There are few benefits to injuries, running or otherwise. I’m finding those few are treasures, especially in these trying times. One of my benefits in slowing down has been my short walks in hopes of running soon. During those walks, I’ve discovered a cozy little enclave in Waikiki. I have probably run this neighborhood many times without fully grasping its charm.

Grab your widest sun hat, your shades and a bit of sun block and stroll along with me. Let’s start on Kalakaua Avenue with this Hawaiian style bungalow built in 1926. That’s Diamondhead peaking over its wood roof. Known as the Dickey House, it is the first of several similar homes in the neighborhood built by architect Charles Dickey. Typical of his style is the double-pitched hip roof with an overhanging eve and wide windows facing the street.

Find your way down a short lane off Kalakaua and you will see two cottage-style homes. They share a joined lanai facing Tonggs Beach (a favorite surfer spot) and the Pacific Ocean. This blog by Froggy Adventures has some great photos of the beach oceanfront.

This English Tudor style cottage below was built by Earl Williams in 1932.

The little gem below, now overshadowed by a condominium hotel, was built in 1923 by Fred Harrison. According to the Honolulu Historic Hawaii Foundation this 1 1/2 story cottage was built in the vernacular style for middle class renters. It is shiplap sided, and is on a post and pier foundation. 

And finally, I will leave you with this cottage that appears to be in the process of some loving restoration. Built in 1928 in what is called the Storybook Tudor Revival style. The architect and builder are unknown.

 Although we can’t see the stylistic elements other than the steep pitched roof with a side gable, the historic information shows there is horizontal lap siding with flared base, rounded arch front door, adjacent rounded arch casement window and storybook-style asymmetrical entry. Sounds cozy,

So, if you visit later, you can see for yourself and let me know. Oh, and I understand a number of the owners rent out these cottages seasonally. Depends on your taste, but I think I would prefer one of the cottages to the towering condominium hotels that now loom over them.

This snug little group of cottages built in the early 1900’s, with some as late as the 1930’s, seem minuscule in front of those newer buildings. Look closer and see they carry their weight in beauty and architectural detail.

If you’re visiting Waikiki, take a stroll through this neighborhood, breathe in the sea air and transport yourself back 100 years. You won’t be disappointed.