Hawaii's natural surroundings. The lush greenery and bright flowers are the perfect backdrops for any party. If you're looking to add a bit of flair, string some lights around the area or set up some tiki torches. And don't forget the music! Create a playlist that will get your guests up and dancing or simply provide a soothing ambiance.

Food and Drinks

For food and drinks, keep it simple. A self-serve bar is always a hit, especially if you include a signature drink. If you're hosting a family-friendly event, be sure to offer activities that get adults and younger kids joining together. No kids at this event? Still, be sure to have some adult games on hand for fun. And when it comes to seating, plan ahead to be sure everyone has space.

When it comes to the food, keep it simple and serve small plates or finger foods that can be enjoyed throughout the party. And don't forget dessert! Serve the food in stages, not all at once, to ensure that there's always something new to try. 

Light Your Way

Proper lighting is key for any outdoor party, especially if it's taking place at night. String some lights around the area or set up lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. And if you're using candles, be sure to keep them away from any flammable materials. And finally, don't forget to anticipate extra guests when planning out the food and drinks. It's better to have too much than not enough.

With these tips in mind, you're ready to entertain outdoors this summer! Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the good company and beautiful weather. Mahalo!

Got any tips to share for entertaining outdoors this summer? Are you thinking about selling or buying a home to create your new outdoor entertaining space? We can help! Get in touch with our team of top Kailua real estate agents. We’re happy to hear from you—contact us here!

The real estate market in Hawai'i has always been red hot due to the allure of an island lifestyle, a rich culture, and breathtaking beauty in every direction. Recently, it has reached molten temperatures. Perhaps this prompted you to give some thought to putting your home on the market. You may not know where to begin this journey if you're a first-time seller. Not to worry, we're here to help! Take a look at these tips for prepping your property.

Picking An Agent

The first step is going to be selecting an agent to represent you. Even this first leap can seem a bit overwhelming because there is an abundance of brokers to choose from. Speaking with your family or friends is a great way to elicit a few names, but going online and doing a little bit of research can be effective. Once you have compiled a list of essential questions and have a few potential candidates in mind, reach out and interview each individual. Ask about their sales for the last year and what sets them apart from other agents. Request references and speak with past clients to learn more about the agent's business acumen and verify successes. Ultimately, you want to find someone you feel confident will listen to your needs and deliver. 

Home Inspection Before Listing

When purchasing a home, buyers generally procure a home inspection as part of the process. However, something that may surprise you is that sellers can also have this done. Getting a pre-listing inspection goes a long way in showing buyers that you are open and honest about the condition of the home. Further, identifying any issues before the listing can be valuable when negotiating offers and could ensure minor problems don't turn into major ones.

Make Minor Repairs

While we're on the subject of inspections when a potential buyer receives their report, there may be multiple pages of small things that need to be addressed, such as loose outlet covers, jiggling toilets, etc. As long as you feel confident, take the time to fix the minor things. It is a simple way to make buyers feel like you are working with them and compromising. 

Splash New Paint On The Walls

Courageous color themes inside homes are becoming commonplace nowadays. Bright hues can be exciting and add a little flair to your walls. If you are preparing your house for market, splashing neutral tones throughout is a good idea, as not everyone enjoys daring color palettes.

MAINTAIN A LUSCIOUS LAWN

Curb appeal is a big one because this will be the first impression your home makes. You want an exterior that welcomes people to the door. The island is home to a plethora of native flora to incorporate into your garden to bestow a sense of beauty and tranquility that any potential owner will embrace.

UPGRADE SPARINGLY

There is no need to call a contractor and plan on significant renovations in order to get your home ready for sale. In reality, this can subtract from your total net at closing. Not all improvements are created equal, so it's worthwhile to find out which projects will yield the highest return on your investment to ensure you don't spend money unnecessarily.

NEUTRALIZE ODORS

Your sense of smell has the power to evoke happy or unpleasant feelings. So investing in scented candles or wall plug-ins releasing fragrances into the air of fresh baked pie, lavender, or any slew of aromatherapy scents is a brilliant way to generate feelings of calmness and pleasure inviting people to associate their visit with fond memories.

DEPERSONALIZE AND CLEAN 

Everybody loves hanging pictures on their walls to remind themselves of good times and reminisce. However, before listing your property, go ahead and pack away any personal items currently displayed. Seeing all of your photos or accomplishments may distract buyers from seeing themselves living in this space. Deep cleaning is also vital, as buyers will be peeking into drawers, inspecting every bathroom, and looking at each little thing imaginable. Many cleaning companies offer this service for a very reasonable price.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

It's a cliche but true nonetheless; pictures speak a thousand words. The vast majority of individuals will begin searching for a new home online, meticulously pouring over each photo they see. Hiring an experienced professional to capture the beauty of your home can mean the difference between someone wanting to view the house or not. Be sure to discuss this with your agent to ensure you are on the same page.

TELL A STORY WITH STAGING

Prospective buyers should open the front door and become part of the story that is your home. This can be accomplished with deliberate staging through sparsely placed furniture, interesting artwork on the wall, purposeful decor in each room, or by placing a pair of sunglasses and a towel on a poolside lounge chair. Set the scene to allow people to envision what life can be like when they become the new owners. 

 If you're exploring whether now is a good time to sell in Hawai'i, let's chat! We would be more than happy to provide you with our list of premier professionals to assist with your home improvement needs.