Sometimes referred to as the Beverly Hills of Honolulu, Kahala is a neighborhood that began attracting the rich and famous in the 1800s. Flat and at sea level, very few Kahala homes can claim to have the “breathtaking” views Hawaii is famous for. In exchange, Kahala offers spacious lots, easy access to beaches, quiet living, and proximity to Waikiki. Though not technically designated a retirement community, check out the myriad golf carts, high stone walls, and neighbors-policing-neighbors lifestyle here, then decide for yourself. The entitlement that’s attendant on wealth is on full display in Kahala and, subsequently, the benefits of modern construction are only now starting to creep in. Bit by bit, mainland architects & developers targeting nouveau riche homebuyers successfully slog through the years of permitting, public hearings, and miles of red tape that Kahala’s wealthy residents’ put in place to ensure their ideas of opulance remain firmly unchecked. PGA golfers and fans will be quite familiar with Kahala as the Waialae Country Club hosts the Sony Open here every year.