Historic Dillingham Ranch on 2,700 Acres of Prime North Shore Land Hits the Market

Waialua, Hawaii—One of the largest single tracts of land on the island of Oahu, the 2,700 acre Dillingham Ranch, is now on the market. Founded at the turn of the 20th-Century by Benjamin Franklin Dillingham, head of one of the island’s pioneering families and Hawaii’s first railroad tycoon, Dillingham Ranch is also home to famous polo grounds that stand adjacent to some 19 acres of oceanfront property. The ranch is in effect a microcosm of Oahu, offering all the island’s essential charms, from white sandy beaches to mountain terrain and acres of open green space, including Hawaii’s largest coconut palm grove and many other rare plant species indigenous to the islands. 

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire such an iconic landholding,” said Island Land Company’s Ed Rapoza, who represents the listing along with Zachary Wright, Senior Vice President of Christie’s International Real Estate. “The ranch was in the Dillingham family for decades and only recently changed hands.”

While serving as the family retreat for many generations, the ranch also hosted cattlemen, ranchers, and sportsmen. Notable visitors have included Noel Coward (who authored “A Room with a View” while sitting on the lanai), Prince Hussein of Jordan, the Marquis of Waterford, and many others. Benjamin’s son Walter built Dillingham Lodge and became known as Hawaii’s greatest builder, developing Waikiki Beach, dredging Pearl Harbor, and creating Rodgers Field, which is now Honolulu International Airport.

Dillingham Ranch’s main lodge, known as the “Big House,” was built in 1917 and recently returned to its original period condition through a multimillion-dollar restoration. It features a 3,000-square-foot great room with hardwood floors and a fireplace, a 700-square-foot professional grade kitchen, and eight bedrooms.

Located near the famous surf town of Haleiwa, Dillingham Ranch extends from the ocean shore to the ridgeline adjacent to the Mokuleia Forest Reserve and the Waianae Mountains, offering views of Kaena Point and the world-famous surfing beaches of the North Shore. Ranch guests have enjoyed horseback riding, surfing, hiking, and parasailing while experiencing local culture and history—without ever having to leave the ranch itself.

“This magnificent tropical offering is an equestrian’s paradise,” commented Wright. “The ranch’s equestrian center and world-famous polo field have hosted horsemen from the world over, including Britain’s Prince Charles and General George S. Patton.” Wright further points out that the ranch grounds are in fact considered the birthplace of Hawaiian polo.