Moanalua

Moanalua Neighborhood

Moanalua is an Oahu neighborhood in Hawaii that is well known for its lush vegetation, stunning natural beauty, and extensive cultural legacy.

Moanalua Real Estate Market(2023):

Moanalua History

Moanalua’s history dates back centuries and is intricately connected to that of Hawaii and its people. The term Moanalua comes from two Hawaiian words – moana and lua – meaning ocean and hole, respectively. This area was named for a large hole in a nearby reef that early Hawaiian fishermen used to access the ocean, as well as serve as a navigation landmark by early Hawaiian navigators. Moanalua area’s first known residents were ancient Hawaiians who arrived between 300-600 AD. These skilled fishermen, farmers, and craftspeople lived off both land and sea. They built temples to honor their gods and perform religious ceremonies in this area. By the 18th century, however, Hawaii came under the control of the Kamehameha Dynasty, who united the islands into one central government and instituted central governance policies across them all. The Kamehameha Dynasty used Moanalua as their royal retreat and hunting grounds. They constructed the Moanalua Gardens palace that still stands today and attracts numerous tourists today. Moanalua quickly emerged as a center for sugar production during Hawaii’s 19th-century sugar boom, when large plantation operations were established here, and workers from Asia came in to work the fields. Hawaii’s sugar industry brought tremendous wealth, yet workers were often exploited and forced to work under harsh conditions. Moanalua became more residential as more people moved to Hawaii for employment opportunities in tourism and other fields. Today, it boasts an eclectic population made up of people from varying backgrounds who all live together peacefully within its confines. Moanalua has managed to retain much of its natural beauty and cultural heritage despite modernization. For instance, Moanalua Gardens are still popular tourist attractions that give an insight into Hawaii’s rich history and culture. Moanalua’s history is closely interwoven with that of Hawaii as a whole, from its ancient Hawaiian roots to its role in the sugar industry and beyond. Today, this area remains vital and vibrant – providing visitors and residents alike an opportunity to experience Hawaii’s beautiful culture firsthand.  

Moanalua Activities

Moanalua Gardens:

Home to an abundance of rare and exotic species unique to Hawaii, Moanalua Gardens is home to an exquisite display of plants and flowers unique to Hawaii. A few highlights in Moanalua include its koi pond, Japanese tea house, and rock garden – remembering Kamehameha V Cottage, which serves as a landmark.  

Hike Moanalua Valley Trail:

This moderate to strenuous hike takes you through Moanalua Valley and offers stunning views of its surrounding mountains.  

Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial:

This museum is an essential stop for history lovers, where you can gain more insight into the attack on Pearl Harbor as well as pay your respects to those who lost their lives in its aftermath.  

Visit Tripler Army Medical Center:

This hospital is the largest military hospital in the Pacific and provides tours to the public.  

Moanalua Community Park:

Provides an ideal spot for sports activities – with facilities including basketball, tennis, baseball, and even swimming pool access, making this park the ideal location to get active!  

Attend the Prince Lot Hula Festival:

This annual event at Moanalua Gardens showcases Hawaiian culture through music and dance, while Moanalua Shopping Center provides access to an assortment of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.  

Moanalua Public Schools:

Moanalua Elementary School:

Address: 1337 Mahiole St, Honolulu HI 96819. Click here to view their website.  

Red Hill Elementary School:

1265 Ala Kula Pl, Honolulu, HI 96819 | Click here for their website |

Major General William R. Shafter Elementary School:

Can be found at 2 Fort Shafter in Honolulu, and their website can be viewed here.

Moanalua Middle School:

Can be found at 1289 Mahiole Street, Honolulu HI 96819 – click here for their website.  

Moanalua High School:

Can be found at 2825 Ala Ilima Street in Honolulu and their website can be seen here.  

Moanalua Private Schools:

Christian Academy:

Located at 3400 Moanalua Rd in Honolulu, Hawaii 96819. This school offers Christian education from kindergarten through grade 12. Their website can be viewed here.

Hale Keiki School:

Consists of Preschool through Fifth-grade classes located at 153 Bougainville Dr, Honolulu HI 96818, and their website is available here.

Looking for an Oahu Realtor?

Are you planning to sell or buy your property in Moanalua? Working with experienced and knowledgeable real estate agents in Moanalua can make all the difference. The Ihara Team can provide you with valuable home buying and selling tips tailored to the Moanalua real estate market. We can also help you explore different neighborhoods in Moanalua and provide insights into the schools of Moanalua. When you’re looking to find the right home, explore property listings, and find homes for sale in Moanalua that meet your needs. We can also connect you with lenders for mortgages and financing options and offer closing assistance. Once the deal is done, we can recommend moving services to ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Looking for a Moanalua realtor?  Schedule a free real estate planning session with the Ihara Team, your trusted Moanalua Realtor.  

See Moanalua Homes for sale below.