Queen Emma Gardens, completed in 1964, stands as a testament to mid-century design in Downtown Honolulu. This 23-story condominium complex, comprising 589 units, offers residents a unique blend of urban convenience and tranquil living. Designed by renowned architect Minoru Yamasaki, the building is situated on an expansive 8-acre property, providing a rare green space in the bustling city center. The complex consists of three towers - Prince, Queen, and King - each offering its own character while sharing the lush, park-like grounds that have become a hallmark of this community.
Diverse layouts catering to various lifestyles
Queen Emma Gardens offers a range of floor plans to suit different needs and preferences. Studio units, spanning 361 to 417 square feet, provide compact living spaces ideal for singles or those seeking a pied-à-terre in the city. These units typically rent for around $1,400 per month.
One-bedroom units, ranging from 548 to 600 square feet, are available for sale from $296,000 to $344,000. These apartments often feature spacious living rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering tree-top or city views. Many have been updated with modern touches such as vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and renovated kitchens with solid surface countertops.
Two-bedroom units, measuring between 559 and 787 square feet, are priced from $380,000 to $415,000. Some of these units boast corner locations with wraparound views and enclosed lanais that can serve as home offices or guest rooms. Renovated units may include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and updated fixtures.
For those requiring more space, three-bedroom units of approximately 1,000 square feet with two bathrooms are also available, though less common. These larger apartments are perfect for families or those who desire extra room for entertaining.
Many units in Queen Emma Gardens feature lanais, providing additional outdoor living space and panoramic views of the city, mountains, or the property's lush gardens. Some apartments have been thoughtfully renovated to include modern amenities such as split air conditioning systems, while others retain charming original features that speak to the building's mid-century roots.
Resort-inspired amenities in an urban setting
Queen Emma Gardens offers an impressive array of amenities that set it apart from typical urban condominiums. The centerpiece of the community is its expansive, meticulously maintained grounds, featuring winding walking paths, open grass lawns, and picnic areas that create a park-like atmosphere rarely found in downtown settings.
One of the most distinctive features of the complex is its two Japanese-style tea houses, complete with kitchens and restrooms. These charming structures, surrounded by serene koi ponds, provide residents with unique spaces for social gatherings, private events, or peaceful contemplation.
For recreation and relaxation, the property boasts a large swimming pool and a separate children's wading pool. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the walking and jogging paths that meander through the grounds. Families will appreciate the children's playground, offering a safe space for young residents to play.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the seven barbecue areas scattered throughout the property, perfect for al fresco dining and social gatherings. The complex also features a recreation area with a full kitchen, ideal for larger events or community activities.
Practical amenities include on-site management, 24-hour security with video surveillance, and dedicated laundry facilities in each tower. Residents benefit from assigned covered parking, while ample guest parking ensures visitors are always accommodated. For added convenience, the property offers storage lockers for rent and high-speed fiber optic internet with common area WiFi.
The building's management organizes community events, including movie nights during summer and holiday celebrations, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. With its blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences, Queen Emma Gardens offers a unique living experience in the heart of Honolulu.
A vibrant urban locale with rich cultural offerings
Queen Emma Gardens is situated in the heart of Downtown Honolulu, a dynamic neighborhood that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern urban living. This area is known for its diverse mix of business, culture, and entertainment, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate city life with a touch of island flair.
The neighborhood is steeped in history, with landmarks like the Iolani Palace, America's only royal palace, just a short distance away. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to numerous galleries and the vibrant First Friday art walk in nearby Chinatown. The historic Hawaii Theatre, a beautifully restored 1922 vaudeville theater, offers a variety of performances and stands as a cultural cornerstone of the area.
For everyday conveniences, residents have easy access to a Safeway supermarket and Longs Drugs, both located just across the street. The area also boasts an array of dining options, from local poke shops to upscale restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and occasions.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Foster Botanical Garden, offering a lush oasis in the urban landscape. For those seeking recreational activities, the Nuuanu YMCA is within walking distance, providing additional fitness options beyond the condominium's amenities.
The neighborhood's central location puts residents in close proximity to Honolulu's business district, making it an ideal home for professionals working downtown. It's also conveniently situated near major medical facilities, including Queen's Medical Center and Kuakini Medical Center.
Despite its urban setting, Queen Emma Gardens' location at the foot of Nuuanu Valley provides residents with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and occasional glimpses of the ocean, reminding inhabitants of the natural beauty that defines Hawaii.
Well-connected urban living with multiple transit options
Queen Emma Gardens benefits from its central location in Downtown Honolulu, offering residents a variety of transportation options. The area's high walkability means many daily errands and activities can be accomplished on foot, with numerous amenities and services within a short stroll from the complex.
For those relying on public transportation, the condominium is well-served by Honolulu's extensive bus network. Multiple bus stops are located within a minute's walk of the property, providing easy access to various parts of the city. The Pali Highway & Vineyard Boulevard stop, just steps away, serves several routes including the Honolulu-Kailua-Waimanalo and Honolulu-Kaneohe-Ahuimanu lines, offering convenient connections to windward Oahu.
Cyclists will find the area moderately bike-friendly, with some dedicated bike lanes in the vicinity. The relatively flat terrain of downtown Honolulu makes cycling a viable option for short to medium distance trips.
For residents who drive, Queen Emma Gardens' location provides easy access to major thoroughfares. The Pali Highway, which connects downtown to the windward side of the island, is just a block away. The H-1 freeway, Oahu's main east-west artery, is also easily accessible, facilitating travel to other parts of Honolulu and beyond.
Those traveling further afield will appreciate the proximity to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive away under normal traffic conditions. This makes Queen Emma Gardens an excellent choice for frequent travelers or those who regularly welcome out-of-town guests.
The condominium's ample parking facilities, including assigned covered parking for residents and plentiful guest parking, ensure that car owners have convenient and secure options for their vehicles. This combination of walkability, public transit access, and parking availability makes Queen Emma Gardens a highly accessible urban residence, catering to a variety of transportation preferences and needs.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Moderate Crime
Crime Score®
5/ 10
Bikeable
Bike Score®
53/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
88/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
75/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Kamamalu Neighborhood Park
7 min walk
Basketball
Tennis
Playground
Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden
8 min walk
Trails
Botanical Gardens
Kawānanakoa Neighborhood Park
9 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Volleyball
Beretania Community Park
9 min walk
Tamarind Park
13 min walk
Trails
Dole Community Park
13 min walk
Basketball
Picnic Area
Volleyball
Walker Park
2 min drive
Multi-Purpose Field
Kunawai Springs Urban Park
3 min drive
Picnic Area
Trails
Kunawai Neighborhood Park
3 min drive
Basketball
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Schools
Source:
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