Historic Ewa Villages – Plantation Living for Military Families

Ewa Beach is a desirable area for military families, stationed in Hawaii, to call home. Planned communities, spacious homes, and affordability draw our military to the west side of the island. And while the newer homes in planned communities offer central air conditioning and enticing amenities, they tend to resemble mainland homes rather than the plantation style Hawaii is known for. But there is a gem in Ewa Beach that embodies the traditional island lifestyle while offering affordability — Historic Ewa Villages.

The historical significance of this area is immediately evident with the large mill wheel that accompanies the welcome sign. And the mature tree-lined streets immediately make you feel at home.

Founded in 1890, this area housed plantation workers that labored in the expansive sugar cane fields. The long hours and backbreaking work not only built an industry but a community where families lived and worked together. That tight-knit feeling is still present today, in the community schools, churches and in the supportive neighbors.

The historic homes are single wall construction on a post and pier foundation, which is what gives them the unique island feel. Porches, covered foyers, and open concept living are just a few of the things that make an Ewa Villages home special. And while some of the homes have fallen prey to wood destroying pests or general wear and tear, there are many that have been restored to their original beauty. Because it is a historic district, the Homeowners Association does have rules regarding paint colors, roof material, and external changes. This is not unlike the planned developments of Ewa Beach, where they want to preserve a specific look and feel of the neighborhood. Utilizing the expertise of a real estate agent will help you navigate any issues of structural integrity as well as the rules of the Association.

One of my favorite features of the historic homes of Ewa Villages are these beautiful sliding wood windows. These were recently restored to their original beauty.

As a former military spouse, I know that the house is just one part of the equation, the community being the other. And one of the things that makes military life amazing is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the community you live in and the history of Ewa Villages is rich.

Living on the land that served the sugar industry, there is a unique opportunity to explore and preserve the history of sugar plantations on Oahu.

Take a ride on the Hawaiian Railway Society’s train, that follows the original tracks that carried sugar and pineapple to the ports in Honolulu. Visit on the second Sunday of every month, and you can ride in Mr. Dillingham’s personal car that was built in 1900. Or grab a ticket for the special Spookapalooza ride around Halloween.

As a reminder of the rich tradition of this area, the landscape is dotted with mill wheels and farm equipment.

If golf is your game, you are in luck, as Ewa Villages Golf Course offers 18-holes of challenging links and narrow fairways. Present your valid Military ID and you will pay reduced resident prices.

And while Ewa Villages is historic, it is surrounded by all things new, to include the beautiful Ka Makana Ali’I shopping mall with favorites such as Hollister, Sephora and Cheesecake Factory. Not to mention a top-notch movie theater, Ōlino, which takes movie theatre food to a whole new level.

While there are a number of great areas for military families to call home on Oahu, Ewa Villages offers something special. If you are PCS’ing to a military base on Oahu, give me a call. I’d love to share the charm of Ewa Villages with you.

Enjoy this tour of the beautiful Ewa Villages in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. And look for a home in this area to be featured on this season of the popular HGTV series, “Hawaii Life”.