Hickam Housing, HI
- About Hickam Housing
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Points of Interest
- Transport
- Sports and Sports Legends
- Museums
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Public Health
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Hickam Housing is a historic, family-oriented residential area within Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Oahu, offering a unique blend of military community life and suburban comfort near Honolulu.
About Hickam Housing
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Hickam Housing is a census-designated place (CDP) and a residential area located within the larger Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam (JBPHH) in the City & County of Honolulu, Hawaii, United States . It is not an independent city but a defined community for statistical purposes, primarily encompassing the former Hickam Air Force Base . This area falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. military and is part of the Urban Honolulu Metro Area .
Date of Foundation and Age
The history of Hickam Housing is tied to the establishment of Hickam Field. The airfield site was dedicated on May 31, 1935, and named in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Horace Meek Hickam, an aviation pioneer who died in a crash . The base was officially activated in 1938, and the first inhabitants—12 men and four aircraft—arrived on September 1, 1937, living in hangars still under construction . This makes the community nearly 90 years old.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Hickam Housing is located on the southern coast of the island of Oahu. The geographic coordinates are approximately 21°19′49″N 157°57′14″W . It is situated on the Mamala Bay and is bordered to the west by the entrance to the famous Pearl Harbor . The elevation of the area is very low, at just 6 to 15 feet (approximately 2 to 5 meters) above sea level . This makes it a coastal lowland community.
Type of City and Economic Specialization
Hickam Housing is a residential community with a single, dominant function: it provides housing and support for military personnel and their families assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam . A staggering 33.5% of the employed workforce is active-duty military, a rate 99.8% higher than the average American neighborhood, and another 20.5% work in government jobs . The local economy is entirely driven by the military installation.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Hickam Housing was 7,581 . It is classified as a small town or large neighborhood. Demographically, it is a unique and transient community with 81.7% of residents married, a rate higher than 99.8% of U.S. neighborhoods . The population is also notably young, with a median age of just 26 years, and highly diverse in ancestry, including English, German, Irish, Mexican, and Asian backgrounds .
"Visiting Card" of the City (In Short)
Hickam Housing is not a tourist destination, but a quiet, tree-lined residential enclave within a historic military base . For visitors, it offers a glimpse into the daily life of the military community, with its well-preserved historic "Garden City" architecture, spacious boulevards, and a poignant connection to the events of December 7, 1941, as part of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
Geography
Water Bodies (Oceans, Bays)
Hickam Housing is a coastal community situated directly on the shores of Mamala Bay , part of the larger Pacific Ocean. The neighborhood offers waterfront views and is described as a "coastal neighborhood" . To the immediate west lies the entrance to the world-famous Pearl Harbor , a historic lagoon harbor whose waters are deeply intertwined with 20th-century history.
Beaches and Coastlines
While Hickam Housing itself is primarily a military installation with operational areas along the waterfront, the broader Honolulu area, of which it is a part, is renowned for its beaches. The community's coastal location means that famous beaches like Waikiki Beach are easily accessible, located just a short drive to the east .
Islands and Archipelagos
Hickam Housing is located on the island of Oahu, the third-largest and most populous of the Hawaiian Islands. Oahu is known as "The Gathering Place" and is home to the majority of Hawaii's population, as well as iconic landmarks like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Hickam Housing, like the rest of Honolulu, enjoys a tropical semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSh). It is characterized by consistently warm temperatures year-round, plenty of sunshine, and mild trade winds. There are two main seasons: a warmer and drier summer (kau) from May to October, and a slightly cooler and wetter winter (hooilo) from November to April.
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures in Hickam Housing are very stable throughout the year with little seasonal variation.
- August and September are typically the warmest months, with average high temperatures around 88°F (31°C) and lows near 75°F (24°C).
- January and February are the coolest months, with average high temperatures around 80°F (27°C) and lows near 66°F (19°C) .
Rainfall and Humidity
The area receives a moderate amount of rainfall, mostly during the winter months. Annual precipitation is significantly lower than on the windward (northeastern) side of the island due to its location in the lee of the Koʻolau Mountains.
