Five months prior to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Commander Thomas C Latimore from the USS Dobin, suddenly vanished while taking a stroll in the hills just above Aiea. In spite of numerous searches as well as an extensive naval investigation, his disappearance never was explained. Many believed that he was abducted by a Hawaiian spy ring with Japanese connections, either because he had stumbled upon their activities whilst out walking, or he was specifically targeted due to his background in U.S. naval intelligence.
Aiea is a census-designated place, or CDP, within the county and city of Honolulu, in Hawaii. It's a tiny little place, boasting an area of 1.8 square miles, and yet the populace is well packed in, somewhat akin to sardines, and is over 9,000 inhabitants strong. Hawaii Route 90, which is otherwise known as Kamehameha Highway, divides much of Aiea from the shoreline of Pearl Harbor. For most folks who chose to reside in Hawaii, they do so for the sun, the sea, and the sand. And there's certainly no shortage of any of the three in Aiea. It's a busy place all year round, with a thriving nightlife to boot, but come the summer months when the throngs of holidaymakers arrive from the mainland, you'll be hard-pressed to find a spot on the local beach or a stool at the neighborhood bar.
Moving to Aiea
There's a large selection of two bedroom apartments for rent as well as city apartments in Aiea at any time of the year. Notwithstanding, once you do find a place that you like, don't be tempted just to sit back and consider every angle. Instead, it's wise to make your mind up there and then so you can quickly process all the necessities and sign on the contract's dotted line.
How Long?
It's advisable to take three weeks out of your normal monthly schedule to find a place. That way, you're avoiding any unnecessary pressure should you opt instead to leave your search to the very last minute.
When to Look
Is there any month that stands out as being a good time to start your search for places to live in Aiea? It's entirely up to you. Irrespective of the time of year, there will remain a plentiful supply of pads, so it's actually really easy to rent an apartment in the area.
Neighborhoods in Aiea
The cost of living on any of the Hawaiian Islands is steep in comparison to the U.S. national average, and it's no different when it comes to renting either. That said, you'd best be prepared for an extra-large cash flow where Aiea is concerned. The average cost of a rental in Aiea is much higher than both the U.S. average and the average in Hawaii. Why should this be the case? Well, the price of property has skyrocketed due to the prevalence of second home-ownership in the area. Furthermore, there's good money to be made by renting out a home on a short-term basis to those who wish to take a vacation. Both these factors force up the rental prices to a very large degree. Think you can handle the heat?
Aiea: Aiea is busy throughout the year, and even more so during the summer months. However, there are quiet neighborhoods should that be your preference. Each to their own, after all.
Uao Place: Panoramic ocean views are gifted from many locations within Uao Place. What's even more, there are eight schools within a mile, and five grocery stores including a Safeway and a Good Health Food Store, together with no less than twelve banks, all within walking distance.
Meaala St: If you fancy the concept of enjoying excellent views over Pearl Harbor, then be sure to have a look at Meaala St! If you rent an apartment in this part of Aiea, then you'll be well served in many respects. There are six schools within very close proximity, together with a Times Supermarket, three banks, a couple of gas stations, and some twenty restaurants.
Kaonohi St: Looking for a quiet part of town? Kaonohi St is the perfect place! The neighborhood is tranquil and the local amenities are in bountiful supply. With one bank and twelve restaurants almost literally on the doorstep of this neighborhood, you'll be well-served no matter what your desires.
Living in Aiea
Aiea is home to Hawaii's largest enclosed shopping center, Pearlridge, which is also the second largest shopping center within the state, and is located on Moanalua Rd. The shopping mall, oddly enough, plays host to Hawaii's largest watercress farm, Sumida. It doesn't merely stop there however. The Aiea Shopping Center on Aiea Heights Drive hosts a variety of well-known anchor stores, including McDonald's, Times Supermarket, Koa Pancake House, Starbucks, and Jamba Juice. Aiea is a shoppers' paradise, make no mistake about it! The Aiea Loop Trail offers a beautifully scenic hike through various wooded areas, along a rather muddy ridge, depending on the time of year (it can be rather precarious), and on into Keaiwa Heiau State Park. Along the way you'll be able to witness fantastic views over Pearl Harbor. For the Texans in town, Dixie Grill over on Kamehameha Highway, is certainly worth a visit if you're missing home cooking. As the name suggests, it's all about the barbeque, and in huge Texan-style quantities!
