Waiea

Waiea is a 36-story, 196-unit luxury condominium completed in 2016 at 1118 Ala Moana Boulevard in Ward Village, Honolulu. Developed by The Howard Hughes Corporation as the flagship tower of the Ward Village master plan, Waiea set the standard for ultra-luxury living in Kakaʻako. Designed by award-winning Vancouver architect James K.M. Cheng in collaboration with Rob Iopa and WCIT Architecture, the tower features a distinctive wave-patterned glass facade composed of over 1,200 customized glass pieces. The name “Waiea” translates to “water of life” in Hawaiian, reflected in the building’s fluid, water-inspired design that honors Hawaiʻi’s coastal heritage.

Quick Facts: Waiea at a Glance

• Address: 1118 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96814
• Completion Year: 2016 (pre-sales began 2013)
• Developer: The Howard Hughes Corporation / Victoria Ward Limited
• Architect: James K.M. Cheng Architects (Vancouver) with Rob Iopa and WCIT Architecture
• Interior Design: Ingrao Interiors (New York)
• Height: 36 stories (~350 feet)
• Total Units: 196 (174 tower residences + 10 townhomes + 12 penthouses)
• Unit Mix: 1-3 bedroom condos, townhomes, penthouses; 1,138-8,532 sq ft
• Parking: 1-2 stalls per unit depending on residence type
• Retail: Ground floor Nobu Honolulu restaurant
• Original Pricing: $2M-$16M+ (2013-2016 pre-sales)
• Current Resale Pricing: $2.3M-$13.8M+ (resale only)
• Price per Square Foot: $2,000-$3,000+

Building Specifications: Ward Village’s Ultra-Luxury Flagship

Waiea contains 196 residential units across 36 stories, including 174 tower residences, 10 exclusive townhomes with private garages, and 12 penthouses—the most luxurious residential offerings in Ward Village. As Howard Hughes Corporation’s first completed tower in the master-planned community, Waiea established the design vocabulary and quality standards for the developments that followed.

The building’s architectural design by James K.M. Cheng features a striking curved glass facade that appears to ripple like water when viewed from different angles. Each of the 1,200+ custom glass panels was precisely engineered to create this wave effect, making Waiea instantly recognizable on the Honolulu skyline. The tower’s “first-row” oceanfront location along Ala Moana Boulevard provides unobstructed Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head views from most residences.

Unit Mix Breakdown

Waiea’s 196 residences span from compact 1-bedroom units (1,138 sq ft) to expansive penthouses exceeding 8,500 sq ft, with most tower floors containing just six units for maximum privacy and exclusivity.

Unit Type	Count	Size Range (sq ft)
1-Bedroom	~40	1,138
2-Bedroom	~70	1,468-2,069
3-Bedroom	~64	1,991-3,071
Townhome Villas	10	2,528-3,603
Penthouses	12	2,085-8,532

Standard tower floors feature six residences per floor, a remarkably low density for a Honolulu high-rise. This configuration provides enhanced privacy, reduces elevator wait times, and ensures that most units capture premium ocean or mountain views. The penthouses occupy the upper floors, with the grand penthouse spanning two full floors and featuring a private rooftop pool—a rarity in urban Honolulu.

The 10 townhome villas offer a unique ground-level living experience within a vertical tower. Each townhome includes a private two-car garage, direct street access, and either a private pool or expansive sky deck—combining the convenience of high-rise living with the privacy of a detached home.

Residence Features: Curated by Ingrao Interiors

Waiea residences showcase interiors designed by renowned New York firm Ingrao Interiors, featuring 9’6″ ceiling heights (10’6″ in villas and penthouses), hardwood and stone flooring throughout, and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and ocean views. The level of finish quality and attention to detail reflects the building’s position as Ward Village’s most exclusive offering at the time of completion.

