In native Hawaiian language, Waimanalo literally means "potable water." Waimanalo is called this because of the numerous brackish ponds in the area that used to be used for irrigation purposes.
Waimanalo is a small neighborhood that is considered part of the City of Honolulu. The neighborhood consists of an area of 4.4 square miles. Waimanalo is also conveniently, or not so conveniently nestled in Honolulu County. The neighborhood belongs to the District of Koolaupoko located on the island of O'ahu. This area is close to Waimanalo Beach, but it is not considered to be part of that area, at least not officially. The neighborhood has a small commercial center located along the Kalaniana'ole Highway, near the Waimanalo Beach Shoreline. Waimanalo is noted for the local flavor and large agricultural lots in the valley that extends from the center of the neighborhood back to Ko'olau, and there are dozens of nurseries in this fertile area. Aside from Sea Life Park, tourism is not very big in this part of Hawaii. You may be grateful that there are no nearby hotels, so you can enjoy your idyllic Hawaiian life.
Moving to Waimanalo
Waimanalo has an abundance of resources to offer area residents and visitors. There are several different types of housing available, designed to suit the needs of people from all walks of life. Relocating to the area shouldn't be difficult for most people, since it's extremely easy to search for local accommodations using an online rental apt search application. The area possesses a number of premier apartments and apartment complexes for new and existing residents to choose from. If you are looking for a 2 bedroom apartment, you're in luck. There are plenty of those, and lots of 3 bedroom apartments as well. However, it can be difficult to find smaller units. Availability can vary from time to time. To avoid running into problems securing accommodations, you may want to allow yourself at least 6 weeks to find suitable housing. It might be necessary to make several appointments to look at rental units before you eventually sign a lease. There are also a few other things you should keep in mind before you begin searching for a place to live in Waimanalo, so check 'em out here.
What Type of Housing Do You Require?
As soon as you start searching for an apartment in the area, you'll need to choose what type of accommodations best fit into your lifestyle and needs. A townhouse or an apartment might be the best option for your situation, or a studio apartment could be right up your alley. Knowing what type of housing will meet your needs will help you to narrow down the number of housing choices that you're looking at. Available amenities are also another factor that will weigh in when it comes to choosing a place to live. Having a washer, dryer, and dishwasher in the unit may be an absolute necessity. However, for some people these options are not that important. Many residences offer community pools and workout centers. If these added pluses are what you're looking for, add these amenities to your list of must-haves for the rental unit of your dreams. While you're looking for places to rent, you can check off any accommodations that don't offer the amenities of your perfect abode. You'll save time not having to go look at places that won't tickle your fancy.
Your Moving Checklist
Researching the Waimanalo area before you move there is extremely important. If you don't check out the area, you could find yourself in a place that doesn't light a fire in your belly. Finding the right type of rental unit can take some time, and it can also be frustrating. However, it's less frustrating for people who have done their homework, so make sure you crunch those numbers. Another important factor in the moving process is the rental application. To avoid unnecessary work, narrow down your choices of housing before you actually get to filling out applications--really, you'll thank us. You can streamline the application process by having specific information available, as well. Of course, your social security number and your ID should be readily available in a wallet or purse. However, having a bank statement and credit report in a folder or binder can also speed up the application process. Also, don't forget to have references on hand to include in your rental application. Most landlords ask for a list of references from potential tenants.
Neighborhoods of Waimanalo
One of Waimanalo's nicest perks is that the area doesn't see much traffic, considering how agricultural it is. Most would think that would mean locals would shun outsiders. Well, thankfully, they're wrong--despite the semi-isolation, residents are surprisingly welcoming to strangers. There are three different neighborhoods in the area, and each one is equal in size and situated close to the shoreline.
Town Center: Town Center is located to the left of the other neighborhoods. The area has an ample supply of residential housing and condos that intermingle with area businesses and restaurants like Ono Steaks Lunch Wagon and Sweet Home Waimanalo.
Waikupanaha St / Kaka St: This neighborhood is situated furthest from the beach line. There are abundant choices of housing options available, but this district is primarily where businesses are located. Olomano Golf Club is housed in this neighborhood. Waimanalo District Park is also conveniently located in this area.
Waimanalo Beach: Sea Life Park is located in this beautiful oceanfront neighborhood. There are a few luxury residences located in this area, but the neighborhood mostly consists of beachfront property and businesses. Tersty Treats, Ono Steaks, and Akamai Investors are businesses that are very popular with local residents.
Living in Waimanalo
You can live the good life in Waimanalo, Hawaii. This tiny area has everything that you could possibly want in a pristine location. Another plus? This remote location is close to well-known modern conveniences like Walgreens and Food Lion. Large crowds don't normally venture to Waimanalo, since it's off the beaten path. This is to your advantage -- only a select few are able to enjoy this semi-secret location. The area has a small town feel and a close-knit community, but the area is very close to major attractions in Honolulu, being just under a thirty-minute drive away, if you just can't stand being away from big city life. There is no shortage of outdoor activities, swimming, and dining for area residents. Sea Life Park remains a major attraction for folks who want to enjoy these types of activities. However, if something a little more sporty suits you, Olomano Gold Club may be up your alley. If you want to live in a place that is as close to paradise as you can possibly get, Waimanalo is definitely the place for you.