- The wettest months are typically from November through March.
- The driest months are from June through September . Humidity levels are moderate but can feel higher due to the tropical setting. The trade winds, however, usually provide a comfortable cooling effect.
Sunny Days and UV Index
Hickam Housing enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months. The UV index in Hawaii is consistently high year-round due to its tropical latitude. It frequently reaches extreme levels (11+) during midday, making sun protection essential for any outdoor activity .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
As a residential military base, "visiting" is restricted, but for its residents, the climate is pleasant year-round.
- Summer (May-October): This period offers the most reliable warm and dry weather, perfect for enjoying the base's outdoor amenities, nearby beaches, and water sports. This is also the peak tourist season for all of Oahu.
- Winter (November-April): Temperatures are slightly cooler, and there is a higher chance of rain. This is also the prime time for big-wave surfing on Oahu's North Shore, a spectacle that residents can easily access. Whale watching is also popular during these months.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
Historic Residential District
The entire Hickam Housing area is considered a historic district due to its unique architecture and planning . Conceived in 1934 by Capt. Howard B. Nurse using the "Garden City" philosophy, it features wide, tree-lined boulevards (like Second Street), open spaces, and homes designed in a simplified Craftsman style with Art Moderne influences . The preservation of these 24 different housing plans from the 1930s and 1940s is a testament to the area's historical significance.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial
While not within Hickam Housing itself, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is immediately adjacent to the joint base . This world-famous site is the #1 visitor destination on Oahu and includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which is actually located on Ford Island within the joint base. The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, caused significant damage to Hickam Field, and remnants of this history are preserved throughout the base .
Historic Hangars and Architecture
Hickam Field itself is home to several historic buildings, including the iconic control tower and large hangars dating back to the late 1930s. These structures, built in a stripped-down classical or Art Deco style, are a poignant reminder of the pre-World War II era and the expansion of American air power . They stand as architectural monuments to the period.
The Lanai and Architectural Details
For residents, the unique architectural details of the historic homes are a daily landmark. Features like acid-stained concrete floors, canec ceilings (made from sugar cane bagasse), built-in knickknack shelves, and tiny rooms originally intended as "maid's quarters" (now often used as home offices) are cherished elements that connect the community to its past .
Transport
Main Airports
Hickam Housing is uniquely situated adjacent to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) . In fact, a portion of the airport lies within the Hickam Housing CDP . The airport shares runways with Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, making air travel exceptionally convenient for residents . The IATA code for the joint base's airfield is HIK, distinct from the civilian HNL code .
Highways and Major Roads
The main arterial road providing access to and from Hickam Housing is Hickam AFB Gate / Kahuapaani Street, which connects to Nimitz Highway (Route 92). Nimitz Highway is a major thoroughfare that runs along the Honolulu waterfront, providing direct access to downtown Honolulu to the east and to the Leeward Coast communities to the west. It also connects to the H-1 Freeway (Interstate H-1) , the primary interstate highway on Oahu, allowing for travel across the entire island.
Public Transportation
Hickam Housing is served by TheBus, the public bus system for the City and County of Honolulu. Key routes like the 303 (Airport - Hickam) provide essential service between the base and the airport . Numerous express buses, including the PH4 (Pearl Harbor Express) , PH1, PH2, and PH3, connect Hickam to other parts of Oahu like Kapolei, Mililani, and Hawaii Kai, primarily serving commuters . Bus stops are located within walking distance in the neighborhood .
Metro / Rail
The Skyline (Honolulu Rail Transit) is Honolulu's new elevated metro system. While its initial segment serves East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, it is planned to eventually extend to the vicinity of the airport and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, offering a future transit option for residents .
Bicycle Transportation
Hickam Housing is notable for its high rate of bicycle commuting. With 5.7% of residents biking to work, it has one of the highest percentages of bicycle commuters in the United States . The area's relatively flat terrain, wide, quiet streets, and the close proximity of workplaces on the base make biking a popular and practical mode of transport.