Kitchen & Living Spaces

• European cabinetry with custom finishes
• Polished-quartz composite countertops throughout
• Complete Miele appliance suite: refrigerator, dishwasher, gas range, wall oven, microwave
• Gas cooking (rare in Honolulu condos)
• Wine refrigerators in every residence
• Dornbracht plumbing fixtures (German luxury brand)
• Motorized window shades for climate control and privacy
• Hardwood and stone flooring in living areas and kitchens
• Spacious lanai extending living space outdoors

Master Bathrooms & Bedrooms

• Freestanding soaking tubs in master bathrooms
• Onyx wall panels creating spa-like atmosphere
• Rain showers with luxury fixtures
• Toto Washlet toilets (Japanese bidet technology)
• Double walk-in closets with custom closet systems
• Premium wool carpet in bedrooms (optional)

Building Systems & Sustainability

• LEED-certified building targeting energy efficiency
• Double-glazed glass windows for thermal and acoustic insulation
• Central air conditioning with individual unit control
• Energy-efficient LED lighting throughout
• 24/7 on-site security and monitoring
• Private elevator access for oceanfront tower units
• Concierge service and resident specialists

Pricing History: The Luxury Resale Market

Waiea units originally sold during 2013-2016 pre-sales ranging from approximately $2 million for 1-bedroom residences to over $16 million for penthouses. As of February 2026, resale prices range from $2.3 million to $13.8 million, with price per square foot averaging $2,000-$3,000+.

Current Resale Market (February 2026)

Unit Type	Current Asking Prices	Price per Sq Ft
1-Bedroom	$2.3M – $2.6M	$2,020 – $2,280
2-Bedroom	$3.0M – $6.0M	$1,580 – $2,890
3-Bedroom	$4.3M – $9.9M	$1,590 – $3,260
Penthouses	$13.5M – $13.8M+	$1,960 – $3,220

Waiea occupies the ultra-luxury tier of Honolulu’s resale market, competing primarily with other Ward Village front-row towers and oceanfront condos along Gold Coast and Kahala. The building’s 2016 completion means units are still relatively new, with minimal deferred maintenance and modern systems—a significant advantage over older luxury buildings that may require major capital improvements.

Resale activity at Waiea typically sees 10-20 active listings at any given time, with an average time on market of 100-150 days. The building maintains strong owner-occupancy rates (estimated 65-70%), indicating that most buyers purchase for primary residence rather than investment. Units with premium ocean views, higher floors, and corner positions command significant premiums over interior units.

Notable Sales

Recent high-profile sales include a 4-bedroom penthouse listed at $13.5 million and a grand penthouse with private pool at $13.8 million. These trophy properties represent the pinnacle of Honolulu luxury living, with amenities and finishes comparable to ultra-luxury developments in major mainland cities.

Maintenance Fees: Premium Living Costs

Waiea maintenance fees are calculated at approximately $1.21 per square foot per month (as of 2019), translating to $1,377/month for a 1,138 sq ft 1-bedroom unit, $2,514/month for a 2,069 sq ft 2-bedroom, and $3,716/month for a 3,071 sq ft 3-bedroom residence.

Unit Type	Typical Size (sq ft)	Est. Monthly Fee (@$1.21/sqft)	Annual Cost
1-Bedroom	1,138	$1,377	$16,524
2-Bedroom (small)	1,468	$1,776	$21,312
2-Bedroom (large)	2,069	$2,514	$30,168
3-Bedroom (small)	1,991	$2,409	$28,908
3-Bedroom (large)	3,071	$3,716	$44,592
Penthouse (example)	4,192	$5,072	$60,864

These fees cover cable television, high-speed internet, gas, sewer, water, building insurance, common area maintenance, security, concierge services, and amenity operations. The per-square-foot rate at Waiea is slightly lower than its sister tower Anaha ($1.24/sqft), reflecting economies of scale from the building’s size and occupancy patterns.

