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- March 12, 2024 - Waialua
March 12, 2024 - Waialua
Tehane Wurdeman
March 12, 2024
Aloha, Friend!
The year is moving along, and we are almost at the end of the first quarter 2024. Thank you for being here.
It’s another week on the North Shore; we’re in Waialua now. Here are the highlights:
Design in the Islands: Step Back in Time.
Vibrant Lifestyle: Sip into Paradise.
Oahu Neighborhoods: Mount Kaala, Hawaii's Hidden Gem!
Real Estate in Honolulu: What’s Happening in Waialua?
Design in the Islands: Waialua's Iconic Smokestack
The iconic smokestack at Waialua Sugar Mill on Oahu’s North Shore is no more. This towering structure has long been a symbol of the bygone era, casting its shadow over the quaint town since the mill ceased operations in 1996. Despite the closure of the Sugar Mill, the smokestack remained a landmark, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the region's rich agricultural past. As it gracefully exits the skyline, it leaves cherished memories and a testament to the island's enduring history.
Old Waialua Sugar Mill smokestack
Vibrant Lifestyles: Waialua Soda Works is made in Hawaii!
No visit to Waialua is complete without indulging in the refreshing flavors of Waialua Soda Works. Founded in 2003 by Waialua residents Karen and Jason Campbell, their recipes reflect the beauty and flavors of the Hawaiian Islands.
Proudly made in Hawaii, Waialua Soda Works crafts artisanal sodas using locally sourced ingredients, capturing the essence of the islands in every sip. Each bottle celebrates Hawaii's vibrant culinary culture, from classic favorites like pineapple and vanilla cream to Hawaii’s passionfruit, lilikoi.
Reviving a local soda bottling tradition that goes back over 100 years, the company uses only clear glass bottles, pure cane sugar, and natural flavors to make its pineapple, mango, root beer, and vanilla cream sodas. Waialua Soda Works is owned and operated from a warehouse in the historic town of Waialua, located on the famous North Shore of Oahu.
Waialua Soda Works is found throughout the islands. They can also be purchased online. According to the website, Waialua Soda Works “believes [s] strongly in supporting non-profit and charity events that benefit the community.” Consider supporting another product made locally in Hawaii, Wailua Soda!
Oahu Neighborhoods: Mount Kaala, Hawaii's Hidden Gem
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Oahu, Mount Kaala stands as a beacon of nature's majesty, offering an unparalleled experience for those seeking the island's hidden gems. As the highest point on Oahu, reaching an impressive 4,020 feet above sea level, Mount Kaala holds a special place in the hearts of locals and adventurers alike.
Picture this: as you journey along the scenic Kaukonahua Road towards Waialua, your eyes are drawn to the majestic silhouette of Mount Kaala against the sky. Even from a distance, its allure is undeniable.
Mount Kaala with cloud cover
While the weather atop Mount Kaala can be unpredictable, with clouds swirling and mist dancing around the summit, it only adds to the enchantment of the experience. Imagine standing amidst the ever-changing moods of nature, feeling the cool mist on your skin one moment and basking in the warm sunshine the next. It's a testament to the island's dynamic beauty.
In 1970, Hawaiʻi became one of the first states in the country to recognize the importance of its unique natural resources by establishing the State Natural Area Reserves System (NARS.)
Then, in 1981, the 1,100-acre Mount Kaʻala Natural Area Reserve was established to protect the diversity of native ecosystems, including native shrublands, forests and a bog. (DLNR)
Most of the 1,100-acres of the state natural area reserve at Mount Kaʻala are made up of rugged terrain, including steep, inaccessible gulches. It ranges from wet forest at the top, to lowland dry forest.
The Mount Kaʻala NAR protects Hawaiian plants and animals and ecosystems, most found only in Hawai`i, and some very rare. The only vehicle access is a controlled government road, while arduous ridge trails lead to the summit of Mt. Kaʻala.
In the timeless words of educator Mary Kawena Pukuii and American linguists Samuel H. Elbert and Esther T. Mookinii in Place Names of Hawaii, Mount Kaala is hailed as the "highest mountain on Oahu, Waianae range."
The Mount Kaala trailhead is only for highly experienced hikers. The rugged terrain will push you to your limits, so come prepared with water, snacks, a hat, and sunscreen. Only embark on this challenge if you're ready to take it on. And remember, what you take in, take out. The trail is in Waianae and has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Are you up for it?
Real Estate in Honolulu: What’s Happening in Waialua?
As of this print date, a fee-simple commercial property zoned B-1 Neighborhood Business was offered for sale at a list price of $2.25M. Located at 67-456 Goodale Avenue, this free-standing building is approximately 2,100 SF with a land area of 19,000 SF. The sewer is a cesspool, which is common on the North Shore. There are more than 11,000 cesspools on Oahu. According to Act 125, passed in the 2017 legislative session, all cesspools must be replaced by 2050.
Commercial-zoned properties in this area of Waialua are seldom available. Email me to learn more about this opportunity.
 | That’s all for this week’s highlights. Check our website for more design, lifestyle, and real estate tips. |
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