Ports
The historic Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard is the immediate neighbor to the west . This is one of the U.S. Navy's largest and most historic shipyards, responsible for maintaining and repairing the Navy's surface fleet and submarines in the Pacific. For commercial passenger travel, Honolulu Harbor, the principal seaport of the State of Hawaii, is located a short drive to the east, where cruise ships regularly dock.
Sports and Sports Legends
Sports Facilities and Adjacent Areas
Hickam Housing is primarily a residential and military area located within the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. As such, it doesn't have its own major professional sports stadiums or arenas. However, the residents have access to the extensive recreational facilities on the base.
Nearby Sports and Venues in Honolulu
For major sporting events and teams, the city of Honolulu, just a few miles away, serves as the hub. Key nearby venues include:
- Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex: Located on the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, this is the current home field for the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football team. While the team plays its biggest games at the larger Aloha Stadium, this complex is a significant part of local college sports.
- Stan Sheriff Center: Also on the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus, this arena is the home for the Rainbow Warriors and Rainbow Wahine basketball and volleyball teams. With a capacity of over 10,000, it's a major venue for college sports in the state.
- Les Murakami Stadium: The on-campus home of the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors baseball team, a beloved program with a strong local following.
Sports Teams Based Nearby
While no professional teams are based in Hickam Housing, the area is firmly within the fan base of Honolulu's teams:
- University of Hawaii at Manoa Rainbow Warriors and Rainbow Wahine: Representing the flagship university of the state, these teams compete in NCAA Division I across various sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, and baseball. They are the primary source of local collegiate sports fandom.
- Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football team: The team has a rich history and a passionate local following, known for its unique and often high-scoring offensive strategies.
Famous Athletes with Local Connections
Many athletes have connections to Honolulu and the wider island of Oahu, which includes Hickam Housing:
- Barack Obama: While not a professional athlete, the 44th U.S. President, who was born in Honolulu, is famously known for his love of basketball and played on his high school team, Punahou School.
- Marcus Mariota: The NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner was born and raised in Honolulu, attending Saint Louis School. He is a local sports hero.
- Michelle Wie West: The champion professional golfer was born in Honolulu and learned to play on the island's courses.
- Carissa Moore: A five-time World Surf League Women's World Champion, Moore is a Honolulu native and is considered one of the greatest surfers of all time.
Major Sporting Events Nearby
The most significant annual sporting event in the region is the NFL's Pro Bowl Games. While its location has varied, it has been held multiple times at Honolulu's Aloha Stadium and is strongly associated with Hawaii. The event brings together the league's biggest stars for a week of festivities and the all-star game.
Iconic Sporting Locations Nearby
- Aloha Stadium: Located in Halawa, not far from Hickam Housing, this stadium is the former home of the University of Hawaii football team and the longtime host of the Pro Bowl. Its distinctive circular design is a landmark. (Note: The stadium is currently closed for major renovations).
Museums
Historical and Aviation Museums Nearby
Given its location on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the most significant museums in the immediate vicinity are those dedicated to military and aviation history, particularly relating to the attack on Pearl Harbor.
- Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: Located on Ford Island, which is part of the Joint Base, this museum is housed in the historic Hangars 37 and 79, which survived the December 7, 1941 attack. The museum's collection includes:
- Aircraft that were present during the attack, such as a Japanese Zero and a U.S. Stearman biplane.
- A restored B-17E Flying Fortress, "Swamp Ghost," one of the few surviving bombers from the early days of WWII.
- Interactive exhibits on the history of aviation in the Pacific, from the early days of flight through the jet age.
Historic Sites and Museums Nearby
Just outside the base, in Honolulu, are some of Hawaii's most important historical and cultural museums.
- USS Arizona Memorial: Part of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, this is not a traditional museum but a memorial built over the sunken battleship USS Arizona. It is the final resting place for many of the ship's crew and is one of the most significant historical sites in the United States. The associated visitor center contains museums with artifacts, personal stories, and exhibits about the attack on Pearl Harbor.
- Bishop Museum (Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum): The premier museum of natural and cultural history in Hawaii. Founded in 1889, it houses the world's largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific cultural artifacts and natural history specimens. Key exhibits include:
- Hawaiian Hall: Features full-scale replicas of Hawaiian temples, royal feather cloaks, and artifacts spanning centuries of Hawaiian history.
- Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center: Focuses on the natural environment of Hawaii, with interactive exhibits on volcanoes, oceanography, and biodiversity.
- Planetarium: One of the nation's oldest, offering shows on Hawaiian navigation and astronomy.
Art Museums Nearby
- Honolulu Museum of Art: One of the premier art museums in the United States, founded in 1927. Its collection is renowned for its breadth and depth, with a particularly strong focus on Asian and Hawaiian art. Key works and collections include:
- Asian Art: One of the finest collections in the country, with masterpieces from Japan, China, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia.
- Hawaiian Art: A comprehensive collection of paintings and works by artists who lived and worked in Hawaii, including the 'Volcano School' painters like Jules Tavernier, who captured the dramatic eruptions of Kīlauea.
- Western Art: Works by masters such as Van Gogh (including "Wheat Field"), Gauguin, Cézanne, and Monet.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Major Universities Nearby
Hickam Housing does not host a university campus itself, but it is in close proximity to the main higher education institutions on the island of Oahu.
- University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa): The flagship campus of the University of Hawaii system, located in Honolulu, is a major research university founded in 1907. It is known for its strong programs in:
- Oceanography, Earth Sciences, and Astronomy: The university is a world leader in these fields, leveraging its unique location in the Pacific. The School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) is internationally recognized. Many faculty members are involved with research at the nearby Mauna Kea and Haleakalā observatories.
- Asian and Pacific Studies: The Center for Pacific Islands Studies and the School of Pacific and Asian Studies are among the best in the world.
- Law and Medicine: The William S. Richardson School of Law and the John A. Burns School of Medicine are highly regarded professional schools.
- Notable alumni: Includes former U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye, author Lois-Ann Yamanaka, and many leading figures in Hawaiian politics, business, and culture.
Historical and Community Colleges Nearby
- Chaminade University of Honolulu: A private Catholic university located in Honolulu, founded in 1955. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its small class sizes and diverse student body.
- Honolulu Community College: Part of the University of Hawaii system, this community college offers two-year degrees and vocational training programs. It is particularly well-regarded for its aviation maintenance and automotive technology programs, which have direct ties to the aviation industry present at the nearby airport and base.
Healthcare Institutions and Public Health
Major Medical Centers Nearby
Hickam Housing, as part of a major military installation, has its own military medical facilities. For broader civilian and specialized care, residents rely on the major hospitals in Honolulu.
- Tripler Army Medical Center: Located nearby on the slopes of Moanalua Ridge in Honolulu, this is one of the largest military hospitals in the United States and the Pacific. It serves as the flagship medical center for the U.S. military in the Pacific region.
- Specialties: Provides a full range of medical, surgical, and specialty care for active-duty personnel, their families, and military retirees.
- Notable Features: It is a teaching hospital and is architecturally distinctive with its iconic green-tiled roof, making it a prominent landmark visible from much of Honolulu. It also houses the Pacific Asynchronous TeleHealth (PATH) system, which provides medical consultation to remote locations across the Pacific.
Other Notable Nearby Hospitals
- The Queen's Medical Center: Located in downtown Honolulu, it is the largest private hospital in Hawaii and a major trauma center. Founded in 1859 by Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV, it has a rich history and a strong mission to serve the Native Hawaiian community and the people of Hawaii. It is known for its comprehensive services in:
- Neuroscience, Oncology, and Cardiology: It is the tertiary referral center for complex cases from across the Pacific.
- Unique Equipment/Innovations: It is a leader in robotic surgery and advanced imaging in the state.
- Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children: Also in Honolulu, this is the premier specialty hospital for women, infants, and children in Hawaii and the Pacific region. It is known for its:
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): One of the busiest and most advanced in the nation, caring for premature and critically ill newborns from across the Pacific.
- Pediatric Specialties: The only hospital in Hawaii with a full range of pediatric subspecialists.
- Historical Note: It was founded by Queen Kapiʻolani in 1890 as a maternity home for Native Hawaiian women.