Unlike some Ward Village reserved housing towers that have experienced dramatic fee increases beyond initial projections, Waiea’s market-rate structure was priced more realistically from the start. Buyers should still budget for potential 3-5% annual increases to account for inflation, insurance cost escalation, and long-term capital reserve funding.

What Maintenance Fees Cover

• Utilities: Water, sewer, gas, cable TV, high-speed internet
• Common Areas: Lobby, hallways, amenity deck, landscaping
• Building Services: 24/7 concierge, security, resident specialists
• Amenities: Fitness center, pool, hot tub, theater, golf simulator, dog park
• Insurance: Master policy covering building structure and common areas
• Reserves: Long-term capital improvements (roof, elevators, HVAC, exterior repairs)
• Management: Professional property management and administration

Owners are responsible for obtaining their own HO-6 condo insurance policy covering interior improvements, personal property, and liability—typically costing $800-$1,500 annually depending on coverage limits.

Amenities: 7th Floor Amenity Deck

Waiea’s 7th floor amenity deck offers 45,000+ square feet of resort-style facilities including an oceanview infinity-edge pool, state-of-the-art fitness center with yoga room, private theater, chef’s kitchen, library, golf simulator, children’s play area, and dedicated dog park. The amenity deck was designed to rival five-star resort offerings, reflecting Howard Hughes Corporation’s strategy of creating a luxury lifestyle experience rather than simply providing housing.

Fitness & Wellness

• State-of-the-Art Fitness Center: Cardio equipment, free weights, resistance machines
• Dedicated Yoga Room: Mirrored studio space for stretching, meditation, group classes
• Steam Rooms & Saunas: Separate men’s and women’s facilities
• Treatment Rooms: Massage and spa services (by appointment)
• Locker Rooms: Full-service facilities with showers and amenities

Recreation & Entertainment

• Infinity-Edge Pool: Oceanview swimming pool with dramatic edge overlooking the Pacific
• Hot Tub & Cabanas: Multiple hot tubs with private cabana seating
• Private Theater: Movie screenings and presentations with luxury seating
• Golf Simulator: Virtual golf on world-famous courses
• Library & Lounges: Quiet reading rooms and social gathering spaces
• Bar: Wet bar for resident entertaining
• BBQ Pavilions: Multiple grilling stations with outdoor dining areas
• Chef’s Kitchen: Professional-grade kitchen for resident events and cooking classes

Family & Pet-Friendly

• Children’s Play Area: Age-appropriate playground equipment in safe, supervised space
• Dog Park (4th Floor): Separate enclosed area for pets with artificial turf and pet stations
• Pet Washing Station: Dedicated facility for grooming after beach or park visits

Building Services

• 24/7 Concierge Service: Package handling, reservations, general assistance
• Resident Specialists: On-site staff for maintenance requests and community coordination
• Guest Suites: Luxury-appointed guest accommodations for visiting family/friends
• Guest Parking: Designated visitor stalls
• Valet Parking: Available for residents and guests
• Electric Vehicle Charging: Select parking stalls equipped with EV chargers
• Bike Storage: Secure storage encouraging alternative transportation
• Package Room: Secure 24/7 package retrieval

Location & Neighborhood: Front-Row Ward Village

Waiea occupies a premier “first-row” location along Ala Moana Boulevard, directly oceanfront within Ward Village’s 60-acre master-planned community in the heart of Kakaʻako. The building sits across from the Ward Consolidated Movie Theaters and diagonal from the Ae’o tower, with immediate access to Ward Village’s retail, dining, and entertainment district.

