Historic 1921 Beachfront Cottage at Chun's Reef
A Timeless Piece of Old Hawaiʻi on Oʻahu's North Shore
Experience the charm and nostalgia of Old Hawaiʻi at this historic beachfront cottage, originally built in 1921 and nestled along the beautiful shoreline of Chun's Reef. Also called the Captain’s House, a piece of Hawaiian history still standing on the North Shore.
In the late 1800s, Captain McClay sailed his boat into Waimea Bay with a cargo of wood from the Pacific Northwest. He floated the timber ashore and used it to build this house — the same skilled captain who also constructed ships for King Kalākaua during the Hawaiian Kingdom’s royal era.
Today, you can stay in this historic house, steps from the bay where the story began. Wake up to the sound of the surf, walk the same shores the captain once knew, and experience a rare blend of old Hawaii beauty and living history. With more than a century of history, this unique three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers an authentic Hawaiian beach house experience that is increasingly rare along Oʻahu's North Shore. Full of vintage character and old-fashioned island charm, the cottage invites guests to step away from modern resort living and embrace the relaxed simplicity of a bygone era.
Wake up to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean, spend your days exploring the beautiful coastline, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets from this exceptional beachfront setting. Located between historic Haleʻiwa Town and Waimea Bay, Chun's Reef is known for its longboarding waves, beautiful sandy shoreline, and laid-back North Shore atmosphere. More than just a place to stay, this historic 1921 beachfront cottage offers a chance to experience the timeless beauty, history, and spirit of Hawaiʻi's North Shore. Discover Chun's Reef. Chun's Reef is a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline situated between historic Haleʻiwa Town and Waimea Bay on Oʻahu's world-famous North Shore. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful ocean scenery, and long-standing surfing culture, Chun's Reef offers a more intimate beach experience than some of the North Shore's busier destinations. The beach is especially popular with longboard surfers, who enjoy its rolling waves when conditions are favorable. During the summer months, the North Shore generally experiences smaller surf and calmer ocean conditions, while winter brings the powerful swells that have made this coastline internationally famous. Visitors can enjoy leisurely beach walks, watching surfers glide across the waves, photographing the stunning coastline, and relaxing beneath the Hawaiian sun. Hawaiian green sea turtles, known locally as honu, are also occasionally spotted along this stretch of shoreline.
Bedroom 1 - King bed, Bedroom 2- Two Twin beds, Bedroom 3- King Bed. Each bedroom has air conditioning. There are two additional twin beds in the living room.
A Beach Rich in Surfing History
Chun's Reef has a special place in North Shore surfing history.
The surf break takes its name from the Chun family, who lived along this coastline during the mid-20th century. John Ah Choy Chun, a local firefighter and Haleʻiwa store owner, had children who regularly surfed the nearby waves. Their favorite surf break eventually became known as Chun's Reef, a name that continues to be recognized by generations of local surfers.
Today, the area maintains much of the natural beauty and relaxed surfing atmosphere that has defined the North Shore for decades.
Explore the North Shore
The property is conveniently situated near some of Oʻahu's most celebrated natural attractions, including Laniakea Beach, Waimea Bay, Waimea Valley, and historic Haleʻiwa Town.
Guests can discover local boutiques, surf shops, farmers markets, casual island dining, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaiʻi.
From surfing and snorkeling during suitable ocean conditions to exploring botanical gardens and enjoying local Hawaiian culture, the North Shore offers an unforgettable combination of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation.
Experience a piece of Old Hawaiʻi at Chun's Reef — where history, oceanfront beauty, and the timeless spirit of the North Shore come together.
