Kailua is full of Hawaii’s best beauty. From turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, offshore islands, a saltwater wetland marsh, and waterfall hikes, much can be found to do in the great outdoors. And, after an active day, unique food can be found at the local farmers market and great times can be had at one of Kailua’s many bars.
1. Bask in the Beaches’ Glory
Bordered by three miles of sandy coastline running from the edge of Mokapu Peninsula to Lanikai, Kailua is a world-renowned playground for beach walking, swimming, windsurfing, kite boarding, paddling sports, and picnicking. Both Kailua and Lanikai beaches are hailed as top spots for these addictive activities.
Locals and visitors alike enjoy Kailua’s beaches. Kailua Beach’s 3-acre public park makes it a favorite because of its soft white sand, calm waters, and shallow bottom – a perfect place for relaxation. The park has clean restroom facilities, parking, big shade trees, and more, attracting both residents and tourists. Nearby Lanikai Beach has many public beach accesses, but parking on the streets is not allowed. To get to Lanikai, walking is suggested, and many locals enjoy walking the loop around Lanikai on its bike path.
Note that snorkeling is not always the best activity in Kailua because of after-rain water run-off from Enchanted Lake and Kawai Nui Canal (great places to stand-up paddleboard or SUP). Also, Kailua Beach can have “man-o-war’ jellyfish – especially when it is windy – so listen to reports or ask a lifeguard because these stings are known to shock the system.
For beach gear, Kailua has a number of surf shops: Gnarwall Surf Shop, HIC Hawaiian Island Creations Kailua, and Hawaiian WaterSports. Also, one of the island’s top boat suppliers, including for kayaks, calls Kailua Home – Windward Boats.
2. Kayak or SUP to the Mokes
The small islands offshore of Kailua Beach Park are designated bird sanctuaries and called Popoia, Moku Nui, and Moku Iku; the latter two are collectively called “The Mokes” by locals. On a calm day, Moku Nui is just a short kayak paddle away with sea turtles, coral reef, and vibrant fish often surrounding its edges. If you’re lucky, you might spot humpback whales, typically between December and April.
Kailua Beach Adventures teaches beginning and refresher courses for kayaking. Within walking distance of Kailua Beach Park, they also provide rentals for kayaks as well as stand up paddle boards (SUP), bikes, boogie boards, surfboards, and snorkel gear.
3. Hit the Hikes
Kailua has some of Oahu’s most popular hikes – for both beginners and extremely advanced levels.
Lanikai Pillboxes Hike is a popular hike with a steep, sometimes slippery start that rewards hikers with spectacular views of Kailua Bay. The hike is named after the World War II bunkers or pillboxes scattered atop the mountain. 382-498 Kaelepulu Drive.
Maunawili Falls Hike starts at the intersection of Maunawili Road and Kelewina Street. This is a shorter, shaded, often muddy hike that ends with a beautiful waterfall. Bring bug spray!
Olomana Hike is rumored as one of the most difficult hikes on the island. Its narrow ridge trail transgresses three high peaks. This is an all-day hike for advanced hikers who are not afraid of heights. 770 Auloa Road.
4. Kawai Nui Marsh
The marsh is a natural saltwater wetland that provides a habitat for many species of wildfire. Early Kailua inhabitants used the marsh to farm, manage fishponds, and pray to gods. Now, this is the largest remaining wetland in Hawaii at 830 acres. A walking and biking path wraps around its edge.
If you’re into birding, grab your binoculars and walk the levy running alongside the march with an access point from Kaha Park (Kaha Street). Kawai Nui Marsh is home to four of Hawaii’s endangered and endemic birds – Hawaiian Moorhen, Hawaiian Coot, Hawaiian Stilt, and Hawaiian Duck. It’s best to go in the early morning or in the evening since the temperature can become toasty. Along with endangered birds, spot native Pacific Golden Plover, Night Heron, and Ruddy Turnstone.
Listed on the national and Hawaii registers of historic places, the remains of Ulupo Heiau are located on the east side of Kawai Nui Marsh. When originally constructed, the temple measured 140-feet by 180-feet, with walls up to 30-feet high. Walking access is from the YMCA parking lot via Manu-Oo, Manu-Aloha, and Uluoa streets off Kailua Road (Highway 61) near Castle Hospital.
5. Farmers Markets
Local produce, food, desserts, special pop-up shops, live music, and fun for the whole family: farmers markets in Kailua are not to be missed! Always check the markets’ websites to ensure up-to-date information and also to check out special events that the markets might be having.
On Sunday mornings next to Adventist Health Castle, a popular market is held, known as the Kailua Town Farmers Market. 640 Ulukahiki Street
Also on Sunday mornings, the Lokahi Kailua Market at 340 Ulunui Street offers unique finds, including handmade clothing, art, delicious food, and more.
Another farmers market is typically held on Thursday late afternoons/early evenings in Kailua Town Center, known as the Kailua Farmers’ Market. 609 Kailua Road.
6. Hi ! Keiki Indoor Playground
Yes, Kailua even has a fun-filled indoor playground for young children to run around and have fun. This playground includes a large ball pit with interactive screens, an area to climb, two trampolines, a shopping center, music area, and much more to keep kids entertained and learning for hours on end. 171 Hamakua Dr. #D, @hikeikikailua