Walking Distance Amenities (5-10 Minutes)

• Whole Foods Market: Upscale grocery, prepared foods, wine selection
• Ward Village Shops: Nordstrom Rack, T.J. Maxx, Fitness Connection, specialty boutiques
• Ground-Floor Dining: Nobu Honolulu (in Waiea building), Merriman’s (Anaha), Piggy Smalls (Ae’o)
• Kewalo Basin Harbor: Fishing charters, scuba diving, ocean activities (8-minute walk)
• Ala Moana Beach Park: Swimming, picnicking, beach volleyball, paddle sports (10-minute walk)
• SALT at Our Kakaʻako: Boutique shopping, cafes, farmers market, events (7-minute walk)
• Ala Moana Center: Largest outdoor shopping mall in the world (15-minute walk)

Transportation & Access

Waiea’s location provides exceptional connectivity throughout Honolulu:

• Waikiki: 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk
• Downtown Honolulu: 10-minute drive
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: 15-minute drive (off-peak traffic)
• H-1 Freeway Access: Via Piikoi Street or Kapiolani Boulevard (5 minutes)
• TheBus Routes: Multiple bus lines along Ala Moana Boulevard and Piikoi Street
• Rail (Skyline): Open today from East Kapolei to Middle Street; a Kakaʻako station within walking distance is planned for the city-center segment (~2031; Ala Moana extension deferred)
• Bike-Friendly: Dedicated bike lanes along Ala Moana Boulevard; Biki bikeshare stations nearby

The Ward Village Master Plan

Waiea anchors the oceanfront edge of Howard Hughes Corporation’s transformative Ward Village development, which envisions 4,500+ residential units across 22 acres by buildout. The master plan includes:

• Completed Towers: Waiea (2016), Anaha (2017), Ae’o (2018), Ke Kilohana (2019), ‘A’ali’i (2021), Kō’ula (2022), Victoria Place (2024), Ulana (2025), The Park Ward Village (2026)
• Under Construction: Kalae and The Launiu, both targeting 2028
• Selling Pre-Construction: ‘Ilima and Melia; the final tower, Mahana, is now marketed as Now Selling
• Public Spaces: Wide sidewalks, landscaped plazas, art installations, event spaces
• Retail & Dining: 1 million+ square feet of commercial space at buildout

Ward Village represents the most significant urban transformation in Honolulu’s history, converting former industrial land into a walkable, transit-oriented neighborhood. Waiea residents benefit from being at the center of this evolution while enjoying the building’s front-row oceanfront positioning.

Art & Architecture: Tony Cragg’s “Versus”

Waiea’s ground-floor porte-cochère showcases “Versus,” a monumental bronze sculpture by acclaimed British artist Tony Cragg. The 15-foot-tall work features two intertwined forms that appear to twist and flow upward, echoing the building’s wave-inspired architecture. Cragg’s work adds cultural gravitas to the building’s entry experience, reflecting Howard Hughes Corporation’s commitment to integrating world-class public art throughout Ward Village.

The building’s facade itself functions as architectural art—James K.M. Cheng’s signature curved glass design has become an iconic element of Honolulu’s evolving skyline. The 1,200+ custom glass panels were precisely engineered to create the illusion of flowing water when viewed from different angles and lighting conditions, with the curve most pronounced when viewed from the ocean or Diamond Head.

Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment

Advantages

• Premier Location: First-row oceanfront positioning within Ward Village’s master plan
• Architectural Distinction: James K.M. Cheng’s iconic wave-glass facade makes the building instantly recognizable
• Low Density: Just six units per floor provides enhanced privacy and reduces elevator congestion
• Resort-Style Amenities: 45,000+ sq ft amenity deck rivals luxury resorts
• New Construction: Completed 2016 means modern systems, minimal deferred maintenance, decades before major capital improvements
• Curated Interiors: Ingrao Interiors design and luxury finishes throughout
• Ground-Floor Dining: Nobu Honolulu provides world-class restaurant access without leaving the building
• Walkability: Whole Foods, Ala Moana Center, beach parks, restaurants all within 10-minute walk
• Strong Resale Market: High demand for front-row Ward Village units maintains property values
• Pet-Friendly: Dedicated dog park and pet washing station