Specialized Care Nearby
- Shriners Hospitals for Children — Honolulu: Located in Honolulu, this hospital provides specialized pediatric orthopaedic care, regardless of a family's ability to pay. It is a major resource for children with complex bone and muscle conditions from Hawaii and the Pacific Basin.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Iconic Hawaiian Plate Lunch
The Plate Lunch is a cornerstone of local Hawaiian food culture, and it is ubiquitous in Hickam Housing and throughout Oahu. It's a hearty, mixed-plate meal that reflects the islands' multicultural history.
- Description: The classic plate lunch consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and an entrée. The entrée can vary widely, reflecting the different ethnic influences.
- Common Entrees: Popular choices include Kalua Pig (slow-smoked, shredded pork), Loco Moco (a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and brown gravy), Chicken Katsu (breaded and fried chicken cutlet with tonkatsu sauce), and Teriyaki Beef or Chicken.
- Where to find it: It's the standard fare at local drive-ins, food trucks, and lunch wagons, as well as dedicated plate lunch spots.
Poke (Poh-kay)
While raw fish dishes exist in many cultures, Hawaii's Poke has become a global phenomenon. In its traditional form, it's a simple and perfect expression of fresh local ingredients.
- Description: Poke means "to cut crosswise into pieces." It typically consists of fresh, raw ahi (yellowfin tuna) that has been cubed and seasoned. The most traditional seasoning is simply limu (seaweed), Hawaiian sea salt, and inamona (roasted, ground kukui nut). Modern variations include shoyu (soy sauce) poke with sesame oil, wasabi poke, and spicy poke with mayonnaise and sriracha.
- Where and when: Poke is a staple of everyday local eating. You can find it in grocery stores (often the best and freshest), at dedicated fish markets, and in restaurants. It's eaten as an appetizer, a light lunch, or as part of a larger meal.
Kalua Pig
This is the quintessential Hawaiian dish, traditionally cooked in an imu, or underground oven.
- Description: A whole pig is seasoned with sea salt and sometimes wrapped in banana or ti leaves, then placed on hot rocks in a covered pit and slow-cooked for many hours until it becomes incredibly tender and smoky. The result is succulent, shredded pork with a distinct smoky flavor.
- Historical Context: The imu is central to Hawaiian cooking and is a feature of lūʻau (traditional Hawaiian feasts). While few home cooks have an imu, the dish is widely available. It's a must-have at any celebration and is a beloved part of Hawaii's culinary identity.
Hawaiian Musubi
A perfect example of Hawaii's fusion culture, Spam musubi is a beloved snack and on-the-go meal.
- Description: It's a slice of grilled, teriyaki-glazed Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with a strip of nori (dried seaweed). It resembles a large, portable sushi roll.
- Why it's famous: Spam became a staple in Hawaii during WWII due to its long shelf life and has since been fully embraced into the local cuisine. Spam musubi is the ultimate expression of this, found everywhere from convenience stores and gas stations to potlucks and picnics. It's a unique and beloved local institution.
Shave Ice
A simple but iconic Hawaiian treat, perfect for the tropical climate.
- Description: Unlike a snow cone, which has coarse, crunchy ice, Hawaiian shave ice is made from a block of ice that is shaved into impossibly fine, fluffy flakes. It's then packed into a cup or cone and drenched in sweet, brightly colored syrups in flavors like lilikoʻi (passion fruit), guava, pineapple, and blue raspberry.
- The Local Twist: For the authentic experience, order it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom and a drizzle of sweet azuki beans on top. It's the perfect way to cool down and a taste of childhood for many locals.
Malasadas
These Portuguese donuts were brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants from Madeira and the Azores in the late 19th century and have become a beloved local treat.
- Description: Malasadas are yeast dough balls that are deep-fried until golden and then coated in granulated sugar. They have no hole in the center. The best ones are light, airy, and still warm.
- When and Where: Leonard's Bakery in Honolulu is the most famous spot, with lines often stretching out the door. They are a popular treat for special occasions and are often sold at fundraisers and community events. On Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) , it's a local tradition to eat malasadas.