Dreaming of a slower pace on Oahu? Kailua was exactly what I needed after a few busy days in Waikiki. Nestled on the windward side of the island, this breezy beach town feels like the local Hawaii you came to experience—white sand, turquoise waters, and friendly food trucks on every corner. Whether you’re here for the weekend or just passing through on a circle-island road trip, here’s what I loved doing in Kailua, Oahu—and what I think you’ll love too.
🌊 Lounge at Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach was where I spent the most time—warm water, gentle waves, and plenty of space to sprawl out. It’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing under the ironwood trees. If you’re into watersports, rentals are available nearby.
Travel Tip: Arrive early for parking, especially on weekends.
🏖️ Explore Lanikai Beach (My Favorite Sunrise Spot)
A short walk or drive from Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach feels like a postcard—fine white sand, calm blue water, and a quiet neighborhood vibe. It’s where I caught one of the most peaceful sunrises of my trip.
For photographers: The Mokulua Islands in the distance make every shot look dreamy.
🥾 Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail
This short but steep hike rewards you with panoramic views of the coastline and the Mokulua Islands. I hiked it at sunrise and shared the top with just a few early risers—totally worth the 30-minute climb.
🚴 Rent a Bike and Cruise Around Town
Kailua is incredibly bike-friendly. I rented a cruiser and spent the afternoon exploring cute residential streets, hidden beach accesses, and the local farmer’s market.
🛍️ Shop Local in Kailua Town
The town itself has a relaxed, artsy vibe. Boutiques like Aloha Beach Club and Island Bungalow are fun to browse, and I loved picking up locally-made skincare products and hand-poured candles as souvenirs.
🥥 Try the Shave Ice at Island Snow
This isn’t just another shave ice spot. Island Snow is where locals go, and it totally lived up to the hype. Get it with ice cream at the bottom—it’s a game-changer.
🌿 Visit Maunawili Falls (Temporarily Closed)
While the trail was closed when I visited, this waterfall hike is popular with adventurous types. Check online or ask a local about its current status before you go.
🥗 Grab a Healthy Lunch at Nalu Health Bar
I stumbled upon Nalu Health Bar while looking for a light lunch and ended up coming back twice. Their acai bowls and fish tacos are fresh, filling, and perfect post-beach food.
🚣♀️ Kayak to the Mokulua Islands
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle out to the twin Mokulua Islands. One is a seabird sanctuary, but the other allows beach access. I’d recommend going with a guided tour if you’re not familiar with ocean kayaking.
🌄 Watch the Sunset at Kalama Beach Park
This beach was quieter than Kailua or Lanikai, and the sunset views were just as magical. Families, dog walkers, and couples gather here for golden hour—it felt very local.
🧘♀️ Try a Beach Yoga Session
I joined a beach yoga class near Kailua Beach and loved the salty breeze and ocean soundtrack. It’s a calming way to start your day.
☕ Coffee Stop: Morning Brew
No island town tour is complete without finding the best local coffee. Morning Brew is Kailua’s favorite hangout, and their cold brew is perfect for a hot day.
🌮 Kailua’s Food Truck Scene
Keep an eye out for parked food trucks! I found everything from Thai curry to poke bowls and fresh banana bread. My pick? The crispy fish tacos at Surf N Salsa.
🛶 Paddle the Kawainui Marsh
If you want to get off the beaten path a little, rent a stand-up paddleboard and glide through the Kawainui Marsh. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a fun way to see another side of Kailua.
🌈 Browse the Kailua Farmers Market
Open a couple of days a week (typically Thursday evenings), this market is full of local snacks, produce, and handmade crafts. It’s where I tasted my first fresh liliko’i (passionfruit).
📍 Map Tip: Where to Stay
Kailua doesn’t have big resorts, which I actually loved—it keeps the area low-key. Look for Airbnb or vacation rentals near Lanikai or Kailua Beach for the best access to both sunrise and sunset.
🌺 Final Thoughts on Kailua
If you want to experience Oahu’s beauty without the buzz of Honolulu, Kailua is the spot. I’d come back in a heartbeat just for those sunrises, chill beaches, and small-town feel. It’s the kind of place where your hair stays salty and your schedule stays loose—and that’s exactly the vibe I was after.
❓FAQs About Visiting Kailua, Oahu
What is Kailua known for?
Kailua is best known for its stunning beaches like Kailua and Lanikai, as well as its small-town charm and outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking.
Is Kailua worth visiting?
Yes! It’s a relaxing alternative to Waikiki and offers beautiful scenery, great local food, and fewer crowds.
How far is Kailua from Honolulu?
It’s about a 30–40 minute drive from Waikiki depending on traffic.
Can you swim at Kailua Beach?
Absolutely. The waves are generally calm, making it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.