Disadvantages

• Ultra-Luxury Pricing: $2.3M+ entry point excludes most buyers; even 1-bedroom units exceed $2M
• High Maintenance Fees: $1,377-$3,700+/month adds significantly to total ownership costs
• Limited Inventory: Only 196 units means resale opportunities are infrequent
• Ala Moana Boulevard Traffic: Front-row location means road noise from busy thoroughfare
• Dense Urban Environment: While walkable, Kakaʻako lacks the spaciousness of suburban neighborhoods
• Construction Activity: Ward Village buildout continues through 2030s; ongoing construction noise and disruption possible
• No Reserved Housing: 100% market-rate means no affordable/workforce housing opportunities
• Property Taxes: Luxury valuations result in high annual property tax bills ($15K-$50K+ depending on assessed value)
• Tourism Proximity: Location between Waikiki and Ala Moana Center means high tourist foot traffic
• Short-Term Rental Restrictions: HOA rules and Honolulu regulations limit rental flexibility

Who Should Consider Waiea?

Best Fit: High-net-worth buyers seeking the ultimate in Honolulu luxury living with resort-style amenities, oceanfront location, and iconic architecture. Ideal for primary residents, part-year Hawaii residents, and those who prioritize location, design, and concierge services over maximum square footage value.

Proceed with Caution: Buyers sensitive to road noise (Ala Moana Boulevard is busy), those seeking maximum privacy (high-rise living inherently involves density), investors seeking rental income (short-term rental restrictions limit strategies), or buyers hoping for significant appreciation (luxury market is already priced at premium levels).

Comparison to Similar Developments

Within Ward Village, Waiea competes most directly with:

• Anaha (2017): Second luxury tower with similar pricing ($1.2M-$14.5M) but “second-row” location and signature overhanging pool. Solomon Cordwell Buenz angular design contrasts with Waiea’s curves. 317 total units provides more inventory.
• Ae’o (2018): Third tower with broader range ($600K-$2M) serving more buyers. First-row location but smaller units (400-1,800 sqft). Modern minimalist design by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson.
• Kalae & The Launiu (under construction, target 2028): Front-row towers that will challenge Waiea’s oceanfront standing with newer construction — and the now-selling ‘Ilima and Melia will push the ultra-luxury tier even higher.

Outside Ward Village, comparable luxury oceanfront condos include One Ala Moana (2010), Hokua (2006), and Waikīkī’s Trump Tower (2009) and Ritz-Carlton Residences (2016). Waiea’s 2016 completion, Ward Village location, and architectural distinction give it competitive advantages over older luxury buildings requiring capital improvements.

The Bottom Line

Waiea represents the pinnacle of urban luxury living in Honolulu—a bold architectural statement combined with world-class amenities, oceanfront location, and the vibrancy of Ward Village’s master-planned community. As Howard Hughes Corporation’s flagship tower, Waiea set the standard for everything that followed, and nearly a decade after completion, it remains among the most prestigious addresses in Hawaii.

The building delivers on its ultra-luxury promise: James K.M. Cheng’s wave-glass facade is genuinely iconic, Ingrao Interiors’ finishes rival mainland luxury developments, and the amenity deck provides resort-style living without leaving home. The first-row oceanfront location means unobstructed Pacific views that will never be blocked by future development—a genuine rarity in evolving Kakaʻako.

However, Waiea’s luxury comes at a price that extends far beyond the initial purchase. Maintenance fees exceeding $1,300/month for even the smallest units, plus property taxes potentially reaching $50,000+ annually for penthouses, create ongoing costs that can rival mortgage payments. The $2.3 million entry point for 1-bedroom units places Waiea firmly in the ultra-luxury category, accessible only to high-net-worth buyers.

For those who can afford it, Waiea offers an unparalleled combination of location, design, amenities, and urban lifestyle. The building attracts successful professionals, business owners, and mainland transplants who want the best Honolulu has to offer without compromise. If you prioritize architectural distinction, oceanfront views, walkability to Whole Foods and Ala Moana Center, and resort-style amenities, Waiea delivers all of it in one iconic package.

The question isn’t whether Waiea is worth the money—it’s whether the ultra-luxury lifestyle it provides aligns with your priorities and budget. For buyers who want the best and are willing to pay for it, Waiea remains Ward Village’s flagship for good reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Waiea units cost?
Current resale prices range from $2.3 million for 1-bedroom units to $13.8 million+ for penthouses. The median listing price is approximately $4.5 million. Original pre-sales (2013-2016) ranged from $2M-$16M+.

What are the maintenance fees?
Approximately $1.21 per square foot per month. A 1,138 sq ft 1-bedroom costs ~$1,377/month; a 2,069 sq ft 2-bedroom costs ~$2,514/month; a 3,071 sq ft 3-bedroom costs ~$3,716/month. Fees cover utilities (water, sewer, gas, cable, internet), common area maintenance, security, concierge, amenities, insurance, and reserves.

Can I rent out my Waiea unit?
Long-term rentals are generally permitted subject to HOA rules and Hawaii law. Short-term vacation rentals face strict Honolulu regulations limiting units to 90+ day minimum stays in most residential zones. Check current HOA rules and county ordinances before purchasing if rental income is part of your investment strategy.

How many units are in Waiea?
196 total units: 174 tower residences, 10 townhome villas, and 12 penthouses. Standard floors have just six units per floor, providing low density and enhanced privacy.

Who designed Waiea?
Vancouver architect James K.M. Cheng designed the building in collaboration with Rob Iopa and WCIT Architecture. Interiors were designed by New York-based Ingrao Interiors. The distinctive wave-glass facade features over 1,200 custom glass panels.

What amenities does Waiea have?
7th floor amenity deck with infinity-edge pool, hot tubs, fitness center, yoga room, steam/sauna, private theater, golf simulator, library, bar, chef’s kitchen, BBQ pavilions, children’s play area, and dog park (4th floor). Building services include 24/7 concierge, security, guest suites, valet parking, and package handling.

Is Waiea pet-friendly?
Yes. The building features a dedicated dog park on the 4th floor and pet washing station. Check HOA rules for any breed or size restrictions.

How far is Waiea from the beach?
Ala Moana Beach Park is approximately a 10-minute walk. Kewalo Basin Harbor is 8 minutes on foot. Magic Island Beach is 12-15 minutes. Waikiki Beach is a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive.

Does Waiea have parking?
Yes. Units include 1-2 parking stalls depending on residence type. Townhomes have private two-car garages. Guest parking and valet service are available. Select stalls are equipped with electric vehicle charging stations.

What restaurant is in Waiea?
Nobu Honolulu, the world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant, occupies the ground floor. Residents enjoy convenient access to celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s cuisine without leaving the building.

How does Waiea compare to Anaha?
Both are luxury towers completed 2016-2017. Waiea offers first-row oceanfront location, James K.M. Cheng’s wave-glass design, 196 units, and Nobu restaurant. Anaha provides second-row location, Solomon Cordwell Buenz angular architecture, 317 units (more inventory), signature overhanging glass-bottom pool, and tennis court. Pricing is comparable ($2M-$14M range).

Are there affordable housing units in Waiea?
No. Waiea is 100% market-rate luxury units with no reserved/affordable housing component. For Ward Village reserved housing, see Ke Kilohana (88% reserved housing) or ‘A’ali’i (20% reserved housing).

When was Waiea completed?
2016. Pre-sales began in 2013 with initial move-ins occurring in late 2016.

Sources

• Howard Hughes Corporation Ward Village development information
• Honolulu Board of Realtors MLS data (February 2026)
• James K.M. Cheng Architects project documentation
• Ward Village official website and brochures
• Field research and unit tours (Team Wong Hawaii)

For more information about Ward Village and other new construction opportunities in Honolulu, contact our team.

Related reading: the Ward Village development hub, Ward Village pricing guide, and Ward Village floor plans guide.